by 22, 000 Copies monthly
Position your business alongside one of Auckland’s leading medical related companies, Auckland Radiation Oncology.
Brand new , fully renovated professional office space and consult rooms are ready for your occupation. Partially fitted out, with scope to reconfigure to your exact needs. With great natural light throughout the tenancies, there are various options to choose from. The property boasts ample carparking along with its proximity to the popular world class AUT Millenium Sport and Community Health and Fitness Centre.
This property gives you the opportunity to mix with some of Auckland’s top medical professionals.
Jimmy O’Brien 021 979 001 | jimmy.obrien@colliers.com colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67035884
Nick Recordon 027 230 6751 | nick.recordon@colliers.com
Colliers New Zealand are proud to present to the market units S,Q,R, 326 Sunset Road. A combined standalone building in the sought-after Mairangi Bay on Auckland’s North Shore. Previously returning $136,564pa plus GST, this property is now fully vacant and looking for a new occupier or investor to take over. Option to Lease also available.
The vendors have clear instructions to sell so astute owner occupiers or investors must inspect. North Shore Medical Property for Sale or Lease
Jimmy O’Brien 021 979 001 | jimmy.obrien@colliers.com
Matt Prentice 021 464 904 | matt.prentice@colliers.com
Nick Recordon 027 230 6751 | nick.recordon@colliers.com
Bellingham Wallace became Andersen New Zealand in March 2025, 23 years after its foundation by Matt Bellingham, Aaron Wallace and Mike Atkinson. Following their success in bringing the globally recognised Andersen brand to New Zealand, their focus moved to expansion. And their first priority? The North Shore.
The company recently integrated with WBB Chartered Accountants, a highly respected boutique accounting and advisory firm in Takapuna, with partners Lewis Beer, Glen Smytheman and Brett Mathers. Andersen now has a location on Hurstmere Road with an enviable view of Rangitoto, Takapuna Beach and the Hauraki Gulf – in addition to its existing offices in Parnell.
We met with partners Matt Bellingham, Lewis Beer and Glen Smytheman to see the new location and discover why the North Shore is a priority for Andersen.
Channel Mag: Was 2025 a keystone year for the business with the change to Andersen?
Matt: It’s a huge milestone. Thanks to our expanded reach, we can now do even more for New Zealand businesses operating in a highly interconnected world. We’ve established an offshore team and, through the Andersen global network, based in more than 180 countries through the world, we have access to best practices, technical depth, international connections, and an array of other valuable resources.
Glen: We’re truly global now. Whether your business takes place in Takapuna, Tokyo or Toronto, we are there with the right advice.
What has the integration with WBB meant for the business?
Matt: We now have greater scale and deeper specialisation capability, meaning that specialist services we might have outsourced in the past can now be done within the wider team. It’s a great solution for our clients because it means that you’re dealing with the business and the people you trust, even when you’re getting into quite niche and specific areas.
Lewis: Two examples happened in the last few weeks. Clients needed share valuations for shareholding changes. Andersen can do this internally, as well as other specialist services like succession planning and specialist international tax advice.
Glen: Our larger scale also means we can invest in new talent, train and grow team members, and ensure our team will continue to provide clients with expertise in the future. We’ve just taken on four great new graduates; we’re focused on growing and expanding our capabilities internally, much as our clients are.
Why was establishing a presence on the North Shore important?
Matt: The North Shore is its own unique business eco-system within Auckland. It’s a vibrant and entrepreneurial place that also offers a great lifestyle. Many interesting people and interesting
businesses choose to be located here, and so it was important to us, not just to locate here, but to ensure we offer the best advisory service on the North Shore.
The partners go on to explain that they all have connections and often a long history with the North Shore. Mike and Matt are past presidents of the North Harbour Club, and are involved with the AIMES awards, with Andersen being a Platinum sponsor of the club and sponsoring the AIMES Emerging Talent awards. Glen’s family has lived on the North Shore for six generations and has memories stretching back to camping with the Vaughan family in Long Bay in 1910. Lewis is on the committee of the Taniwha Outrigger Canoe Club that co-hosts the Waka Ama races taking place on Takapuna Beach right outside their new office.
Glen: The North Shore lifestyle is something we, and many of our clients, love. At times our clients might come into the office straight from their boat, wearing shorts and jandals – but at the same time, these are successful business people who want the best professional advice, and that underpins everything we do.
Why do you think the integration of the two companies has worked so well?
Lewis: I think the culture of both the businesses was already aligned with our fundamental focus on client care. We get to know our clients and their families and businesses very well, often over multiple generations. We’re entrusted with a huge level of responsibility, and we all take that position extremely seriously.
Matt: We have both shared values and a jointly-held vision for the future. We don’t intend to open an office here and then stand still. Over the next three years, we intend to double our size and our investment in the North Shore.
Vision and shared values have helped Andersen unite two businesses into a strong, cohesive enterprise, offering a seamless experience for clients between the Takapuna and Parnell offices. For those considering a new advisory partner, Andersen offers a unique blend of local expertise and global perspective.
Andersen NZ Level 3, Takapuna Finance Centre, 3/159 Hurstmere Road. 09 486 7020 nz.andersen.com
An extremely rare and unique opportunity has presented itself to secure a true Takapuna landmark property. This superb beachfront estate comprises three separate architectural residences cleverly designed across 1,778m² on two adjoining titles. One of the highest sites on the beachfront, the property enjoys exceptional elevation along with the rare benefit of ample off-street parking. Designed by Ian Athfield with Zac Athfield and Nick Strachan of Athfield Architects, all three homes share a cohesive design aesthetic, with the site having uninterrupted views to the beach and Rangitoto.
This represents a sensational opportunity to live on the beach with significant additional accommodation for perhaps live-in help, an au pair, or extended family, as well as a separate home for guests or work from home. Each home is fully self-contained, with its own full kitchen and laundry facilities so you can live completely independently if required.
The main residence, positioned on the beachfron,t is a striking combination of cedar, precast concrete and sliding screens, combining industrial permanence with refined coastal living. Expansive floor-to-ceiling double glazing captures superb sea views from the open plan living, dining and kitchen area. Concrete floors with gas underfloor heating, a feature fireplace and an adjoining sunroom grace the lower level. A dramatic double-height void leads upstairs to the master suite with a private lounge, full-width deck and large ensuite with a bath offering one of the best views – superb. A second double bedroom connects to a full bathroom, while a third bedroom or second master suite
includes its own living area, ensuite and deck. A generous double garage, gated driveway access and full security system complete the primary home. This home could easily be made into four bedrooms as the fourth was amalgamated into the master suite by the owners.
The middle residence sits beautifully between the primary and roadside homes. This three-bedroom, two-bathroom home offers an open-plan kitchen and dining area, a sunken lounge flowing to superb outdoor decking ideal for entertaining, as well as an expansive lawn area. The master suite enjoys access to a large roof deck with sea views, making this home ideal for extended family or guests.
The roadside residence is the smallest of the three and offers two large double bedrooms. Its striking features of brass panelling, precast concrete and cedar complement the other two homes. It offers a cosy living and dining area opening to decks and lawn, a galley-style kitchen, generous second bedroom or studio, and a separate bathroom; and the upper-level offers a master suite with an ensuite and access to a roof deck with sea views.
With three beautifully designed homes, direct beachfront access and exceptional privacy, this estate offers one of the North Shore’s most extraordinary waterfront opportunities. A nod to yesteryear is the lovingly restored original “changing sheds” on the sands edge and mature trees frame this magnificent site.
Opportunities of this calibre seldom come to the market. Positioned directly on the sands of Takapuna Beach, this exceptional beachfront residence offers just under 500 square metres of refined living. Set on an expansive 1,480 square metre site, it enjoys direct beach access and uninterrupted panoramic views across the harbour to Rangitoto Island.
A unique feature is the secure beachfront boat shed, complete with a private beach gate, perfect for effortless launching of a Sealegs or other water toys, delivering an unrivalled lifestyle for boating and water-sport enthusiasts. This level also has additional storage rooms (see floorplan).
Originally constructed in 2010, the home has recently undergone a comprehensive renovation, leaving no stone unturned, led by interior designer Jason Bonham, in collaboration with TP Builders. The re-imagined floor plan now comprises four generous bedrooms, a spacious office, and three luxurious marble bathrooms. The home has been re-roofed and is now ready for the most discerning turnkey buyer.
Multiple living areas are thoughtfully oriented to capture the breathtaking sea views and seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
At the heart of the outdoor entertaining spaces lies a stunning infinity-edge swimming pool, seemingly suspended above the beach, with uninterrupted sea views providing a spectacular backdrop for both relaxed family living and entertaining.
Additional features include a temperature-controlled wine cellar accommodating approximately 420 bottles, triple-car garaging with additional off-street parking, lift access to all levels, and thoughtfully designed low-maintenance landscaping.
Every detail has been meticulously considered to deliver a residence of enduring quality and understated luxury.
This extraordinary home represents the very best of beachfront living, combining architectural style, expansive grounds, and a lifestyle that is without compromise.
Secure your slice of Takapuna waterfront now.
Andrew specialises in marketing homes on the golden mile between Milford and Takapuna and around the waterfront. In the last eight consecutive calendar years, Andrew has sold over $100 million each year, at an average of over $5,000,000 per property – one of the highest (in volume and average sale price) residentially in the country. While he is renowned for dealing with higher value properties, Andrew has also carved a niche in the seaward side streets in and around Milford and Takapuna, especially with the lock-up-and-leave market. He sees a strong correlation between larger homes and the downsizer market assisting those vendors with their next purchase. If you are thinking of selling your home or purchasing a new one, please contact Andrew for a confidential discussion.
Welcome to our March 2026 issue of Channel Mag. Another outstanding issue highlighting positive things happening on the Shore. Our cover for this issue takes a medical theme, celebrating the investment in new technology by a Takapuna-based business. Leading Kiwi skin cancer specialist and surgeon Dr Richard Martin is launching Skinscape 360 – an advanced 3D whole-body imaging system for early melanoma detection. Their new offering combines cutting-edge technology, artificial intelligence and clinical expertise to give patients access to world-class melanoma detection. Being a (touch wood!) melanoma survivor myself, I am well aware of the importance of early detection.
In this issue, we also have a focus on retirement living north of the Harbour Bridge. Is there a better place to retire in New Zealand? We think not, when you add up the lifestyle villages on offer and closeness to medical care. 15 years after first profiling local pharma business AFT Pharmaceuticals, I chat once again with founder Hartley Atkinson. It is truly heartwarming that we have a local Takapuna business taking on the world in such a high-tech business sector. It’s a great story. Hartley and his wife, Marree, first launched AFT from a spare room off their garage. They now operate in many different parts of the world, but Takapuna firmly remains their base.
This month, we catch up with a range of local residents who are never far from a book; readers and writers who share with Channel Mag where their passion for reading came from, their favourite books and what storytelling means to them. Hand in hand with this feature, Christine Young talked to Rachel Panossian of The Booklover bookshop in Milford, a much-loved local institution, a magnet for bibliophiles of all ages and interests. Rachel purchased the business in 2025.
Derek Dallow is a person who many readers will know. I always enjoy catching up with Derek. When in business on the Shore a couple of decades ago, he was one of our biggest supporters with regard to starting a publication like Channel Mag to celebrate all the North Shore has to offer. He was also an active contributor to the conversation and debate when the Auckland Super City was being formed prior to 2010. This month, he wanted to share his opinion on the governance of Auckland. It’s a thoughtprovoking piece.
Have a great month.
Aidan Bennett, QSM Publisher, Channel Magazine Founder and Managing Director, Benefitz aidan@benefitz.co.nz
Publisher/Advertising Aidan Bennett 021 500 997 aidan@benefitz.co.nz
Advertising/Content Liz Cannon 021 204 3395 liz@channelmag.co.nz
Advertising/Content Kim McIntosh 021 419 468 kim@channelmag.co.nz
Designer Crystal Sharp crystal@benefitz.co.nz
Online and Social Media Klaudia Wal klaudia@benefitz.co.nz
CHANNEL MAGAZINE is published monthly (on the first Friday of the month) by Benefitz, PO Box 33-1630, Takapuna. 09 477 4700, benefitz.co.nz. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers. For further details on the magazine visit channelmag.co.nz or contact one of our team detailed above.
Want to get inspired about what's new north of the Harbour Bridge? In this monthly feature called 'Paula's Finds', we capture our newest team member's enthusiasm for finding interesting happenings around the North Shore.
Meet up with the North Harbour BMX Club at Hooton Reserve on a Tuesday evening from 5.30pm (September–May), to watch or participate in its club night. Great for beginners or experienced riders, your first three club nights are free to ride! It's a volunteer-run club dedicated to promoting BMX riding in a fun, friendly and inclusive environment. Hooton Reserve, 14 Mills Lane, Albany. nhbmx.org.nz
Kaipatiki Community Facilities Trust brings loads of fun to your local park with toys, educational aids, and physical challenges, to give kids of all ages a great day out with their families. On Friday 13 March, 4–6pm, they’ll be at Normanton Reserve in Glenfield. You can find other Family in Parks events at aucklandforkids.co.nz/ whats-on/march-2026-family-events
Discover Pupukemoana is a family fun day at Lake Pupuke where you can join a guided kayaking or snorkelling tour, a ranger tour of Killarney Park, tour The PumpHouse, learn about freshwater species or learn raranga (weaving) in a workshop by local kairaranga. Fun for the whole whānau. Pre-registrations are essential for both kayaking and snorkelling. Minimum age for kayaking is eight, and for snorkelling is five. Discover Pupukemoana, Killarney Park, 38b Killarney Street, Takapuna, on Saturday 21 March, 9.30am–3pm. Opening ceremony 9.30am–10am. Register for tours at events.humanitix.com/2026-discoverpupukemoana
Like to show off a fancy new gin when guests are visiting for a summer drink? What about a gin you’ve made yourself? SIP Distilling Co offers a gin-making workshop at its distillery on Barrys Point Road, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how gin is made and learn how to create flavour as you explore a wide range of botanicals. It’s a great idea for a special celebration, day out or bonding experience. SIP Distilling Co, 54B Barrys Point Road. sipdistilling.co.nz/collections/ginmaking-workshops
Formula 1 fans, are you ready? It’s time for the 2026 season to begin! Hauraki Social Club will have full coverage of the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday 8 March, live from Melbourne. Book a table and make it a great night out with dinner and drinks while you watch the race! Starts at 4.30pm for lights out at 5pm. Hauraki Social Club, 355 Lake Road. haurakisocialclub.co.nz
Mibo bakery has been chosen to be the lead caterer for NZ Design Week 2026 (happening around Queens Wharf in the first week of March). The designer crowd chose Mibo for their high level of craft and creative focus. North Shore recently got its own edition of Mibo! Now you too can experience the best flaky pastries and excellent coffee at 87 Kitchener Road, Milford, weekdays 7am3pm, weekends 8am-3pm. Instagram @mibo_bakery
It's March, and it’s still warm enough to enjoy ice cream and a good gelato. I’ve just learned that Takapuna Beach Café makes its own gelato AND that they won the Supreme Award at the New Zealand Ice Cream and Gelato Awards with their licorice gelato. Anyone with really good taste will tell you licorice gelato is the best kind of gelato! But if you must have another flavour, the others are all excellent too. Takapuna Beach Café, 22 The Promenade, Takapuna. takapunabeachcafe.com
The Aotearoa Surf Film Festival has been bringing its saltwater cinema to towns across the motu for 14 years, and we’re lucky to get one of the rarer, free events right here in Takapuna. Takapuna Beach Reserve, Thursday 12 March, food trucks from 6.30pm, films start once it’s dark. Grab some free tickets online so you can join the fun. tickets.asff.co.nz/events/aotearoasurf
Morning Melodies at the Bruce Mason Centre celebrates 25 years this year, and what a way to kick off the season! On Monday 23 February, NZ Opera delighted a near full-house audience of 957 guests with the most beautiful and moving performances by Samoan tenor Ipu Laga’aia, bass-baritone Joel Amosa, and soprano Maia Amosa, accompanied by pianist David Kelly. Running from February to December, Morning Melodies is a North Shore institution that is well worth supporting, with season passes and individual show tickets available. Visit aucklandlive.co.nz/event/morning-melodies to find out more.
The PumpHouse is renowned for high-quality, professional and entertaining productions, and The Last Five Years did not disappoint! Audiences were treated to impressive musical and dramatic performances set to Jason Robert Brown’s breathtakingly honest score. A roller coaster of romance, ambition, and what happens when two people fall in and out of sync, it was a theatrical sensation in our beautiful, local theatre on the shores of Lake Pupuke. Check out pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on/ to see what's coming up this year.
Discover portable solutions like eFOLDi and Ergo Lite at Livewell, designed for easy transport and everyday independence
AI specialist Justin Fitter was the guest speaker at the North Harbour Club’s Business Excellence Network (BEN) Breakfast held at Regatta Bar & Eatery on Tuesday 17 February. The very topical subject drew a good crowd, and Justin gave a hugely informative presentation, focusing on the real business impact of AI. Channel Mag and Benefitz team members were there to tap into Justin’s expertise. It was a great brekkie!
Acclaimed theatre company Nightsong is set to wriggle back onto the stage with its hit family show, 'The Worm'. This thrilling tale, packed with oddball characters, live music and plenty of heart and humour, inches its way into Te Pou Theatre from 8 – 11 April and Takapuna’s The PumpHouse Theatre from 14 – 19 April, offering fun for the whole family during the school holidays.
When a giant bird pokes its beak through the ceiling and swoops away with his mum, a determined little worm sets off on a heroic adventure to save her. However the journey to the surface is riddled with danger and takes the worm through a dark subterranean world full of empty streets and flea-bitten bars. He must dodge the sharp spade of the gardener, outsmart poisonous spiders and battle the ruler of the underworld, The Blind Rat and her henchman Snail.
This inspiring tale of one little worm’s journey from the dark to the light is funny, sweet, and delightfully offbeat. Written by North Shore local Carl and his father, poet Peter Bland, and directed by long-time collaborators Carl and Ben Crowder, the theatremaking masterminds behind 'Mr Red Light', 'Te Pō', 'I Want To Be Happy' and the recent family hit 'Peter Pan' alongside Auckland Theatre Company.
“At Nightsong, we see the arts as something valuable that should be experienced by everyone. We made 'The Worm' with the hope of making good theatre for children with the same high calibre production and artistry as adult audiences are used to,” says director Ben Crowder.
Taking audiences on a journey into the world of 'The Worm' is a talented and entirely new cast that includes Alison Quigan QSM as Snail, Ahi Karunaharan as Old Worm, Brett O'Gorman as Cockroach, Puka Moeau as Young Worm and Shauntelle Jones as The Blind Rat. 'The Worm' also features an original music score composed by Carnivorous Plant Society, performed live on stage by the band's own Finn Scholes.
Nightsong has become known for its larger-than-life puppets and props, including a life-size giraffe neck and head in 'Te Pō' and humansized guinea pigs in 'I Want To Be Happy'. 'The Worm' is no exception, with this subterranean tale brought to life with extraordinary design by Andrew Foster, Nightsong does not skimp on a show for the next generation of theatre lovers. One audience member said, “These guys really knocked it out of the park. This was a real treat, my kids loved it and so did I.”
This delightfully surreal and anarchically absurd show will entertain and enthrall the whole whānau. Kick Arts has agreed The Worm is “so perfectly pitched for enjoyment of older and younger audiences.”
'The Worm' has already been a huge hit with tamariki in Tāmaki and Hawke’s Bay, with one young audience member commenting “This is my first time at the theatre, and it was so exciting. I can’t wait for part two!”
Can one tiny worm wriggle his way past tricky critters, clever puzzles, and wild encounters to save his mum? Worm your way to the theatre to find out!
Perfect for adults aged six and older, 'The Worm' plays at The PumpHouse Theatre in Takapuna 14 – 19 April. Book your tickets now at pumphouse.co.nz.
DEPOT with Amy Saunders
Tēnā koutou, and welcome to March. We are excited to have launched our new programme of workshops and classes, as well as several new exhibitions this month – more info below.
Workshops and classes
We are excited to offer a dynamic programme of classes and workshops this year, led by accomplished artists, creatives and makers. Head to our website to see what's coming up and register! And don’t forget, if you are a DEPOT Collective member, you get a 10% discount.
DEPOT 3 Vic Road
Our recently-opened exhibition 'hā' brings together ceramic works by Audrey Goggin and cyanotype prints by Anouska Wallis-Lewis. Both artists allow natural elements and their materials to determine organic forms, initiating conversations between the works and the environment they find themselves in.
DEPOT Shop | Toi Toa’s March Maker of the Month is Trudi West, a ceramicist based in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland). She specialises in creating custom domestic wares for both restaurants and individuals and also teaches small ceramic classes in her Mt Eden studio. Trudi is deeply passionate about experimenting with clay and glazes, aiming to craft beautiful, functional pieces that enrich everyday life.
DEPOT Artspace
Opening on Saturday 7 March from 2–4pm, '(il)egible inkscription' explores language as a palimpsest on bodies, transforming text across mobile, malleable surfaces – merging print and choreography through embodied scores. The exhibition opens with a co-laboured imprinting performance at 2.30pm as the artists press text onto one another’s bodies, fragments press/ed through movement and context.
Stay in touch by subscribing to our newsletter at depot.org.nz to keep up to date with all things DEPOT, including exhibition openings, live music performances, workshops, creative opportunities and more!
As summer softens and the first hints of autumn slip into the air, March arrives with delicious cosy feels, and The PumpHouse Theatre hums with fresh stories ready to be told.
We begin with a touch of mystery. 'Six and a Half Stories About It' from Dasha Volga invites audiences into a world where coincidence and destiny dance together. Performed in Russian with English subtitles, this intriguing dramedy blends humour, heart, and just a whisper of magic. One night only on 8 March, so consider this your cosmic nudge.
9 March, our Creative Talks series welcomes Frank Graveson, Antarctic explorer and long-time PumpHouse champion. Expect remarkable tales from Scott Base, a glimpse into a truly extraordinary life, and warm tea and coffee to keep things cosy. Free entry, RSVP on our website!
Then things move to our fabulous outdoor Amphitheatre! Devonport Drama’s 'Steampunk Western' storms in from 12 - 14 March with zombies, high noon tension, and a deliciously bonkers blend of wild west flair and theatrical invention. It is bold, playful, and proudly student-powered.
18 - 22 March, Shore Shorts brings three compelling plays together in one rich theatrical experience. Heartbreak, love, resilience, and impossible choices take centre stage in a programme that offers variety, emotional punch, and the joy of live performance in beautifully concentrated form. Three plays for the price of one!
Adventure returns from 27 - 29 March with 'Gulliver’s Travels The Musical'. Expect music, spectacle, laughter, and a journey through tiny kingdoms and giant realms. Perfect for dreamers of all ages, presented by the youth students at Meyta Music.
We close the month on 31 March with Dr Craig Harrison’s 'Under Pressure', a thought-provoking talk exploring how young athletes, parents, and coaches can thrive in today’s demanding sporting world.
And just beyond the curtain, April promises delight with The Worm, a funny, surprising adventure from Nightsong for the whole whānau to enjoy!
Autumn is a season of turning pages, and our stage is ready. Hope to see you at the theatre soon! Mauri ora.
James Bell
We are excited to have opened a second North Shore clinic at 50 Greville Rd, Pinehill to enable us to increase appointment availability.
This brand new facility is co-located with Canopy Imaging and Shorecare Urgent Care, and offers the same state-of-the-art care and commitment patients will have experienced at our Shakespeare Rd clinic.
Auckland Breast Centre’s advanced tomosynthesis technology offers a clearer, more detailed 3D view of the breast, helping detect breast cancer earlier and with fewer false alarms.
Whether you’re a new patient due for a routine mammogram, or simply want peace of mind, the wonderful Auckland Breast Centre team is here to support your breast health journey. For patients over 40, no referral is needed to book a mammogram.
