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Auckland leads by example to battle housing affordability

<p dir="ltr">Relaxing planning rules could be the solution for the housing crisis, by both increasing the housing supply and helping rent and property prices to fall by as much as 12.5 percent, according to new research.</p> <p dir="ltr">After Auckland “up-zoned” three quarters of the city in 2016, meaning that townhouses, terraces and units were allowed to be built within 20 kilometres of the CBD under the city’s planning laws, the number of homes in the New Zealand city has increased by five percent over the past five years, according to the report, <em>The Impact of Up-zoning on Housing Construction in Auckland</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Dr Ryan Greenaway-McGrevy, a University of Auckland professor of economics and one of the report’s authors, said that relaxing planning laws helped increase housing supply significantly</p> <p dir="ltr">“The punchline is the policy did encourage, certainly, higher rates of construction and dwelling stock,” Greenaway-McGrevy told <em><a href="https://www.smh.com.au/property/news/how-to-make-housing-cheaper-according-to-new-research-20220725-p5b4e0.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Sydney Morning Herald</a></em>. </p> <p dir="ltr">“And it will increase over time.”</p> <p dir="ltr">As for housing affordability crises in other countries and cities, Greenaway-McGrevy said broad applications of up-zoning - rather than selective applications attempted in other countries - was the key to Auckland’s success.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The point of difference [in Auckland] is just the sheer pervasiveness of the up-zoning policy. We’re not talking about transit-oriented up-zoning areas. We’re talking about the close-to-blanket inner suburban area of Auckland,” he said. “We’ve had a larger area of construction and a much higher uptake.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“If cities are considering up-zoning they really need to shy away from only small, targeted areas that are permitted to build up and think about implementing the policy more broadly.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I certainly think any policymakers or commentators thinking about how to tackle housing affordability in Sydney and Melbourne should look to Auckland in greater detail.”</p> <p dir="ltr">He said up-zoning can also decrease the construction cost of property types that aren’t land-intensive, such as townhouses, apartments and terraces, while also meaning that fewer households would be consigned to far-flung urban areas and required to use carbon emissions-heavy commuting.</p> <p dir="ltr">Greenaway-McGrevy added that these benefits far outweigh the costs of preserving a city’s heritage by banning high-density properties within a certain proximity.</p> <p dir="ltr">“At this point, is it worth, as a society, preserving those character neighbourhoods when it comes at the cost of housing that costs 10 times incomes or more, forcing young families into these really long commutes where they don’t have time to spend with their kids?” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“If you’re interested in preserving the heritage of a suburb, I’d suggest we focus on the people, and the kinds of people and kinds of families that make up those suburbs rather than the buildings.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Peter Tulip, the chief economist for the Centre for Independent Studies, said the research showed that allowing for more buildings to be constructed resulted in a reduction in property prices.</p> <p dir="ltr">“A substantial relaxation of planning restrictions would enable more construction and hence less expensive housing,” Tulip said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“A standard rule of thumb is that every percentage point in the housing stock lowers the cost of housing by 2.5 per cent. So, a 5 per cent increase in housing stock would lower the cost of housing by 12.5 per cent.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Meanwhile, Grattan Institute’s economic policy program director Brendan Coates said increasing the stock of homes across Australian major cities would reduce rental costs and property prices by at least 10 percent.</p> <p dir="ltr">He noted that current planning laws heavily favour existing homeowners, and that prioritising heritage over supply would turn our cities into “living mausoleums”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“There’s a trade-off: you can either accept more housing will be built that have good access to amenities … Or you accept your kids or your grandkids don’t have a home near where you live, and Australia as a society will be poorer than it should be because we fail to build the housing we need to accommodate our growing population,” Coates said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Heritage, for example, is an incredibly expensive way of protecting our memory of our cities’ history. You basically turn Australian cities into living mausoleums.”</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-721845da-7fff-f442-7e01-71c1d36027bb"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Real Estate

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Commuters rejoice! Auckland’s first electric ferries to set sail in 2024

<p dir="ltr">Two electric ferries are expected to be in the waters of Auckland by 2024 after the New Zealand government announced it would contribute $27 million in funding for the project.</p> <p dir="ltr">Minister of Energy and Resources Megan Woods made the announcement outside Auckland’s downtown ferry terminal, confirming that the funds would come from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority, as reported by <em><a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/climate-news/128452777/government-commits-27m-for-electric-ferries-in-auckland" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stuff</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The funds will also cover the majority of the project’s costs and will account for approximately 75 percent of the cost to build the two ferries.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This project will be a major boost to the rapidly developing maritime clean technology sector in New Zealand and will further upskill the maritime transport sector in New Zealand,” Ms Woods said. </p> <p dir="ltr">“This is a boost for our climate goals and our economy, which is especially vital as we continue our economic recovery from COVID-19.”</p> <p dir="ltr">With the city’s current, ageing fleet of ferries accounting for nearly seven percent of public transport journeys and about 20 percent of public transport emissions, Climate Change Minister James Shaw said the new ferries were “another important step” in working towards a low emissions future.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As a harbour city, getting around by ferry is the norm for many thousands of Auckalnders,” Mr Shaw said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Today’s announcement means that instead of fossil fuels powering many of those journeys, people will be getting around in ways that help create a climate-friendly, prosperous future for New Zealand.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The ferries, developed by Auckland-based <a href="https://evmaritime.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">EV Maritime</a>, will also contribute to Auckland City Council’s commitment to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, which requires transport emissions to be slashed by 64 percent.</p> <p dir="ltr">They have been developed with a range capable of covering several routes in Auckland’s inner and mid-harbour with a design similar to the electric ferry running in Wellington.</p> <p dir="ltr">Ms Woods announced the government would also be supporting 15 big businesses to move away from using fossil fuels in their production processes, providing $13 million in funding that will be matched by $32.66 million from private industry.</p> <p dir="ltr">“In partnering with the private sector through the third round of the Government Investment in Decarbonising Industry (GIDI) Fund we’re helping clean up production processes, and helping business stay ahead of the curve.”</p> <p dir="ltr">It comes just months after the first electric passenger ferry in the Southern Hemisphere <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/wellington-top-stories/127908781/electric-ferry-makes-maiden-passenger-voyage-across-wellington-harbour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">made its maiden journey</a> across Wellington’s harbour.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Ika Rere (“flying fish”) in Wellington can carry a maximum of 135 passengers - compared to the 99-person limit of its diesel predecessors - while its Auckland counterparts will seat up to 200 people.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-996c629c-7fff-77cd-49bf-fe52f45e6d96"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: EV Maritime (Facebook)</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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New ultra long-haul flight between Auckland and NYC

