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Protecting small businesses from unfair licensing rules

Times Team
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Protecting small businesses from unfair licensing rules
ACT List MP Dr Parmjeet Parmar has introduced a Member’s Bill to address the challenges facing licensed liquor stores in Pakuranga and across New Zealand. Photo supplied Christin Hume on Unsplash
  • By Parmjeet Parmar, Pakuranga-based ACT List MP

Every week I hear from local businesses still feeling the impact of poor policy decisions by past Governments.

One area where issues consistently arise is from small business owners who run licensed liquor stores.

These businesses face costly, time-consuming regulations that, while well-intentioned, fail to benefit the community.

So I’ve introduced a Member’s Bill to address the challenges facing licensed liquor stores in Pakuranga and across New Zealand.

My bill ensures these businesses are treated fairly by amplifying their voice in licensing decisions and limiting objections to those directly impacted.

Too often liquor stores are bogged down by objections from activist groups or individuals who don’t live in the area.

While the store may eventually open, it’s after months of delays and tens of thousands of dollars spent defending their right to operate.

Worse yet, when they’re granted a licence, they’re often hit with onerous conditions that do little to improve public safety but make it near impossible to run a viable business.

Another issue is the current rules allow a licence renewal to be denied simply because a ‘sensitive site,’ such as a school or church, has opened nearby.

It’s unfair to load that kind of uncertainty onto a business and force them to operate under constant threat of closure.

They’re essentially being asked to perform the impossible task of predicting where such sites may or may not open in future.

My bill fixes these issues. Under my proposal, only those who live within 1km of a store would be able to object to a licence.

Additionally, my bill ensures existing stores can renew their licences without being penalised for a sensitive site that opened after the store was already established.

Pakuranga is a diverse community, home to people who’ve come from all over the world to build better lives for their families.

Many start businesses that provide jobs, serve the local community, and bring people into our town centres.

I want to empower these people to succeed on their own terms, without unnecessary Government intervention.

I’d like to prioritise the interests of those most affected, namely the business itself, its customers, and the immediate local community.

I look forward to debating this issue and encourage my Parliamentary colleagues, the community, and local businesses to support my bill.

Glowing feedback for principal following Q&A

Times Team
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Glowing feedback for principal following Q&A
A recent Q&A with Our Lady Star of the Sea School principal Louise Campbell generated positive comments about her on the Times’ Facebook page. Photo supplied

Check out a few of the latest comments from our socials below. Want more? Dive into the conversation at www.facebook.com/timesonlinenz.

PRINCIPAL IN PERSON – LOUISE CAMPBELL, OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA SCHOOL (Times, October 18):

Amanda Grant

Love this woman! An incredible person with passion for education.

Roro Johnson

Good article and spotlight. It’s always been a pleasure dealing with Louise professionally- usually for us in times of crisis for children and a true need for empathy and compassion.

Ranjana Andrews

Louise is a very capable and compassionate leader. Her genuine care for the students and their families makes SOTS extra special. Great school with excellent staff.

Read the Q&A with Louise Campbell here: Principal in Person – Louise Campbell, Our Lady Star of the Sea School – Times

SCHOOL CHANGES COURSE ON MUFTI BAN (Times, October 17):

Theresa Harris

New principal, new mantra. I don’t know of anyone, including staff, that ever had a problem with it. Consultation with the school community first would have been a good place to start.

Kim Paterson

As a parent of a teenager who will be affected by this change if it goes ahead, I am astonished that not all parents were asked how they felt about it before advising the change was happening. I am NOT in support of the change as I believe it encourages them to start to take responsibility for themselves and prepare for the outside world.

Sonja Rene Albrightson

I think it might be a good idea. Anyone could just walk into the school and be seen for a year 13 student when they are wearing mufti. Much easier knowing my children have a uniform to only worry about and not a new outfit every so often. If they can’t even take pride in their school uniform how will they take pride in wearing mufti?

Read the story on Pakuranga College’s proposed and then postponed school uniform change here: School changes course on mufti ban – Times

Rugby: Predictable shots fired ahead of Twickenham clash

Jim Birchall
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Rugby: Predictable shots fired ahead of Twickenham clash

Opinion

As they prepare to play the All Blacks at Twickenham on Saturday (Sunday morning NZ time) will barbs in the media this week from the England camp unsettle or motivate Scott Robertson’s men?

