Community News
Gently Loved Markets
Gently Loved Markets is back in Hobsonville Point for Gently Loved Markets Just Kids! on Saturday 20th of April from 10am until 1pm at The Sunderland Lounge – Te Rere. Free entry.
With a range of stalls selling preloved baby to kids' clothes, toys, accessories, nursery items and more. There will be a wide range of prices at the market so it’s great for everyone's budget. Grab cash, a bite to eat from Mahia the Baker, a coffee from Luna's Traveling Cottage, your favourite fabric bag and come have a preloved treasure hunt with us. All stalls are within the hall so the event will go ahead no matter the weather...
Free entertainment at NorthWest Shopping Centre
Get crafty these school holidays with FREE weekday craft workshops 11am to 2pm at NorthWest Shopping Centre.
In week one of the holidays on Monday and Tuesday kids will make hanging bead decorations, and Wednesday to Friday they’ll make Little Clay Monsters.
In week two, kids will make pencil toppers Monday and Tuesday, and recycled necklaces Wednesday to Friday...
Holiday events at Te Manawa
Our holiday programme at Te Manawa runs from Saturday 13th to Sunday 28th April and the theme is “Under the Sea”.
We will have a couple of craft mornings, a marble run and Lego morning, as well as a morning and afternoon session for a Kahoot! quiz.
We will also have our regular Friday Family movies and another scavenger hunt throughout the holidays...
Bowel cancer – can we stop it?
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Talking about your bowels and motions (poo) can be embarrassing. But it can also save your life.
New Zealand has one of the highest rates of bowel cancer in the world. With over eight patients diagnosed per day, it is the second most common cancer diagnosed in NZ, and the second most common cause of cancer death. Unfortunately, by the time it is diagnosed, over a quarter of cases are metastatic (cancer cells have spread throughout the body)...
Playhouse Theatre Inc.
Playhouse Theatre Inc. is excited to present The Anniversary, a black comedy that will make you appreciate your own mother a little bit more! The Anniversary will be performed at the historic Glen Eden Playhouse Theatre 13th – 27th April...
Boston Café
In the heart of Westgate, nestled within the bustling community, lies a gem that has been radiating warmth and flavour for the past year – Boston Cafe. What started as a humble endeavour has now blossomed into a thriving hub where locals and visitors alike gather to savour top-notch cuisine, unwind with a drink, and soak in the inviting atmosphere. Celebrating its one-year anniversary, Boston Cafe has unveiled exciting additions and upgrades that have further cemented its place as a beloved destination...
Hobsonville Hearing
Hobsonville Hearing is the first permanent audiology practice in the Hobsonville area and is locally owned and operated by audiologist Abby Johnson. We offer all audiology services including ear wax removal using microsuction, hearing tests for adults and children, hearing aid reviews, workplace testing and custom ear plugs. We are an independent audiology clinic; we supply and service all leading hearing aid manufacturers and our prices are fair and transparent...
The Upper Waitemata Ecology Network
Tired of seeing unsightly rubbish littering our coastline, or floating on the water when you’re enjoying your favourite water sport?
Well now you can be part of the solution in the Upper Harbour by volunteering just a few hours of your time.
How long does teeth whitening last?
Teeth whitening has become very popular as people love the confidence boost that having a bright, white smile gives them. One of the questions our patients often ask us is: how long does teeth whitening last?
Foodtogether
You might have heard about Foodtogether, a non-profit, volunteer run, fruit and vegetable pop-up? They supply a fresh seasonal selection of produce for $15, straight from the market to the community. Everyone is welcome.
The pop-up often has added extras that you can add on to your order when you come in. What we have each week is posted earlier in the week, on the Foodtogether Massey Facebook page, it is subject to change on the day. The volunteers will let you know if there are changes...
Irrigation – the key to a healthy thriving garden
El Nino is well and truly here and delivering us a hot dry summer as predicted. To keep your garden looking optimal during the summer, we recommend installing a good irrigation system to promote water efficiency, save time, ensure consistent plant growth, and provide the flexibility to meet the specific needs of different plants, contributing to a healthy and thriving garden. We have not yet had a client who has regretted putting in irrigation, but we can't say the same for the opposite...