<p dir="ltr">Air New Zealand is ramping up its long-haul game, announcing a direct 17-hour flight between Auckland and New York City.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Air New Zealand flights will kick off from September 17th this year and will operate three times a week on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.</p> <p dir="ltr">The flight from New Zealand’s flagship carrier is now one of the easiest ways for east coast Aussies to get to the east coast of the US.</p> <p dir="ltr">The flying time from Brisbane or Sydney to Auckland is around three hours (Melbourne is three-and-a-half hours). Add on the new 17-hour flight to New York’s JFK Airport means you’ll spend around 20 hours in the air.</p> <p dir="ltr">The new flight also means you won’t have to change in Los Angeles which is a common stopping point for flights from Australia to New York.</p> <p dir="ltr">Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran said the airline was “thrilled” to launch the new flight.</p> <p dir="ltr">“New York is an iconic yet familiar city, a bucket list item. We’re thrilled to be able to offer our Australian customers more choice to get to North America, connecting onto our flagship Auckland to New York flights from our nine Australian ports,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As an international service from start to finish, it’s a unique proposition and really is the easiest way to get to the Big Apple, on the world’s safest airline.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Air New Zealand dethroned Qantas last year in the annual world’s safest airline competition from airline safety and review website AirlineRatings.com.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Kiwi carrier was awarded the top spot due to its young fleet, technical innovation and the fact that its flight crews operate in some of the most challenging weather conditions and remote environments.</p> <p dir="ltr">This new route is one of the longest in the world and Air NZ has been working to upgrade its cabin service so passengers don’t struggle throughout the lengthy trip.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Customers have the choice to either connect directly onto their New York flight or arrive a few days early and explore everything Auckland has to offer,” Mr Foran said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We’ve worked hard over the last few years to make this ultra-long-haul service a reality – it’s one of the longest routes in the world.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-8ca5e3c8-7fff-9c35-869f-c7268a6b1f7e"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Qantas also operates some of the longest passenger flights in the world with its direct service from Australia to London. While it initially flew from Perth, due to border closures in Western Australia through the pandemic, Qantas has been flying between Darwin and London at a flight time of over 17 hours.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Travel Tips

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Take an art-filled tour of Auckland from anywhere in the world

<p dir="ltr">There’s a new way to explore Auckland that combines public art and marine conservation - and you don’t even have to be in the country to experience it.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-9bc5803e-7fff-c053-b0e9-9ed71fd560de">The <a href="https://whaletales2022.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Whale Tales</a> project, launched by WWF-New Zealand, consists of 80 Brig Broos (large) and 80 Pēpi (mini) whale tail sculptures located throughout Auckland’s public spaces which can be explored in-person and via a virtual trail.</span></p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CaydQJQlp-x/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CaydQJQlp-x/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by WWF Whale Tales 2022 (@whaletales2022)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Each sculpture has been designed by artists from across New Zealand and comes with a story, accessed via the Whale Tales app, about the artist and what each artwork represents.</p> <p dir="ltr">The trail stretches from Pukekohe across to the Great Barrier and Waiheke Islands.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-687994df-7fff-e16f-29ec-cee433a51603">It was conceptualised to “capture the hearts of kiwis, near and far,” and catalyse “positive action to protect Bryde’s whales and restore our ocean’s health”, according to a <a href="https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK2202/S00427/wwf-whale-tales-goes-global-with-a-one-of-a-kind-virtual-trail.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">statement </a>from WWF-NZ.</span></p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CZycvJyJTNd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CZycvJyJTNd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Kate Hursthouse | NZ Artist (@katehursthouse)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">WWF-NZ chief executive Livia Esterhazy said Bryde’s whales are vulnerable to plastic pollution, unsustainable fishing practices, climate change, and other human activities.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Bryde’s whales are an indicator of ocean health. If our whale populations are healthy and thriving, it is a sign our ocean is also healthy and thriving,” Ms Esterhazy <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/300500961/whale-tales-auckland-art-project-sheds-light-on-plight-of-brydes-whales" target="_blank" rel="noopener">said</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The tales will be on display for 12 weeks, during which time there will also be light shows on the harbour bridge, seminars, and the launch of Hauraki Broo, a children’s book about the importance of conserving marine life.</p> <p dir="ltr">At the end of the display, the Big Broos sculptures will then be auctioned off to raise funds for WWF-NZ, while the Pēpi sculptures will be returned to the schools that made them.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So not only can you own an incredible piece of art, but the funds raised will go to support WWF’s vital work to protect our ocean and marine species, like the Hauraki Gulf’s national critically-endangered resident Bryde’s whale,” Ms Esterhazy said.</p> <p dir="ltr">To view the virtual tour, head <a href="http://trail.whaletales2022.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-179b23e3-7fff-09ab-7300-07d901b945a0"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: @whaletales2022 (Instagram)</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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As Aucklanders anticipate holiday trips, Māori leaders ask people to stay away from regions with lower vaccination rates