Unwanted English prop Joe Marler is his country’s agent provocateur-in-chief. Never shy of a word, he has kicked the hornet’s nest by suggesting the All Blacks’ haka, performed before every international, should be stopped-calling it “Ridiculous.”

“The haka needs binning. It’s ridiculous,” Marler wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

An upsurge in negative responses from X users in reply led Marler to remove his account before having a (perhaps pre-planned) change of heart restoring his presence and clarifying his stance.

“It’s only good when some teams actually front it with some sort of reply. Like the league boys did last week,” added Marler, referencing the England League team’s spirited opposition to Samoa’s Siva Tau.

Marler’s attempt at generating hype was shonky but may succeed in tearing a few extra eyeballs away from the Premier League in the UK. There is no doubt the comments would have needled some players in the All Blacks camp and the English should probably expect to face a haka complete with some added ferocity.

Prop Joe Marler has labelled the haka as “ridiculous.”

While Marler is known to be outspoken, winger Tommy Freeman exhibited sky-high confidence when he said he planned to make the game a “misery” for likely opposite Sevu Reece who had told media he knew little of his opponent:

“Not fussed if they do or don’t know me to be honest. The more you play, the more you’ll get known,” Freeman said.

“Hopefully if I can make his game a misery, it’s a win for me and that will make him remember me.”

While you probably wouldn’t get comment from the current All Blacks regime, England is one of the team’s players of old say they love beating the most. The perception of the Red Roses as a team comprised of wealthy pompous, arrogant public school boys has, in the past, not been far off the mark.

However, this English side is more diverse, and in recent times the image of the old boy’s club politely marginalizing the men from the colonies has softened.

All Black fans will be nervous that the old enemy is more than capable of toppling their side at a ground that has always proven difficult to win at, as 2022’s 25-25 draw will attest.

Couple that with the slim wins recorded at home in June’s internationals and the pressures of touring and the team will be up against it in the West London Coliseum.

The All Blacks’ best chance is to blow the men in white out of the water with a fast start and phase-play that implements expedited ruck speed to nullify the rush defence.

Perhaps a fearsome new haka will drown out the echoes of “swing low, sweet chariot” reverberating around the ground and take the crowd out of play?

We wait in hope.

Halloween set to unleash spooky night of family fun

Chris Harrowell
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Halloween set to unleash spooky night of family fun
The annual Halloween celebration in Four Trees, Cockle Bay, is one of the area’s biggest. Times file photo

In just a few hours in neighbourhoods across east Auckland there will be masses of little fairies, goblins, witches, monsters, vampires, ghosts, spiders, skeletons and more in search of candy for this year’s Halloween festivities.

This afternoon and tonight the following east Auckland houses, streets and other locations are taking part in trick-or-treating or will have Halloween displays:

Spears Place, Botany Downs. 4pm-8pm. No cars, please park on Gosford Drive. One resident doing it for the neighborhood.

12 Maroubra Place, Botany Downs.

39 Loloma Dive, Half Moon Bay, will be ready for trick or treaters from 5.30pm.

8 Edendale Road, Somerville, will be ready for trick or treaters from 5.30pm.

23 Hinckley Court, Dannemora, ready from 5.30pm.

5 Annalong Road, Dannemora.

Four Trees, Cockle Bay.

75 Advene Road, Cockle Bay.

9 Culver Terrace, Howick.

Cuba Apartments, Unit 52, 7 Guys Road, East Tamaki.

21 Triumph Road, Flat Bush, from 4.30ppm onward.

Vivian Place, Eastern Beach, by the walkway, very decorated.

Corner of Fordyce Avenue and Glenmore Road, Pakuranga.

15 Driscoll Place, Farm Cove, 5pm-7.30pm.

6 Trust Place, Sunnyhills.

6 Rothwell Place, Sunnyhills.

41 Lewisham Street, Highland Park.

Eastgate Christian Centre, 9 Ben Lomond Crescent, Pakuranga Heights, is running a Light Party starting at 5.30pm and finishing at 7.30pm. Games and prizes suitable for preschoolers and primary school kids. Entry is free.

Howick Historical Village, Bells Road, Lloyd Elsmore Park, Festival of Frights from 3.30pm-8pm (entry costs $18 for adults, $12 for children, and under 12 months is free).