Phone 09 488 9179 | Email abc@aucklandbreastcentre.co.nz
Auckland Breast Centre centre dedicated to providing personalised care, advanced breast imaging and diagnostics along with specialised surgical solutions where required. www.aucklandbreastcentre.co.nz
From $28,990 + ORC
GWM North Shore
16 Fred Thomas Drive
Takapuna, Auckland 0622
gwmnorthshore.co.nz 09 442 3306
Haval Jolion Premium combines smart tech, everyday practicality, and modern styling in a compact SUV package. Powered by a 1.5L turbo petrol engine and equipped with features like a 10.25” infotainment screen, adaptive cruise control, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, and advanced safety systems, it delivers comfort, connectivity, and confidence for daily driving. All this, from a surprisingly affordable price.
Test drive today at GWM North Shore.
Shoreside Theatre and Phoenix Theatre are joining forces for Shore Shorts, a limited season of short plays giving audiences three distinct performances for the price of one.
The on-stage collaboration between both groups comes after sharing the same Forrest Hill rehearsal space for over 15 years. “Shoreside are a much-loved group on the Shore, with their regular Shakespeare and Agatha Christie productions firmly embedded in their calendar,” says Phoenix Theatre production manager Braydon Priest. “We were excited to join forces and combine the range of expertise across both groups. As regular performers at The PumpHouse Theatre, and as part of a brilliant tapestry of theatre companies on the Shore, working together to continue strengthening the local theatre scene here is for the good of everyone.”
The result is Shore Shorts, a special collaborative season bringing three compelling short plays together in one theatre experience. Each performance features all three works, offering a trio of stories in a single performance. It is an ideal night out for audiences who enjoy variety, emotional depth, and the energy that comes from seeing different creative voices share the same stage.
The season includes four evening performances and two matinees, giving theatre lovers multiple chances to catch the full programme.
Importantly, all three plays are written by New Zealand playwrights, highlighting the strength of local storytelling.
This Particular Room by Jess Sayer, directed by Lauren Wilson, won the Adam New Zealand Play Award in 2020. The play follows Max and Kate, who have been in love, in secret, for a year. Told through fragments of memory that unfold in one continuous rush, it explores heartbreak, hindsight, and the search for clarity when everything feels uncertain.
Roses Are Red by Paul Topliss, directed by Helen Topliss, is set in Germany in the days leading up to the fall of the Berlin Wall. With a simple setting and strong focus on performance, the play explores conflicting ideologies and asks whether love can truly overcome division. The script has previously found success at a national theatre festival level, and now returns to the stage in this intimate new staging.
Completing the trio is Never Say Never by Joanna Pearce, directed by Kierron Diaz Campbell. Set during the Blitz in London, it follows two women working in a factory who begin living together and form a relationship. Their fragile domestic world is shaken when one woman’s husband returns from the war, forcing deeply human choices and impossible decisions.
By pooling their talent and resources, Shoreside Theatre and Phoenix Theatre are presenting three powerful stories, while demonstrating the magic that happens when community arts organisations choose collaboration over competition.
Shore Shorts is being performed at The PumpHouse in Killarney Park, Takapuna, from Wednesday 18 to Sunday 22 March: Evening: Wed 18, Thurs 19, Fri 20 and Sat 21 March at 7.30pm Matinee: Sat 21 and Sun 22 March 2pm
Tickets are on sale now at pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on/show/shore-shorts
By Enis Baçova, Dante’s by Enis Baçova – Takapuna
Imagine finishing dinner and walking out lighter than when you walked in. Not hungry. Not heavy. Just satisfied.
In Takapuna, where mornings begin with sea air and evenings often end with a walk along the beach, how food makes you feel matters. Dinner isn’t only about taste in the moment — it’s about how you feel an hour later. Or the next morning. For many people, pizza has a reputation: comforting, indulgent… and slightly punishing. The kind of meal you justify because it’s “worth it.” The kind that leaves you reaching for water at midnight. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
What most guests don’t see is that the real difference in pizza is not on top — it’s inside the dough. The texture, the lightness, the way it settles. That feeling begins long before it reaches your table. When dough is rushed, your body notices. When it’s given time, balance, and structure, your body notices that too.
At Dante’s Takapuna, what this means for you is simple: You can eat pizza and still feel clear.
The crust rises light and structured, not dense. The centre remains soft without collapsing into heaviness. Each slice holds air naturally, rather than tightly compressed. When you fold it, it yields gently. When you finish it, you don’t feel weighed down. You enjoy the flavour — and you keep enjoying your evening. For families sharing a table, it means children sleep comfortably. For couples on a date night, it means the conversation continues rather than being cut short because everyone feels overly full. For those who train, work long hours, or wake early, it means pizza doesn’t disrupt the next day.
It’s indulgence without consequence.
This isn’t about smaller portions. It isn’t about restraint. It’s about how the dough is developed — slowly enough to allow natural processes to complete their work. When fermentation is handled carefully, structure forms properly. When structure forms properly, digestion feels natural rather than demanding. What you experience is subtle but powerful:
• You don’t feel excessive thirst later.
• You don’t feel the tight heaviness in your stomach.
• You don’t feel the need to “recover” the next day.
Instead, you feel satisfied — and finished.
Takapuna has always been a place of balance. Coastal calm mixed with energy. Movement balanced with stillness. Food, here, should reflect that same sense of ease. When you sit down at Dante’s, you’re not just ordering pizza. You’re choosing how you want to feel afterwards.
The flame in the oven is visible. The golden crust is visible. What isn’t visible is the quiet discipline that makes it sit differently once you leave. And that is the part that matters most.
Because pizza should never ask you to sacrifice tomorrow for tonight. It should simply bring people together, nourish the moment, and let you walk back into the Takapuna evening feeling exactly as you should: Comfortable. Clear. Content.
We’ll see you at the table.
Dante’s by Enis Baçova Pizza contemporanea — born in Naples, raised in New Zealand. Ponsonby | Takapuna | Eastridge www.dantes.co.nz
Here at Channel we're proud to support our local hospo businesses in our monthly eating out guide. Try somewhere new this month.
Akdeniz Bar Cafe Restaurant
5/15 Victoria Rd. 09 600 2125. akdenizdevonport.co.nz
Buona Sera Restaurant
99 Victoria Rd. 09 445 8133. buonasera.co.nz
Cafe Hung Viet
101 Victoria Rd. 09 446 3368. caféhungviet.co.nz
Calimero
163 Victoria Rd. 09 445 2232. calimero.co.nz
Catch A Coffee
4 Cambridge Terrace. catchacoffeenz@gmail.com
Corellis
46 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4151. corelliscafé.co.nz
Devonport Indian Hub - The Asian Eatery
71 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4263. devonportindianhub.co.nz
Devon on the Wharf
1 Queen's Parade. 09 445 7012. devononthewharf.nz
Flying Rickshaw
97 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7721. flyingrickshaw.co.nz
Manuka Cafe and Restaurant
49 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7732. manukarestaurant.co.nz
Portofino Devonport
26 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3777. portofinodevonport.co.nz
Signal Hill
24 Victoria Rd. 09 445 0193. signalhill.co.nz
So French Café
10 Victoria Rd. 09 963 9218. sofrenchcafénz.com
Stone Oven
5 Clarence St. stoneoven.co.nz
Independent owner-operated eatery on Devonport’s main street, serving wine, beer and spirits from like-minded small local producers - we champion products by people we know and respect. Our menu has a Korean twist, serving a wide variety of foods suitable for meat eaters, vegans and everyone in between. We host events like winemakers' dinners, fundraisers, makers' markets and live music nights. Follow our socials for updates.
Open 7 days, from 10am - late. hello@vondel.co.nz, vondel.co.nz 0275 144 924
instagram Instagram @vondel_akl facebook facebook.com/vondelakl
Taupo Indian Cuisine
The essence of Indian hospitality, flavours and culture. 161 Victoria Rd. 09 445 1546. taupoindian.co.nz
The Kestrel
1/1 Queens Parade, Devonport Wharf. 09 445 1777. thekestrel.co.nz
The Next Station Chinese Cuisine
41 Victoria Rd. 09 200 0683
The Patriot (Pub)
14 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3010. thepatriot.co.nz
Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar
53/55 Victoria Rd. 09 445 0194 vicroadkitchen.co.nz
Vondel
8 Victoria Rd. 09 446 6444. vondel.co.nz
Belmont Bar
148 Lake Rd. 09 445 3765. nzbelmontbar@gmail.com
Caffé Santini
63c Lake Rd, Belmont. 0221 872 491. espressosantini@gmail.com
Daily Bread
43 Eversleigh Rd, Belmont. dailybread.co.nz
Hauraki Social Club
Level 1, 335 Lake Rd, Hauraki. 09 802 2554. haurakisocialclub.co.nz
XO Takapuna
333 Lake Rd, Hauraki Corner. 09 486 0003. xotakapuna.com
Housed in Devonport’s charming Old Post Office, So French Café offers a taste of France with freshly baked pastries, gourmet crêpes and rich coffee. Marylène, Quentin and their team are excited to share their passion for French cuisine, serving homemade breakfast and lunch. Stop by for a delicious experience! Now open for dinner every second Friday of the month.
10 Victoria Road, Devonport 09 963 9218
sofrenchcafénz@gmail.com sofrenchcafénz.com facebook instagram #sofrenchcafédevonport
Opening hours: Tues to Sun 8am-3pm
Alforno Italian Restaurant
34 Anzac St. 09 488-0179. alforno.co.nz
Aubergine Restaurant
129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3104. aubergine.co.nz
Botticelli Restaurant & Wine Bar
8 Anzac St. 021 910 999. botticelli.co.nz
Burger Burger
Eat Street. 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 390 5348. burgerburger.co.nz
Centro Café
447a Lake Rd. 09 200 2277. centrocafe.co.nz
Dantes Pizza & Casa Pasta
Eat Street. 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 486 3668. dantes.co.nz
DoDo Sushi & Donburi
448 Lake Rd. 09 488 7527
El Humero
Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9973. elhumero.co.nz
Florrie McGreals Irish Pub
138 Hurstmere Rd. 09 486 6330. florriemcgreals.co.nz
Flourish Café 19 Como Street. 09 489 2266. projectemploy.nz
French Rendez-Vous 2a Maurere Ave. (next to The PumpHouse). 09 487 0009. french-rendez-vous-caférestaurant.business.site
Hanoi Haven 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 263 6393. hanoihaven.co.nz
Hong's Korean Kitchen
Shop 5, 62 Hurstmere Rd. 09 200 0217. hongskoreanrestaurant.co.nz
Ju Zu 458 Lake Rd. 022 632 9003. juzu.co.nz
Nanam 178 Hurtsmere Rd. 09 488 9976 nanam.co.nz
Founded on friendship with offerings that acknowledge our fierce independence and appreciation of artisans. Expect fresh and local craft beer, real ale and cider flowing from 15 taps, a wine list covering near and distant regions synonymous with varietal excellence, an extensive gin list enhanced with botanics fresh from our on-site gardens, bespoke cocktails to sip into the evening, and a modern seasonal menu designed to share, focusing on showcasing sustainable and locally sourced produce. Supreme Winner - NZ Gastropub Awards 2024 hello@fantailandturtle.co.nz fantailandturtle.co.nz instagram fantailandturtle
Regatta Bar & Eatery
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0040. joylab.co.nz/regatta
Rosie's Red-Hot Cantina
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0016. starsocial.nz/venues/rosies-red-hot-cantina-takapuna
Sakebar Nippon
32 Anzac Street. 09 486 2249. sakebar.co.nz
St Marée Bistro
8/33 Hurstmere Rd. 09 484 0005. stmaree.co.nz
Strand Wine Bar
4 The Strand. 09 485 3888. strandwinebar.co.nz
Street Organics
1 Byron Ave. 09 216 5991. streetorganics.co.nz
Takapuna Beach Cafe
22 The Promenade. takapunabeachcafé.co.nz
Taylors on Hurstmere
168 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9510. taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz
Tok Tok Kitchen
129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3988. toktok.co.nz
Tokyo Bay
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 390 7188. tokyobay.co.nz
Wok 'n Noodle
1/7 The Strand. 09 485 3259. woknnoodle.com
Fantail & Turtle
09 486 0644. fantailandturtle.co.nz
Gather Eatery
09 212 4466. gathereatery.co.nz
Shake Out Burgers 09 489 8223. shakeout.co
Gather is a new eatery that celebrates simplicity done well: seasonal ingredients, authentic flavours, and meals to share, savour and remember. Open for breakfast and lunch, Gather offers a warm, comfortable setting where everyone is welcome, whether solo, meeting friends, or gathering with family. Expect dishes with a fresh twist, served in a relaxed, elegant space designed to foster conversation and connection. Food that’s good for the soul, in a space that feels like your own.
Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat/Sun 8am-3pm. 09 212 4466 gathereatery.co.nz bookings@gathereatery.co.nz
Anokha Indian Restaurant
140 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 1499. anokha.co.nz
Cave À Vin
146 Kitchener Rd. caveavin.co.nz
Good Town Burgers
89 Kitchener Rd. 09 485 3877. goodtownburgershop.co.nz
Khu Khu Eatery
91 Kitchener Rd. 09 600 3327. khukhu.co.nz
La Mexicana
13 Shakespeare Rd. 09 282 0392. lamexicana.co.nz
Milford Motel
1A Shakespeare Rd. 09 486 0314. milfordmotel.co.nz
Monthien Thai Restaurant
142 Kitchener Rd. 09 488 0409. monthien.co.nz
Musashi Japanese Cuisine Milford
212 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 5977. musashirestaurant.co.nz
PYM's of Milford
154 Kitchener Rd. 021 413 850. pymsofmilford.com
Talay Thai Restaurant
83-85 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 9568 talaythai.co.nz
The Hub Milford Bar & Grill
145 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 4480. thehubmilford.nz
The Milford Cafe, Bar & Restaurant
7 Milford Rd. 09 488 9388. themilford.co.nz
Northcote Tavern
37 Queen St. 09 480 7707. northcotetavern.co.nz
Sfera
124 Queen Street, Northcote Point, 09 480 9600 sfera.co.nz
Stafford Road Wine Bar
141 Queen St, Northcote Pt. 09 480 2690. staffordroadwinebar.co.nz
The Engine Room
115 Queen St. 09 480 9502. engineroom.net.nz
Abruzzo Ristorante Italiano
13 Birkenhead Ave. 09 418 4202. abruzzi.co.nz
Birkenhead Brewing Company
17 Birkenhead Ave. 09 320 5055. bbc.kiwi
Blitza Pizza
9 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 5006. blitzapizza.co.nz
Broke Boy Taco
32 Birkenhead Ave, Birkenhead. Brokeboytaco.com
Burrito House 17 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 2095. burritohouse.co.nz
Chef Rasa Sayang
Malaysian food. 25 Mokoia Rd. 09 419 9788
Duo / Osteria Uno 138-140 Hinemoa Street. duoeatery.co.nz 027 213 8591/027 421 6401. osteriauno.co.nz
Fika With Me 5 Birkenhead Ave. 09 418 5508. @fikawithme
Moxie Restaurant 82 Hinemoa St. 09 419 9082. moxierestaurant.co.nz
Mulan Malaysian Restaurant 10 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 2806. mulan.co.nz
Primerose Thai Cuisine 6 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 0555. primerosethaicuisine.co.nz
Real Burger 30 Birkenhead Ave. 021 085 95485. realburger.site
Tasty Tiny Thai Restaurant 52d Mokoia Rd. 09 418 4999. tastytinythai.co.nz
Thai Yum Food Hut 23 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 6799. thaiyum.net.nz
Flourish Café provides training and work experience for young adults with learning differences. When you order your favourite coffee and choose from our delicious, fresh cabinet food, you will always be served with a smile. Support our trainees by coming into Flourish Café. Catering available.
19 Como Street, BDO Towers, Takapuna 7am–3pm, Monday – Friday 09 489 2266 instagram flourish.takapuna /projectemploynz facebook Flourish Café /Project Employ projectemploy.nz
The Curry Master 18 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 7211. thecurrymaster.co.nz/birkenhead
The Good Home 83 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 0066. thegoodhomebirkenhead.co.nz
21 Days Bar & Brasserie 37 Clyde Rd. 0800 21 3297. 21days.co.nz
El Greco Greek and Italian Eatery 1 The Esplanade, Campbells Bay. 09 475 5772. elgreco.co.nz
Long Bay Surf Club 4/56 Bounty Rd. 09 473 0908. longbaysurfclub.co.nz
Montrose Cafe, Bistro & Bar 1 Montrose Terrace, Mairangi Bay. 09 478 9610. montrose.org.nz
Paper Moon 437 Beach Rd, Mairangi Bay. 09 479 8872. papermoon.org.nz
Ristorante La Spiaggia
Italian. 470 Beach Rd, Murrays Bay. 09 475 5643. laspiaggia.co.nz
Modern Asian cuisine takes you on a journey through the vibrant flavours of the Philippines, blending traditional recipes with innovative techniques. Our award-winning menu features Asian- and Spanish-inspired tapas, signature dishes, carefully curated wines and cocktails, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Recognised in Metro Top 50 and New Zealand’s 100 Best Restaurants by Cuisine, Nanam is proud to be a neighbourhood favourite. Don’t miss our summer lunch special for just $35! 178 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 488 9976, nanam.co.nz nanam.reservation@gmail.com
Lunch: Wed–Sat, 11:30am-2:30pm
Dinner: Tues–Sat, 5pm-10pm Closed Sun/Mon
Tokyo Bay is situated seaside, Takapuna Beach. You can dine and watch the cruise liners sail out after a day in Auckland. Open seven days a week with a casual lunch menu featuring light bites to a range of bento box-styled selections. Then from 5pm a more extensive evening menu is available, featuring modern Japanese cuisine. Bookings essential.
Discover the Tok Tok experience in Takapuna. Unwind, indulge and savour the vibrant flavours of modern Asian fusion at Tok Tok Takapuna. From fresh, bold dishes to creative cocktails, every bite is a celebration, with vegetarian, vegan and GF options available. Perfect for date nights, group gatherings and those unforgettable moments. Book your table today and taste the extraordinary!
1/129 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna. 09 489 3988, toktokkitchen@gmail.com, toktok.co.nz facebook toktakapuna
Opening hours: Mon 5pm-late, Tues-Sun 12pm-late
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Full-page feature reviews can be booked for $990+gst (normally $1,450+gst)
Contact the team today WANT YOUR CAFÉ/ RESTAURANT TO BE NOTICED?
Liz Cannon: liz@channelmag.co.nz 021 204 3395
Kim McIntosh: kim@channelmag.co.nz 021 419 468
The Travellers’ Choice Awards 'Best of the Best Restaurants for 2024' have been announced, with Tokyo Bay Takapuna in the top ten for the fourth year running. Tripadvisor's 'Best of the Best' 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. tokyobay.co.nz facebook tokyobaytakapuna
Indulge in Australia's iconic burgers, now in New Zealand! Fresh, locally sourced ingredients meet creative flavour, craft beer, and expertly crafted cocktails. From classic beef to gourmet vegetarian and vegan options, our menu boasts an impressive range of burgers to satisfy every craving. Each patty is carefully cooked to perfection, ensuring a juicy, flavourful bite every time. Toppings and condiments are carefully selected to enhance, not overpower, the natural flavours of our ingredients.
100 Hurstmere Road, 095585775
NEW OPENING! Strand Wine Bar is Takapuna’s fresh new local - a relaxed, locally owned spot to sip great wine, share delicious plates, and browse a great selection of bottles to take home. With a sunny outdoor area, a stellar drinks list and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect place to unwind day or night.
Open 6 days from midday. Closed Mondays. Strand Wine Bar 4 The Strand, Takapuna 09 485 3888 strandwinebar.co.nz instagram @strandwinebar
Open: 11am - Late - Everyday facebook: Benny's American Burgers NZ instagram: bennysamericanburger.nz bennysburgers.co.nz
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday (no bookings needed) with traditional and authentic French flavours like beef bourguignon, gluten-free galettes and sweet crêpes.
Located in the heart of Takapuna with a Lake Pupuke view, we are fully licensed with different ranges of French wines.
2a Manurere Avenue
Next to The PumpHouse, Takapuna frenchrendezvous.booking@gmail 09 487 0009 facebook: FrenchRendezvousTakapuna instagram: frenchrendezvoustakapuna
Discover a tranquil oasis in the heart of Takapuna, where the vibrant flavours of Vietnam intertwine with contemporary elegance. At Hanoi Haven, we invite you to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich heritage of Vietnamese cuisine while embracing a modern twist. With years of experience in renowned kitchens across Vietnam, our chef brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Hanoi Haven, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 263 6393 hello@hanoihaven.co.nz hanoihaven.co.nz
Open 7 days, 11am to late.
An iconic North Shore landmark known for its authentic ‘craic’ and welcoming atmosphere. A premiere destination for: Live entertainment: Pub bands every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights
Hearty fare: Classic menu including Irish favourites, burgers and pizzas
Live sports: Multiple large screens showing major matches
Social vibe: Friendly ‘neighbourhood’ feel with fireplace, indoor/outdoor seating and pub games like pool, darts, along with a comfortable gaming lounge.
138 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna 09 486 6581 florriemcgreals.co.nz
Allergy-friendly goodness!
Eating out shouldn't be stressful when you have allergies or follow a special diet. At Street Organics, we pride ourselves on catering to almost any dietary style with care and respect. Safe, delicious and inclusivethere’s always a seat for you here.
Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm; Sat-Sun 8am-3.30pm
1 Byron Avenue, Takapuna 09 216 5991
contact@streetorganics.co.nz streetorganics.co.nz facebook streetorganicsnz instagram @streetorganics_nz
partiesPerfectforprivate -novenuehire
Loved by locals, DoDo Sushi brings authentic Japanese flavour to Takapuna with a fresh, modern twist.
From beautifully prepared sushi and hearty donburi to comforting ramen, udon and freshly made bento, every dish is made with care and quality. Dine in or takeaway. Simply delicious.
448 Lake Road, Takapuna 09 488 7527
Monday to Saturday 9.30am-7.30pm (Wednesdays until 7pm) instagram dodosushi.takapuna facebook DoDo-Sushi-Donburi
Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar and everyone's favourite local just around the corner from the Bruce Mason Theatre. Perfect for private parties, no venue hire!
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV $85 per bottle between 5-7pm daily
Yellow Hour! Bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne only $85 from 5pm to 7pm every night!
Winner Lewisham Awards 2024
Outstanding Local Establishment North
168 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna taylorsonhurstmere@gmail.com taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz 09 489 9510
Licenced Eatery
Welcome to St Marée – Takapuna’s newest seafood bistro, inspired by the timeless allure of the New Zealand ocean. Our name comes from the French word for “tide” – a nod to our love of fresh catches and the ever-changing bounty of the sea. The menu is built around local and seasonal seafood, always focused on what’s fresh. Whether you’re after a cosy breakfast, a relaxed lunch or dinner, or just a top-quality coffee with friends, we’re here for fresh seafood, good coffee, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Open Tuesday - Sunday 7.30am until late. 8/33 Hurstmere Road, 09 484 0005 stmaree.co.nz facebook: @stmaree.co.nz instagram: @stmaree.co.nz
Fantastic food served in a charming, relaxed Italian atmosphere and suitable for every occasion. All our food is made using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, using traditional recipes with a modern spin. We are passionate about the history and legacy of Italian food, and proud to bring you an authentic Italian and Mediterranean dining experience in Takapuna. Fully licensed, with a great selection of wines and other beverages to choose from, our friendly team will do everything to make your dining experience as enjoyable as possible.
34 Anzac Street, Takapuna 09 488 0179, alforno.co.nz facebook instagram @alfornonz alfornorestaurant@outlook.com
A popular and long-established familyfavourite restaurant facing Murray’s Bay beach, serving authentic and delicious Italian and European dishes. The extensive dinner and dessert menu is available for dine-in. On offer for dine-in guests is a wide range of delicious wines and beers to accompany your meal. Buon appetito!
Opens from 5pm, Tuesday to Sunday 470 Beach Road, Murrays Bay 09 475 5643 info@laspiaggia.co.nz laspiaggia.co.nz
Opens from 5pm Tuesday to Sunday
Welcome to Cousin Scott's Family Restaurant and American Sports Bar in Takapuna — your local honky-tonk hangout! Enjoy mouthwatering American eats with a southern twist, like Nashville hot chicken and our famous Philly Cheesesteak sandwich. Choose from six heat levels, if you dare! With 20 TVs for live sports, pool tables, and arcade games, it’s the perfect spot to kick back with an ice-cold brew. Here, everyone’s family!