<p>Despite the emergence of the new Omicron variant, New Zealand will move to a new <a href="https://covid19.govt.nz/traffic-lights/covid-19-protection-framework/">COVID-19 Protection Framework </a> this Friday, with a traffic light system to mark the level of freedoms for each region.</p> <p>Auckland and other parts of the North Island that are battling active outbreaks or have low vaccination rates will start at red, which means hospitality and businesses will be largely open only for fully vaccinated people. The rest of the country will be in orange, which allows for larger gatherings but restricts access for those who remain unvaccinated.</p> <p>From December 15, the Auckland boundary will lift and Aucklanders will be free to travel around the country, despite the ongoing community outbreak in which <a href="https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-data-and-statistics/covid-19-case-demographics#vaccinations-details">23% of cases have been children under 12 and 14% were fully vaccinated</a>.</p> <p><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/434350/original/file-20211129-13-pa5w88.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="Map of traffic light COVID-19 Protection Framework" /> <span class="caption">Parts of the North Island will continue to have restrictions in place, particularly for people who remain unvaccinated, once New Zealand shifts to a new system on Friday.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Provided</span>, <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/" class="license">CC BY-NC</a></span></p> <p>To travel outside the Auckland boundary, anyone aged 12 or over will need to be fully vaccinated or have had a negative COVID-19 test within three days of departure. This will reduce the number of infected people leaving Auckland, but cases will spread across the country as people travel to see whānau and go on holidays.</p> <p>As part of our research to build a <a href="https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/news/2021/04/15/super-model-for-team-of-5m.html">population-based contagion network</a>, we used electronic transaction data from previous years to derive movement patterns across the country. We show that during weeks without public holidays, just over 100,000 travellers left Auckland to visit one or more other regions.</p> <p>For the summer period of 2019-2020, close to 200,000 people left Auckland each week, with travel peaking over the Christmas and New Year period. The most common destinations for these trips were Thames-Coromandel (30,000 people), Tauranga (17,000 people) and Northland (15,000 people).</p> <h2>Vaccination remains the best protection</h2> <p>While full (two-dose) vaccination levels in Auckland are almost at 90% — remembering that 90% of eligible people means only about 75% of the total population, with lower rates for Māori — rates are much lower in many places Aucklanders like to visit over summer. This provides much less protection, against both illness and transmission, and any outbreak would be larger and more rapid.</p> <p>Vaccination coverage in these areas is increasing but is unlikely to be at 90% before Christmas. Holiday destinations also have health infrastructure designed for the much lower local population and face additional pressures if visitors get sick.</p> <p> </p> <p>New Zealand’s outdoor summer lifestyle might be an advantage; transmission is greatly reduced outdoors with good air movement. But people should remain mindful anytime they move into an environment with less ventilation, such as using the toilet at the beach or sharing a car. A good rule of thumb is if you can smell perfume in the air then there’s a transmission risk.</p> <p>COVID-19 is passed on through the air we breathe, which is why masking remains important, as long as the mask <a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/proper-mask-wearing-coronavirus-prevention-infographic">fits properly</a>.</p> <p>People planning to travel should reduce their risk of exposure during the two weeks before a trip.</p> <ul> <li> <p>Skip the office party (especially if they are held indoors)</p> </li> <li> <p>consider postponing meetings until after the holidays rather than having them during the days before people are likely to travel around the country</p> </li> <li> <p>if you decide to go ahead, make sure gatherings and parties are outdoors</p> </li> <li> <p>avoid alcohol as it can increase the likelihood of risky behaviour</p> </li> <li> <p>limit yourself to one meeting per week (if someone is infected, you’ll have a better chance to find out and self-isolate before passing it on)</p> </li> <li> <p>use your contact tracer app, always</p> </li> <li> <p>shop online</p> </li> <li> <p>wear a mask anywhere there is a crowd, even outdoors.</p> </li> </ul> <h2>Protecting people in regions with lower vaccination rates</h2> <p>Vaccination is the best step to reduce spread and symptom severity. But it’s not perfect. The risk of “breakthrough” infections depends on the intensity of exposure – short exposure to an infected person is less likely to result in infection and meeting indoors poses a higher risk.</p> <p>When people are vaccinated, we’d expect to see most transmission happening in dwellings where people are together for long periods of time. For anyone with a breakthrough infection, vaccination approximately halves the chance of transmitting the virus.</p> <p>Vaccination also reduces the risk of developing symptoms, and greatly reduces the risk of needing hospitalisation. But having milder symptoms can make it harder to detect cases, which means it remains important to get tested.</p> <p>The most popular places New Zealanders like to visit over summer are remote and people living there haven’t had the same easy access to vaccination as those living in bigger cities.</p> <p>Nearly a third of Northland’s eligible population remains unvaccinated, the East Cape is only 65% fully vaccinated and parts of the Coromandel Peninsula are also sitting well under ideal vaccination rates.</p> <p>These places also have fewer testing facilities, which could mean outbreaks become harder to detect and manage. Many rural communities aren’t connected to town supply, so wastewater testing won’t be as useful, and emergency medical attention is harder to access.</p> <h2>Planning to manage COVID infections</h2> <p>Many residents in these remote towns, including <a href="https://waateanews.com/2021/11/18/border-opening-no-christmas-treat-for-taitokerau/">iwi leaders</a>, are <a href="https://tinangata.com/2021/11/21/painting-a-covid-picture/">asking holiday makers to stay away</a>, regardless of vaccination status. Māori are already disproportionately represented in our COVID-19 statistics and have more young people who can’t be vaccinated yet.</p> <p>By travelling to areas with low vaccination rates among the Māori population we risk <a href="https://www.newsroom.co.nz/people-will-die-at-home-covids-unstoppable-summer">compounding tragedy</a> in places where health services would not cope with the level of illness.</p> <p>Anyone choosing to go on holiday after weighing these factors should have a plan for what they’ll do if they or someone on their group develops COVID-like symptoms while away from their usual health support systems.</p> <p>Questions to ask include:</p> <ul> <li> <p>Where will you go to get a test?</p> </li> <li> <p>What will you do while you wait for test results?</p> </li> <li> <p>Will it be possible for you to self-isolate while you wait for a test result?</p> </li> <li> <p>Where is the closest medical centre? Do they operate after hours?</p> </li> <li> <p>Is there an ambulance service and how far is the nearest hospital?</p> </li> <li> <p>Is there good phone reception? If not, what will you do in a health emergency?</p> </li> <li> <p>How would you manage an outbreak in your holiday accommodation?</p> </li> </ul> <p>Campers should take extra precautions by wearing masks in shared kitchens and bathrooms and using their own cleaning and hygiene products. They should keep good social distance wherever possible and minimise contact with people they don’t know.</p> <p>Family gatherings will also bring together different generations, with elders who may be more vulnerable and younger people who are more mobile and more likely to be infected. A group of New Zealanders who experienced COVID-19 put together a <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1e2v-rOztBgQfFBKHJN0R59RrinRtq2RmjuFhEZP9JfM/edit#gid=0">management kit</a> with a list of things anyone travelling will find useful.</p> <p><em>We would like to acknowledge the contribution of Kylie Stewart, a member of the team at Te Pūnaha Matatini and the HRC-funded project <a href="https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/news/2021/04/15/super-model-for-team-of-5m.html">Te Matatini o te Horapa</a> — a population-based contagion network for Aotearoa New Zealand.</em><!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/172682/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><span><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/dion-oneale-1283438">Dion O'Neale</a>, Lecturer - Department of Physics, University of Auckland; Principal Investigator - Te Pūnaha Matatini, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-auckland-1305">University of Auckland</a></em>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/andrew-sporle-1151937">Andrew Sporle</a>, Honorary associate professor, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-auckland-1305">University of Auckland</a></em>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/emily-harvey-1284406">Emily Harvey</a>, Principal Investigator, Te Pūnaha Matatini, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-auckland-1305">University of Auckland</a></em>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/steven-turnbull-1280540">Steven Turnbull</a>, Te Pūnaha Matatini Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-auckland-1305">University of Auckland</a></em></span></p> <p>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/as-aucklanders-anticipate-holiday-trips-maori-leaders-ask-people-to-stay-away-from-regions-with-lower-vaccination-rates-172682">original article</a>.</p> <p><em>Image: <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Phil Walter/Getty Images</span></span></em></p>