And here’s some helpful tips from police to enjoy a safe and fun Halloween:

  • Parents or caregivers should supervise their young children at all times and not let them go off with people they don’t know.
  • Trick-or-treating in areas that are well lit and only where the children know the residents.
  • Always go with an adult, or if you are a teen stick with your friends and look out for each other.
  • If you see a sign that says ‘no trick-or-treat here’ or similar then respect their wishes.
  • Householders do not have to open the door or respond to knocks from Halloween visitors.
  • Check your trusted community pages to see which homes will be participating in Halloween.

Delicious snarlers snag banger prizes

Phil Taylor
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Delicious snarlers snag banger prizes
The proud award-winning crew at Marbled, in Picton Street, Howick, from left, Blair Welch, Darron White, sausage-maker Darren “Del Boy” Picton, and Ava Kinnon. Times photo PJ Taylor

An east Auckland business has been recognised nationally in the culinary art of making the perfect sausage.

Marbled Delicatessen, with two stores – in Picton Street, Howick, and in the Farm Cove shops, picked up two prized Fork awards at the recent Dunninghams Great New Zealand Sausage Competition.

It’s the premier sausage judging contest in the land and for a business now in its third year, Marbled has already a fine track record – six awards over the past two years, with four collected last year.

Darron White says the sausage-tasting judges had an even tougher job in 2024 because there was “a lot more competition this year”.

There were more than 800 differently flavoured bangers entered in 13 categories by over 100 sausage-makers from across the country.

Blair Welch says Marbled is particularly proud in receiving the “pretty special” category-winning Golden Fork in Flavours of the World for its variety of Boerewors.

He, and sausage-maker Darren “Del Boy” Picton, say it took some time getting to the right recipe, because being a business that’s in-tune with its customers, they heard many of their views, especially from South Africans who live in the east Auckland area.

“It’s an emotional sausage with South Africans. Everyone had their opinion,” says Welch.

They listened to a lot of feedback, “tweaked” the ingredients and recipe, and eventually got to a “happy medium”, says Picton.

Marbled also received a Silver Fork in the Traditional category for its Welsh Dragon, with its meat being pork (white), and red chilli and green leek providing the others colours of the flag of Wales – red and green.

The Marbled men say the Welsh Dragon is a popular favourite with customers and it’s “quite spicy”.

Picton says the awards are an important acknowledgement: “It makes us proud and is an appreciation for all of the hard work.”

Welch says: “It’s not been easy. It’s been a pretty tough year. We say a big thank-you to our loyal customers. They keep coming in and keep supporting us.”

The Marbled team is also fully committed to putting back into the community and say they’re involved with many “community-oriented” organisations such as sports clubs.

Another popular initiative they got input from customers was for a competition that created their own Aloha Chicken sausage, with chicken, bacon, pineapple and red pepper ingredients.

“We had really good engagement from the community for that,” says Welch.

Concerns voiced over 87-unit housing development

Chris Harrowell
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Concerns voiced over 87-unit housing development
A render of how homes in a proposed development in Half Moon Bay will look once completed. Image supplied

Local residents have voiced strong concerns about a contentious east Auckland housing development at a public meeting on the issue.

Several hundred people turned out to a recent meeting at Bucklands Beach Yacht Club about a proposed development that will see HND HMB Ltd build 87 units on a 1.4-hectare site near Half Moon Bay Marina.

The property at 3 Pigeon Mountain Road is currently occupied by the Stand Tu Maia (Stand for Children) charity, which plans to relocate to Manukau.

The property borders Ara-Tai Road and Compass Point Way. The development will have a single access point, off Compass Point Way.

The development’s resource consent application is publicly notified so anyone who wants to share their view on it with Auckland Council can do so.

Following presentations at the public meeting from the leaders of several local residents’ associations and Howick ward councillor Maurice Williamson, audience members had the chance to ask questions and make statements.

One man raised concerns relating to the large number of boaties who use Half Moon Bay Marina and the impact that has on local roads.

“I’ve lived here for 32 years and seeing the increase in traffic over that time is phenomenal.

“About a third of Auckland drag their boats over here on a good day and it’s getting radically worse each year.

“The amount of congestion with boats and trailer parking etcetera, that’s going to get worse not better.

“This [development] here in amongst that, you’ll get – I’ve seen it – total jammed up streets with what’s going to happen.”

A second audience member asked how, given the strength of opposition to the development in its current form from the local community, the process got to such an advanced stage.

Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown, who chaired the meeting, responded by saying: “Everyone’s got a right to put forward a resource consent application.

“If they wish to go and have that publicly notified, they are paying the cost of that and taking the risk.