A/486 Lake Road, Takapuna 09 485 3822
Open Mon-Thu 11:30am-12am, Fri-Sat 11:30am-1am, Sun 10am-10pm cousinscotts.co.nz
Pizza Contemporanea & Casa Pasta - born in Naples, raised in NZ. Awardwinning pizzaiolo Enis Baçova brings Pizza Contemporanea to life at Dante’s Takapuna: slow-fermented dough, airy crusts, and Neapolitan soul. Signature pizzas and daily house-made pasta meet fine Italian wines. Ranked Top 10 AsiaPacific, Top 50 worldwide (50 Top Pizza), Silver Winner Caputo Cup 2024 Naples. "We don't serve food – we serve stories, baked in fire."
Mon 5–9pm, Wed–Sun 12–3, 5–9pm 40 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna, 09 486 3668, dantes.co.nz facebook instagram @DantesNZ and @enisbacova
Tantalise your taste buds with the best steak experience at this beautiful venue in Browns Bay. Explore the impressive selection of cuts sourced from New Zealand, Australia, and Japan, where great pride is taken in using the highest quality ingredients, matched with a carefully curated wine and beverage list. The friendly team provides top-notch catering services, taking care of your special events, cocktail parties, corporate events, conferences, birthdays, anniversaries, and Christmas functions.
37 Clyde Road, Browns Bay 0800 213 297 21days.co.nz
Just minutes from Auckland’s stunning Long Bay Beach, Long Bay Surf Club is the place to be all year round. Drop in for relaxed lunches, after-work drinks, or an easy catch-up with friends any day of the week. Join us for Sundowner Sessions from 4pm to 6pm on weekdays and enjoy tap beers, house wines, and club cocktails at great prices. With all-day dining, drinks to suit every season, and the doors open seven days a week, there’s always a good reason to settle in at Long Bay Surf Club. Open Mon-Sun 11am-late. 09 473 0908 4/56 Bounty Road, Long Bay info@longbaysurfclub.co.nz longbaysurfclub.co.nz instagram facebook: @longbaysurfclub
Your holiday doesn’t have to be over just because you’re back at work! Summer is still in full swing here in Takapuna. With sunny days, long warm nights and a heap of interesting activities to do close to home, grab your friends and family and keep the summer vibes rolling.
Voted one of Auckland’s favourite beaches, Takapuna Beach is the place to go for fun in the sun. With soft white sand, warm glistening water, and a lush grassy reserve with a supercool playground for the kids – there’s no better place to relax, unwind and soak up the rays. Pack a picnic, grab an ice cream, and enjoy these spectacular summer days at Takapuna Beach.
Nothing beats a refreshing dip in the ocean on a hot day, and Takapuna Beach is a safe and stunning swimming beach. It’s also the perfect spot for some on-the-water activities. Try something new and take a Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) lesson with Girls Get Out There. They’ll show you all the basic SUP skills so you can paddle safely and confidently. Or you could head down to Lake Pupuke and enjoy a windsurfing lesson with the team at Madloop. There are so many other fun ways to cruise the water in Takapuna including kayaking, boating, or a good old ocean swim.
With stunning sea views, sunshine and fresh air, outdoor dining in Takapuna is a real pleasure. There’s a huge array of dining options, with bars and restaurants covering all types of cuisines. Whether it’s a quick snack to go with a bevy in the sun, a leisurely lunch or a full dining experience – come down after work or on your day off and treat your taste buds to some fine Takapuna hospitality.
For high-end boutique shopping, look no further than Hurstmere Road. Take a wander and enjoy the refreshing sea air while getting your fashion fix. Or if you want to cool down a little, head to the air-conditioned Shore City Shopping Centre for a one-stop shopping experience with over 50 stores conveniently located under one roof.
Takapuna has no shortage of walking tracks for your weekend workout. And if you want to get in a bit of exercise for your fur friends too, why not organise a dog-walking date at Takapuna Beach. Your canine mates will love frolicking in the waves and chasing sticks in the sand. Or get your pedal power on and enjoy the sights of Takapuna from your bike. Cruise down to Devonport for the afternoon along the picturesque Takapuna to Devonport Path.
For more information on all the places to eat, drink, shop, entertain and treat yourself this summer check out our business directory, as well as all the awesome places to go and things to do in Takapuna. ilovetakapuna.co.nz
PLATINUM SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Platinum sponsors…
Autumn mornings mean it’s time to pop on another layer, and the Kinross waistcoat from one of our favourite companies, Eribé Knitwear Design of Scotland, is perfect. 100% pure new wool. Come visit Cosi Devonport! 73 Victoria Road, Devonport 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz instagram @cosifantutte_devonport
Richly layered and leafy, the French tapestry inspired design of Canopy bed linen features lush and verdant foliage. Crafted from organic cotton in painterly green, blue and cocoa tones. Visit our Takapuna location at 156 Hurstmere Road to see and shop our brand new collections in person. 156 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 551 7767, wallacecotton.com
New season comfort picks! As the season shifts, it's the perfect time to refresh your everyday essentials.
34 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 2679
thesheepskinfactory.co.nz 9-5pm Mon - Sat, 10-5pm Sundays
Have you tried chilled red yet?
A longtime staple in parts of Spain and France, lighter reds come into their own with a slight chill - especially reds with bright acidity, soft tannins and fresh red fruit, rather than heavy oak or big alcohol, like this Syrah/Merlot blend. Chill for 20 minutes, and you’ll have a red that feels vibrant and refreshing, and is great for warmer evenings.
Strand Wine Bar, open 6 days from midday. Closed Mondays.
4 The Strand, Takapuna, 09 485 3888 strandwinebar.co.nz
Start your mornings with a touch of sophistication. Conic Clock combines the classic charm of FM radio with the convenience of a Bluetooth® speaker, offering the perfect fusion of timeless design and modern technology. Conic Clock is more than just an alarm clock - its sleek, aluminum cone-shaped base and circular speaker make it a statement piece that elevates any space.
30 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 419 9535 cravehome.co.nz
Our March Maker of the Month is Trudi West, a deeply passionate ceramicist who experiments with clay and glazes, aiming to craft beautiful, functional pieces that enrich everyday life.
3 Victoria Road, Devonport toitoa@depot.org.nz, depot.org.nz 10am-4pm, Tues-Sun
Hydrangea season! Treat yourself or someone special to a bouquet of big, bold, beautiful New Zealand-grown export grade hydrangeas! Available in all sorts of colours, as our seasonal selection changes daily.
60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay: Special $22.99 each (RRP $27.99)
Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris: Special $19.99 each (RRP is $22.99)
Enjoy exceptional Starborough wines from Marlborough - fresh, vibrant, and perfect for end of summer gatherings. Grab your Starborough favourites while this offer lasts! 182 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 1770 takapuna@liquorland.co.nz liquorland.co.nz
Tear-free haircare starts with the Justice Kids products, available at Just Cuts. Specially designed for children, the mild formula won’t irritate little eyes (bye tears!) and leaves hair clean, soft and smelling tutti frutti fabulous. And when it’s time for a trim, Just Cuts is a go-to for kids’ haircuts too - quick, easy and fuss-free for both little ones and parents. Just Cuts - Level 2 Glenfield Mall 09 441 4981 justcuts.co.nz
Yarntons: Your destination for iconic R.M. Williams boots. Shop in-store and online! 18 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, 09 418 4011 69 Victoria Road, Devonport, 09 445 3479 facebook instagram @yarntons yarntons.co.nz
LazyPaws is a premium pet boutique in Takapuna, offering exclusive Australian and New Zealand gourmet pet treats. Our carefully curated brands are truly one of a kind. We also provide engaging dog daycare activities. Our mission is to give your beloved furry friends inspiring choices and exceptional-quality service. Open Mon-Sun, 10am-7pm, 027 860 1106 getintouch@lazypaws.co.nz, lazypaws.co.nz
Discover effortless elegance at artinmywardrobe in Devonport. Inspired by nature and crafted with intention, our latest collection celebrates refined silhouettes, timeless stripes and feminine detail. We invite you to visit us in-store and experience the collection up close.
30 Victoria Road, Devonport 022 355 3435 artinmywardrobe.co.nz
Our round up of posts from local Lake Road spots on IG that we’ve double tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Vanessa from @Face_time_aesthetics With late nights on Tuesday, there’s a Kerastase treatment for everyone at Oblique, the muchloved sustainable salon on Lake Road.
Face Time Aesthetics was founded by Vanessa Johanson, a passionate registered nurse with over a decade of experience in diverse healthcare settings, ranging from cardiology and post-operative care to serving in the New Zealand Army and private endoscopy. Vanessa is a proud Massey University graduate and she now travels between Auckland and Taupō to offer her clients exceptional, compassionate care in appearance medicine.
Channel Magazine: Tell readers about Face Time Aesthetics. What’s the origin story?
Vanessa Johanson: At Face Time Aesthetics, I bring a deeply holistic approach to aesthetic treatments. My goal is not to chase fleeting beauty trends, but to restore and enhance natural beauty in a way that aligns with individual features and anatomy. I believe that true beauty doesn’t mask who you are; it reveals your confidence, your energy, and your spirit.
I am especially passionate about empowering my clients to age confidently, offering thoughtful education and clear communication throughout every step of the journey. Each treatment is guided by integrity, care, and respect for the natural human form.
Is Instagram a source of inspiration for Face Time Aesthetics? Who do you recommend following and why?
Dan Aesthetics Medical is a source of inspiration, with clinical focus on safety, education, and individual results that respect individual anatomy. What’s happening at Face Time Aesthetics that you want locals to know about?
We work alongside Leanne at a shared location on Lake Road, Northcote. Leanne is the founder of 'Illuminate Me' and is an expert beauty therapist. Every month, Face Time Aesthetics offers a monthly promotion.
For the month of March a free red light therapy session (healite II) is included for every $500 spent.
46D Lake Road Northcote Auckland 0627
0278678077
info@facetimeaesthetics.co.nz www.facetimeaesthetics.co.nz
The perfect complementary treatments on offer and in the same space as Vanessa’s Face Time Aesthetics, very convenient! @illuminatemenow
Coeliac disease is a common condition where the body’s immune system reacts to gluten, causing damage to the gut. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye.
Around one in 100 people have coeliac disease. The risk is higher if someone in your family is affected – about 10–20%. Despite this, around 70% of people with coeliac disease are undiagnosed. It is also being diagnosed more often in older adults, with one in four cases found after the age of 60.
Why is coeliac disease often missed?
Coeliac disease can be difficult to spot because symptoms vary widely. Some people have clear symptoms, while others have very mild symptoms – or none at all.
Common symptoms include:
• Diarrhoea • Bloating
• Abdominal (tummy) pain • Unintentional weight loss
• Poor concentration or 'brain fog' • Fatigue (tiredness)
Why does it matter if symptoms are mild?
Even without obvious symptoms, untreated coeliac disease can cause long-term health problems. These may include:
• Weak or easily broken bones
• Anaemia (low blood count)
• Fertility problems
• An increased risk of certain cancers
Gastroenterologists
How is coeliac disease diagnosed? Diagnosis is usually straightforward:
1. A blood test to check for coeliac antibodies.
2. If positive, a small bowel biopsy is recommended in adults to confirm the diagnosis.
The biopsy is done during a gastroscopy – a quick and minimally invasive test where a thin camera is passed through the mouth into the stomach and small intestine.
How is coeliac disease treated? Treatment is simple but lifelong: a strict gluten-free diet. Most people notice an improvement in symptoms within weeks to months, and over 90% will have complete healing of the gut within a few years.
Seeing a dietitian is strongly recommended to manage your diet confidently. Gluten can be hidden in many unexpected foods, and accidental exposure is common.
At Waitematā Endoscopy, we’ve been working hard to reduce wait times, and can offer most standard colonoscopy and gastroscopy appointments within seven working days of receiving a referral. Our experienced specialists can guide you through the process of diagnosis and treatment of coeliac disease, including linking you with our dietitian.
To meet the team at Waitematā Endoscopy visit www.waitemataendoscopy.co.nz.
Dr Carl Freyer (BSc, MBBS, FRACP)
Gastroenterologist and Endoscopist
Waitematā Endoscopy
Gastroenterologist & Endoscopist
Skinscape 360 combines cutting-edge technology, artificial intelligence and clinical expertise to give Kiwi patients access to world class melanoma detection.
Leading Kiwi skin cancer specialist and surgeon Dr Richard Martin, is launching Skinscape 360 - an advanced 3D wholebody imaging system for early melanoma detection. The first system of its kind in
New Zealand, it offers Kiwi patients access to cutting edge medical technology for skin cancer screening.
The Vectra WD 360 system uses 92 high-definition cameras to map the entire body in under a second, creating a highresolution 3D avatar or digital skin twin to identify every mole and lesion on the body. Combined with the latest in artificial intelligence and specialised clinical expertise, the new skin screening system provides the very best in patient centred approach to skin cancer care.
New Zealand has one of the highest rates of skin cancer incidence and mortality in the world. Each year nearly 100,000 Kiwis are diagnosed with skin cancer and every year hundreds of people die. But it’s up to 90% preventable and if caught early, almost 100% survivable.
Dr Martin says, “New Zealand should lead the world in early detection and prevention, not grim statistics. Early detection saves lives and has the potential to change the course of melanoma in New Zealand.
“Skinscape 360 sets the gold standard for early detection. If we see more, we cut less and protect more. High resolution 3D mapping reduces unnecessary biopsies which are a significant hidden cost in the health system. Knowing exactly where a lesion is and how it has changed will lead to more efficient, less invasive surgeries, reducing hospital stay times and recovery costs.
Skinscape 360 sets the gold standard for early detection. If we see more, we cut less and protect more. High resolution 3D mapping reduces unnecessary biopsies which are a significant hidden cost in the health system.
“It’s not tech for tech's sake, it’s tech that has the potential to transform skin cancer care and what humans can do. By blending human expertise with the best scanning technology and artificial intelligence, we can bring Kiwis a better, future-proofed model of skin cancer care,” explains Dr Martin.
Skinscape 360 marks a steep change in skin cancer screening in New Zealand. The system provides wholebody visibility in seconds, allowing patients to walk through a specialised scanner that maps the entire skin surface instantaneously. The resulting 3D avatar is a living, permanent record of your skin that evolves with you to ensure nothing is missed over time.
“For now, we have the one imaging system at our clinic in Takapuna, but
anyone can book a consultation and scan with our chief dermatoscopist and clinical photographer, Clare Gunn. Our hope is to bring Skinscape 360 to our other major cities in the near future so even more people can take advantage of this cutting edge technology,” says Dr Martin.
As the first and only system of its kind in New Zealand it is not currently covered under health insurance, but Dr Martin is working with leading health insurers to improve access to this diagnostic tool as soon as possible.
Skinscape 360
3 Anzac Street , L2 Takapuna skinscape360.co.nz 09 869 9360
By Hon Simon Watts, North Shore MP
The North Shore is one of the best places in New Zealand to live and raise a family. But in recent years, many local households have felt significant pressure.
When National came into Government two years ago, the country was facing serious economic and social challenges. Inflation had surged, mortgage repayments had skyrocketed, and wages were stagnating. For many North Shore families with large mortgages, that pressure was immediate and real.
At the same time, violent crime was rising, ram raids were occurring far too often, and educational achievement was slipping. Communities in our electorate made it clear: Government needed to refocus on the basics.
Since then, National has done exactly that. We have reduced wasteful spending to help bring inflation under control and ease pressure on interest rates. We have reduced taxes so families and small businesses can keep more of what they earn.
… my focus now is on building the future – growing the economy so local businesses can expand and create jobs …
We have strengthened law and order by banning gang patches in public places, introducing tougher sentences, and putting more police on the beat. Nationwide, this has contributed to 38,000 fewer victims of violent crime and an 85% reduction in ram raids. That makes a difference for local retailers in places like Takapuna, Devonport and Milford, and for families who simply want to feel safe.
In education, we have restored a focus on the fundamentals. Schools are now required to provide an hour a day of reading, writing and maths. Mobile phones have been banned in classrooms, and new open-plan classrooms have been stopped. As a result, 58% of new entrants are now meeting expectations in reading, up from 36% in term one 2025.
After two years of fixing the basics, the country is beginning to turn a corner. But there is more to do.
As the local MP for the North Shore, my focus now is on building the future – growing the economy so local businesses can expand and create jobs, delivering the infrastructure Auckland needs to ease congestion, ensuring young people gain strong qualifications, and strengthening financial security for retirement.
National has a clear plan to keep New Zealand moving forward, so North Shore families can get ahead.
Hon Simon Watts — MP for North Shore Minister of Energy, Climate Change, Revenue and Local Government
Email: simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz
09 486 0005
facebook: @simonwattsmp instagram: @simonwattsmp
Harbour Hospice’s elegant new fundraiser, Art Affair, is returning in March with a line-up of 15 extraordinary artists. Among them is well-known interior designer Shanly Simpson, who grew up in Glenfield and attended Takapuna Grammar School.
The fundraiser, introduced in 2025, sees Harbour Hospice’s Warkworth site, Tui House, transformed into an art gallery. Art lovers are encouraged to make a day of it, says Harbour Hospice fundraising and business development specialist Emily Thomas, with Hospice’s Garage Sale shop, next door, open all weekend, and tea and freshlybaked scones available on Sunday.
Shanly, now based in Mahurangi West, is best known for working for more than a decade with international interior designer, Faye Resnick. She has created spaces for lots of famous clients, including Paris and Nicky Hilton – who she says were “the sweetest” – but only began pursuing art more recently, out of a frustration with her interior design work.
“Whenever I spoke with new clients, most wanted art for the walls. And I hit a real roadblock because I couldn’t find art that blended in with its environment,” she explains.
One day, Shanly came home from work exhausted after another long day’s search. “I poured myself a vodka, pulled an old canvas off the wall and grabbed some of my paint samples… The client loved it, so my art has gone full on, and it’s made my interior design job so much easier.”
Shanly has always enjoyed art and excelled in it at Takapuna Grammar, but after leaving school, she headed overseas. A passion for antiques led to her working with Faye in Los Angeles, then on her return to New Zealand in 2012, she started her own business, Shanly Simpson Designs; the art eventually followed. Most of her pieces represent nature and are intended to complement or complete a room.
When she was invited to exhibit in Art Affair, she said yes straight away. “Twenty-five years ago, my father got cancer and was not meant to make it, but he did. Since then, charity work has become a huge part of my life. Hospice is there for people, and their families, at one of the toughest times in their lives.”
Art Affair, Tui House, 47 Morrison Dr, Warkworth , 6 - 8 March Friday 6 March, 6pm - 8pm: Preview night. Email emily.thomas@harbourhospice.org.nz for information. Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 March, 10am – 4pm: Exhibition open to the public. Tea and scones for purchase Sunday, 11am – 3pm. For more info: harbourhospice.org.nz/event/art-affair
1 Gain 427 km of charge in 15 mintues is data obtained from internal tests of G6 RWD Long Range.
2 All technical data are subject to type approval. Data has been obtained during internal testing. The actual range may differ from the calculated WLTP range, depending on the driver’s driving style, speed, number of passengers, vehicle load, outside temperature, use of air conditioning, terrain, vehicle condition, etc.
When phones are allowed into every corner of life, young people become constantly connected, constantly comparing themselves, and rarely fully present in any one place. Jonathan Haidt argues that childhood has been “rewired” by the combination of smartphones and social media. He describes this shift as a move from a play-based childhood to a “phone-based childhood”, with sharp rises in anxiety, depression and self-harm from around 2010, especially for adolescents. In response, Haidt proposes new norms to “restore childhood”.
This school year, Kristin adopted one of Haidt’s proposed norms: being completely smartphone and smartwatch-free on the school campus and during school activities. In practice, this means students cannot bring smartphones or smartwatches onto campus or to any school-based activities. Alternatively, they can bring a ‘basic’ or ‘dumb’ phone to school. These must stay in their bags during the school day or at activities, and are only available to them outside these times for safety and to communicate with parents out of school hours.
Students are talking more to each other, and stronger friendships are forming.
Being a smartphone-free school is one way we are taking action to give our students a daily experience of what it feels like to be fully present in their learning and their friendships. We are intentionally protecting the one shared environment where every child, regardless of background, can practice real-world skills like focusing, listening, playing, and disagreeing respectfully without an online audience.
Our move toward becoming a smartphone- and smartwatch-free school is giving our children something they are currently starved of: uninterrupted attention, real friendships, and a calmer nervous system in which learning and character can actually grow. Removing smartphones and smartwatches from our school means we are giving our students several protected hours each weekday, when the pressures of social comparison and online conflict are eased. This allows our students' nervous systems to downshift, giving them daily practice in offline coping, play, and problem-solving.
The benefits of this approach flow in every direction. In the first month of this school year, we are observing positive changes across our student body that align with studies summarised in research cited by Haidt. During breaks, we are observing our students engaged in socially positive activities that strengthen connections and relationships among students. Students are talking more to each other, and stronger friendships are forming.
We are grateful to our Kristin parent community for their partnership in this initiative, as Haidt is clear that schools cannot do this alone. We know from our parents that this approach has led to positive discussions around the dinner table and phone-free family time. By aligning home and school through this partnership, we can consistently give our young people a clear message that their attention, friendships and mental health are worth protecting. If you are a parent wanting to learn more, we recommend reading ‘The Anxious Generation’ by Jonathan Haidt.
By Alison Dymond - Director. Ali is an experienced lawyer and leads the Property
and Commercial team at Schnauer and Co.
Ali approaches legal issues with a pragmatic mindset, striving to secure the most suitable business-oriented resolutions for her clients. Her passion for aiding others shines through, and collaborating with her clients to attain their objectives brings her a genuine feeling of accomplishment.
Multi-generational living is experiencing a quiet renaissance in New Zealand – not because everyone suddenly craves a bustling household, but because it often makes excellent practical and financial sense due to rising house prices and soaring childcare demands.
The desire for closer support networks has also inspired homeowners and developers alike to rethink what the modern Kiwi home looks like. One of the clearest shifts we have seen lately is in new builds designed specifically to support extended families; these homes have five or six bedrooms, multiple living areas, and, perhaps the most vital upgrade of all, extra bathrooms. Some designs include semi-self-contained suites for older parents, or ground floor bedrooms to future proof for mobility needs. It’s a far cry from the classic three bed, one bath Kiwi bungalow of old.
When done well, multi-generational living can be a brilliant arrangement. But before anyone starts converting the garage or building a minor dwelling, it is important to think about the legal foundation.
Take the Jackson family: When their daughter and her young family couldn’t get onto the property ladder, they built a minor dwelling on the back of the parents’ section. It worked beautifully – Nana could help with school pickups, and there were additional “hands” around to help with the never-ending gardening. But it only ran smoothly because they put a property sharing agreement in place first, covering contributions, responsibilities, and what would happen if either party wanted, or needed, to leave.
Not every arrangement is as smooth. David and Lynette invited their son to move into their home and contribute to mortgage payments, intending to “sort things out later”. When their son separated from his partner, a dispute arose about whether he had acquired an ownership interest. With no formal agreement and inconsistent financial records, the situation quickly became stressful for everyone involved.
Co-ownership is often the first issue. Who owns what share? What happens if someone wants (or needs) to leave the arrangement? What if a relationship ends? Like the example of the Jackson family above, a simple, clear property sharing agreement can prevent awkward conversations later.
Then there’s the practical side: Not only do you have to think about Council consent requirements and insurance implications, but you also need to ensure the living spaces meet everyone’s expectations for privacy; a home can feel very small very quickly without good planning.
And finally, there’s the forward looking piece: What happens when someone passes away? How will the property be dealt with in their estate? Wills, life interests and ownership structures should all be aligned so the surviving family isn’t left untangling a legal knot.
Multi-generational living can be incredibly rewarding – emotionally, financially, and practically. The growing number of homes purpose-built for extended family living is a welcome sign that developers understand how families are actually deciding to live today. But as with all propertyrelated matters, success comes from clarity: well documented agreements, proper consents, and aligned estate planning.