Travel Tips

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Dramatic black sand beaches of Auckland’s west coast

<p><strong><em>New Zealand travel writer Justine Tyerman and family visit the dramatic black sand beaches of Auckland’s West Coast…</em></strong></p> <p>The first glimpse of the black sand beach at Piha with its mountainous surf thundering in from the Tasman Sea, swirling around the haunches of the giant crouching lion, stopped us in our tracks. Accustomed to the golden sands and more docile surf of the East Coast, the wild West Coast where the sand shone like pewter or black pearls, seemed other-worldly.</p> <p>The sound of sirens as the Piha lifeguards roared out through the ferocious waves in their IRBs on one of their famous rescue missions added to the drama of the scene.</p> <p>Short of time, we chose Piha as the base for our annual family get-together because it’s close to Auckland and none of us had ever been there before. Just 50-60 minutes’ drive from the airport, it was easy for us to collect our far-flung family flying in from distant places, and run away for a long weekend together.</p> <p><strong>The Hillary Trail</strong></p> <p>We spent a long weekend hiking the spectacular Hillary Trail, a 76km multi-day hike from the Arataki Visitor Centre in the Waitakere Ranges to Muriwai Beach. It’s named in honour of the famous Kiwi explorer and mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary who came to the rugged Waitakere Ranges to prepare for his expeditions.</p> <p>During our stay, we managed to tick off a sizeable chunk of the trail from Anawhata to Whatipu, albeit the cushy way, returning to our luxurious home base every night.</p> <p>A highlight was the Piha to Karekare stretch of the walkway which was high above the coastline and rich in history. The track begins at the end of Log Race Road, a reminder of the intensive logging of kauri in the area during the late 1800s-early 1900s. Logs were transported by tramway from Anawhata to Paratutai Wharf at Whatipu where they were loaded onto ships for export.</p> <p>Also at the start of the track is a relic of WW2, the foundations of a radar station where the skies and seas were scanned for signs of invading Japanese. Sited on Hikurangi, the highest hill in the region, the station was part of a coastal network, and a key part of New Zealand’s home defence system.</p> <p>The station was later used in experiments to pinpoint sources of radio emissions from space, research which laid the foundations for the modern science of radio astronomy. Information boards and audio recordings give a fascinating account of the life of the station.</p> <p>Te Ahua Point Lookout is a site of deep historical significance to Te Kawerau a Maki iwi, the tangata whenua of the region. Gazing out to sea, there’s a striking pou (carving) of a beautiful, young noble woman named Hinerangi after an honoured Turehu ancestress. Hinerangi and her husband lived happily at Karekare for many years until one day he was swept away by a wave while fishing off the rocks at Te Kawa Rimurapa in Mercer Bay.</p> <p>Grief-stricken, Hinerangi climbed to the top of the highest cliff and sat there for days, scanning the turbulent seas, longing for her husband’s return. She eventually died of a broken heart and her sad face is said to be etched in the cliff face. The site is called Te Ahua o Hinerangi — The Likeness of Hinerangi. Recent archaeological excavation shows the headland is one of the oldest settled areas of the Waitakere Ranges and was a sanctuary and defensive position for Te Kawerau a Maki.</p> <p>The track took us high above Mercer Bay with its sphinx-like rock formations to a lookout where we could see the shimmering black sands of Karekare Beach, recently named one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and the vast expanse of the Whatipu Scenic Reserve in the distance.</p> <p>That evening we rewarded ourselves with burgers and fish and chips at the Piha Surf Lifesaving Club as the sun set over the Tasman, an awesome sight for a family of East Coasters who are accustomed to sunrises over the Pacific but seldom see the sun sink into the ocean. It was dazzling.</p> <p><strong>Home swapping</strong></p> <p>Accommodation was at a premium that weekend, but thanks to my membership of the international home swap club, Love Home Swap, we found a primo place in a perfect location.</p> <p>I joined Love Home Swap in 2013 and the Piha house is one of many fabulous private homes we’ve stayed at around the world. We stayed five nights and paid precisely nothing… unless you take into account the beer and nibbles we shared with owners, Dave and Emma, who joined us for a chat one evening.</p> <p>That’s another great factor about Love Home Swap — you make new friends wherever you go, people who not only entrust you with their lovely homes but also introduce you to their communities and networks, and give you the inside goss on where to wine, dine, hike and sightsee.</p> <p>Dave, an advanced paramedic and former Piha lifeguard, and Emma, who works for the design label Sabatini, were delightful company with a wealth of knowledge about the area. We felt like celebrities after they told us we were living in a film set for the new TV series 800 Words which screens on TVNZ1 on Sunday evenings.</p> <p>We’ve kept in touch with many people we’ve met through Love Home Swap over the years.</p> <p>The ‘stays’ are managed by an exchange of points, a form of currency, rather than an actual home swap, although that’s always an option.</p> <p>It often does not suit members to swap simultaneously so the points system provides the flexibility and freedom to stay wherever and whenever you choose. Dave and Emma earned 750 points for our stay which they can ‘spend’ anywhere in the world at a time that suits them. Keen surfers, they may well turn up on our doorstep in Gisborne one day.</p> <p><strong>The house</strong></p> <p>Built of silvery Lawsons cypress, the design of the house was visually striking, featuring two cubes of different heights, the larger, taller one resting on the smaller, lower one, with a void between. A front north-facing deck leads to a tropical sun-filled garden and outside dining area with a massive macrocarpa table, while the back deck with its spa pool are suspended above the dark, moody, misty Waitakere Ranges with Karekare Beach in the distance.</p> <p>A covered passageway frames the view like a living artwork. Huge glass doors can be swung into place to enclose it and provide shelter in wet or windy weather.</p> <p>Designed by Tim Dorrington of Dorrington Atcheson Architects, the house was built with easy-care, hard-wearing materials like the polished concrete floors in the open plan kitchen-living-dining area.</p> <p>A hefty macrocarpa servery board, hand-made by Dave, sits on the recycled oak kitchen island, while the main workbench is stainless steel.</p> <p>A cosy, carpeted lounge with panoramic windows overlooking the wooded Waitakeres and Karekare Beach steps down from the kitchen. A comprehensive TV/home entertainment centre lines one wall while comfy bean bags, built-in seating and a wood-burning stove create a snug, intimate feeling.</p> <p>Upstairs, spacious, airy bedrooms, balconies and a bathroom also have spectacular views.</p> <p>It was the perfect location for our foursome to rebond after too long apart. The place just seemed to have good feng shui. It’s a house with a smile.</p> <p>Have you ever been to Auckland?</p> <p><em>Image credit: Justine Tyerman</em></p> <p><em>Justine Tyerman stayed at Dave and Emma’s Love Home Swap property at Piha.</em></p> <p><em>Visit <a rel="noopener" href="http://www.lovehomeswap.com/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Love Home Swap</span></strong></a> to view over 100,000 properties in 150 countries:</em></p> <p><em>Getting there: <a rel="noopener" href="http://www.jucy.co.nz/our-vehicles/motor-homes/casa-plus/%20%20%20" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">JUCY Rentals</span></strong></a>.</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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105-year-old Aucklander shares her secret to long life