Mortgage Ladies and Co
The small mortgage advisory with the big heart. Headed up by Heather Roney, award-nominated Financial Adviser and pink stiletto superwoman.
Hi! I’m Heather, founder of Mortgage Ladies and Co, dedicated wife, mum, and the face behind that awesome stiletto logo. Our logo symbolises what happens when things get tough around here – I don my power heels to go into action to get the job done. I’m driven by my passion for helping families and individuals on their financial journey...
Savour summer – A guide to heartburn-free holidays
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As we step into summer, the last thing anyone wants is the discomfort of heartburn putting a damper on the fun. Acid reflux or heartburn often causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat and is a common condition for many people...
Hobsonville Community Trust upcoming events
Sunday 17 March, 11.30am to 2pm - Hobsonville Family Fun Day. Come down to Headquarters Park for some free family fun brought to you by Hobsonville Community Trust. There will be lawn games, bouncy castle, giant bubbles, face painting, food trucks + activities/stands from a number of community groups. Free event. More info at facebook.com/hobsonville.org.nz...
The Rent Shop Hobsonville
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Nestled in the heart of Hobsonville, The Rent Shop Hobsonville stands as a beacon of excellence in property management services. Locally owned and operated, their team takes immense pride in serving the vibrant community of Hobsonville and its surrounding areas. This month marks a significant milestone for them celebrating four years of operating.
With a commitment to delivering unparalleled service, The Rent Shop Hobsonville has gained recognition as an award-winning property management company. Their dedication to excellence has been acknowledged time and time again, reaffirming their status as leaders in the industry...
Foodtogether
Foodtogether is a non-profit social enterprise that has Co-ops and Pop-ups across Aotearoa. Foodtogether partners with dozens of organisations to help them feed their communities in a sustainable and accessible way. Our mission is to connect communities around healthy food, create jobs, equip and empower local collectives and make fresh food more affordable and accessible for all. Our local Pop-up is at the YMCA building 545 Don Buck Road, Massey, 3pm - 6 pm Fridays...
Massey Community Trust (MCT)
Massey Community Trust (MCT) believes that as a community we have the power to hold and heal our own. We envision a community in which every person and whānau in Massey is safe, healthy, hopeful, and thriving. MCT aims to mobilise the resources available within our community in order to create a community of care that addresses our communities’ needs by supporting innovative ideas that foster positive change in Massey and beyond...
Ask Dr Heather
How do you know if you need cosmetic treatments?
Often pondered by the masses, taking the leap to having "work done" can be a daunting one. First, we must clarify what "work" entails.
Cosmetic treatments are designed to help us look and feel better. The looking better part is really up to you...
Comb honey available from Don Buck Honey
Comb honey from the Hawke’s Bay, harvested from hives placed on agricultural land – this honey is largely from clover and squash (like pumpkin) flowers. The honey is a dark color and has a rich treacle-like flavor to it. Honey has some crystals in it but it is mainly runny. Comb honey is a real novelty for many people – this is the natural form of honey, just as the bees make it. Honeybees build comb cells out of wax to store honey in, covering it over with more wax once the honey is ready. The wax is safe to eat but it does get stuck in your teeth – so many people spit that out...
Stihl SHOP Westgate
Choosing the right lawnmower is the first step in caring for your lawn. Head in and see our team at STIHL SHOP Westgate for expert advice on selecting the best mower for your property. They have a great range of STIHL battery mowers and petrol options from Masport and LawnMaster available in-store. STIHL SHOP Westgate is also the home of the STIHL iMOW Robotic lawnmowers, with all exciting new models currently on display...
The Power of Routine Insurance Evaluations
Owning rental properties can be a lucrative investment, but it comes with its fair share of risks and costs. Understanding the potential damages that can occur and having comprehensive insurance coverage is crucial to safeguarding your investment. In the wake of natural disasters, such as the floods that affected around 10,000 homes nationwide, insurance becomes paramount. The Rent Shop Hobsonville, with its extensive experience, assisted landlords during the challenging times of displacement and property damage caused by unexpected events...
The Flower Vault
The Flower Vault floral boutique offers a wide range of fresh flowers, ready to go arrangements, plants and delivery options. Our team of experienced florists are here to help you whether it’s a few stems for your case at home or a bouquet for someone special. Our flowers come in fresh from our Auckland-based flower markets. Our talented florists are experienced to put together something special for any up and coming occasions. We guarantee premium service, and customer satisfaction is very important to us. No occasion is too big or too small...