Schnauer & Co, 1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna 09 486 0177 schnauer.com
Auckland’s northern lifestyle story continues to evolve, with Templeton Group’s Warkworth Ridge celebrating a major milestone — 100 homes now complete and dozens of families already settled into what is fast becoming one of the region’s most distinctive new communities.
Planned for more than 600 homes on completion, and with nearly 70% of sections already sold, Warkworth Ridge is no longer a vision on paper — it’s a living, growing neighbourhood. Elevated above the township, the development enjoys expansive southern and western views across Warkworth, framed by rolling hills, open skies and native bush.
Carefully master-planned to retain the area’s rural character, the community blends lowdensity living with considered design, protecting natural features while delivering modern infrastructure and everyday convenience.
Where lifestyle meets connection
Founder Nigel McKenna describes Warkworth Ridge as unique within the greater Auckland region.
“No other development so seamlessly combines lifestyle-focused, low-density living in a rural setting with exceptional access to both natural resources and modern amenities,” he says. “We’ve worked hard to ensure it fits naturally into its environment. It’s the perfect place to craft your dream home.”
But bricks and mortar are only part of the story.
While 100 completed homes marks an important construction milestone, it is the arrival of residents that signals something far more significant — the formation of a community.
“The most significant uplift in value for a residential property occurs when a community forms,” says McKenna. “People meet for coffee, children start playing together, neighbours join walking or exercise groups, a Facebook page appears, a newsletter begins. That
activity transforms houses into homes and a development into a living, social reality.”
It’s this sense of belonging — visible, tangible and growing — that often drives long-term value.
Despite its rural outlook, Warkworth Ridge offers remarkable connectivity. The motorway places Auckland’s CBD approximately 35 minutes away, with the motorway exit just 500 metres from the development.
Positioned on the coastal side of major transport corridors, residents enjoy sub-10minute access — without motorway congestion — to some of the region’s most treasured natural amenities. Pristine beaches, regional parks and a marine reserve are all within easy reach, opening the door to boating, fishing, kayaking, surfing, swimming, snorkelling, diving and horse riding.
Beyond nature, the area has evolved into something of an artisanal enclave. The wider Warkworth district is home to potters, painters, sculptors and musicians, alongside vineyards, farmers’ markets, boutique retail and a local cinema — a blend that creates a rich, layered lifestyle rarely found so close to the city.
Environmental stewardship has been central to the development’s planning. Natural watercourses have been carefully integrated into the design, supporting stormwater management, flood mitigation, biodiversity and long-term ecological health while also enhancing the landscape’s visual appeal.
All core infrastructure has been fully designed, consented, built and is now operating, with the support of Auckland Council and Watercare.
With regeneration well advanced and momentum building, Warkworth Ridge is steadily evolving from development to destination — a lifestyle-focused community where rural character, modern convenience and genuine neighbourhood connection come together.
* .
Mercedes-Benz End of Financial Year Sales Event.
Wherever your heart longs to be, the journey to get there begins at Mercedes-Benz North Shore.
Enjoy savings from $9,100 on the A 200 Hatchback for a limited time*.
Turn your desire into a reality with the Mercedes-Benz End of Financial Year Sales Event.
Now in its twenty-third year, AmaWaterways continues to redefine the art of river cruising with a refreshed brand and an impressive fleet of 29 ships sailing across four continents. Renowned for its high-touch service and immersive travel experiences, the company remains at the forefront of the industry, guided by a passion for heartfelt hospitality, cultural connection and creating spaces where guests feel genuinely cared for.
With planned fleet expansion underway, AmaWaterways is setting new benchmarks for immersive river cruising in Europe and beyond. Its continued growth reflects both innovation and confidence in emerging destinations - including Colombia, where the introduction of a second ship signals strong belief in the region’s future as a worldclass river cruise destination.
Accommodating just 64 guests, the elegant AmaMelodia has been meticulously designed to maximise comfort while showcasing Colombia’s lush landscapes and vibrant riverfront towns. On board, guests enjoy locally inspired Latin American cuisine alongside Western favourites in the main restaurant, lively music and entertainment in the main lounge, and relaxing moments in the sun deck whirlpool as the ship glides along one of South America’s most storied waterways. Ashore, immersive excursions include a private performance of the
Cruise Savings O er
Save up to $4,800 per stateroom on select 14-night river cruises, and $4,000 per stateroom on select 7-night river cruises in 2026 and 2027. Available through Europe, Asia, Egypt, Colombia and Africa select sailings.
Complimentary Land Package
Barranquilla Carnival, an exclusive jazz concert in Mompox, and a visit to the historic village of Palenque.
AmaWaterways is also expanding its Africa collection with four new itineraries debuting in 2026. These journeys combine a luxurious three-night Chobe River cruise aboard the intimate 24-passenger Zambezi Queen with immersive land programmes featuring Victoria Falls and destinations such as Kenya, Namibia, Zanzibar and the Skeleton Coast. Blending extraordinary wildlife encounters with rich cultural experiences, itineraries ranging from nine to 18 nights promise unforgettable adventures across this remarkable continent.
With fresh energy and an unwavering commitment to connection and care, AmaWaterways continues to craft journeys that leave a lasting impression. To experience the very best of AmaWaterways, book with Shore Travel – The North Shore Cruise Specialists, whose expertise and personalised service ensure your river cruise journey is seamless from planning to embarkation.
Shore Travel Flights • Accommodation • Tours • Cruises • Tailored Experiences Phone: 09 489 2597 or email hello@shoretravel.co.nz
Extend your journey up to 4 nights on select 2026 & 2027 Europe & Colombia. O er valid until 31Mar26.
Solo Traveller Specials
Reserve select Europe sailings and only pay 10% Single Supplement.
*O ers not combinable. Booking Terms and Conditions Apply
Shore Travel
Cnr Kitchener & Milford Roads, Milford, Auckland 0630 (09) 489 2597 hello@shoretravel.co.nz www.shoretravel.co.nz
Milford is riding a wave of prosperity, again taking the number one spot for top sales increase in Auckland in January 2026.
If you haven’t been recently, I challenge you to come and see what makes Milford such a wonderful place to shop. With our annual Vive La France event to be held on Saturday 21 March, now is the time to explore what is driving more and more people to shop in Milford.
This month is full of events – almost every weekend:
• March 1: Milford Summer Picnic – Milford Beach Reserve
• March 14: Dragon Boats – Lake Pupuke
• March 21: Vive La France – Milford Shopping Centre
• March 27 to 29: Auckland Regional Sea Scouts Regatta
– Lake Pupuke
• March 29th: Harcourts Shore to Shore Fun Run
– Milford Beach Reserve
Monique, our popular MC, is back for the Vive La France. As well as introducing the entertainers on stage she will interview our business owners and keep you up to date with things happening at the event.
The 21 March Vive La France event runs from 11am until 3pm. The village and main street will be adorned with flags and shops will have French window displays and decorations. There’s a French Treasure Hunt for the kids with entry forms available at the information marquee.
for a competition being held in conjunction with these vehicles at the event.
A mock-up of the Eiffel Tower will be part of the Mercedes-Benz North Shore display in centre court where there will be a blue, white and red vehicle.
Fine-O-Wine will also be in the Mercedes-Benz centre court with French wine tasting.
There will also be market day stalls from My Markets in the street and leading up to the car park entertainment zone. Lots of our main street stores will be involved with special market day stalls, including Sills & Co, Mikko Shoes, SPCA Shop, La Tropezienne, Tango Shoes, Skintopia, Milford Travel and more!
Look out for our food destination stores in the entertainment zone – Well Hung Butchery with their famous sausages sizzling and Cheeseland with their tasty French cheeses. The entertainment zone will have a Petanque court as well as entertainers and French food stalls.
The Nougaterie instagram.com/thenougaterie/ facebook.com/thenougaterie/ thenougaterie.co.nz/
Crust & Craft
FB: Crust-Craft-NZ Insta: crustandcraftnz
Kookie Haus kookiehaus.com Insta: kookiehausnz
We will also have our very own car show with four brands on display around Milford – Mercedes-Benz, GWM, Xpeng and GAC from our local North Shore car dealerships. They will be lined up in the blue, white, red of France and in the VLF entertainment zone in the top side of Kitchener Road carpark and there will be more at key places in the main street. There will be all their exciting latest models with various types of engines – petrol, hybrid, diesel and electric. Look out
AFA
alliance-francaise.co.nz Insta: af_auckland Valeur valeur.co.nz sobathrobes.com
Kalon Kalondigor.co.nz
Sweet as Crepes facebook.com/sweetascrepes instagram.com/sweetascrêpesnz sweetascrepes.co.nz
Well Hung Butchery wellhung.nz Insta: wellhungbutcher1
Cheese Land milfordcentre.co.nz/listing/ amsterdam-cheese-opening-soon/
Velvet Skin NZ velvetskinnz.com
FB: www.facebook.com/ RiyanaVelvetSkinNZ Insta: velvetskinnz
Note – times for everything will be on our Facebook, Instagram and website. Also, Milford Centre social media platforms will have more info on what the stores in the mall are doing.
Have a great March – I look forward to seeing you at our events!
Murray Hill, Manager, Milford Business Association manager@milfordshops.co.nz • 021 950 463 • milfordshops.co.nz facebook milfordshops instagram milfordnz youtube MilfordshopsTV
Moving Made Easy® is a specialist home sale preparation, downsizing, reorganisation, and relocation company that is celebrating its twentieth year in business this month! It is an independent, family-owned and operated business and has been since the company’s beginnings in 2006.
During this time, Brynyce Owen and her son, Tom, have helped older people across all stages of the home sale and relocation journey. We caught up with Brynyce to find out more.
Channel Mag: Moving Made Easy is celebrating 20 years in business this month. What inspired you to start the company back in 2006?
Brynyce: I had been helping senior people to downsize and reorganise on a voluntary basis for many decades. I realised 20 years ago that there wasn’t a professional service offering a specialist, tailored service for older people and those strapped for time. So, Moving Made Easy started. Ever since, we have used our unparalleled expertise and experience to provide a uniquely bespoke service that is tailored around the specific wants and needs of each client. Our goal when we started was to help people, and we are proudly still doing so 20 years later.
coordinating the donation of taonga to museums on several occasions. Our extensive range of expertise, including design, our team, and our contacts, means we can handle any sized project, from reorganising displays of antique snuff boxes to the specialist packing and relocation of an antique silk kimono collection, to preparing a large eightbedroom house for sale and relocating the belongings to three different locations, including overseas. Working with us really is a case of Moving Made Easy… plus so much more!
What changes have you seen in customer needs over the past 20 years?
Home sale preparation is now pivotal to securing a favourable sale in a fluctuating and competitive housing market. We’ve seen this trend grow over the last 20 years. It can be hard for people to see the steps they could take to present their home in the most favourable way for potential purchasers. Using our in-depth knowledge, we identify and outline options for clients and undertake the work needed to help them secure a positive settlement. This is hugely beneficial not only for those relocating but also for clients' families, who have very little time. It is also greatly appreciated by those looking after an estate closure.
You’ve been involved in charitable work and serving the community since you were very young. Did the new business reflect that knowledge and experience?
Yes. It was and is a core principle upon which we built Moving Made Easy. We are very proud of our charitable support and work with multiple charities to aid the community. This is also reflected in our ethical practices, our caring and empathetic approach, and our ecoconscious practices.
Your business has always been family owned and run. Does this give Moving Made Easy particular strengths?
My son and I are the foundation of the business, and we have a wonderful team of like-minded people alongside us. We are a true family business, and that underpins our caring and our genuine ethos in all areas of Moving Made Easy. Being a family-owned and operated business is an incredible strength that benefits our clients in countless ways. An additional strength in our business is Tom’s qualifications in architecture.
You specialise in home sale preparation, downsizing and reorganising, and relocations, which include specialist projects where you are working with antiques, artworks, collections and archives. What might one of these more complex projects look like?
Each project is individually tailored to the wants and needs of the specific client, and the service elements are unique to them, so no two are the same. We’ve had projects that involved managing the full renovation of a client’s home, packing and moving an extensive collection of military miniature figures and memorabilia, and the specialist relocation of large wall-art sculptures and re-installation in the new home. It really is a case of if the client wants it, we can do it. A standout honour for us has been researching the heritage and
I cannot speak more highly of the professional, caring and helpful way this company helped us to prepare our 90-year-old friend to pack up and move overseas from the home that she had lived in for 45 years.
– Client Runa McPheat. Takapuna.
Contact Brynyce Owen today to organise your free initial consultation.
09 489 5024
021 0854 5339
info@movingmadeeasy.co.nz movingmadeeasy.co.nz
As people consider what life will be like when they finally retire, many worry about how they will fill their day.
De Paul House is a North Shore not-forprofit that, for over 40 years, has been providing transitional and social housing for homeless or inadequately housed families and seniors.
General manager Jan Rutledge comments, “De Paul House, like many not-for-profit organisations, was founded by volunteers. We now rely on a team of volunteers who work in our early childhood centre, community learning centre and sorting donated goods. Without their loyal dedication, we would not be able to provide the much-needed practical support that many families and seniors are lacking.”
De Paul House runs a food bank, bedding, household goods, clothing and furniture banks, all run by volunteers. Other tasks undertaken vary greatly, from general gardening and grounds maintenance, supporting our classes in the community learning centre, fundraising, preparing units before a family or senior moves in, and helping in the early childhood centre.
Lesley Farmer, volunteer and community liaison at De Paul House, says, “We have around 50 regular volunteers. Many have been volunteering for ten to thirty years! They are mostly retired, active adults who turn up once a week for two to three hours. They stay because they create wonderful friendships, know they are making a difference, and are part of the solution to poverty and hardship. Our youngest volunteer is 12, and the oldest is over 80 years young!"
When surveyed recently, volunteers shared what the impact of volunteering
Susan Coughey: “I have only been volunteering for a year, but I find volunteering so fulfilling. It makes my heart full, knowing I am helping the community.”
had on their lives:
• “Volunteering at De Paul House has given me a sense of purpose in my daily life. It gets me out of the house and interacting with lovely people.”
• “I feel it has made me a better person, in that I understand the needs of others.”
• “It’s been good to know that I’ve been able to give some of my time to volunteer and know that it can make a difference in the lives of others.”
De Paul House use Volunteering Auckland’s corporate employee volunteering programme to be matched with a corporate that wants to give its
staff a paid day off to volunteer.
Lesley comments, “We take teams of up to 15 for four to six hours. They love the opportunity to be out of the office; it’s great for team building, and they do an amazing job. They may be given a project such as painting a fence, cleaning the work vehicles, giving our accommodation units a makeover, or general cleaning.”
Many businesses return every year, as the staff enjoy the day and learn about the challenges of homelessness for New Zealand families and seniors.
Cheryll Martin QSO, GM of Volunteering Auckland, comments, “Research has proven that those who volunteer tend to be happier, live longer, laugh more often and are more satisfied with life. Retirees are valued as volunteers for the skills they bring, their loyalty and commitment.”
Approximately 50% of New Zealanders (over 1 million people) participate in some form of volunteering, contributing roughly 157–231 million hours annually. The formal, unpaid work contributed by volunteers is valued at approximately $4 billion to $6.4 billion annually.
To learn more, contact Lesley Farmer at De Paul House, lesley@depaulhouse.org.nz, depaulhouse.org.nz, or Volunteering Auckland volunteeringauckland.org.nz
Set close to the beautiful Waitematā coastline and beside the wide green spaces of Te Kori Scott Point Park, Keith Park Village blends coastal calm with modern convenience in the heart of Hobsonville.
The last of our parkside apartments will be ready to move into this month, with plans available to view now.
These two and three bedroom apartments have been thoughtfully designed with seamless indoor–outdoor flow, leading to a covered patio or balcony with views over Te Kori Scott Point Park, the Waitematā Harbour, or the beautifully landscaped gardens.
Apartments priced from $699,000*.
Discover the Ryman lifestyle.
To find out more call Nicolle on 09 416 0750 or visit rymanhealthcare.co.nz/keith-park
KEITH PARK VILLAGE
3 Scott Road, Hobsonville
*Reflects the lowest available price at time of publication. Availability and pricing subject to change.
Having lived all over the North Shore and raised a family here, Robin McKenzie never imagined she would leave her beautiful threestorey Milford townhouse, just a block back from the beach. But four years after being widowed – and after 25 years in the same home – the maintenance and responsibility were beginning to weigh heavily.
Life on the Shore had been full and happy – wonderful neighbours, beach walks, and a strong circle of friends. Yet she knew it was time to make a move that would simplify life without compromising it.
While on a cruise with her sister, Robin met a couple who spoke glowingly about The Botanic Hibiscus Coast. Soon after, a visit to a hairdresser in Orewa turned into a tour of the village. She loved it immediately.
For Robin, and her much-loved dog Button, a dog-friendly village was essential. At The Botanic, Button is something of a local celebrity – everyone knows him. Together they enjoy walks along the beach in Orewa and around the well-designed walking routes in neighbouring Millwater, catching up with friends both locally and back in Milford, just a short, easy 20-minute drive away. She remains a member of the North Shore Bridge Club and has even started a Bridge group within the village.
When Kaye and Tony Procter made the move to their 2-bedroom villa at The Botanic from their family home in Torbay, it wasn’t a leap into the unknown — it was a confident step toward a more connected, carefree way of living.
What she values most is the ease and convenience of life here. Access to the ASB and Westpac banks that she’d lost in Milford – are both conveniently located in Silverdale. There’s the Friday morning village exercise class, relaxing for a hot soak in the Poolhouse spa, fun evenings at Housie, catching up with neighbours at Happy Hour, and being part of a genuinely warm, welcoming and supportive community. Following recent hip surgery, Robin felt especially grateful to be surrounded by support. “You don’t realise how reassuring it is,” she reflects, “until you need it.”
She admires the tasteful architecture – thoughtfully designed homes with privacy, varied outlooks, and beautiful design accents. Her two-bedroom, two bathroom villa is flooded with natural light and all day sun, with beautiful indoor-outdoor flow to a private garden patio and located just steps from the village vegetable gardens, the Poolhouse & Wellness Centre and The Clubhouse Café.
For Robin and Button, life at The Botanic is simpler, connected, and full – a new chapter that feels entirely right.
Having commuted daily from Torbay to the Hibiscus Coast for work with North Harbour Law, Kaye already knew and loved the area. “Everything is so handy,” she says. “I’ve driven up here for years, so it already felt familiar.”
We’ve made some wonderful new friends… There are so many impromptu meals and wines together, either in our homes or at The Clubhouse Café.
But what they love most about life at The Botanic isn’t just the location — it’s the people. “We’ve made some wonderful new friends,” Kaye says. “There are so many impromptu meals and wines together, either in our homes or at The Clubhouse Café.”
Retirement, they’ve discovered, feels like one long weekend. “Every day is a weekend,” Kaye laughs. “It’s wonderful.” With more time on their hands, they’re able to be deeply involved in family life. Tony plays golf three times a week, enjoys bowls, and proudly takes on the role of chauffeur for their grandchildren. Kaye volunteers at Red Beach school, where her daughter teaches, serves on The Botanic Residents’ Committee, and supports several charities through fundraising. Both are quick to lend a hand at events in The Clubhouse Café, where Kaye loves the ever-changing Specials Board (and the “fabulous” staff and coffee), while Tony is devoted to the Café’s legendary breakfasts, which are proving popular with Hibiscus Coast locals of all ages.
The ‘lock up and leave’ lifestyle has been a game changer. With no maintenance to worry about and neighbours happy to water plants, travel is effortless and spontaneous.
For Kaye and Tony, life at The Botanic is about staying active, nurturing connections, and building friendships with like-minded neighbours. Their advice to fellow retirees? “Don’t put it off. Do it now.”
Visit thebotanic.co.nz for more information.
The Hibiscus Coast’s premier, luxury, resort-style retirement village
Only a handful of existing villas and apartments remain available at The Botanic. Don’t delay, come for a look around sooner rather than later to secure your retirement in a community a little different from the rest. While future stages are planned, only a small number of completed two and threebedroom homes are currently available for purchase.
The Botanic Hibiscus Coast 17 Small Road, Silverdale
We’d love to show you around The Botanic’s available properties and awardwinning amenities. Get in touch to arrange a time for a personal one-on-one tour!
It was 15 years ago, in 2011, when we first highlighted the success of local Takapuna business AFT Pharmaceuticals. Hartley and Marree Atkinson had launched the business from a spare room off their garage 14 years previously, when Hartley had been made redundant. By 2011, the business had grown to turn over around $40 million, and the Atkinsons believed they had just touched the global potential. Fast forward to 2026, and they were right; turnover is now in excess of $200m and heading toward $300m. 15 years on, Channel Mag's Aidan Bennett caught up with Hartley Atkinson for a chat about their phenomenal growth and how they are still taking on the world from their Takapuna base.
By Aidan Bennett
Some years before I put together the AFT Pharmaceuticals feature in 2011, I’d heard a whisper about this homegrown North Shore drug business that was on to something big. I thought about uncovering the story then, but other things got in the way. So, when I saw the AFT Pharmaceutical name come up as a finalist in the Design, Research and Development category of the 2011 Auckland North Business Awards, I decided it was time to find out more. I loved doing it.
Back then I wrote... “A first impression when you meet Hartley Atkinson is that he doesn't strike you as the stereotypical managing director of this type of business. He's more like a laid-back middle-aged rock star with his long hair and creative look.” Nothing much has changed with that look, but a great deal has changed in terms of the success of the business that now turns over $230m! The business was floated on the NZX and ASX (New Zealand and Australian stock exchanges) in December 2015.
Hartley and Marree started AFT (the name comes from the ‘Atkinson Family
Trust’) with $50,000 start-up money, shortly after Hartley had been made redundant from his role as medical director at Swiss giant Roche. Hartley Atkinson was educated at Westlake Boys' and went on to train as a pharmacist, completing a doctorate in pharmacology while studying at university in both Christchurch and Dunedin.
We love highlighting local business success in Channel Mag, and in terms of success, what Hartley and Marree have achieved with AFT is incredible. I caught up with Hartley while he and Marree were travelling in Europe during February, shortly after it had been announced that AFT is the new multi-year sponsor of the North Harbour Club AIMES Innovation Award. It is heartwarming that the Atkinsons are now giving back in their home patch.
Aidan Bennett: You must be thrilled to have reached the $230m turnover mark during 2025 and enjoyed considerable growth right through the year. What are the next goals for AFT?
Hartley Atkinson: We were really pleased to grow at 33% over the same period last year and become the largest local New Zealand pharma company. We have a target to break the $300m sales mark by the end of the FY27 financial year (31 March 2027) and are currently working hard to achieve this milestone.
How many offices do you now have around the world, and how many staff?
Presently, we have 118 staff with our headquarters in Takapuna and offices in Sydney, Singapore, Hong Kong, Cape Town, Detroit, Toronto and London.
This has been a 28-year journey for you and Marree. You must be thrilled to now see your family playing a part in the business around the world. Tell us about their involvement.
Our eldest, Bailey, is working in our London office with our UK CEO, Dr Samer Taslaq. Bailey is a qualified lawyer and works in our business development team, helping to grow business across Europe and also the UK, where this calendar year we are launching eight new OTC (over the counter) pharmacy medicine products in addition to our existing range of hospital and OTCs. His younger brother, Campbell, who graduated with a degree in business and marketing, is also working in business development, mainly on our early-stage US and Canadian businesses, which are both really interesting markets. They have fitted in well with our team, who are all doing a great job expanding our business across now 84 countries around the globe.
Without giving all your secrets away, what are your short-term, medium-term, and longer-term goals for the business?
We remain very focused on our $300m shortterm goal before resetting our sights. Long term, we have a significant opportunity with our large R&D (research and development) pipeline, with the development funded entirely from existing resources, which is no mean feat as pharmaceutical development is an expensive exercise. We are also listed on the NZX and ASX stock exchanges, so improving the value of the company for all our shareholders is also both a medium and long-term goal.
I see you have recently created new business hubs in South Africa, Canada and the UK and continue to invest heavily in R&D. What current product development and new market initiatives excite you the most?