<p>Joan Brennan is 105 and credits her long life to home grown herbs – she discovered natural therapies in her 50s – and friendships.</p> <p>Brennan celebrated her latest birthday on Saturday at a party with friends and family at Point Chevalier's Selwyn Village.</p> <p>She said looking after her health had always been important to her.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="497" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/35801/2_497x280.jpg" alt="2 (169)"/></p> <p>She said she tried to stay away from taking conventional pills and tablets whenever possible.</p> <p>Some of the plants she had grown included milk thistle and arum lily - which she put on septic sores.</p> <p>Friendship had always been very important to her as well, she said.</p> <p>Her son, Barry Brennan said he believed she had lived so long because she had good genes, developed excellent survival skills from living through the 1920's and 1930's and had lived healthy by eating wisely and exercising every day.</p> <p>Brennan continued to volunteer every Tuesday at an opportunity shop.</p> <p>Selwyn Village senior administrator Lisa Hulton said Brennan regularly caught three buses from the village to buy organic vegetables on Richmond Rd.</p> <p>She's also the grand master of the 500 club at the village. Its members said she ran the weekly club, baked something different for it every week, did the dishes afterwards and still played a good game.</p> <p>Brennan was born in England in 1912 and moved to Australia in 1922 with her mother and sister, after her father was killed in WWI. She moved to New Zealand and trained as a nurse before returning overseas to the Isle of Man.</p> <p>Brennan met her husband Tom while in England and they relocated to New Zealand after getting married in 1935. For seven years they were lighthouse keepers on Portland Island in Hawkes Bay, looking for submarines and reporting on the weather.</p> <p>"These were very happy times - we did a lot of fishing together," she said. The couple relocated to Auckland, first to St Mary's Bay and then to Campbells Bay.</p> <p>In 1990 the Brennans shifted into Selwyn Village and Tom died in 1998.</p> <p><em>Written by Mary Fitzgerald. First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz.</span></strong></a></em></p>

Retirement Life

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New “inspirited ageing” class in Auckland