“You are entitled to do that. The council can’t stop them from putting forward a publicly notified thing if that’s what they want to do.”

Another audience member asked the meeting’s organisers what their ideal of number of houses on the site would be.

Allan Sargeant, deputy chairperson of Compass Point Way Residents Association, replied that another developer who was interested in the property was considering building 20 to 24 houses on it.

“That’s probably more in keeping with the area,” he said.

An audience member who said he’s an engineer raised the issue of the area’s wastewater network.

He said most of it was built from the 1960s onward and “predicated on one, maybe two dwellings per section”.

“We’re already seeing now untreated sewerage outflows at times of heavy rain, due to infiltration, in the estuary.

“This intensity, I would image Watercare would do a pretty thorough investigation as to whether the current wastewater network is capable of receiving this load in addition to all the other load that’s going into it from other developments in the area.”

The developer previously told the Times they appreciate the community’s concerns about how many units are planned for the site.

“With our site being 1.4 hectares, we’ve thoughtfully designed the development to align with the goals of the Mixed Housing Suburban Zone, as outlined by the Auckland Unitary Plan.

“Our proposal includes a variety of housing types and sizes, ensuring a diverse community that can accommodate different needs.”

They say they also understand concerns about increased traffic and parking in the area.

“Each unit is designed to include one or two parking spaces, depending on its size, to help ease congestion.

“We’ve worked with traffic engineers to thoroughly assess the project’s impact on safety and ensure it meets all necessary standards.

“Our goal is to create a harmonious environment that prioritises the well-being of all residents.”

People have until November 11 to submit their view on the development’s resource consent application and they can do so online here.

Panthers’ five to wear national black jersey

Phil Taylor
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Panthers’ five to wear national black jersey
Pakuranga Black Panthers players chosen for the first New Zealand under-85kg representative rugby team that’ll take the field next year: Jamie Petford, Francis Morrison, Jeandre du Toit, Rory Cavanagh and Ben Biggelaar. Photo supplied

Five players from Pakuranga United’s triumphant under-85kg national club rugby championship-winning side have been chosen for New Zealand’s first rep side in the grade.

The Pakuranga Black Panthers’ quintet – Jamie Petford, Francis Morrison, Jeandre du Toit, Rory Cavanagh and Ben Biggelaar – were picked recently by New Zealand Rugby.

The selection honours follow the Pakuranga Black Panthers’ nail-biting last-minute 23-22 victory over Christchurch’s High School Old Boys’ Light Bears at Sky Stadium (the Cake Tin) in Wellington on September 28 to lift the U85kg National Club Cup.

The Pakuranga United Rugby Club says of their new national representatives: “We are so proud and can’t wait to see you do your thing in a black jersey!”

Biggelaar, who is understood to have retired after the historic Wellington final, has played 118 matches in the grade for Pakuranga.

New Zealand Rugby says it’s in discussions with another nation’s rugby union about an overseas tour next year.

On social media, New Zealand Rugby says: “We have exciting news for all U85ers out there! A New Zealand U85kg team will be selected to travel to South Asia in 2025.”

National under-85kg squads have been named in recent years but never assembled to take the field, New Zealand Rugby says.

The first weight-restricted representative side was assembled by the New Zealand Barbarians Club in 2012 and featured Morrinsville’s Simon Sia who is selected again after this year.

The 2024-25 New Zealand Under-85kg squad has 12 players from the thrilling National Club Cup Final, with five from Pakuranga, and seven from HSOBs.

New Zealand Rugby’s head of rugby participation Mike Hester says the squad announcement is a fitting end to an exciting under-85kg season.

“If the thrilling final in Wellington was anything to go by, we can expect that this squad will come together to showcase everything we love about this grade of rugby: speed, skill and comradery.

“Having an international stage to do that on is not only a great opportunity for this group of men but also for the promotion of weight-restricted rugby,” Hester says.

The selection panel was made up of representatives from across the country and considered performances from the National Club Cup and regional club competitions.

The national side will be coached by Ngatai Walker, skills coach for Manawatu, who has also previously worked with the Hurricanes Poua, Taranaki Development, and New Zealand Secondary Schools.

New Zealand Rugby says the Auckland-headquartered Barbarians are still involved in the under-85kg grade and “are a key contributor in making this tour come to life”.

Barbarians club captain Peter White says: “The New Zealand Barbarians Rugby Club is committed to growing rugby in New Zealand and are proud of our long association with, and promotion of, weight-restricted rugby.