TOUGH KID 2024 – Local leaders developing local kids
Mitre 10 MEGA Westgate & Henderson have once again partnered with the Royal New Zealand Air Force to bring you TOUGH KID 2024 at the Whenuapai Air base on 21st March 2024, starts 10.30am to approx. 1.30pm finish...
Waitematā Endoscopy celebrates 16 years of service
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The Waitematā Endoscopy team is proud to celebrate its milestone of serving the Waitemata community for 16 years. Clinical Director Dr Ali Jafer says the private endoscopy clinics aim to deliver not only an international standard of excellence in endoscopy services to the community but also peace of mind through working very hard to reduce patient waiting times...
Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon returns in March
 and Alana (R) Bremner are this year's Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon ambassadors (9).jpg "Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon returns in March")
More than 2,800 tamariki from across Central East Auckland are expected to swim, bike and run their way to the finish line at Point England Reserve and will be awarded a special medal by their Kiwi sporting heroes. The event kicks off with a free breakfast of Weet-Bix, Anchor Lite Milk, and Wattie’s fruit at the Weet-Bix Better Brekkie Breakfast tent.
New charitable model set to address inequity
Under the framework, significant new funding could be made available over the next five years to support hundreds of initiatives and organisations that can contribute towards positive long-term change in West Auckland. The funding would be sourced from profits made in the retail and hospitality sectors by West Auckland-based social enterprise The Trusts and is contingent on the organisation meeting its current financial projections over the period.
Top Notch Bodyworks
Looking back on the whirlwind of the past year, it's clear that we've encountered significant challenges within our homes and our community, and some of these continue to linger. I know firsthand how essential it is to recognise that our bodies and minds can only withstand so much stress before it begins to take a long-term toll having been through this as a business owner myself. This can manifest as agitation, short tempers, shallow breathing, forgetfulness, thoughts of hopelessness, disrupted sleep patterns, heart issues or fatigue.
Stihl SHOP Westgate
The community came out in droves for the opening weekend on 11 & 12 November, with over 1500 visitors to the store, all eager to try their keys in the treasure chest promotion. Over a dozen lucky keys opened the treasure chest during the weekend, with winners taking home great prizes such as lawnmowers, chainsaws, line trimmers, gift cards and STIHL merch packs.
Food Truck Collective
Foodies, Food Truck Collective is delighted to announce we will be heading back to Hobsonville Point park on Saturday 13th January 2024, serving from 4pm – 9pm.
After a successful evening in November, we will be heading back with more food trucks and our pop- up container bar stocked with local New Zealand beverages.
Comparing long-term and short-term investments
The emergence of platforms like Airbnb and Bookabach has transformed property ownership, offering fresh opportunities for homeowners to earn extra income through short-term rentals. This shift introduces landlords to a more adaptable option compared to the conventional long-term residential leases. While renting to tenants isn't novel in New Zealand, the growing inclination of property investors toward short-term rentals over long-term tenancy is notable...
Hobsonville Church
The 1875 Hobsonville Church & Settlers' Cemetery is at 1 Scott Road, Hobsonville, and is a Listed Historic Place on The New Zealand Heritage List. The kauri building was built in 1875 as a combined meeting place, church and school incorporating a graveyard in the grounds. In addition to Rice Owen Clark, one of the first European settlers in Hobsonville, all five of the original trustees of the land in 1877 are buried in the graveyard, Joshua Carder, R O Clark Jnr, Joshua Ockleston, Thomas Scott and William Sinton, along with members of other Hobsonville settler families, including Anderson, Boyd, Luckens, Midgley, Williams and Wiseley...
Ryman Healthcare’s Keith Park Retirement Village
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Residents at Ryman Healthcare’s Keith Park Retirement Village in Hobsonville got up early to bake up a storm for the entire 250-strong crew of workers from the construction site recently. The mammoth morning tea was laid on to personally congratulate Project Manager Simon Richards and his team at Hobsonville for winning Ryman’s Construction Site of the Year Award at the 2023 Ryman awards...