<p><em><strong>Kerry-Ann Stanton is a community celebrant, educator and open floor teacher in training.</strong></em></p> <p>I would like to share with you a new programme I have developed that starts on 21 April, specifically designed for over-60s.</p> <p>InSpirited Aging is a weekly practice of movement, writing, simple art making and conversation; an Open Floor approach led by me, ‘Inspirita’ Kerry-Ann Stanton. Open Floor is best described as a modern blend of conscious movement, mindfulness and artistry. </p> <p>Each two-hour session begins with movement, guided for about 30 to 40 minutes. This is followed by writing/art making/conversation for about 30 to 40 minutes. We finish with gentle movement and a listening meditation time.</p> <p><img width="500" height="334" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/35597/2_500x334.jpg" alt="2 (166)" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p>I have danced for my own re-creation for as long as I can remember. At 60 I am an Open Floor Teacher in Training and love the freedom and permission that comes with this approach. One of its main values is that of ‘move and include’, so we have permission to be tired or frisky, sore and needing to take care, or wanting a place of tenderness or singing along!</p> <p>Movement can be done sitting in a chair, moving around the room or exploring the space you are standing on. My experience tells me that there is a hunger to express ourselves creatively, throughout the fullness of our lifetime. The art making and writing is intended to deepen our experience of our movement practice. And the conversation, well …language is a human connection.  What we can articulate, we can integrate. Plus, in the Feisty Feet dance sessions I notice that the dancers are really keen to talk with each other!</p> <p>The Inspirited Aging programme was provoked by my own aging and seeking to teach in ways that felt in integrity with who I am.  Inspirited Aging is my personal life practice in the present, and an invitation into my future.  As an educator, forever, I am drawn to share and teach.  I enjoy bringing the joys of movement to people in their older age. Dance has been shown to have a positive influence on people, such as a reduced risk of dementia, reduced stress and depression, providing increased energy and serotonin. And we have fun. Inspirited Aging is also intended to provide a creative stretch and a place for meaningful connection with our self and each other.</p> <p><img width="500" height="334" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/35598/1_500x334.jpg" alt="1 (171)" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p>Other ways that I connect with what I call the ‘yum/yuck’ of life are leading funerals, marriages and other ceremonies, teaching for The Celebrant School, co-facilitating my local Death Café, leading Feisty Feet dance on contract for The New Zealand Dance Company (NZDC) and co-teaching Open Floor Dance Out West.  So, I am deeply privileged in my working life.</p> <p>Just remember … “Stifling an urge to dance is bad for your health – it rusts your spirit and your hips.” –  Adabella Radici</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.inspirita.co.nz/">Inspirited Aging</a></strong></span></p> <p><strong>When:</strong> Starting April 21, every Friday 10am – 12pm</p> <p><strong>Cost:</strong> $25 per session, cash accepted and bank direct</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> New Lynn Friendship Hall, New Lynn, Auckland (New Lynn Friendship Hall is walking distance, around 300m, from the New Lynn Transport Centre for train or bus).</p> <p><strong>Notes:</strong> Please wear comfortable clothes and soft shoes (bare feet are fine to move in). Please bring a water bottle and a journal and pencils/pens (if you have them).</p> <p><strong>Contact</strong>: Kerry-Ann Stanton on 0274745003 or at <a href="mailto:kerryann@inspirita.co.nz">kerryann@inspirita.co.nz</a></p> <p><em>Image credits: Jose Cano</em></p>

News

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Auckland world’s 3rd “most-liveable” city

<p>Mercer has released its 18th annual quality of living ranking index, with Western European cities dominating the rankings in this year's instalment.</p> <p>Vienna took out top spot with the Austrian capital deemed to offer the highest quality of living. The survey of 230 cities was based on a variety of factors including political stability, crime, currency exchange, recreational facilities, housing and climate.</p> <p>Auckland came in at number three, with Wellington also performing strongly with a ranking of 12. To see the full list, scroll down.</p> <p><strong>The world's top 20 most liveable cities for 2016</strong></p> <p>1. Vienna, Austria</p> <p>2. Zurich, Switzerland</p> <p>3. Auckland, New Zealand</p> <p>4. Munich, Germany</p> <p>5. Vancouver, Canada</p> <p>6. Dusseldorf, Germany</p> <p>7. Frankfurt, Germany</p> <p>8. Geneva, Switzerland</p> <p>9. Copenhagen, Denmark</p> <p>10. Sydney, Australia</p> <p>11. Amsterdam, Netherlands</p> <p>12. Wellington, New Zealand</p> <p>13. Berlin, Germany</p> <p>14. Bern, Switzerland</p> <p>15. Toronto, Canada</p> <p>15. Melbourne, Australia</p> <p>17. Ottawa, Canada</p> <p>18. Hamburg, Germany</p> <p>19. Luxembourg, Luxembourg</p> <p>19. Stockholm, Sweden</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span><em><a href="/news/news/2016/02/foul-mouthed-cockatoo-cage/"><strong>Foul-mouthed cockatoo doesn’t want to go back to her cage</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span><em><a href="/news/news/2016/02/amazing-photos-of-aurora-borealis-resembling-a-phoenix/"><strong>Amazing photos of Aurora Borealis resembling a phoenix</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span><em><a href="/news/news/2016/02/90-year-old-skips-cancer-treatment-to-travel/"><strong>90-year-old forgoes cancer treatment to travel</strong></a></em></span></p>

News

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Santa parade brings Christmas cheer to Auckland