“We’re excited by the selection of this team which provides the opportunity for players from this grade to play international rugby and most importantly for these trailblazers to make lifelong friendships by touring together.”

College actors to perform on global stage

Times Team
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College actors to perform on global stage
Finnbar O’Sullivan and Aria Takle-Lee acting at the SGCNZ Sheila Winn National Shakespeare Festival, where they earned their places in the National Shakespeare Schools Production (NSSP) in Dunedin. Photos supplied
  • By Vivek Panchal, AUT Journalism Student

Two teenage east Auckland performing artists have been honoured with selection to a prestigious acting company.

Howick College drama students Aria Takle-Lee and Finnbar O’Sullivan will join the 2025 SGCNZ Young Shakespeare Company after their 15-minute adaptation of the Two Gentlemen of Verona impressed judges with their performance.

They participated at the SGCNZ Sheila Winn National Shakespeare Festival, earning their places at the National Shakespeare Schools Production (NSSP) in Dunedin.

The pair will travel with the company to London next year, spending three weeks visiting theatres and participating in workshops taught by acting professionals, culminating in a final performance at the world-renowned Shakespeare Globe Theatre.

It’s not the first accolade for both students, as they’ve been recognised as best actor and actress respectively for their roles in Howick College’s production of Blood Brothers.

O’Sullivan, also a recipient of the coveted Howick College performer of the year award, says: “Receiving the call about London after the weeklong wait was just the cherry on top of an incredible experience.

“I’m so grateful for this opportunity and to share it with such talented people.

“While my path for the future lies in medicine, my performing arts achievements and experiences are ones I will always hold close and continue to pursue as a passion,” O’Sullivan says.

Aria Takle-Lee and Finnbar O’Sullivan with their prizes at Howick College’s awards.

Takle-Lee, who plans to make a career in musical theatre, says the experience at the SGCNZ NSSP in Dunedin was a chance for her to learn more about her acting craft and make friends through the course.

“I feel incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to go to London and immerse myself in more amazing workshops, performances, and events,” says Takle-Lee.

“Doing all of this with such incredible people makes it even more special.”

Jillian Dryden, the Howick College drama department head, says: “This year has been a significant one for Finnbar and Aria.

“Although it marks their final year and many ‘lasts’, it has also been filled with exciting firsts. We couldn’t be prouder of their achievements.

“Their passion, dedication, and openness to learning have shone through their work in the arts this year.”

The east Auckland college has a history of its drama students being selected to be part of the company, with Lily Moore being selected in 2021, and Bianca Day in 2023.

Fifty-four heavy trucks, zero diesel fumes

Chris Harrowell
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Fifty-four heavy trucks, zero diesel fumes
Waste Management managing director Evan Maehl, left, and Transport and Energy Minister and Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown with the cake celebrating the company’s major milestone. Photo supplied

Electric trucks in the fleet of East Tamaki-based Waste Management New Zealand have covered a distance the equivalent of five times from Earth to the moon and back.

The company is the country’s largest waste, resource recovery and environmental services provider.

It’s celebrating having achieved a “significant milestone” in sustainable transportation, with its electric truck fleet having travelled two million kilometres.

Waste Management recently celebrated the occasion with a special event at its East Tamaki Road corporate headquarters featuring a cake and a visit from Transport and Energy Minister and Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown.

Waste Management managing director Evan Maehl says: “This milestone represents not just a number but a tangible reduction in our carbon footprint, a significant step toward our goal of carbon neutrality by 2050, and a clear demonstration of our commitment to New Zealand’s sustainable future.

“This achievement is about more than just Waste Management. It’s about showing what’s possible when we combine innovation, determination, and a shared vision for a better future.

“It’s about setting an example for our industry but also for businesses across New Zealand.

“As we celebrate today, we’re also looking ahead. This is not the finish line but a milestone on our ongoing journey.

“We remain committed to expanding our fleet, reducing emissions, and continually innovating how we serve our communities while protecting the environment.”

Brown told the audience it was exciting to see a local international business playing such a critical role “in demonstrating that the future is electric, and not just electric in the future, but today”.

“You’ve been doing that journey for such a long time so I congratulate you for reaching that milestone of two million kilometres. It’s probably a lot more.

“As a Government we’re very keen to continue support for the work you’re doing.

“In order to enable that though we need to make sure we’ve got the energy required to electrify our economy.