We see significant opportunity in our business hubs as the potential markets
are all much larger than New Zealand, and we have proven we can succeed in larger markets such as Australia, which is currently our biggest single market and performing very well. Medium to long term, we have a very exciting and significant R&D portfolio, which remains largely unappreciated here at home. One example is a novel injectable iron product that we are developing for the global market, and we are presently organising an 800-patient clinical study in New Zealand, China, India, Japan, the USA and Europe, which is a big job. Additionally, we are developing a number of treatments for diseases which don’t have viable treatments, which is a really worthwhile endeavour, but also commercially a significant opportunity to drive our company scale around the globe.
Tell us about the injectable/StablevaX initiative?
This is a great project where we are working with our London-based partner, Stablepharma, to develop 14 drugs that are normally stored in the fridge, and with their technology, we believe they can then be stored at normal room temperature. Hospital and pharmacy fridges nowadays are bursting at the seams, and there are a lot of costs in storage, transport and wastage from drugs not being stored properly, and this will really help address all of these problems. The drugs in question presently sell over US$6 billion, so this also represents a nice commercial opportunity as well.
We have a target to break the $300m sales mark
by the end of the FY27 financial year (31 March 2027) and
are currently working hard to achieve this milestone.
business in 84 countries and our own offices spread across the globe and time zones. AFT’s and my challenges largely overlap, which is why our teamwork is always very important, especially across the different regions.
As you are aware, I am passionate about the North Shore and North Harbour area. It was a thrill to see you and Marree decide to become a sponsor of the North Harbour Club’s AIMES Youth Excellence Awards –very aptly in the innovation category. What made you decide to generously give back in this way?
We really value the amazing lifestyle on the Shore and many of our staff also live locally as well. A challenge is that we spend a lot of time outside of New Zealand where most of our business occurs, and are subsequently not always well known or connected in New Zealand. The AIMES Youth excellence award is a great way for AFT to connect and give back to the local community.
What do you both do these days to relax away from business life?
We are both keen skiers so spend a bit of time on the slopes which is always a great unwinder away from work. We also really enjoy keeping fit walking around the lake and going to the gym. The Shore is great for its active lifestyle which seems to be a common theme for so many of its residents. We have a very active Hungarian Visla called Klaus who is always up for a good walk and run which also helps.
What are the biggest challenges now for you and AFT?
There are always challenges and much to learn, and it’s great to go to work every day and still be learning. The biggest challenge is always execution, especially with
Complete the following: When I get back to New Zealand, I'm really looking forward to…
… getting back into the routine again for a bit and catching up with everyone. It is always great to get home!
For further information visit: www.aftpharm.com
Join us on Friday 15 May 2026 at North Harbour Stadium for the Lexus of North Shore Food and Business Charity Lunch, proudly hosted by the North Harbour Club. Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon with celebrated chef Ben Bayly, renowned restaurateurs Michael Dearth and Judith Tabron, and MC Kelli Brett as they share insights into New Zealand’s evolving food and business scene. Indulge in a gourmet lunch, connect with North Shore leaders, and experience foodie activations with prizes and surprises – all while supporting a great cause.
The speakers and presenters:
• BEN BAYLY – Award-winning chef and restaurateur behind Ahi, Aosta, and Ahi Organic Garden and Farm, showcasing Aotearoa's flavours through sustainable, creative cuisine.
• MICHAEL DEARTH – Owner of Baduzzi and The Grove (now closed), respected restaurateur and former MasterChef NZ judge, known for his passion for hospitality and mentoring.
• JUDITH TABRON – Owner of First Mates, Last Laugh and founder of Soul Bar and Bistro, a pioneer in New Zealand dining and advocate for women in hospitality, recognised with top industry honours.
• KELLI BRETT (MC) – Editor and publisher of Cuisine magazine, championing local producers and sharing stories that celebrate New Zealand’s vibrant food scene.
Lexus of North Shore Food and Business Charity Lunch – North Harbour Stadium, Friday 15 May, from 11.45am. Bookings essential, visit www.northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz.
of North Shore Charity Lunch
Christopher Luxon
Thursday March 12th, North Harbour Stadium
Petanque at Stanley Bay
Pétanque Club
Thursday 26th March, 5.30pm
See advert on this page.
of North
Food & Business Charity Lunch
Friday 15th May, North Harbour Stadium
See article on this page.
Tuesday 26th
Tuesday
AIMES Youth Excellence Awards
Gala Dinner
Saturday 21st November, Grand Millennium Hotel
Visit www.northharbourclub.co.nz for further information.
By Christine Young
The Booklover Bookshop in Milford is a much-loved institution, a magnet for bibliophiles of all ages and interests. Last year Olivia Spooner, who while owning the shop also wrote five books, sold the store and handed over the responsibilities of maintaining The Booklover’s reputation to Rachel Panossian. Christine Young talked to Rachel about taking over the highly regarded independent book shop.
Rachel had long dreamed of owning her own shop one day, but confesses “it’s been a rollercoaster ride” since she took over The Booklover just six months ago. “I honestly don’t know how Olivia ran the bookshop, wrote bestselling novels and raised three beautiful kids – superwoman! Even though I’ve worked here for five years there was still a steep learning curve – and I don’t recommend taking over a retail shop two months before Christmas!”
Not that Rachel regrets the decision to buy the shop. Far from it. But she’s a self-confessed perfectionist, and her own hardest taskmaster, with ambitions for the shop she has yet to fulfil.
Rachel loves books and can’t imagine “where I would be without books in my life”, thanks to the stories her father created for her based on pictures in books, and to
regular library visits with her mother during her childhood.
We already have some schools we work closely with but I’d like to reach out more and continue to grow those relationships, to further support children reading.
When the family moved to New Zealand from Canada 14 years ago, Rachel attended Auckland University, majoring in English, drama and event management, before taking on book-related roles, including as a part-time bookseller and later a full-time supervisor at Whitcoulls’ Albany branch, before moving on to a stint at an independent bookshop in Takapuna. Whitcoulls “gave me experience in a chain bookstore” –and confirmed to her that it was not her preferred milieu. At the independent store, on the other hand, she immediately felt she belonged. She knew she wanted a specialist bookshop. It was, she says “cosy, intimate and personalised”, attributes she now aims to amplify at The Booklover.
She began working at The Booklover as a sales person, after she applied for but lacked the experience to get the advertised role of co-manager. She was, however, delighted to be contacted by Olivia and offered a part time role. After a year, she began taking on additional responsibilities and became a fulltime Booklover team member, looking after, among other things, the store’s popular social media and regular email newsletter. “Olivia was very, very encouraging to me learning, and the role grew,” Rachel says. When the co-manager left to return to Australia, Rachel became co-manager alongside Olivia.
Like Olivia before her, Rachel prioritises being in the shop. “It would be weird not to have the owner customer-facing,” she says. But as owner she also deals with all the administrative and financial responsibilities; one of her frustrations is that she is not on the shop floor more often. It’s important to her personally as well as in making book buying decisions that she knows what customers want. “You risk losing touch; you don’t hear what people are reading, or want to read.”
Part-time bookseller Laura Watts helps compensate for Rachel’s inevitable focus on finance, ordering and buying. Rachel says their reading interests complement each other and each fills in the other on
customer preferences and comments, as well as on the latest books in the many genres represented in-store. “I couldn’t do it without Laura,” Rachel says. In the frantic pre-Christmas period last year, Laura and regular casual Jacki Fortune helped manage the rush of customers as Rachel adjusted to the need to balance selling with all the back office tasks at the busiest time of the year.
This month, Venice White, with experience in independent bookshops here and in the UK, joins the team as a part-time co-manager.
Owning a bookstore – and perhaps even The Booklover – was “always in the back of my mind”, says Rachel, but she hadn’t expected it would happen in her early thirties. “When Olivia asked me, my gut reaction was ‘no way’, because I thought it was too good to be true. My gut said no, my heart said yes and my brain said no.” It was the start of many long conversations with her husband Armand Panossian, and her family and friends.
It was Rachel herself who perhaps prompted the opportunity. She had had a conversation with Olivia in which she said she felt she had learned everything she could in her role at The Booklover. “I wanted to move into a buying position, or perhaps join a publisher. That raised it for her and me. Olivia wanted to sell, and offered it to me.”
Rachel knew how hard an independent bookshop owner works. And with Rachel and Armand in their thirties, they had assumed a move as big as this would follow once they had taken a more regular route of “house, children, dog”. As they debated, they overcame Armand’s reservations about bookshops being an endangered species and agreed it was too good an opportunity to pass up. They still want children, and a house – but “at the end of the day there was no way we could say no”.
Before formally taking over, Rachel had already followed her passion for children’s books and encouraging young people to read by taking over as children's book buyer, and had met and worked with most of the publishers' reps. But being solely responsible for all the decisions has been challenging. In making buying decisions especially, she has to be a clairvoyant, anticipating trends, following award long lists, reading publishers’ reading copies, and anticipating who might get reviews that generate sales.
Having mastered many of the routine tasks, Rachel continues activities such as the newsletter and social media (both of which she still enjoys creating), the regular book clubs, book quizzes, showcases of new books, and occasional book launches. She is now starting to plan ahead, keen make The
Booklover a hub not just for books, but for the wider community. Perhaps yoga classes in the spacious room (carpeted and lined with books) at the back of the store, or talks, or… The only limit is the time she has to ensure whatever she does meets her own high standards.
“I’d really like to establish stronger relationships with local schools. We already have some schools we work closely with but I’d like to reach out more and continue to grow those relationships, to further support children reading. I’d also like to work towards re-establishing our 'Booklover Banter' podcast because we’ve had to take a break (for obvious reasons!). It was fun for us to have another reason to talk about books and fun for people to listen and get an insider glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes of a bookshop.”
Rachel will also continue the popular ‘Staff Picks’ section at the front of the store, the staff recommendations in the newsletter, and her focus on personalisation – finding just the right book for whoever comes into the shop. This is what The Booklover does best, she says. “Without personal selling we
would be nowhere near as busy.”
“I never wanted to be someone who came in and changed everything,” she says. “I would just like to do more; we have this amazing space [at the back of the store]…. I would love to do more children’s events: story times with the latest picture books in the morning… I want it to be a special place on the Shore. I have a backlog of things I haven’t done and things I want to do.”
While Laura urges her to take a step back, and aim to do just one thing a week, Rachel’s approach is to do five things, and “if it’s not perfect, why bother? I have very very high expectations of myself.”
She confesses that by now, she thought she would not be working until 9 or 10 o’clock each night. But “it’s just me learning as much as I can about running a small business. I thought it would be easier as I’ve been here so long, but it’s different when you own the shop. There are things you just don’t realise until you own it.”
Despite the challenges, she sums up, “It’s rewarding and I’ve felt an overwhelming amount of support from the community. I don’t regret it for a single moment.”
This month, we catch up with a range of local residents who are never far from a book; readers and writers who share with Channel Mag where their passion for reading came from, their favourite books and what storytelling means to them.
James Carrick is an award-winning playwright and actor who lives in Narrow Neck with his fiancée, Liz, who he says has the unenviable task of editing his writing! Originally from Brighton, England, James has lived in New Zealand since 2007. Previously a stand-up comedian, and still an actor and musician of many talents, he has more recently honed his writing skills to include full-length and one-act stage plays, including Welcome to Hellansville, Call Girls, Fall Out and Shaving Ewe.
Channel Mag: What book made you fall in love with reading? Why did it leave such a lasting impression?
James Carrick: I can absolutely say that I fell in love with reading at a young age. I can't recall one particular book, but collectively, books were fuel for my imagination, an absolute necessity to me! I was amazed at an author's ability to carry me away, without knowing a thing about me or my life. I was and still am a lover of listening, particularly to radio, audiobooks and podcasts. The power of storytelling via the spoken word is an incredibly powerful medium that I more often than not revert to.
What’s the most memorable book you’ve read in the last year? What made it stand out?
Dead Cat Bounce by Damien Owens. It's a very funny book, cleverly written about the trials and tribulations of a young Irishman called Joe. Useless at love, life and being a good son to an overbearing mother. It was laugh-out-loud funny. My most recent audiobook was A
Fine Line Between Stupid and Clever - the story of Spinal Tap. It combined my love of music and comedy - a perfect match!
Do you have any writing rituals or habits?
My plays are character and dialogue-driven, and I like to think they are quite funny. As I construct the plays I write, my habit is to record my characters as they play out their interactions in my head. I hear their voices - I'm a fly on the wall of my imagination. I just listen to the conversations I hear and write them down. Hopefully, they make sense. Occasionally, they don't! That's when the long process of editing begins!
Where do you get your inspiration for writing from?
My inspiration comes from the people I meet, the conversations I listen to, and the occasional bit of eavesdropping. Call Girls, a play about four senior ladies desperate to save their home from developers, was based on actual people that I'd met through the job I did. It has been so rewarding to hear from audiences, telling me that my plays and, more so, the characters in them, are so relatable - people profess to actually know these characters! It's always a humbling experience to know I am reaching and entertaining people, and they love the characters I create, who are brought to life on stage.
Recommend one book every local should read at least once, and why?
Everyone should read Barbara Kingsolver's The Poisonwood Bible. It's the absorbing, fascinating story of a 1960s American pastor and his family, who move to Congo, in an attempt to save the population from the sins they didn't know they were committing. The whole story is narrated by his wife and four daughters. I found it compelling in an 'I can't put this down' kind of way.
Do you have a favourite theatre that you would recommend and why?
My favourite place on the Shore is the PumpHouse Theatre - a beautiful old building on the banks of Lake Pupuke. I love it so much, I'm getting married there later this year! It's home to many creatives, and, particularly for me, home to Phoenix Theatre, a wonderful community theatre group I belong to. They stage superb shows - I thoroughly recommend them! Check out phoenixtheatre.co.nz or pumphouse.co.nz for details on their next stage play, the 50th anniversary production of Sir Roger Hall's Glide Time, coming up this September. A little closer is the inaugural Shore Shorts season, which is an exciting one-act play collaboration between Phoenix Theatre and Shoreside Theatre, playing at the PumpHouse this month.
To find out more about James's plays, visit thatitheatre.co and playmarket.org.nz/playwrights/james-carrick
Local author Gillian Scott combines her passion for travel and writing with her series of travel romance/comedy novels. After travelling Europe in a combi van for three months, Gillian spent the rest of her 20s working for a major youth tour company (Contiki). After returning to New Zealand in 1999, she continued to lead the odd tour over the years to Europe, Australia and the US and Canada, and around 2012, Gillian and her husband took their two children (nine and six) out of school to backpack around the world for eight months. The children are now grown, one is living in London following her own travel dream, and the other is in his last year at Lincoln University. Gillian talks about her love of writing, reading and travel.
Channel Mag: What book made you fall in love with reading? Why did it leave such a lasting impression?
Gillian Scott: One book and one author stand out in my memory. Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M. Auel was one of the first chapter books I read as a child. The protagonist's journey of survival and growth really struck me. Later, I devoured everything
Joan MacKenzie is the book manager for retailer Whitcoulls. She says she has been lucky enough to spend her entire career working with books, alongside bringing up four boys and reading voraciously in every spare moment.
Channel Mag: What book made you fall in love with reading? Why did it leave such a lasting impression?
Joan MacKenzie: Reading has always just been a part of me; throughout my life, there’s almost nothing else I would rather do. I can’t recall any specific titles which made me fall in love with it, though I do have very fond recollections of Black Beauty, Heidi and the Sue Barton nurse series. I think it’s that thing about being transported to other lives and worlds... it really is true.
What’s the most memorable book you’ve read in the last year? What made it stand out?
With so many to choose from, it’s hard to pick a favourite, but I adored The Lack of Light by Nino Harataschwili which is set in Georgia after independence from the USSR and the resulting Civil War. It's about four friends growing up together, one of whom becomes a celebrated photographer. The other three attend a retrospective of her work after her death, which takes them back to their childhood.
Marian Keyes wrote. I love her sense of humour and the characters she creates. What’s the most memorable book you’ve read in the last year? What made it stand out?
The Housemaid by Freida McFadden. I hadn't read any psychological thrillers for a while, so it was great to turn to the dark side. I found it a real page turner with a twist I didn't see coming.
Do you have any writing rituals or habits? I need a lot of time and space for my brain to switch into creative mode. Long walks along our beautiful local beaches, or in an exotic overseas location, help me overcome any periods of writer's block.
Where do you get your inspiration for writing from?
My inspiration comes largely from my own experiences leading groups of 18-35s through Europe in the 1990s, which is the time period in which my books are set. Also, from the antics that my colleagues got up to, some of which are so crazy that people might not believe them, even as fiction!
Recommend one book every local should read at least once, and why?
The War Photographers by another local
Do you have any good reading rituals or habits?
I don’t know about ‘good’ rituals; it’s more about an obsession! Definitely every night before going to sleep, but also at any other time I can fit it in, evenings, weekends, holidays. I watch very little television, as reading always takes preference.
author, S. L. Beaumont. The book spans two significant historical periods, WWII and the Cold War, with a dual timeline. It's brilliantly researched and well written.
Do you have a favourite local library that you would recommend, and why?
The Devonport Library, upstairs overlooking Windsor Reserve and the beach. It's a stunning space, comfortable and with a great view.
Find Gillian’s books at gillianscottcreative.com
Recommend one book every local should read at least once, and why?
Plumb by Maurice Gee (and the two further books in the trilogy which follow it). It was published in 1979 and remains one of the best books I’ve ever read, from an extraordinary and prolific New Zealand writer who made me realise that our homegrown books are as good as anything from international publishing. It really opened my eyes.
Is there a new release or upcoming book that Whitcoulls is getting that you are looking forward to reading, and why?
Look What You Made Me Do by John Lanchester (due out on 17 March). The premise of the story is that every marriage has its own language, which is meaningless to anyone else, but when a Netflix show
called Cheating quotes the words and phrases unique to Kate and Jack, she questions everything about her marriage and how the scriptwriter could have possibly known their secret language. It sounds great. John Lanchester is a terrific writer and is always one to watch.
Are there any local events coming up or anything of note that you want to share with our local readers?
The big event in the Auckland calendar is the Writers and Readers Festival (12-17 May), which is always an astonishing collection of talented, fascinating writers and which I’d encourage everyone to attend at least once. The buzz, goodwill and rooms full of profound respect are something very special to be a part of.
Find your local Whitcoulls retailer at whitcoulls.co.nz
Michelle Bennett is an avid reader, former teacher and Benefitz owner (Channel publisher). She has been part of the same book club for 30 years and says she fell in love with reading at a very young age. She has four grandchildren under six and enjoys passing on her passion for books to them and supporting independent, local retailers as much as possible.
Channel Mag: What book made you fall in love with reading? Why did it leave such a lasting impression?
Michelle Bennett: I fell in love with reading at a very young age. I was lucky enough to be read to regularly as a young child and was one of those children who always had their head in a book. Going old school here and absolutely showing my age, I typically read anything by Enid Blyton - The Secret Seven, The Famous Five and The Magic Faraway Tree series. However, the series that really hooked me totally was The Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingalls Wilder. The history, the fact that it took me away to another world so very different to what I was living, was just pure magic for a young girl.
What’s the most memorable book you’ve read in the last year? What made it stand out?
I belong to a book club that has been going for 30 years now. We meet every five weeks or so, and I get to take home four fabulous new books each time we meet. A highlight from last year for me was The Element series by John Boyne, four books titled Water, Earth, Fire and Air. I love everything this author writes. My Friends by Frederick Hackman was also a real treat. And my favourite New Zealand author, Catherine Chidgey, did not disappoint with The Book of Guilt.
Do you have any good reading rituals or habits?
I love to sit down with a book straight after completing all the afternoon chores that await me when I come home from work. It doesn’t always happen, but I love to unwind before tackling a pilates class or dinner. I always read before I sleep, and depending on wake-up time, the early morning before getting up is always a bonus. Holidays always involve a few good books! I haven’t yet got into audiobooks, as I have so many podcasts waiting for me that I never seem to get on top of them.
Recommend one book every local should read at least once, and why?
I always recommend these two books to anyone looking for a good New Zealand story. The first is After the Tampa by Abbas Nazari, a fabulous read about a young boy's journey as a refugee to New Zealand. The other one is called We Can Make a Life by Chessie Henry, a really heart-warming
memoir about one family's survival following the Christchurch and Kaikoura earthquakes.
Do you have a favourite local book store or library that you would recommend, and why?
I love any independent bookstore and will seek them out wherever we go. I love the way different owners curate their stores, the displays, and the little book bios that some stores provide always encourage a purchase or two. I also get a monthly book on subscription from Bookety Book Books in Wanaka, very often a book I wouldn’t normally opt for, but they are always good. Their online store is amazing. I love taking the grandchildren to our local library. We often pop in for half an hour or so for a quick story time. Takapuna Library is close by, and I can’t wait to see how it improves with the new plans our local board has for it. Hopefully, we get a really cool facility along the same lines as Devonport has now.
Terrie Gray is the owner of the muchloved local Devonport book store, Paradox Books, becoming the store's fourth owner as it was about to close eight years ago, having been a long-time customer with her book group. Terrie says taking on Paradox meant continuing her relationship with books and beginning a relationship with the welcoming and interesting Devonport community. Terrie has lived in Devonport for 28 years, returning with her Kiwi husband and very young children after years working in Perth as a librarian in a law firm.
Channel Mag: What book made you fall in love with reading? Why did it leave such a lasting impression?
Terrie Gray: I have always loved reading, but clearly recall coming across The Secret Garden in my school library and relishing the feeling afterwards that books and their stories are treasures waiting to be found. What’s the most memorable book you’ve read in the last year? What made it stand out?
New Zealander Catherine Chidgey’s latest novel, The Book of Guilt, is a great example of powerful storytelling. The writer has cleverly imagined a sinister, alternative England in the 1970s with
memorable characters, pockets of dark humour, and a growing feeling that adults have a lot to answer for. I think Catherine Chidgey is New Zealand’s most impressive writer. Do you have any good reading rituals or habits?
My reading is done daily as part of my walk to the shop with my dog Edie. She lies quietly at my feet while I read my paper book at my favourite local café, The Deli.
Recommend one book every local should read at least once, and why?
I think people should read any book that they are attracted to and in any form they can get it. Booksellers are pretty soon aware that no one book suits every person, otherwise, they would only stock a couple of books.
Do you have a favourite local library or community space that you would recommend, and why?
As a reader and especially a bookseller, I have a special relationship with the Devonport Library, with which I am grateful to partner regularly to run book events. Many Devonport locals and I love and use our very attractive and comfortable Ian Athfield-designed library building.
Find Paradox Books at 26 Victoria Road, Devonport, 09 446 0023, paradoxbooks.co.nz
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By Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation
Over the past month, I’ve been reminded once again of the vital role our hospital plays in the life of our community. When it matters most, we all want access to world-class care close to home. Each morning when we wake up, none of us expects to end up in hospital unexpectedly. Yet that is exactly what happened to someone I know earlier this year.
Kane, a North Shore local, builder and father of three, values his health and starts most days with regular exercise. In mid-January, he headed out for his usual bike ride. It was routine. Familiar. Ordinary. Within moments, everything changed. Just a few hundred metres from home, he was hit by a car. Lying on the roadside, he instantly knew his legs were badly injured and felt grateful simply to be alive. Kane was taken to North Shore Hospital’s Emergency Department, where he says the staff were incredible. His injuries required major surgery and a two-week stay on Ward 9. He is now back home recovering, adjusting to a less active life - for the time being - and facing several weeks of rehabilitation ahead. Kane’s experience is a powerful reminder that none of us expects to need hospital care. Yet any one of us, at any time, can find ourselves relying on the skill, compassion and dedication of our local hospital team. When that moment comes, we all want to know that exceptional care is available close to home.
Through the Well Foundation, our community helps advance healthcare at North Shore Hospital. Donations support initiatives that enhance the hospital experience for patients, families and staff, from enabling cutting-edge clinical equipment and enhanced facilities to providing access to advanced clinical training.
As we end the financial year on 31 March, I invite you to consider donating to your local hospital. Your gift will help advance medical care now and into the future. We cannot predict when we might need our hospital, but together, we can make sure it is the very best it can be when we do. Scan the QR code or visit wellfoundation.org.nz/donate. A reminder that donations over $5 may be eligible for a 33.33% tax credit. Thank you and take care.