<p>Thousands of Kiwis made the annual pilgrimage to the Auckland CDB for the country's most spectacular Christmas parade.</p> <p>The 82nd instalment of the Auckland Farmers Santa Parade kicked off 1pm on Sunday and ran down Queen St.</p> <p>A few, more seasoned families staked their claim on prime parade-viewing real estate as early as 9:30am.</p> <p>Som Shah and his family have been coming to the Santa parade for 14 years and were among the earlybirds.</p> <p>"We have two family members in the parade ... We love it, what's happening in this community is awesome," he said.</p> <p>Fold-out deck chairs and picnic mats were plentiful among viewers, with crowds 10 people deep in places.</p> <p>Parade favourites were the marching bands, the 'Children of the World' float and of course, Santa himself on a Kiwiana themed float.</p> <p>One newcomer had an extra special reason for being there; Steve Thomson from Fabulous Inflatables in Canada brought his 30ft-tall Cookie Monster and a 50ft Christmas Elmo especially for the parade.</p> <p>"They're excited to be in the parade for the first time, as am I," said Thomson.</p> <p>"I love New Zealand and have always wanted to come and I've heard great things about this event for years so it's really exciting to get to participate,"</p> <p>According to Thomson, a team of about 20 people hold the giants tethered to the earth but he was confident Elmo wouldn't even be able to fly away with one average-sized male solely in charge.</p> <p>Skies were mostly overcast with temperatures around the 22 degree Celsius mark, according to MetService.</p> <p>"We do this every year and we have fun, and it's nice today being a little bit cloudy so it's not too hot" said Nicola Yelash from Henderson.</p> <p>Chairman of the Auckland Children's Christmas Parade Trust Michael Barnett said more than 4,000 volunteers give up their time to ensure the event runs smoothly.</p> <p>"Each year the Farmers Santa Parade proves itself to be New Zealand's leading Christmas event. The calibre of the floats, performers and costumers is of an international standard and we're extremely proud of how it turned out this year," said Barnett.</p> <p>Police say the parade went without a hitch and there was a reasonably good turn out.</p> <p>Written by Nicole Lawton. First appeared on <a href="http://www.Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Stuff.co.nz</strong></span></a>.</p>

News

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Magical Auckland garden returned to splendour for festival

<p>One of the most magnificent gardens in this weekend's Garden Design Festival in Auckland is a project that has been seven years in the planning.</p> <p>That's how long it has been since the owners of this St Heliers Bay property set out to restore the garden to its glorious heyday. Landscape architect Robin Shafer of Shafer Design says the aim was to create a landscape that would be in keeping with the classic Georgian architecture of their 1930s home.</p> <p>"The owners wanted to bring back the sense of grandeur of the garden as it was in the 1960s, before the property was subdivided. They had bought the property next door and integrated this into the landscape."</p> <p>Shafer says the property already had a large top lawn, but the lower part of the property needed to be reclaimed. "This area was an overgrown embankment filled with oleander, privet, agapanthus and weeds. It was a terrible mess."</p> <p><img width="499" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/10902/magic-garden-two_499x280.jpg" alt="Magic Garden Two" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p>To bring a sense of order to this area, massive retaining walls were built and the garden was built up with a series of terraces. This has not only improved the view from the house, but also the view of the garden from the street below.</p> <p>The owners wished to keep the original timber pergola on the property, which was taken down while work progressed and then reinstated to provide a framework for climbing roses.</p> <p>Hedging plants also help to define the different "rooms" in the garden, with openings between the hedges providing a peep of what lies beyond. "You can wander through the garden and feel like you are in different spaces," says Shafer.</p> <p><img width="497" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/10903/magic-garden-three_497x280.jpg" alt="Magic Garden Three" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p>While the colour palette is mainly restrained, with a lot of white and green, there is a colourful rose garden. Other significant plants include buxus, star jasmine, eugenia, ficus “Tuff” and michelia.</p> <p>Classical references in the landscape include the formal symmetry, topiary, water features and statues. Five bronze urns in the garden were shipped from Rhode Island, Newport.</p> <p>Shafer says the owners not only had the vision to embark on such a major project, but also undertook much of the work themselves, planting most of the plants.</p> <p><img width="497" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/10904/magic-garden-four_497x280.jpg" alt="Magic Garden Four" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p>Visitors to the Garden Design Festival in Auckland on November 14-15 will get to experience the garden first hand, along with 19 other projects.</p> <p>Written by Colleen Hawkes. First appeared on <a href="http://www.Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Stuff.co.nz</strong></span></a>.</p> <p> </p>

News

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New Auckland Great Rides list released