“We’re very committed to unlocking and reducing the barriers to producing the energy New Zealand needs.

“If you look out over the next 25 years toward 2050, when we need to achieve that net zero target, making sure we have access to affordable energy, which is reliable, and at internationally competitive prices, is going to be our big challenge as a country.

“The technology around electrification, hydrogen, all of that technology is moving rapidly, but if we as a country don’t have that energy to be able to supply that to the grid at affordable prices that is going to be what holds us back.

“So as Minister of Energy, I’m completely focused on reducing those barriers.”

Waste Management has 54 fully electric trucks in operation with the two million km representing 1412 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions saved.

It also has 113 electric vehicles integrated into its light fleet and has added 20 light electric trucks for Auckland Council’s food waste collections.

Would you like to help lead your local community?

Chris Harrowell
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Would you like to help lead your local community?
People voted to represent the Howick ward will help to decide issues such as funding for events like Celebrating Cultures. File photo supplied

Community-minded east Auckland residents are being urged to consider standing as candidates at next year’s local elections.

Up for grabs will be two seats representing the Howick ward on Auckland Council’s governing body and 11 seats on the Howick Local Board.

The board currently has nine elected members with three each representing the subdivisions of Howick, Pakuranga and Botany.

But the council is making changes to how the city’s residents are represented which will see the board grow next year to 11 members.

There will be three members each for Howick and Pakuranga while Botany will shrink from three to two and a new Flat Bush subdivision with three members will be created.

The council is urging locals to consider if they’re a community leader who has vision, focus and commitment to help the city achieve its goals as candidates are needed to put themselves forward for next year’s local elections.

Candidate nominations open on July 4 next year and close at midday on August 1.

Voting will be open from September 9 to October 11 with the final results announced from October 14-17.

Howick Local Board chairperson Damian Light says having the privilege of representing the community is “extremely rewarding”.

“We have an incredibly diverse population and playing a part in enabling them to succeed makes it all worth it.

“Our role is governance. We set the direction based on what our community tells us is important and then staff work to deliver it.

“There’s never enough time or money, so we need to prioritise and sometimes this means making some tough calls. It’s not easy and requires some time commitment.”

Light strongly recommends that anyone considering standing as a candidate attend the board’s business meetings or workshops, which will be open to the public from January 1 next year, to see how they work.

“But there’s more to it. Meeting and advocating for your community, receiving briefings on a wide range of issues, and attending events throughout the year.”

Experienced Howick Local Board member and former chairperson Adele White says a significant pre-requisite of the role is time flexibility.

“Board members must be available to prepare for, and attend board, stakeholder and community meetings, and our daytime workshops which provide information for important decision making.

“The time commitment for being a board member (except for the chair and deputy chair) is approximately 20 hours a week.

“An open mind to all aspects of our wider community is also essential, as is the willingness to be part of a productive public-facing team.

“It’s not a ‘hobby job’ and it’s a role you’ve got to put a lot into.”

Ward councillors earn a base annual remuneration of $111,782.

Local board members earn $31,141-$55,811 while a board chairperson receives $62,282-$111,623 and a deputy chairperson $37,369-$66,974.

Keys to safe and ‘spooktacular’ Halloween

Times Team
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Keys to safe and ‘spooktacular’ Halloween
Thousands of people will be out and about during Halloween on October 31, as they were at this event in Cockle Bay. Times file photo

Police are issuing advice for parents to help keep their children safe during Halloween tomorrow night.

They’re encouraging caregivers to ensure their little pirates, superheroes, witches, and fairies are well looked after while out trick-or-treating in the community on Thursday, October 31.

Inspector Brett Callander says Halloween activities can be fun for children to dress up in search of sweets with friends and family, but it’s important to stay safe.

“Although it’s a fun night out, we’d like to remind parents and caregivers to ensure the safety of their children.

“It’s also a good reminder that not everyone likes to participate in Halloween, is able to take part, or appreciates repeated knocks on the door.”

Police suggest if residents do not want to take part in Halloween, perhaps placing a sign on their front door or gate might negate young visitors looking for lollies.

Police recommend the following:

  • Parents or caregivers should supervise their young children at all times and not let them go off with people they don’t know.
  • Trick-or-treating in areas that are well lit and only where the children know the residents.
  • Always go with an adult, or if you are a teen stick with your friends and look out for each other.
  • If you see a sign that says ‘no trick-or-treat here’ or similar then respect their wishes.
  • Householders do not have to open the door or respond to knocks from Halloween visitors.
  • Check your trusted community pages to see which homes will be participating in Halloween.