Well Foundation is the official charity of North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals 09 447 0138, info@wellfoundation.org.nz wellfoundation.org.nz
Pack and Send Takapuna has served Takapuna and the wider Auckland community for 12 years. Their knowledge of the local market, experience and ability to provide a custom service have been unparalleled. Jeremy and Jane are very thankful for the support of their customers who trust them to package and send their items – no matter how fragile, awkward or valuable.
Pack and Send is a very popular franchise that will send any item –no matter how fragile, large, awkward or valuable — anywhere in the world. Its powerful promise is: “Anything, anywhere - no limits.”
Pack and Send Takapuna is the top-performing franchise in the Pack and Send Group nationwide. They have been recognised as the best operators in New Zealand, achieving a high level of success.
Over the years, Pack and Send Takapuna have supported the arts community and assisted artists and dealers of arts and antiques, safely transporting their works all over the world, whether it is for exhibitions, commissions or in-store or online purchases. They have sponsored art events such as the Takapuna Winter Lights and are a partner of the New Zealand artist show, Art in the Park.
The team of seven is well-qualified to offer highly professional custom solutions for moving items from A to B. They offer a bespoke packaging service which includes handling fragile, large, awkward and valuable items. For extra peace of mind, they can arrange cover for loss or damage of the consignment during transit.
The Takapuna service centre is a one-stop shop for all packaging and freight needs. Private and business customers are taking to the Pack and Send concept in droves; from Trade Me buyers and sellers, tourists and backpackers, university students on the move, people moving overseas, small businesses and large corporations. They cover
that Pack and Send Takapuna provides are designed to make your freight experience as simple and smooth as possible. You don’t even need to open an account, and they’ll send anything, anywhere, plus take care of the hassles.
Pack and Send Takapuna is open Monday to Saturday, and is located
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Ear Health, Devonport
82 Lake Road, Narrow Neck
Mon-Fri: 8:30am-5pm Sat & Sun: Closed www.earhealth.co.nz | 09 242 0866
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24 Victoria Road, Devonport
Open 11:30am – late everyday 09 445 0193 | info@signalhill.co.nz signalhill.co.nz
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Devonport’s community bookshop for 28 years.
26 Victoria Rd Ph 09 446 0023 www.paradoxbooks.co.nz Your local lawyers for general law since 1990 | chapmanjones.co.nz
Join us at the third International Auckland Numismatic Expo from Saturday 4 to Sunday 5 April 2026.
Collectors, history enthusiasts, and bullion investors across the North Shore will want to mark their calendars for one of the most anticipated hobby events of the year. The third International Auckland Numismatic Expo is set to return Saturday 4 to Sunday 5 April 2026, promising a weekend filled with remarkable discoveries, expert insights, and the thrill of rare finds.
This annual expo has quickly become New Zealand’s premiere event for lovers of numismatics - the study and collection of coins, banknotes, medals, and related treasures. Whether you’re a seasoned collector hunting your next elusive piece, an investor seeking high-quality bullion, or simply curious about the stories behind old currency, this year’s gathering offers something truly special.
Aventine returns as Auction Host
Aventine, one of the region’s most respected numismatic specialists, returns as the official Sale Host for the 2026 Auckland Numismatic Expo Auction. Their involvement adds an exciting dimension to the weekend, showcasing a curated selection of rare and historically significant items - many offered with a remarkable no-reserve $1 starting bid.
For collectors, that means an opportunity to secure pieces that rarely come to market, and for newcomers, a chance to start a collection without the usual barriers of high entry prices. The atmosphere of a competitive live auction only heightens the experience.
Highlights
Expo visitors will enjoy exclusive highlight lot viewings throughout the event, featuring some of the most sought-after items in New Zealand’s numismatic history. Among the standout pieces are:
• 1935 New Zealand Waitangi Crowns
• Revered for their low mintage and stunning design and steeped in international and political significance, these coins are treasured by collectors nationwide.
• A Reserve Bank of New Zealand Series 1 “Māori Chief” Lefeaux £50 note
• Considered one of the crown jewels of New Zealand banknote collecting. Additionally, this year’s event will showcase world-class exhibits expected to draw record attendance from local and international dealers. Among them is the extraordinary Ancient Roman gold coin that survived the eruption of Pompeii, a piece that has captured global attention after being featured on Fox News. Whether you’re investing, collecting, or simply exploring a fascinating part of history, the International Auckland Numismatic Expo is an unmissable event for North Shore residents. Come to learn, browse, buy, or trade, and immerse yourself in a world where every coin tells a story.
The International Auckland Numismatic Expo is being held at the Parnell Hotel and Conference Centre in the Discovery and Endeavour Suite, 10 Gladstone Road, Auckland, on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 April. Learn more at www.ANE.co.nz Auction host: www.Aventine.co.nz
By Lewis Rudall, Master Electrician and Director at Lake Road Electrical
There’s something pretty special about living on the Shore. Beaches close by, busy family homes, weekend sport, barbecues on the deck, and houses that get properly lived in all year round. From classic weatherboard places to new builds popping up across the North Shore, one thing’s the same: your electrical system needs to keep up.
We’re seeing more homes running heavier loads than ever before. Heat pumps humming through winter, EV chargers in the garage, induction cooktops, spa pools, home offices... it all adds up. If your lights are flickering, circuits are tripping, or you’re still running old-school fuses, your switchboard could be under pressure. A modern switchboard upgrade isn’t just about convenience; it’s about keeping your home safe when everything’s firing at once.
Outdoor living is a big part of the Shore lifestyle, too. Good lighting around decks, driveways and pathways makes a massive difference, especially through winter and those darker evenings. It sharpens up the look of your place and adds an extra layer of security. Weatherproof outdoor power points are a must for entertaining or running tools and garden gear.
If you’re renovating, talk to your sparky early. Adding extra power points, better lighting or data cabling before the gib goes on will save you time and money.
At Lake Road Electrical, we’re proud to power North Shore homes safely and reliably. Whether it’s a switchboard upgrade, outdoor lighting, EV charger install or a full renovation, we’ll make sure your home’s electrics are up to scratch and future-ready.
Give Lake Road Electrical a call today, and let’s get your place sorted.
Lewis Rudall
- your friendly local electrician
Lake Road Electrical
029 128 7494
lakeroadelectrical.co.nz
This month I want to introduce another company we have been working with: GreenUp Irrigation. Owner Josh is a fellow Northerner with a background in water engineering, and extensive experience including managing irrigation at a worldclass golf resort in Canada. Josh writes this month's column on the importance of irrigation.
As the owner of GreenUp Irrigation, I’ve spent years helping gardeners take the stress out of watering. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: A thriving garden isn’t just about what you plant, it’s about how you water.
I’ve met so many passionate gardeners who feel frustrated when plants struggle. More often than not, the issue isn’t effort, it’s inconsistent irrigation. That’s where we come in. At GreenUp Irrigation, we design and install tailored systems that suit your soil, plant selection, sun exposure and lifestyle. Whether it’s drip irrigation that feeds water directly to the roots, or smart controllers that automatically adjust to weather conditions, our goal is simple: Healthy plants, less waste, and more time for you to actually enjoy your garden.
The benefits go beyond convenience. A properly designed system strengthens root growth, reduces disease caused by overwatering, and can significantly lower your water bills. With integrated rain sensors and moisture monitoring, you’re never watering when nature has already done the job.
Even with a professional system, a few mindful habits make a big difference. I always recommend watering early in the morning to reduce evaporation, applying a generous layer of mulch to lock in moisture and regulate soil temperature, and carrying out a quick monthly check for leaks or blocked emitters. Those small fixes save thousands of litres over time.
At the end of the day, irrigation is about getting the basics right. When water is delivered efficiently and consistently, plants perform the way they’re meant to. My job is to make sure your system works properly, uses water responsibly, and supports the kind of garden you actually want, without the constant second-guessing.
If you would like to find out more, feel free to have a look at greenup.nz or contact me direct on 0273700160.
Amanda Graham Newhaven Gardens Ltd 021 378969 instagram.com/newhavengardens/ amanda@newhavengardens.co.nz newhavengardens.co.nz
By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd
March traditionally marks a turning point in the property calendar, as buyers return from summer with renewed focus and sellers reassess their plans for the year ahead. In 2026, however, this seasonal shift is being paired with something more significant: a policy change that could influence the upper end of the market.
Following an amendment to the Overseas Investment Act, from 6 March, selected overseas investors holding specific investor residence visas will be able to apply for consent to purchase or build residential property valued above NZ$5 million. While this does not reopen the market to all foreign buyers, it introduces a targeted pathway that may increase demand in the premium sector.
For high-value homeowners, this represents a noteworthy opportunity. International purchasers often seek quality architecture, strong locations, and lifestyle appeal, all features that Auckland’s coastal and established suburbs offer in abundance. Even a small increase in qualified buyers can strengthen competition at the top end, which can have a ripple effect on confidence across surrounding price brackets.
Even a small increase in qualified buyers can strengthen competition at the top end…
At the same time, local buyers remain active and discerning. They are taking a considered approach, focusing on value, presentation, and long-term potential. For sellers, this means preparation and pricing strategy remain just as important as ever.
As autumn unfolds, the key takeaway is clear: market momentum isn’t defined by one factor alone, but by the combination of policy, supply, and buyer confidence, and right now, those elements are aligning in interesting ways.
Yan Davies is a reliable and trusted adviser, and a longtime North Shore local with a Master’s degree in business administration. Known for her strong high-end client network across both Asian and local communities, Yan is highly professional in her approach and treats every listing as a top priority, striving to deliver a smooth sales process and achieve the best possible result for her clients.
Yan Davies 燕 021 585 590
yan.davies@bayleys.co.nz
Licensed under the REA Act 2008
唯一 华 人中介@ Bayleys Takapuna
Tabitha Coleman, General Manager Devonport Business Association
With works clearly underway on Takarunga, a recent update from Councillor Richard Hills provided a helpful reminder of the scale and intent behind the project. Construction has been visible for some time, and having the detail laid out helps put it into perspective. This is not a light refresh. It is a significant investment by the Tūpuna Maunga Authority, and the scope reflects that.
The existing courts are being fully redeveloped into a shared recreation space with dual basketball and tennis courts, informal play features for tamariki, accessible seating, native planting, rain gardens and a new toilet block. It is a meaningful upgrade that improves how the space functions for the whānau and young people who use it regularly.
Importantly, the design is grounded in identity. Mana whenua artist Arapeta Hākura has contributed cultural narratives through the concept 'Hononga a Takarunga', reflecting unity and connection between people and place. These stories will be expressed through decorative paving, patterned court surfaces and furniture details. On a maunga with deep cultural significance, that layer of meaning matters.
The bus drop-off upgrade is also practical. On busy days, the loop road can be challenging for large vehicles. Creating a safer, dedicated drop-off bay and improving pedestrian access to the tihi are sensible planning measures that support safety and better visitor management. There will be disruptions during construction, including temporary road closures off Kerr Street and short periods where vehicle access to the summit is restricted. That is never ideal, but it is part of delivering infrastructure properly.
From a Devonport Business Association perspective, we are encouraged to see investment in one of the village’s most important public spaces. Takarunga is central to Devonport’s identity. It shapes how people experience this place, whether they are here for a daily walk or visiting for the first time. When our shared spaces are cared for thoughtfully and respectfully, it strengthens the whole community. That includes the village below. This feels like long-term thinking, and that is something worth supporting.
Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz
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The new school year at Rosmini College began with a series of events designed to help the latest arrivals feel at home within the school community.
Rosmini’s international students and new students enjoyed an orientation day that started with a Māori whakatau and an address from headmaster Mr Cooper on the importance of brotherhood. After setting up their digital accounts and English assessments, the students spent the afternoon touring the campus, sharing a pizza lunch and fun games on the field.
The annual Year 7 Father and Son Breakfast gave the newest Rosminians and their caregivers an opportunity to connect over breakfast. The morning featured inspiring words from head boy Max Barry, and special guest Chris Waterman, head boy from 2010, who spoke about the lifelong value of service and how the boys can begin their own journey of giving back.
Te Wharekōkōwai
Pāora-Chamberlain
Rosmini secured 24 NZQA Scholarships in 2025, including two Outstanding Scholarships – continuing a fantastic three-year upward trend for the college. The college is incredibly proud of its students for giving Scholarship a go and sustaining their effort throughout the year. Some students attempted multiple subjects, all of which require more classes and more work on their part outside their usual schoolwork. Their participation and mahi in Scholarship classes over the year has certainly paid off.
Congratulations to the 2025 Scholarship recipients:
Year 13:
Te Wharekōkōwai Pāora-Chamberlain: English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics (Outstanding), and Statistics.
Christopher Kenrick: Chemistry, Physics, and Calculus.
Coen Tyler: Drama.
Joseph Wolfkamp: Drama.
Ujin Byun: Biology.
Raynan Marcaida: Religious Education.
Rosmini’s Pasifika Breakfast crew kicked off 2026 by welcoming a special guest to their first gathering. It was wonderful to meet and hear from Brother Kevin O’Malley, visiting from Samoa. Brother Kevin shared insights from his 60+ years of service and leadership at St. Joseph’s College. His stories of faith, education, and the 75-year legacy of the Marist Brothers in Samoa left all the students feeling inspired.
Year 12:
Ian Lim: English, Media Studies, History, Psychology, and Religious Education (Outstanding).
Max Wong: Religious Education and Psychology.
Kevin Pamurahardjo: Design and Visual Communication.
Max Barry: English.
Year 11:
Luka Overweel: English and History.
Oscar Reade: English.
Takapuna Grammar School is celebrating a great start to the year, with our top IB scholars acknowledged in Parliament and record results in the New Zealand Scholarship examinations. These combined results highlight the dedication of our students and teachers, and mark one of the most successful academic years in the school’s history.
Our IB cohort delivered outstanding performances, with six students scoring over 40 points out of a possible 45 – placing them in the top 10% of IB students globally. These high achievers were honoured with New Zealand IB Top Scholars Awards on Saturday 31 January at Parliament, presented by the Honourable Nicola Willis, Minister of Finance. Leading the way was Daniel Wang, who achieved a perfect score of 45 points and earned a bilingual diploma after completing language and literature courses in both Chinese and English. Daniel is particularly proud of this, making him a confident and fluent communicator in both languages.
Zeph Zhong and David Xie each achieved an impressive 43 points. Zeph will be heading to UNSW to study mechanical engineering and credits his success to the collaborative environment of IB at TGS. David is studying neuroscience at the University of Melbourne. Bill Sha earned 42 points and is also at the
UoM, with plans to study dentistry. Bill said the IB programme encouraged him to stay curious, think independently, and manage his time effectively. Rounding out our top group are Hurley Wong and David Jeong, who both scored 40 points.
Adding to these accomplishments, TGS students have achieved 91 Scholarships, 12 of which were awarded at Outstanding level –the strongest scholarship performance in the
school’s history. These results compliment our IB programme and reflect the depth of talent among our students. We would like to acknowledge the work and dedication of our teachers and congratulate our IB Top Scholars, our scholarship students, as well as the entire 2025 cohort, for their excellent results, and wish them all the best in their future endeavours.
Takapuna Grammar School has named its 2026 student leaders, with four head prefects and 59 prefects recognised at a special assembly. Head girl Cami Crowther has always admired the influence head prefects have on the school. Active across water polo, rugby, basketball and several student clubs, she hopes to encourage all students to get involved and make the most of the opportunities at TGS, and to help ensure the Year 13s enjoy a memorable final year. Head boy Nathan Fry describes the role as an honour and says he values the chance to represent the school. With a natural interest in people and leadership, he hopes to help strengthen a culture of manaakitanga and remind students to look out for one another.
Deputy head boy George Gaskin wants to build confidence and connection, with a focus on encouraging greater participation in co-curricular activities and supporting students to try new challenges. Deputy head girl Holly Shipkov says she took on the role out of gratitude for the opportunities TGS has given her. Involved in Environmental Club, Tū Tangata leadership, rugby and premier netball, Holly values service and teamwork. Through Tū Tangata, she aims to uphold tikanga Māori in everyday school life. Together, the four head prefects lead the team of prefects who contribute to life across the school’s houses, committees and events.
North Shore living is more than the beach, cafés and sunshine. It’s about community, about belonging. It’s the nod of recognition in the supermarket, the knowledge that the local dairy is open until midnight, the roads we grew up on where our parents rode their bicycles and where their parents rode theirs, too. One of the often-unsung attributes of the North Shore, which perhaps isn't appreciated fully by us younger folk, is not something we boast about loudly; it's the generations of people who share this community with us.
Take any walk down any local street on any given day, and you’ll see evidence of the generations of people who call the North Shore home. Grandparents walking along Cheltenham Beach in the morning, families meeting up by the playground in Takapuna, older people enjoying the atmosphere in Milford's cafés, soaking up the vibrant energy of the day. The North Shore is not just for young families with toddlers or teenagers enjoying increased freedoms. It is home to generations of people with their own stories of yesterday and today.
This legacy is important for us, the younger generations of the North Shore. Our grandparents have lived through the transformation of the North Shore into what it is today; changes we can’t even imagine, before the bustle of shops and malls and the multitude of cars, before the high-rise apartments and housing developments on what were green, open spaces, and before the likes of TikTok and Instagram became the norm.
Sitting with them in the community they love, just chatting about their memories and opinions, adds depth to the place we call home. When grandad talks about the “good old days,” or grandma says, “that house has been there forever,” suddenly the North Shore is no longer the place in which we just hang
By Billy Brown
out with our mates, but somewhere we can relate to as part of the bigger story of us now.
For many older locals, the North Shore has been home for a long time; the place where they brought up their families, made friends, built their careers, and lived their lives. For many, as their world contracts with age, our younger North Shore residents' lives are the full, crazy scope of school, work, sports, friendships, and dreams of futures waiting to happen. By choosing to spend some time with the older people of the North Shore, we bridge the gap between the generations.
It is not always necessary to make grand gestures of support or spend huge swathes of time dedicated to the older folk around us. It can be as simple as sharing a table in a café, strolling through a weekend market together, or helping with their shopping. It can be as simple as asking what the Shore used to be like, or listening to their stories.... Yes, even the ones we’ve heard many times before! And then there is the gift of the proximity of the North Shore. Many of us are lucky enough not to be hours away from loved ones; we’re ten minutes down the road, or a short drive or a quick bus
ride away. It’s something we often forget to appreciate.
In a world designed to keep us moving fast from one goal to the next milestone, and onto the next stage of life, our grandparents pull us back, slow us down a little, and remind us to look at where we are, of where we’ve come from, and that the community we walk through every day did not appear overnight.
The Shore is more than a wonderful location of beaches, school, home, friends' houses, and the sight of the harbour bridge in the distance. It’s memory, roots, and stories that have been passed down through the generations. Living here is not just about occupying space, but honouring the people who have shaped the spaces we now occupy, and choosing to spend time with them while we can, because their stories will one day become ours to tell.
Channel Mag's youth contributors, Fantasia Nair and Billy Brown, bring a fresh monthly feature to our pages to inspire and advise our younger North Shore readers. If there are any topics you'd like to read about, contact Liz at liz@channelmag.co.nz, and our fledgling writers will research and write engaging articles specifically for our younger (at heart) readers.
An education at Carmel College is grounded in opportunity. Inspired by the Mercy values of Catherine McAuley, our students strive to live with respect, seek justice, be compassionate and courageous whilst serving others and pursue their ambitions wholeheartedly.
Our Student Leadership team plays a vital role in this mission. Working alongside staff and the wider college community, they lead with purpose, enriching school life beyond the classroom and creating opportunities across academic, cultural, spiritual and sporting spheres. Each leader builds on the legacy of those before them, while leaving their own mark for those who follow. We wish to recognise and celebrate our leaders.
• Head Girls: Leighton Esera and Kirra Redfern-Hardisty
• Heads of Special Character: Keira Menon and Polly Walker
• Heads of Academic: Maya Timlin and Romy Lee
• Heads of Arts & Culture: Sophia Adamson and Zoya Wamoto
• Heads of Council: Sophie Nehemia and Ciara Joseph
• Heads of Sport: Bridget Mihaljevich and Ella Drake.
HOUSE LEADERS
• Alexandra: Sienna Jordan and Charlotte Kidd
• Cecilia Maher: Aimee McGivern and Caitlyn Correa
• Justine: Lola Ferens and Justine Torres
• Kelly: Isobel Houliston and Lila Gilchrist
• McAuley: Gigi Albrecht and Meila Oosterdijk
• Pompallier: Millie Yates and Tolia Palu
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES
• International: Makayli Ye and Calia Duenas
• Board of Trustees: Penny Macdonald
• Pasifika: Maria Vagana
• Tu Wahine: Anahera-Rose Dickson
On Thursday 12 February, the Carmel College community gathered to celebrate our annual Dedication Mass – a special and prayerful beginning to the 2026 school year. Together, students, staff and whānau reflected on our shared purpose and committed ourselves to the year ahead in the spirit of Mercy. It was a beautiful celebration of faith, unity and hope – setting a positive and inspiring tone for the months to come.
At Westlake Girls High School, excellence is one of our underlying values, but importantly, it is also a measurable outcome. Through the hard work and dedication of our teaching staff and the willingness of our students to take a risk, our NCEA Scholarship results over the past three years have undergone a significant transformation. The data tells a compelling story of growth and self-belief. In 2023, we attained a commendable 44 NCEA Scholarships. In 2024, that number climbed to 68. Then, 2025 marked a veritable watershed for our kura, with students earning a significant 119 scholarships – nearly tripling the results from just two years before.
The success is broad-based; in 2025, 69 individual students celebrated scholarship success, with 13 of those high achievers attaining three or more subjects. Quality matched quantity, as 10 of these were at the Outstanding level, representing the
very top echelon of academic performance in secondary schools in New Zealand. We are particularly proud of Elaine Zhou (Year 13) and Diya Kansara (Year 12), who have both received Outstanding Scholar Awards. This is an honour given to just 57 students nationwide.
These results prompt an obvious question: what is fuelling this surge in scholarship success at Westlake Girls?
It isn’t just about monetary rewards or accolades. At its core lies a strong culture of inquiry. With 362 students from Year 11 to 13 choosing to engage in scholarship programmes last year, we have fostered an environment where thinking outside the box is encouraged and celebrated. Westlake Girls alumni, now navigating tertiary study, frequently report that the skills they acquired through the scholarship programme, whether they attained a scholarship or not, were the most beneficial factor in their transition to the university's different approach to
learning. They credit the programme with teaching them how to develop original concepts and approach complex problems with a critical eye – skills that have put them further along the learning path than their peers.
Together, these outcomes point to a learning culture that continues to deepen
Following the release of the 2025 New Zealand Scholarship results recently, we are delighted to share that Elaine Zhou (Year 13) and Diya Kansara (Year 12) have both received Outstanding Scholar Awards. This elite recognition is awarded to just 57 students nationwide.
Both students will travel to Wellington for the official awards ceremony to celebrate their success…
Elaine achieved Outstanding Scholarships in Sculpture and Psychology, along with six further Scholarships in English, Chemistry, Physics, Agriculture and Horticulture, Statistics and Calculus. Diya achieved Outstanding Scholarships in English and Psychology, as well as a Scholarship in Health and Physical Education. Both students will travel to Wellington for the official awards ceremony to celebrate their success and receive their awards. We congratulate Elaine and Diya on this exceptional achievement.
While most were soaking up the holidays this summer, three of our talented musicians spent their holidays levelling up at two prominent summer music schools. Nanae Sato-Nates (Baritone Saxophone) took part in the NZ Youth Symphonic Winds intensive at Sacred Heart College from 14 – 17 January. Over four days, Nanae worked with musicians from all over the country to gain insight into the world of high-level wind ensembles and prepare for two big performances – one at Sacred Heart, and another at Mission Bay. “It was so fun getting to know other musicians from all over the country and
learning to work together in such a limited time,” Nanae shared.
At the Bruce Mason Centre, Winnie Meng (Flute) and Afia Naushad (Clarinet) immersed themselves in the world of a professional symphony orchestra. Guided by Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra mentors, the week focused on everything from technical precision to soloistic projection.