<p>Auckland Transport has released a list of Auckland's ten most scenic bike rides.</p><p>This year there are 10 Great Rides, up from six last year. Kathryn King, Auckland Transport's walking and cycling manager, said the cycle routes were very popular.</p><p>"These great rides offer a way to get out with family or friends and discover a new part of Auckland by bike. The Auckland region has some stunning natural beauty and what better way to enjoy it than on a bike," she said.</p><p><strong>1.&nbsp;<a href="https://at.govt.nz/cycling-walking/auckland-cycle-run-walkway-maps/matakana-cycle-ride/" target="_blank">Matakana Trails</a></strong></p><p>The 14km Matakana Trails ride boasts fantastic views, cafes and roadside stalls selling fresh produce. It travels through bush, farmland and rural communities. The track is gravel with one steep section so it's recommended for confident riders. It should take around an hour. A highlight is eight ceramic sculptural markers by Nick Charlton and the Morris &amp; James Pottery featuring stylised maps of the area's topography.</p><p><strong>2.&nbsp;<a href="https://at.govt.nz/cycling-walking/auckland-cycle-run-walkway-maps/te-ara-tahuna-estuary-cycle-and-walkway/" target="_blank">Te Ara Tahuna Pathway:&nbsp; Orewa Estuary</a></strong></p><p>One of Auckland's busiest off-road paths,&nbsp;Te Ara Tahuna Pathway at Orewa Estuary takes riders on a 40-minute circuit through beach and estuary, quiet residential and park areas, and through bush trails. At 7.5km long, it's a great ride for people new to cycling, or riding with children on bikes or scooters.&nbsp;The path features tributes to the estuary's past as a significant food gathering place for Maori.</p><p><strong>3.&nbsp;<a href="https://at.govt.nz/cycling-walking/auckland-cycle-run-walkway-maps/devonport-to-takapuna-green-route/" target="_blank">Green Route: Devonport to Takapuna</a></strong></p><p>The Devonport to Takapuna Great Ride weaves through parks, mangroves, and heritage streets. The trail is links the North Shore suburbs of Devonport and Takapuna. It is 9.5km long and takes around 40 minutes. Along the way there's a nautical-themed playground at Northboro Reserve, chances to spot eels among the mangroves, and North Shore's oldest cemetery, founded in 1891.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>4.&nbsp;<a href="https://at.govt.nz/cycling-walking/auckland-cycle-run-walkway-maps/hobsonville-point-cycle-ride/" target="_blank">Hobsonville Point</a></strong></p><p>This easy route loops through the former&nbsp;Air Force community of Hobsonville Point. The mostly flat, off-road trail is 8km long and will take about 35 minutes. Highlights include a historic wharf, outdoor art and a playground.</p><p><strong>5.&nbsp;<a href="https://at.govt.nz/cycling-walking/auckland-cycle-run-walkway-maps/henderson-creek-shared-path/" target="_blank">Twin Streams: Henderson Creek and Opanuku Stream</a></strong></p><p>This is a beautiful but brief ride that follows the paths is a beautiful ride following the Henderson and Opanuku streams. It winds through planting including the international tree collection and Tui Glen, a historic pleasure park. Its 7.8km length should take around 25 minutes. And if two streams just aren't enough, never fear; the route links up with the 3km Oratia Stream shared path.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>6.&nbsp;<a href="https://at.govt.nz/cycling-walking/auckland-cycle-run-walkway-maps/auckland-waterfront-cycle-ride/" target="_blank">Auckland Waterfront:&nbsp; Britomart to Mission Bay</a></strong></p><p>A fully paved route that meanders along the edge of Waitemata Harbour, this 7km&nbsp;route offers views across the water to Rangitoto and a chance to indulge in the eateries and shops at Mission Bay. It should take around 25 minutes one way.</p><p><strong>7.&nbsp;<a href="https://at.govt.nz/cycling-walking/auckland-cycle-run-walkway-maps/pakuranga-rotary-shared-path/" target="_blank">Pakuranga Rotary Pathway</a></strong></p><p>The Pakuranga Rotary shared path stretches 9km from Prince Regent Drive in Farm Cove to the Panmure Bridge, offering&nbsp;great views up and down the Tamaki River.&nbsp;The ride is well signposted and information panels provide historical information about the area. There are lots of picnic spots along the path, which is also home to the local favourite "snake" playground.</p><p><strong>8.&nbsp;<a href="https://at.govt.nz/cycling-walking/auckland-cycle-run-walkway-maps/cascades-shared-path/" target="_blank">The Cascades Paths:&nbsp; Pakuranga, Botany and Meadowlands</a></strong></p><p>This 6km scenic route travels from Meadowland Dr in Somerville (near Botany Downs) to Lloyd Elsmore Park in Pakuranga - but there are plenty of side routes to explore as well. It links up with the Rotary Centennial Bike Trail in Lloyd Elsmore park, which has a host of challenges for children to learn to ride. It should take about&nbsp;half an hour.</p><p><strong>9.&nbsp;<a href="https://at.govt.nz/cycling-walking/auckland-cycle-run-walkway-maps/onehunga-to-mangere-bridge-cycle-ride/" target="_blank">Waikaraka Cycleway:&nbsp; Onehunga to Mangere Bridge</a></strong></p><p>This &nbsp;7km ride is in two parts connected by the old Mangere Bridge. On the Onehunga side, 4km of concrete path hugs the Upper Manukau Harbour and passes alongside Waikaraka Cemetery.&nbsp;Once over the bridge, the route goes through the Kiwi Esplanade Reserve and continues around the shoreline. It ends at a gate to Ambury Farm Park, a perfect place for a picnic and an opportunity for the kids to see the farm animals. Highlights include stunning harbour views, bird nesting sites and an opportunity to fish off the bridge.</p><p><strong>10.&nbsp;<a href="https://at.govt.nz/cycling-walking/auckland-cycle-run-walkway-maps/wattle-downs-cycle-ride/">Wattle Downs</a></strong></p><p>Touring a picturesque part of the Manukau coastline, the Wattle Downs path runs from Frangipani Avenue to Bluewater Place. It has many seats and picnic tables, opportunities to reach the water, and two playgrounds. It also links up with Manukau Golf Course for anyone who fancies a round to end their ride. The route is 10km.</p><p>Head to the&nbsp;<a href="https://at.govt.nz/greatrides" target="_blank">Auckland Transport website</a>&nbsp;for more information about these Great Rides and to download the "passport" associated with each route.</p><p><em>First appeared on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz" target="_blank"><strong>Stuff.co.nz</strong></a></em></p>

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Phantom of the Opera comes to New Zealand for Auckland-only season

<p>Described by critics as "a thrill to behold and a sensual feast for the eyes" The Phantom of The Opera is coming to New Zealand.</p><p>The Andrew Lloyd Webber musical is one of the most successful and most popular of all time. From its instantly recognisable musical score to the set design and special effects, Phantom has been in production since 28 years, since it opened in London.</p><p>Now the production, which is based on the 1910 horror novel Le Fantôme de l'Opeéra by Gaston Leroux, is returning to New Zealand for a season in Auckland.</p><p>Telling the story of a tortured and disfigured musical genius who lives in the shadows of the beautiful Paris Opera House, The Phantom of The Opera, is somewhat twisted a love story.</p><p>Hidden away and sheltered from the busy urban Parisian streets, the lonely Phantom is soon hypnotised by the enchanting voice of a young female soprano.</p><p>After tutoring the talented and beautiful soprano Christine, the Phantom begins terrorising the Opera house owners and sabotaging all those who stand between his star and her success.</p><p>This world-renowned musical has been seen by more than 140 million people, grossing more than US$6 billion, surpassing Cats as the longest running Broadway musical.</p><p>Now, produced by the Amici Trust, Phantom comes to New Zealand, opening at Auckland's Civic Theatre from Thursday, February 11, 2016.</p><p>First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz</span></strong></a></p><p><strong>Related links:</strong></p><p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/entertainment/technology/2015/10/iphone-photo-tips/">8 iPhone photo tips you’ll want to know about</a></em></strong></span></p><p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2015/10/gardening-is-healthy-study/"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">5 ways gardening is good for you</span></strong></em></a></p><p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2015/10/woman-discovers-she-is-a-grandma/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Lady’s reaction that she’s a grandma is priceless</span></em></strong></a></p>

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