Callander says as an alternative, parents, caregivers, and children could attend a local event within their community if there’s one nearby.

Police would like to ask communities to look out for each other, and if anyone sees any suspicious activity happening, phone 111 immediately.

To report activity after it’s occurred, contact police online at www.105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or call 105.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Painting brings the power of the blues

Phil Taylor
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Painting brings the power of the blues
Tony Painting is one of the finest all-round guitarists Howick has ever laid claim to. Times photos PJ Taylor

East Auckland’s blues-boogie rockers, Tony Painting and Blues Power, are revved up to play their driving tracks again in Howick this Friday night.

In what’ll be an excellent way to get November off to a roaring start and finish the working week, Painting – on vocals and lead and rhythm guitar, Mark Dunasemant on bass, and Ollie Abeln on drums, are performing their powerful six-monthly show in Bosuns Bar, at The Good Home / The Prospect of Howick, on Friday, from 8.30pm.

Painting, originally of Birmingham, England, is regarded as Howick’s statesman of rhythm n’ blues music, after a long and consistently high-quality run of concerts since arriving in New Zealand in the late 1990s.

“Hey! It’s Friday, work done, time to relax with a ‘cold one’ and listen to the groovy sounds or better still ‘git up n’ dance’ to some great boogie blues, rock n’ roll, and classic rock songs,” Painting says, of his friendly instructions to the crowd who’ll head along.

Painting is one of the finest all-round guitarists Howick has ever laid claim to.

He’s a master soloist and the cleanest and tightest rhythm player, well-known for his tribute shows to the music of Texans, the late-great Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble, and British hard-rock legends, Deep Purple.

The repertoire also includes Painting’s high-class originals, and their versions of tracks by all the greats – BB King, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Muddy Waters, Jimi Hendrix, Buddy Guy, Peter Green, Dire Straits, Rory Gallagher, Robin Trower, JJ Cale, Gary Moore and the Allmann Brothers, to name a few.

Every show Tony Painting and Blues Power has played at Bosuns Bar in recent years has been a blinder and very well supported.

As this writer always says about them: “One thing’s guaranteed, they’ll play all night, and they’ll play late. And everything you need to hear.”

If you get advanced tickets, they’re $20, or they’ll be available on the door: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2024/tony-painting-with-blues-power2/auckland/howick

Tony Painting and Blues Power at a gig at Bosuns Bar in 2023, with Mike Beck on drums and Mark Dunasemant on bass. Ollie Abeln is on drums this Friday, November 1.

Senior art students unveil their creations

Chris Harrowell
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Senior art students unveil their creations
Howick College art student Estelle Ruijne is among the pupils whose works will be on public display at the school this week. Photos supplied

An east Auckland school is opening its doors to showcase high-quality works by its talented senior art students.

Howick College’s annual Art Board Show opens on October 30 and runs until November 3.

The event sees the school’s Bill Dimery Performing Arts Centre filled with a wide array of folio boards created by year 11-13 pupils as part of their NCEA Visual Arts assessments.

The school says the show is an “exciting opportunity for the public to explore a diverse array of artwork including painting, photography, printmaking, and design”.

“These stunning folio boards represent months of dedication, creativity, and hard work, highlighting the talent and passion of the school’s emerging artists.”

Maia Barrett with her work.

Su O’Grady, the head of Howick College’s Visual Arts Department, adds: “We’re incredibly proud of the artistic achievements of our senior students.

“The Art Board Show is not only a testament to their hard work and commitment but also an opportunity for the wider community to engage with and celebrate their creativity.

“Entry is free, and we encourage everyone to join us in supporting the creativity and dedication of these talented young artists.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to witness the future of New Zealand’s art scene right here in our community.”

Much of Elisa Prattley’s work has a military theme.

Among the pupils taking part in the exhibition are Estelle Ruijne and Elisa Prattley.

Much of Elisa’s work has a military theme, with works depicting soldiers, a helicopter, aircraft, and Anzac Day poppies.

Estelle is an artist and poet who likes creating art that “explores the transformative and fluid nature of the human experience”.

She intends to study a Bachelor of Visual Art double majoring in painting, printmaking and drawing, and Communication Design at AUT University after completing her secondary studies.