Winnie enjoyed “having an incredible tutor named Jenni, who is Principal Piccolo in the APO. She helped me elevate my playing by giving me tips and supporting me through my solos.” Afia enjoyed working with her tutor, Jonathan Cohen. “He was super
helpful, guiding us through difficult passages and rhythms. It was so cool to finally play clarinet in a Symphony Orchestra and learn about phrasing and section timing.”
Beyond the full orchestra rehearsals, students participated in intimate chamber workshops. Winnie performed a unique arrangement of Grieg’s Piano Suite for Harp, Flute, and Violin. Meanwhile, Afia focused on Crusell’s Clarinet Duet No. 2, receiving personalised coaching to refine the performance for a Thursday morning showcase. A massive congratulations to these students on their summer achievements and performances!
Rangitoto College has once again secured its position amongst the elite of New Zealand education, achieving a recordbreaking 348 Scholarship passes. This historic result marks the sixth time the college has led the nation, surpassing its own 2024 record of 324 Scholarship exam passes and marks a new NZQA Scholarship record for the total number of Scholarships gained in a single year.
The 2025 cohort earned an impressive 42 Outstanding Scholarships, headlined by two Premier Awards, six Outstanding Scholars Award winners and three students who placed top in New Zealand for their respective subjects:
Special recognition goes to Joshua Wang, one of our current head students, who, as a Year 12 student, achieved 10 scholarships, three at outstanding level, alongside Yunxuan (Alan) Sun, who achieved eight scholarships, with three at outstanding. Both of these students have been named Premier Award winners - a distinction reserved for the top 13 students in the country. They are joined by six Outstanding Scholar award recipients: Michael Yang, James Reynolds, Xingyi (Ellis) Luo, Angus (Gus)Rose, Diqiu (Rachel) Gu, and Leo Wang. A number of other students gained multiple passes, including Phoenix McClean in Year 12, who gained seven scholarships.
The following students gained the highest marks across all students in the country: Christopher Rui-Han Ong (Year 12): Health and Physical Education
Leen Murad (Year 13): Photography
Xinyue (Aria) Hua (Year 13): Chinese
We’d like to congratulate all students who gained scholarship passes.
From our Year 9 Calculus prodigies to our incredible senior scholars, we celebrate the dedication of every student who contributed to this monumental success.
Dr Steven Niederer’s journey from Rangitoto College student to international authority in biomedical engineering is a testament to the power of a New Zealand education. Currently balancing dual roles as Chair of Biomedical Engineering at University College London and Health Director at the Alan Turing Institute, Dr Niederer returned to campus last week to inspire the next generation. His presentation to senior science students provided more than just technical expertise; it offered a roadmap for navigating the complexities of global academia.
Rangitoto College continues to seek alumni voices to inspire our students. Alumni interested in sharing their journey are encouraged to reach out to communityrelations@rangitoto.school.nz
The athletics squad descended upon Hawke’s Bay for the 2026 NZSS Athletics Championships. In a display of grit and unwavering commitment, our athletes proved exactly why they belong on the national stage.
The track belonged to our Senior Girls 4x100m relay team - Amy Hurly, Kenzie Bowden, Lace Patuki and Emma Young - who secured a stunning silver medal. Not to be outdone in the field, Rangitoto alumnus athlete Zhan Bowden delivered a
dominant performance in the Senior Boys Triple Jump. Zhan not only claimed the top spot on the podium but also earned a well-deserved selection for the prestigious tournament team.
Kristin students have excelled in their 2025 NCEA Scholarship exams, with a few students in particular garnering remarkable results. Sabrina Liu (Year 13) secured six scholarships, including two Outstanding Scholarships. Sabrina is also one of just 57 students in New Zealand to receive an Outstanding Scholar Award this year.
Following on from her Outstanding Scholarship for Dance in 2024, Sabrina has done it again, being one of only three students in the country to be awarded an Outstanding Scholarship for dance in 2025. Sabrina also excelled in economics and was one of just nine students in New
Zealand to be awarded an Outstanding Scholarship in economics. The success doesn’t stop there; Sabrina also secured scholarships in four more subjects, including English, French, art history, and health and physical education.
Lachlan Robinson (Year 13) was not only awarded a perfect score of 24/24 and an Outstanding Scholarship in his NCEA Scholarship drama exam, but he was also named the New Zealand Top Scholar for drama.
William Huang (Year 13) netted a total of five scholarships. William excelled in physics, scoring 28/32 on the exam and earning an Outstanding Scholarship. He
also secured scholarships in calculus, chemistry, geography and technology.
What is even more incredible about these three students is that they are all International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma students, so they have pursued these scholarship opportunities outside their IB curriculum requirements.
Lastly, Sophie Xu, who was a Year 10 student in 2025, gained a Scholarship in NCEA Level 3 calculus – an exam mostly sat by Year 13 students, an amazing achievement. Kristin students secured a total of 37 scholarships, including six Outstanding Scholarships.
University offers are coming in thick and fast for our Kristin alumni, including offers from top universities in the United Kingdom. Two Kristin alumni have recently received offers to attend the prestigious University of Oxford in England. Matthew Zheng (class of 2024) and Alice Sun (class of 2025) have both been offered a place to study at Oxford, one of the oldest and most well-known universities in the world.
Matthew has been offered a place to study law at Oxford, an incredibly hard programme to get into, with only around 10% of applicants being selected. Matthew took a gap year in 2025 but is
now ready to commence his studies, and has a range of other study opportunities, including offers to study at Russell Group universities in the United Kingdom, such as The University of Edinburgh, King's College London, and The London School of Economics and Political Science.
Alice has been offered a place at Oxford to study music, something she is passionate about and very talented at. In her time at Kristin, Alice was heavily involved with the music department, playing the piano and singing in Euphony, and last year she was awarded the Visual and Performing Arts Faculty Trophy.
Former head prefect Cecilia Lin (class
of 2025) has been offered a place to study human, social and political sciences at the world-renowned University of Cambridge. As well as this fantastic opportunity to study at Cambridge, Cecilia has also been offered places to study politics, philosophy and economics at King's College London and the University of Edinburgh. She has also received an offer to study political science at the London School of Economics.
Every year, Kristin students receive multiple offers from top universities worldwide, including Russell Group universities in the United Kingdom and top 100 universities in the United States of America.
Our Kristin International Baccalaureate (IB) Top Scholars were celebrated at the annual IB Top Scholars ceremony, held at Parliament in Wellington. Kristin had the largest contingent of IB Top Scholars among all IB Schools in New Zealand, with 32 students, including two who achieved perfect 45 out of 45 point scores: Ryan Fan and Jacob Johnston.
Hon. Nicola Willis, Minister of Finance, Minister for Economic Growth, Minister for Social Investment and National Party Deputy Leader, was
in attendance to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of these top scholars, delivering a speech and proudly presenting the awards to the graduates.
Kristin Senior School Principal and chair of the IB Heads’ Association, David Boardman, said, “Each year, students at Kristin consistently achieve results that exceed the global averages, which was again shown this year with 33% of our IB Class of 2025 scoring 40 points or more and qualifying as IB Top Scholars, compared to 9.35% globally. These results are a true testament to the effectiveness of
our programmes and the comprehensive preparation that they offer. It was an honour to recognise these outstanding students, and I know they have made their families, teachers and communities incredibly proud.”
There is no question that these remarkable young individuals are destined to make their mark on the world very soon. Kristin looks forward to seeing many more IB Top Scholars proudly representing our school in 2026 and beyond.
On Monday 16 February, we celebrated the academic successes of our students at our Scholars Assembly. Overall, our students earned 315 scholarships in 2025, three 'top in subject', three premier scholars (Top 13 in New Zealand), and 40 at Outstanding level. To earn a scholarship you must be in the top three per cent in New Zealand.
We would like to congratulate Mason Drylie, our Dux for 2025, and all our academic award winners. We also acknowledged some of our Scholarship teachers: Miss Dawber (art history), Mr Clarke (geography), our media studies team: Mrs de Wit, Mrs Arbuthnot, Mrs Straka, and Miss Easton (economics). Another highlight was our youngest recipient, Year 9 student Julian Wang, who earned a Scholarship in calculus.
Our Proxime Accessit (second top scholar) for 2025 is Hongliang (Alex) Zhao, while Mason, our Dux, was New Zealand’s top scholar in art history and earned Outstanding Scholarships in classical studies, English, and media studies, as well as Scholarships in music and religious studies. We would like to thank our Academic
Programme Partner, Barfoot & Thompson
Milford and Kai Deng, who provides a scholarship for a top Westlake student committed to pursuing a STEM degree at an overseas university. This year’s recipient is Jason Tao. Well done to all our award winners.
Premier Scholars - Top 13 nationwide
• Mason Drylie (Top Scholar in art history; Outstanding Scholarships in classical studies, English, and media studies; Scholarships in music and religious studies)
• Ethan Chong (Outstanding Scholarships in Eeconomics, physics and statistics; Scholarships in biology, calculus, chemistry, and English)
• Hongliang (Alex) Zhao (Outstanding Scholarships in biology, chemistry and economics; Scholarships in calculus, Chinese, English, geography, and physics)
• Mason Drylie (art history)
• Shaun Ding-Hong Hsieh (geography)
• YuYang (Luke) Ding (media studies)
Outstanding Scholars - Top 57 nationwide Westlake Boys has the highest number of Outstanding Scholars in the country.
• Ben Abbott
• Aidan Clarke
• YuYang (Luke) Ding
• Shaun Ding-Hong Hsieh
• Xiu Yuan (Bobby) Huang
• Zhi Xuan (Jason) Tao
• Davin Yuan
We are pleased to announce our Senior Prefect team for 2026, with Harper Wilson our Head Boy.
Senior Prefects for 2026:
• Head Boy - Harper Wilson
• Deputy Head Boys - Nathan Davies, Jayden Whitehead
• Service Captain - Vinay Varadarajan
• Academic Captain - Matthew Heng
• Te Manutaki Māori - Phoenix Naera
• Sports Captain - Sam Bird
• Performing Arts Captain - Hugh Reid
a strong academic performer, having achieved NCEA Level 2 in 2025 with an Excellence Endorsement. Headmaster Mr Fordham said our new student leader brings a grounded and people-focused approach to his leadership.
“What stands out most about Harper is his humble, relaxed and caring manner. He relates well to everyone and, through this, is supportive of both his peers and the staff at our school.”
We wish our Senior Prefect team a fantastic year ahead as they take on these important roles within our school community.
Economist Shamubeel Eaqub spoke about several important issues facing New Zealand, with a strong focus on education.
Our third Westlake Business Network event held on Wednesday, 18 February, was a huge success.
Members of our community had the opportunity to mingle before hearing from guest speaker Shamubeel Eaqub. The top economist spoke about several important issues facing New Zealand, with a strong focus on education.
He highlighted the country's declining birth rate and what it means for the future. With fewer young people entering the
population, he said it was crucial to invest in high-quality education that equips students for a rapidly changing world.
“Our young people are treasure, and if we can’t invest in them and set them up for the right future, we are going to struggle,” he said.
Shamubeel also spoke about:
• the need for ongoing upskilling and reskilling,
• the value of creative and critical thinking alongside technical skills,
The Breakers basketball team held a special function on Thursday 29 January, to honour former player and Westlaker Tom Abercrombie. Westlake Boys teacher and former Prems coach Mr Mark Jackson and current coach Mr Karl Noyer attended the event, where it was announced that Tom’s number 10 jersey will be retired in recognition of his services to the franchise.
Mr Jackson coached Tom at Westlake when we won the national secondary school title in 2005. Tom was also Deputy Head Boy in 2005 and a top academic student. Tom's connection to his old school has remained strong, and he is now on the Westlake Foundation Board, where he continues to support the school community.
• the role of education in building a cohesive society,
• the importance of local institutions in strengthening community connections. We’d like to thank Shamubeel for giving up his time to speak at our event. We’re sure everyone who attended left with something valuable from his insights.
Please keep an eye out for details about our next business gathering.
Tammy is the Managing Director at Davenports Law and leads the Trust Law and Wealth Protection team. She is a trust and asset structuring specialist with over 25 years legal experience specialising in the areas of personal asset planning, trust law and Property (Relationships) Act. She enjoys providing clients with advice and assistance on a broad range of issues involving the structuring and establishment of asset plans, interpretation of trust deeds, the management and administration of trust funds and trust disputes. An important part of Tammy’s practice is reviewing existing asset holding structures to ensure they achieve the needs and requirements they were established to meet. She is also experienced in Property (Relationships) Act issues and advises clients on both contracting out agreements and separation. She is only one of a handful of lawyers nationally who specialise solely in the area of trusts and asset planning, and is one of the leading lawyers in her field. Tammy is a past president of the Auckland Women Lawyers’ Association and past vice-president of the North Harbour Club, a charitable organisation on the North Shore. Tammy is a member of The Law Association Continuing Legal Education and Committee and is on the panel of interviewers for those looking to practice on their own account for the New Zealand Law Society.
Mike’s dad had died a few years ago and his mum, June, was still living in their home which was a small brick and tile unit. June’s mobility was decreasing and Mike and his wife Beth were concerned about her living on her own. Mike and Beth went to look at a few retirement villages, but the problem was that June didn’t have a lot of cash. If she sold her unit, this would give her enough funds to buy an occupation licence for a small apartment in a village, but she wouldn’t have the money for the weekly fee and she wasn’t eligible for rest home care due to her health being too good.
Mike and Beth had been thinking of downsizing, now that their youngest son had left home. However, now that they were thinking about June’s next steps, they thought another option might be finding a property that they could live in with June. They broached the idea with June who thought it sounded good but wanted to make sure that she would have her own space. She also wanted to talk to Mike’s older sister who lived in Wellington to see what her thoughts were.
Mike and Beth started looking at “home and income” type properties and they put their house on the market. At the same time June put her house on the market and a couple of months later both properties sold. They signed up to purchase a property which had a self-contained flat underneath that was perfect for June.
The plan was that June would put most of the sale proceeds into the property, leaving her with some money in the bank. The three of them went to see Mike and Beth’s lawyer to see how best to structure things. The lawyer said that there were different ways the situation could be structured, including a loan from June or part of the property being in her name. She did say that if Mike and Beth needed a mortgage, it is unlikely that the bank would allow June to be on the title to the property due to the responsible lending code.
There were also practical matters to consider: Who would pay the rates and insurance, and in what proportions? What if Mike and Beth separated? If June’s health declined and she needed to go into care, who would pay for that care? And what if Mike and Beth later decided to sell the house? All valid scenarios that needed to be addressed at this stage of their lives.
The lawyer also said that June needed to consider whether any funds she put into the property would need to be shared with Mike’s sister when June died and that changes would need to be made to her will. She also recommended enduring powers of attorney be put in place for June, but also for Mike and Beth.
These were all significant questions that needed careful consideration, particularly at a time when Mike and Beth had just begun enjoying a new sense of freedom with their children having left home. Stepping into a caregiving role for June brought not only emotional responsibility but also legal complexity. While it felt overwhelming, they understood that putting the right structures in place now would protect everyone involved. Failing to consider future possibilities could lead to unnecessary legal issues and heartache, something they were determined to avoid.
Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law
CRAFTED LEGAL ADVICE FOR PEACE OF MIND.
Many in midlife find themselves caught in the “sandwich generation”, supporting ageing parents while also helping adult children. It’s a stage of life that brings emotional and financial pressures, often compounded by complex legal issues.
Proactive planning and clear legal advice can make all the difference. Whether it’s updating a will, putting agreements in place, or restructuring assets after a separation, it is possible to navigate your sandwich years with greater clarity and security.
Contact our Trusts and Wealth Protection Team for expert advice today.
By Liz Ranger, Trust Manager, Pupuke Birdsong Project
Our fourth annual FREE Discover Pupukemoana family event is aimed at raising awareness of the ecology and threats to Lake Pupuke. Learn through experience and play:
• Guided kayaking and snorkelling tours.
• The PumpHouse Theatre guided tours.
• Killarney Park guided tours.
• Workshops such as Raranga (weaving).
• Noughty Boxes by Noughty Wasters - build large-scale creations using the humble cardboard box.
• Mahi tākaro with Harko Brown - enjoy weaving, learning, and playing the traditional games connected to natural resources from the park, with plenty of low-impact participation and cultural sharing for everyone.
• Seed sowing activity - pot your own plants and herbs.
• Be in to win an amazing kayak package sponsored by the Environmental Services @Auckland Council.
Event details:
Date: Saturday 21 March 2026
Time: 9.30am-3pm (opening ceremony 9.30-10am)
Location: Killarney Park, 38b Killarney Street, Takapuna
Thanks to our fantastic partners, this year will be bigger and better. Check pupukebirdsong.org.nz for a link to book sessions, and save the date.
pupukebirdsong.org.nz
Facebook/Instagram: @Pupuke_Birdsong_Project office@takapunatrust.org.nz, 09 486 2098
Supported by:
By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability
It’s been a busy month at I.Lead and Yes Disability. On Thursday 5 February, I.Lead members Amy and Hayden were invited to attend the Waitangi festival to speak at a panel within the Papamīharo tent. This panel, facilitated by Dr Claire Achmad (Mana Mokopuna/ Children's Commissioner), alongside Paula Tesoriero (WhaikahaMinistry of Disabled People) as a co-contributor, explored visions for 2040 and the importance of whānau in the lives of tamariki whaikaha.
Towards the end of February, I.Lead launched its new programme I.Pride. To launch the programme with a bang, I.Pride signed up to march in the Auckland Pride Parade on 21 February. The parade was an incredible environment of celebration and joy. The I.Pride members had a great time and are excited to develop this programme further.
Keep an eye out for our Open Doors Day campaign: It shouldn't be ODD to see disabled youth in employment! On Tuesday 24 March, which is International Day for Achievers, Yes Disability Resource Centre is working with companies and organisations from around the country to encourage them to open their doors to a disabled employee for a day. This allows I.Lead members the opportunity to enter an industry they are interested in, volunteering their time for a day. In return, I.Lead members experience a day of mahi, and these companies and organisations experience first-hand the benefits of having disabled employees. Eighteen youth have signed up to gain experiences in a range of different industries, including IT, youth work, retail, radio, mental health, design, and more. With a focus on empowering both rangatahi whaikaha and businesses, Open your Doors Day (ODD) will be an annual initiative, proving that hiring disabled people does not have to be scary or odd.
February marked the beginning of our first of many I.Drive workshops. Our first workshop of the year was hosted in Takapuna. We also had a workshop in Christchurch at the end of February. Our I.Drive workshops will travel throughout the country. This year, we have workshops scheduled in North Shore, Christchurch, West Auckland, Wellington, Manawatū, Dunedin, South Auckland and Hamilton. The I.Drive licensing programme supports disabled people in gaining their licences by hosting theory workshops that explore the road code in an interactive and comprehensive manner. Want more information? You can learn more on our website ilead.org.nz/programs-i-drive-licensing-program
We are excited to continue growing our Te Ara Tāne: The Path of Men community. We’re creating a space where disabled men (18-30) can come together, be real, and have honest kōrero about the ups and downs of life – the stuff people don’t always talk about. Whether it’s about identity, relationships, mental health, or just everyday challenges, this is a space where you’ll be heard and understood. This group was designed by disabled men, for disabled men – no pressure, no judgement, just a chance to connect, listen and be yourself. Our next in-person meeting date is Tuesday 17 March. We now also offer online sessions! Any enquiries or to learn more, please contact Abdulla: abdulla@yesdisability.org.nz.
For more information about our programmes and upcoming events, check out our websites and social media. ilead.org.nz/ • facebook.com/ileadconferencenz instagram.com/i.leadnz/ • tiktok.com/@i.lead linkedin.com/company/i-lead-org
By Simon Ritchie, Marketing & Communications Lead
LiiFT Aotearoa is ANCAD’s capability-building framework, supporting community organisations to strengthen governance, leadership, funding readiness, and organisational sustainability across every stage of their development. Explore upcoming LiiFT learning below and find sessions that match your organisation’s stage and priorities.
Strong community organisations don’t grow by accident – they grow by investing in their capability. LiiFT Aotearoa’s upcoming training sessions are designed specifically for grassroots groups, trustees, managers, and community leaders who want practical tools they can apply immediately. From marketing your nonprofit and strengthening grant-writing skills to managing board dynamics, measuring what matters, and essential first-aid training, each workshop is focused, relevant, and grounded in real-world experience.
Strong
community organisations don’t grow by accident – they grow by investing in their capability.
Whether you’re refining your governance, strengthening your funding approach, or sharpening your communications, LiiFT sessions are built to help you move forward with greater clarity and confidence. Places are limited, and some sessions are supported by local board funding, so early registration is recommended. For more information and how to register for the above courses, go to www.LiiFT.nz or contact info@ancad.org.nz with your expression of interest.
Visit ancad.org.nz facebook @ancad.org.nz instagram ancadinc LiiFT Aotearoa, LiiFT.nz
0800 426 223 or info@ancad.org.nz
By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager
Sunnynook Community Centre has recently been trained by Auckland Emergency Management on how to set up a Community Emergency Hub. In the event of an emergency, the Sunnynook Community Centre will be open to anyone who needs assistance.
In the event of an emergency, the Sunnynook Community Centre will be open to anyone who needs assistance.
If you would like to become a volunteer and support your community, we would love to hear from you. We will meet every couple of months. Please email us at snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz if you would like to become a volunteer, or if you would like to go on the online mailing list to receive our community newsletters.
sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz office@sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz.
By David Verran
The Second World War commenced on 1 September 1939. From then, each local council across the Auckland metropolitan area developed their own Emergency Precautions Scheme. Devonport Borough’s scheme dated from July 1940, and designated the Naval Base, Fort Takapuna and the installations on both North Head and Mount Victoria as prime targets for any attack or invasion. Devonport was divided up into eight blocks, each with sub-wardens and deputies, with defined evacuation procedures and ways of dealing with potential casualties. Takapuna and Devonport residents may recall stories of barbed wire defences stretched across their local beaches.
Linked to this was the Home Guard, formed in August 1940 and modelled on that of the United Kingdom where around 1.5 million men became members. New Zealand’s eventually reached between 119,000 and 123,000 members, proportionally double that of the United Kingdom. Initially it was voluntary for those 15 years old and above, but from 1942 membership in the New Zealand Home Guard became compulsory for those aged between 35 and 50 years old. There was at first no uniform, only an armband, but by 1943 most Home Guard members had uniforms and access to rifles.
attendance). My grandfather Roy Kelly and his son Trevor, on my mother’s side, both served in C Company of the Number 13 Battalion of the Home Guard in Northcote. My late mother described to me the ‘bomb shelter', covered by corrugated iron, that my grandfather dug in the family backyard in Seaview Avenue, Northcote.
In Devonport, the local Home Guard's first street parade was on 7 December 1940, with 20 recruits led by the Scottish Regimental Pipe Band. Illustrating the population dominance of the Devonport area across the North Shore at that time, Devonport had its own battalion (Number 12) in the Home Guard, with eventually four companies, serving under Captain (later Major) Hermann Henry Osmers (18941978). In March 1943, the New Zealand Coastguard Service became the marine section of the Devonport Home Guard.
Elsewhere on the North Shore, all of Takapuna, Northcote, Birkenhead, Chelsea, Beach Haven, and Castor Bay (with a borderline from Beach Haven through Glenfield to Castor Bay) were included in Number 13 Battalion. The Takapuna area was further divided into two companies; north and south. The commander of that battalion of the Home Guard was Major Kenneth John Dellow (1890-1971). A Mairangi Bay resident, Dellow was also headmaster of Takapuna Grammar from 1935 to 1953.
The first parade for the Northcote and Birkenhead area was on 19 December 1940 (with around 150 in attendance), and that for Takapuna on 20 December 1940 (again with around 150 in
As examples of military exercises carried out, in March 1941 the Devonport's Number 12 Battalion fended off a mock attack on the road to Silverdale from a supposed landing at Browns Bay, while Number 13 Battalion dealt with a mock attack on Northcote Road’s power station (at the corner with Sunnybrae Road) from a supposed landing in Shoal Bay. Sunday parades were a mainstay for all, and members learned unarmed combat and the use of weapons, including small machine-guns and mortars. Some members were veterans of the First World War, but for others it was all a new experience.