Howick College’s Art Board Show opens at the school from 6.30pom-8pm on Wednesday, October 30.

It’s then open from 10am to 4.30pm on Thursday and Friday and 10am to 2pm on Saturday and Sunday. Entry is free and all are welcome.

Students Kate Donnell, left, and Myah Wood.

Art works for youth sailing cause

Phil Taylor
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Art works for youth sailing cause
The always popular annual Bucklands Beach Yacht Club Art Show opens next week on November 6. Photos supplied

One of east Auckland’s favourite and well-patronised yearly art shows returns early next month.

The 15th annual Bucklands Beach Yacht Club Art Show opens on November 6.

“It’s one of the most significant local art events in our community,” says George Yates, of the BBYC.

The year’s Art Show showcases some 170 works.

“The art on display has been provided by a vibrant and talented group of 70 local artists.

“The exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to view a wide range of work and purchase a special piece for yourself,” says Yates.

“The show spotlights the breadth and diversity of contemporary art in our community, bringing together a range of works by emerging and established local artists.”

Long-time east Auckland artist and tutor, Raewyn Neale, leads the BBYC Art Show organising committee and selection process and has since the annual event’s inception.

She says the quality of artworks on display at the upcoming exhibition will be as great as it always is and looks forward to having a good number of them sold to raise money for BBYC youth.

Entry to the BBYC Art Show is free and proceeds of the art sales goes towards the club’s Sailing Academy Junior Learn to Sail scheme.

“The programme gives the youth of our local community the opportunity to get on the water and develop a passion for sailing,” says Yates.

The BBYC Art Show is sponsored this year by Milford Asset Management Ltd.

It’s open to the public from 9am to 6pm from Wednesday to Saturday, and 9am to 4pm, on November 6-10.

Year-end excitement is palpable

Times Team
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Year-end excitement is palpable
The annual StarInsure Howick HOP was an amazing day, and planning has already started for next year’s event. Times file photo
  • By KATIE TRENEMAN, Interim Village Manager, Howick Village Association

We’d like to congratulate Julie and Emma from Brave and Be and welcome their new store, Lemonade, at 51 Picton Street, Howick.

This expands their offering of beautiful women’s fashion, and the new store looks amazing!

Lemonade is situated in what was the Mardell site.

Spicy House has opened a new branch at 4/87 Picton Street, behind Jetts on the Central Terrace car park.

They specialise in Chinese food, dine in and takeaway, opening for lunch and dinner. They’re closed on Tuesdays.

Our annual StarInsure Howick HOP is now behind us – what an amazing day!

We had 240 vehicles in town, amazing entertainment, and more than 70 market stalls, and thousands of people enjoying the day.

Planning has started for next year already. We’re accepting registrations for 2025!

It has become an iconic event for us, getting bigger and better each year.

We’re very appreciative of the support we receive for this event. Howick Coastguard does a fantastic job marshalling the vehicles every year.

As always, Mike and the team at East FM bring their caravan onto the street, entertain the crowds and look after any lost children.

We couldn’t run the event without our generous sponsors: StarInsure, Matassa Property Services, MTF Howick Pakuranga, Stewart Surveying, KGM, Mothers Polishes, Howick Village Optometrists, and Howick Local Board.

We recently had our AGM and welcome some new faces onto our committee for 2024/25.

The HVA committee is Gerald Patterson (landlord), Leane Steele (Unichem and Life Pharmacies), Tony Moores (Poppies), Paul Spiller (landlord), Barry O’Shaughnessy (The Prospect/Good Home), Frith Jenkins (Howick Village Optometrists), Nick Thompson (John Russell Schoolwear), Carmen Holmes (Apothecary/Daisy Chang/Despensa/Piggy Bar), Paul Brobbel (Uxbridge Arts and Culture), Sam Dalzell (Resonate Howick), and Ziahad Mohammed (Paper Plus).

Our annual Christmas Fair in on Friday, November 15, 5.30-9.30pm. Picton Street will be closed from late afternoon.

We have an awesome line-up of entertainment, many community groups will be in town, and our Howick Village Market will be running.

Our village shops will be open with many great specials, a great opportunity to start your Christmas shopping.

Our restaurants will be busy, so it may pay to make a booking.

The Howick Santa Parade is run by the Howick Children’s Charitable Trust and is looking for volunteers to help on Sunday, December 8.

We encourage anyone who can to please get involved: www.howicksantaparade.co.nz.

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