With the lessening of the Japanese invasion threat from early 1944, the two main North Shore based Home Guard battalions began to wind up. The Takapuna, Milford and Bays based members of Number 13 Battalion handed back their clothing, web equipment, and steel helmets on 6 February 1944. They were followed by Glenfield-based members on 8 February, Northcote and Birkenhead members on 11 February, and Albany-based members on 15 February 1944. The Devonport-based Home Guard followed on 25 March 1944.
david.verran@xtra.co.nz
Of the swag of North Harbour centre titles won so far this season by Takapuna club members, none has struck a sweeter chord than that by one of its life members, Murray Mathieson.
For when he played at two in a Takapuna four, which early last month was a surprise winner of the centre’s men’ championship, he joined a select group who have won Harbour titles as octogenarians.
Mathieson, who now has six centre titles, the first dating back to the 1997-98 season when playing in a Glenfield four, is about to turn 84.
Two other 'seniors' were part of the Takapuna four: skip Chris Taylor who is about to turn 79, and lead Norm Scott-Morrison, aged 76. The only youngster in the four was the three, Chris Charles, who is not quite 40.
Taylor, who like Mathieson now has six centre titles, also achieved a feat which is a centre record. He now has the biggest span between his first and his latest title; 35 years. For in only his second year of bowling in the 1990-91 season, he was in a Takapuna line-up which won the Dick Bree triples.
Mathieson’s latest fours win at near 84 raises the question as to who might be the oldest to have ever won centre titles.
Browns Bay’s Colin Rogan is not only Harbour’s most decorated bowler, with a remarkable 39 centre titles, he is also its most authoritative statistician, with an encyclopaedic knowledge of its championship winners.
Mathieson’s latest fours win at near 84 raises the question as to who might be the oldest to have ever won centre titles.
But even he can’t be too definitive as to who is the oldest, for while he keeps meticulous records confirming the ages of any winners, has never been part of his brief.
However, it appears a strong case can be made for Warkworth’s John Knowles, who was 87 when in the winning champion of champion fours team in 2012-13. A prominent minor representative cricketer in his youth, Knowles is soon to turn 100. Another in that Warkworth team, Ray Cairns, was in his early 80s.
Helensville, too, can provide at least three bowlers in their 80s when winning Harbour titles. The legendary Ivan Kostanich was 81 when winning the fours in 2003. John Wills was 85 when in the same season he was Kostanich’s lead, and Ron Cowper 83 when in the winning fours team two years ago.
Longevity appears to be in the genes of many bowlers. Wills was 103 when he died in 2021.
Of the women’s players, the widely admired Elizabeth Ring was 87 when in the winning Manly champion of champions four last season.
Murray Mathieson
That this small group in their 80s have won titles illustrates one of bowls’ chief virtues: it is an ideal sport and healthy recreation for those beyond their athletic prime.
But it is still a remarkable feat to win at a competitive level at such an age. Most past 80, if able to play at all, are mostly restricted to halfday roll-ups. To play and maintain concentration over two full days, often in the heat of high summer, is physically demanding as well as mentally challenging.
For those who prefer more emphasis on encouraging youth rather than the aged, there have been reminders in another of Takapuna’s centre titles that bowls is for all ages. Hannah Dawson, aged 18, was with Leeane Poulson and Robyne Walker when they won the women’s triples, making her perhaps the youngest to win a Harbour title.
bowlsnorthharbour.com
Simon Gundry is a Devonport and North Shore identity, and character, who is known for calling a spade a spade. He is a director of contracting company Gill & Gundry, is an enthusiastic sailor (past crew-member of Ceramco New Zealand, Lion New Zealand and Shockwave) and is a life member of the North Shore Rugby Football Club. Simon was awarded a QSM for services to the community in 2013. More recently, he was inducted into the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame. He has been writing this thought-provoking column for Channel from the very first issue (over 15 years ago!).
In the mid 1950s, my parents moved to Devonport, bringing an old removal truck full of furniture and the family across on the vehicular ferry as the Auckland Harbour Bridge was still a distant dream. Mum and dad rented a house at 43a Church Street, right next door to a Dr Grant. The house backed onto Mount Victoria, which rapidly became our adventure playground.
Mount Victoria was named after Queen Victoria, traditionally named as Takarunga. Mount Takarunga was an important Māori pa site for many years, with its terracing and kumara pits still visible. Another early European name for the mountain was Flagstaff Hill, after a signal station for the Port of Auckland was sited on its summit in 1841. The flagstaff used to signal to another signalman in downtown Auckland when ship sails appeared on the horizon, usually coming in from the vicinity of Great Barrier Island or through the Tiri channel.
Takarunga has been a public reserve since 1880. It was used for military purposes until after the Second World War. There is still a muzzle-loading disappearing gun visible from when it was a fort in 1885. The steep rampway where the disappearing gun was hauled to the summit is also still visible on the southern side. There is also a buried water reservoir at the top of the mountain, which is still marked by colourful mushroom vents. The cone of Takarunga or Mount Victoria was formed by fire-fountaining of frothy scoria from the crater. Lava from the southern base of the volcano flowed out to create a stretch of basalt rock that reaches out to the Devonport foreshore. During the eruption, the south side of the crater was breached by lava flows. Scoria from the top of Takarunga was carried down the mountain and came to rest at the southern end of modernday Church Street. This small mound became known as Duder’s Hill until it was quarried away in the early 20th century. The dark rocks on the Devonport foreshore between Torpedo Bay and the Devonport wharf are the southern lava flows from Mt Victoria.
In the mid-1950s, with Mount Victoria as our playground, it was indeed a wilderness to behold. In those days, it was run as a sheep farm by the Devonport Borough Council…
Another flow from Mount Victoria formed Mount Cambria. This was slowly quarried away in the 1930s, '40s and '50s with the metal used to form a lot of the Devonport roads. During the abolition of the Devonport Borough Council (when North Shore City was formed), parties were trying to sell off Mount Cambria for housing estates. The Devonport Borough Council stymied that and turned it into the Mount Cambria we know today, which was an absolute blessing for
the Devonport community. Walking into Mount Cambria from Church Street, dog cages are still visible on the right-hand side from when the council used the area as a dog pound. The metal bars have long disappeared, but the small dog caves are still visible to this day.
In the mid-1950s, with Mount Victoria as our playground, it was indeed a wilderness to behold. In those days, it was run as a sheep farm by the Devonport Borough Council and, at times, a cattle farm. I can remember many times sheep escaping from Mount Victoria through holes in the fence and wandering down the main street of Devonport to graze at Windsor Reserve or stop at the shops on the main street. Sometimes 40 or 50 at a time, just for the Council to come and round them up again.
Cardboard boxes were the toys of the day. We used to get in large empty fridge or stove boxes and slide down the slippery southern side, ending up nearly in the cemetery, both literally and physically. My own boys slid down on finless surfboards. It was lucky nobody died.
There used to be vehicle access to the top of Mt Victoria, where tourists and locals could drive to take in the spectacular views of Auckland city and the inner Hauraki Gulf, but this access was permanently closed to private motor vehicles in 2018. To Mana Whenua, the tihi (top) of a maunga holds great spiritual and cultural significance and has always been a place to be treated with respect and reverence. Honouring these values alongside creating an enhanced experience for pedestrians was at the heart of the authority’s decision to make the tihi vehicle-free.
There was a tennis court on the southern side of the mountain opposite the Michael King Writer’s Centre that I believe was carved out during the First World War to give the soldiers a bit of relaxation from waiting for the Russians (or during the Second World War, waiting for the Japanese). This tennis court is currently used by enthusiastic amateurs to have a hit around on a balmy summer's evening or a quiet Sunday morning. It is usually used by locals, as they are the only people who know it exists.
I’ve heard recently from my impeccable sources, my men at the coal face, my sources who know, that the Tupuna Maunga Authority (TMA), which is the guardian of Mount Takarunga/Mount Victoria/ Mount Flagstaff, is spending in excess of 2.2 million dollars on the reconstruction of the old tennis courts, new fencing, new sealing, public toilets, casual viewing areas, picnic tables, planting, the full noise landscaping and cultural designed paving. This is again coming out of rate payer’s money. There is no scope of works for contractors to price. They are just getting it done with no expense on the funds. There is no accountability, no one there to answer the difficult questions and again, no respect for the rate payer’s money. Devonport is abundant with tennis courts, with Stanley Bay and Woodall Park, so why does this money have to be spent so extravagantly? I also believe they have allowances for bus drop-offs up near the Devonport school. God only knows how that is going to work.
devonportchurches.co.nz
Fri 3 April, 10am: Good Friday Procession of Witness Walk to the summit of Takarunga, Mt Victoria. Starts at the Windsor Reserve Band Rotunda (behind the Devonport Library). Organised by the Combined Churches of Devonport and Belmont.
09 489 4590, office@takapunamethodist.org.nz, puriricentretakapuna.org.nz
Join us for a reflective and joyful Easter...
At Takapuna Methodist, 427 Lake Road, Takapuna.
Thurs 2 April, 7.30pm: Holy Thursday
Fri 3 April, 9.30am: Good Friday
Sun 5 April: Easter Sunday
- 6.30am - Sunrise Service, The Strand, Takapuna Beach. - 10am – Easter Sunday Service
At St Luke’s Methodist, 16 Greenslade Cres, Northcote Sun 5 April, 9.30am: Easter Sunday Service
10 Dominion Street, Takapuna. 09 489 6486, ea@stjoseph.org.nz, takapunacatholic.org.nz
Sun 29 March, 7.30am, 10.30am and 6pm: Mass with Blessing of the Palms
Thurs 2 April, 7.30pm (no morning Mass): Holy Thursday –Celebration of the Mass of The Lord’s Supper
Fri 3 April: Good Friday 10am – Stations of the Cross 3pm – Commemoration of the Lord’s Death
Sat 4 April, 7.30pm: Holy Saturday – Easter Vigil Sun 5 April, 7.30am, 10.30am and 6pm: Easter Sunday – Easter Mass
St Vincent de Paul Church
Cnr Fenwick Ave & Shakespeare Rd, Milford
Sat 28 March, 9am: Palm Sunday - Mass with Blessing of the Palms Fri 3 April, 3pm: Good Friday - Commemoration of the Lord’s Death Sat 4 April, 10am: Holy Saturday - Prayers for Peace Sun 5 April, 9am: Easter Sunday – Easter Mass
St George’s Presbyterian
2 The Terrace, Takapuna (opposite Shore City Mall). 09 489 5689, sgpctakapuna@gmail.com, sgpctakapuna.org
All are welcome to join us in our musical reflective services – a journey through the Easter narrative.
Fri 3 April, 10am: Good Friday
Sun 5 April, 10am: Easter Sunday – Easter Sunday Communion Service
11 Killarney Street, Takapuna. 09 489 6242, office@takapunaanglican.co.nz, takapunaanglican.co.nz
Thurs 2 April, 7.30pm: Maundy Thursday
Fri 3 April, 9am: Good Friday
Sun 5 April, 8am and 10am: Easter Sunday
2a Albert Road, Devonport. 09 445 0078, office@devonportcatholic.org.nz, devonportcatholic.org.nz
Sun 29 March, 9.30am: Palm Sunday – Mass
Thurs 2 April, 7pm: Holy Thursday – Mass
Fri 3 April, 3pm: Good Friday – Veneration of the Cross Sat 4 April, 7.30pm: Holy Saturday – Easter Vigil Sun 5 April, 9.30am: Easter Sunday – Easter Mass
Cnr Lake and Owens Roads. 09 445 6801, admin@devonportmethodist.org.nz
Sun 29 March: Palm Sunday
10am - Worship Service
3.45pm - Messy Church. Easter Crafts and Easter Story followed by a shared meal. Please bring a plate of food to share.
Sat 3 April: Good Friday
9-9.30am - Devotional Service
2-4pm – Interactive Good Friday Story and Reflection Stations, designed for children and families, all ages welcome. Join us anytime to remember Jesus’ story on Good Friday. Move around at your own speed.
Sun 5 April: Easter Sunday
6.30am - Sunrise Celebration Service on Mt Victoria. For the fit and adventurous. Meet at the lower carpark (Kerr St). Walk the circular track to a point overlooking Rangitoto for the sunrise. Bring walking shoes, a torch and a jacket.
10am - Family Easter Celebration – Easter Egg hunt included
90a Victoria Road, Devonport. connectchurchdevonport.co.nz
Sun 5 April, 10am: Easter Sunday - Easter Celebration and Communion Service
168 Lake Road, Belmont. belmontbaptistnz.org
Sun 29 March, 9.30am: Palm Sunday
Thurs 2 April, 8pm: Holy Thursday – Tenebrae: A Service of Shadows
Sun 5 April: Easter Sunday
6.30am at Narrow Neck Beach - Sunrise Communion
9.30am at Belmont Baptist - Celebration Service
20 Church St, Devonport. 09 445 0328, htdevonport.org.nz
Sun 29 March: Palm Sunday
8am - Holy Communion
9.30am - Family Communion
Thurs 2 April, 7pm: Maundy Thursday - Communion Service
Fri 3 April, 2pm: Good Friday - Meditation on the Cross
Sun 5 April: Easter Sunday
6.30am - Sunrise Service at Balmain Reserve
8am - Holy Communion
9.30am - Family Communion
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The North Shore commercial market has entered 2026 with renewed confidence, supported by a stable 2.25% OCR and improving funding certainty for investors and business owners.
Office yields are now generally sitting in the mid–6% to low–7% range, while we are seeing demand for quality retail which was reflected in the auction result from the sale of 10 Milford Road. Industrial continues to perform strongly, with well-leased Albany and Rosedale properties achieving yields circa 5.25 - 5.75% bracket.
With funding costs stabilising and pricing expectations more aligned, we are seeing steady transactional
activity across the Shore and improving momentum as the year progresses.
Thank you to our clients for your continued support. We appreciate the trust placed in the Colliers North Shore team and look forward to working with you throughout 2026.
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Opinion | Derek Dallow
Derek Dallow is a well-known person on the North Shore. He was a high-profile lawyer for 32 years, setting up Davenports Harbour Lawyers on the Shore and being involved with many local institutions, such as North Harbour Rugby, Massey University (chairing their advisory board for 10 years), Rangitoto College, Netball North Harbour, the North Harbour Stadium, and the North Harbour Club and Charitable Trust. Derek was a Government-appointed trustee to the Eden Park Board to undertake the development for the 2011 World Cup, and was a Government-appointed director of Regional Facilities Auckland. At age 55, Derek sold the law practice and became a primary school teacher. He went on to teach for nine years at Glenfield Primary, retiring in December 2022. Derek was an early supporter of the Channel Mag concept, sharing a desire for the North Shore to have its own magazine. These days, he’s happily retired on the Hibiscus Coast. He was an active contributor to the conversation and debate when the Auckland Super City was being formed prior to 2010. This month, he wanted to share his opinion on the governance of Auckland.
Our Local Board member, Jake Law, advises us in his recent article 'Winds of Change’ that the Auckland Mayor, Wayne Brown, again states he’s done with 21 Local Boards. Brown claims that there are too many; he wants them gone, combined, rehashed, or discontinued.
The funny thing is, most areas around greater Auckland claim they’re done with a central-based bureaucratic council and lament the loss of their former council, whether it was Auckland City Council, Manukau City Council, North Shore City Council, Waitakere City Council, Rodney District Council, Papakura District Council or Franklin District Council. No one laments the loss of the Auckland Regional Council, yet it is a Regional Council that we all ended up with.
Prior to the creation of the Super City of Auckland, many people had community, identity, and political connection with their own area, council/councillors and local mayor. They knew their local council had many financial constraints and limitations, but they could relatively easily get involved, lobby, make a phone call, or connect.
The Westies had their identity with the Bob Harveys of this world, and their proud creation of the likes of the film industry and the Trusts Stadium; the North Shore with the George Woods of this world and the development of the North Harbour region; the Albany Basin had the North Harbour Stadium with its concerts, eight All Blacks at the World Cup in 1995, and Bruce Mason Centre events; and Manukau with the Barry Curtis/Len Browns, Counties Manukau Rugby, and the Pacifica Centre etc.
In rugby terms, there were three great rivals: Auckland, Counties Manukau and North Harbour – and any one of those teams could win on the day. Many people felt that
Prior to the creation of the Super City of Auckland many people had community, had identity, had political connection with their own area and council/councillors, and local mayor. They knew their local council had many financial constraints and limitations, but you could relatively easily get involved, lobby, make a phone call, or connect.
they knew or had some link or connection with their great leaders and heroes, like Errol Brain, Wayne Shelford and Sean Fitzpatrick. The crowds at events were sellouts with people having community, identity, and connection with their own area, their own history, their own colours, and their own supporters and sponsors. They invested in their own communities.
So if it was so good, why did we end up with an Auckland Council that has resulted
in the loss of much of that local identity, connection, involvement and support?
Throughout the debates about a super city for Auckland, we discovered things like: over 100 litigations were going on between the former councils and the Auckland Regional Council over such things as major roading arterial routes around Auckland, like whether the Waterview tunnel should or should not be built as a new gateway to the airport and an alternative to State
Highway 1. Some councils hated the fact that the ARC wanted funding for Mount Smart Stadium (outside their area) or the fact that they controlled where greenbelts and growth restrictions would apply in their council areas. Some grumbled at having to fund major facilities Auckland City got the main benefits from, such as the Art Gallery, MOTAT, the Zoo, and the Museum. Others had spent hundreds of millions on sorting out their sewerage, to find that other councils hadn’t invested in that area, and spills affected those that had. Some councils had very low crime rates; others had high crime rates that often spilt over into other council areas. The list goes on.
We could see that what we had wasn’t working, but with what we got, did we throw the baby out with the bath water? There are clearly major infrastructural matters for which a region-wide approach is crucial: such things as roading networks, water, sewerage, crime, and major facilities like the zoo, art gallery, museum, port, airport, rescue hub, etc. These should be the main focus of the Auckland Council. The rest, such as building local business, sporting, and cultural identity, should be the domain of a few much stronger entities.
What happens when you take away identity and political strength from an area?
Take, as an example, North Harbour. Under North Shore City (then the fourth largest city in New Zealand), it had mayors that supported Sport North Harbour, which now has 23 national sports codes in New Zealand, recognising North Harbour as a separate sporting entity and force from Auckland sporting bodies. It supports over 300 clubs and includes the entire North Shore of Auckland, North West Auckland, Hibiscus Coast, and Warkworth to Wellsford.
Former North Shore City mayors helped successfully lobby for a Super 10 Rugby franchise for North Harbour from New Zealand Rugby and facilitated the building of North Harbour Stadium, and built the Bruce Mason Centre for cultural shows and events. Even though rugby turned professional, Auckland has grown by 770,000 (Census 1996-2023), but no Auckland mayor has done anything to lobby New Zealand Rugby for another Super
Rugby franchise for Auckland. In fact, no Auckland mayor could even tell you the area that the North Harbour region covers, or that many businesses have built the name ‘North Harbour’ or ‘Harbour’ into their business names, and that there is the North Harbour Club with over 200 members, which recently celebrated 30 years and has donated over $3.4m to outstanding youth in the North Harbour Region through the AIMES Awards.
The Auckland Super City presented 26 pages of promises to the trustees of the North Harbour Stadium - a venue which had enjoyed many events (All Blacks, Kiwis League, FIFA, Pavarotti, Cher, Roger Waters, Nitro Circus events etc.) - that if they would hand ownership and management of the stadium to the Super City, the North Harbour Stadium’s full potential would be realised. Instead, the stadium has been run into the ground in favour of Mt Smart investment, and is now the training ground for Mt Smart franchises. In fact, some in Auckland Council suggested Auckland get rid of the North Harbour Stadium (Auckland’s newest stadium, of which $20 million of the $44 million to build it was funded by the local North Harbour community).
Or take Manukau. Prior to the creation of the super city, Manukau City was just passing Christchurch as the second largest city in New Zealand. Under the super city, what has happened to its identity, its sporting and cultural strengths, passions and heroes? When former passionate Counties Manukau supporters are asked, they say, “We don’t know who to support any longer. We were put with the Blues, then dumped with the Hamilton Chiefs, then there is the Moana Pasifika culturally-based team with many of our players, but they have to play at North Harbour Stadium up in the north, as there was no room for them at Mt Smart."
In fact, consider The Blues rugby franchise with dwindling crowds at Eden Park, which recently asked whether there is a place at Mt Smart for them. The Blues won the first two seasons of professional rugby in 1996 and 1997, but even now, with a third (two million) of New Zealand’s population, they have only won twice
since. What happened and why? Well, New Zealand Rugby first ordered Auckland Rugby to amalgamate with Counties Manukau (old rivals) and then, from 2000, ordered Auckland to amalgamate with North Harbour (old rivals) and Counties Manukau to leave the Auckland area and amalgamate with Hamilton Chiefs.
Some background. In 1994, in the sold-out ‘Battle of Onewa’, Auckland played North Harbour for the NPC final before professional rugby. In 1995, North Harbour had eight All Blacks (the most ever from one rugby union). In 1996, at a sold-out Eden Park, Counties played Auckland in the NPC final. Notwithstanding a 700,000-population growth in Auckland since professional rugby (compared to 70,000 for the same period for another rugby franchise area), 29 years later in 2025, the NPC 14 table shows Counties 8th, Auckland 12th, and North Harbour 14th.
That’s what happens when you lose your identity, community, and any political support.
So how do we turn all this around? How do we restructure Auckland Council so that there is some meaningful strength in these large local identities and communities again? How do we recognise that there are unique communities across Auckland and give them a meaningful voice and connection within their own area? How do we let them provide their own history, colours, supporters and sponsors? How do we get them invested again?
It’s much more than just recognising them; it’s bringing them politically alive with a meaningful say, it’s fighting for them, it’s getting them opportunities and success, and they will more likely feel valued in being a part of a successful greater Auckland.
How do we ensure a central mayor and council have on their table both the major infrastructure decisions for greater Auckland and are totally up to speed with the crucial decisions and next steps to promote and develop these unique subregional communities?
The mayor may be right. It’s not with 21 local boards with a centralised bureaucracy and mayor.
Derek Dallow, email: gatungadad@gmail.com
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MICHIES AUTOMOTIVE 20 COMO STREET, TAKAPUNA
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Mon-Fri 7:30am-5:30pm, Sat 8:00am-1:00pm, Sun Closed P 09 486 2029 E michies@supershoppes.co.nz W www.autosupershoppes.co.nz/shoppes/michies
1 Blessing trail with no end of merriment is a pointless task (10)
6 Obscure link to oven (4)
10 "Friends" shifting centre, or backing virtuoso? (7)
11 Current demand for hail (7)
12 Man 'ave sling (5)
13 Research facilities losing three leads to addresses (9)
14 Demise of bear after beheading (4)
15 Aristophanes' play, alternately, is working on several levels (10)
18 Marks soldiers over characters (10)
19 Brain convolutions are spongy, right? 16 (4)
21 Steer Romy back to regular points, or contradictions in terms? (9)
23 Rejoice when leaders depart erotic sect (5)
24 Daffy Duck's song may be played on a violin (1-6)
25 Famed for lacking a piece of furniture? (7)
27 Award from space? Gosh! (4)
28 Almost inexperienced about the German electronic band (10)
1 Bad seat? (3)
2 Windows perhaps left open outside place with sailors you start to stalk... (9,6)
3 ...is corrected? (6)
4 Slime put on by solver? Well done! (4,2,3)
5 Animal found upside-down in a shopping precinct? (5)
7 Performance not real for one such as i? (9,6)
8 Collector of tins must aim haphazardly (11)
9 Bill charges for buttonholes (7)
12 Fleeced with head down, with no opening to button fleece (11)
16 Fundamentally, body of knowledge starts off without head (2,7)
17 Crisp conical confection (7)
20 Confer the highest quality cry of pain? (6)
22 Paper that may be found by mouth or grinder (5)
26 Tip is a wind-up? (3)
This month's crossword will also be uploaded to the creator’s blog at: mayaofauckland.substack.com
There, Mãyã will kindly attempt to answer any questions or comments that may arise from the crosswords each month.
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