Farewell 2023 and Welcome 2024
2023 has been another year with some changes and challenges as we continue to return to pre-Covid times and with the cost of living making life hard for some. Despite everything, let us try to look at 2023 as a stepping stone towards our new reality as we head into 2024...
Tis the sea-sun
The team at Westgate Optometrists would just like to say a special thanks to our wonderfully loyal client-base for the continued support throughout the year. We are eternally grateful and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and an enjoyable and well-deserved break. We look forward to seeing you for all of your eyecare needs in the New Year. In the meantime if you need anything you can find us at 4/46 Maki Street, opposite Kiwibank and NorthWest Mall and just around the corner from Goode Brothers Restaurant.
Phone: 09 831 0202 Website: www.westopt.nz
Facebook: www.facebook.com/westgateoptometrists
Looking for Christmas gift ideas? Give the gift of honey
Don Buck Honey is the online store of the West Auckland beekeeper.
The honey is harvested from the specific clusters of apiaries, giving distinctive batches of honey with unique colors, tastes, and textures.
All honey is raw and pure honey sourced from farm lands forests and even islands between Auckland and New Zealand 's far north...
Summer garden care tips
It feels like summer is hot on the heels of springtime, and it's time to get our gardens ready for the potential impact of an El Nino summer. NIWA has indicated that El Niño continued during October and will likely intensify over the next three months, which means drought, with Auckland expected to receive 50% to 60% less rainfall...
Start the important conversations with family
It might not be the first thing that springs to mind as you're standing around the barbecue or enjoying a picnic with family over summer, but having the whānau together can be a great opportunity to begin some of the 'big' conversations we all need to have.
Getting your affairs in order by sorting out your will means thinking about questions such as ‘what are my wishes for my assets?’ and ’what would I like to have happen at my funeral?’...
Christmas gig at the Rifle Range
The Wayne Taylor Band will be playing again at the Rifle Range amphitheatre in Hobsonville Point (opposite 6 Catalina Bay Drive) with a ‘Christmas Gig’ on Saturday 16 December at 5pm. This is a free community event. The band plays a nice mix of songs by The Beatles, Elton John, Lionel Ritchie and Billy Joel plus some originals. For the Christmas gig the band will play these songs until 6pm, and then the focus will move to Christmas carols and a couple of Christmas original songs and items. Some young people and others will be involved with the Christmas music, which should finish around 6:30pm...
Reduced wait times for colonoscopy and gastroscopy with Waitematā Endoscopy
With bowel cancer the second highest cause of cancer deaths in New Zealand (more than breast and prostate cancer combined), early treatment is essential, with endoscopy an integral part of early cancer detection and diagnosis. Now, West Auckland residents requiring private endoscopy services will have access to significantly reduced wait times...
Christmas on the Point
Christmas on the Point is returning to Hobsonville Point on Sunday 3 Dec from midday until 2.30pm at the Rifle Range Amphitheatre. The event is being organised by Church Northwest and is being supported by Hobsonville Community Trust + many groups from the local community. There will be Christmas carols, local performances, a visit from Santa + Santa photo booth, food trucks, sausage sizzle, lawn games, and bouncy castle. The event is free, just bring money for food purchases or your own picnic and something to sit on. Please take your rubbish home with you and walk to the event if you can as parking is limited.
A Journey of Passion and Purpose: The Genesis of Hobsonville Hearing
Hobsonville Hearing recently celebrated two years in business by relocating into a new, state-of-the-art clinical space located on level 1 inside the Hobson Centre at 124 Hobsonville Road. “It hasn’t been without its challenges,” says owner and audiologist Abby Johnson. The clinic was supposed to open on the 1st of September 2021, at that stage Auckland was two weeks into its longest lockdown and Abby had already finished up at her previous job. “In hindsight,” Abby says, “that extra time was a blessing in disguise. I worked full-time, 40 hours per week on marketing and building the website. I had no experience whatsoever and learned everything on YouTube and Google...
Local Board Update
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Saturday 7th of October marked the long-awaited opening of the Observation Green playspace in Scott Point. The event was officially blessed by Te Kawerau ā Maki. Speeches followed and the ribbon was cut by local board members, then the fun began...
Hobsonville Marina expands liveaboard community
Hobsonville Marina is laying out the welcome mat for customers living onboard boats.
Around 100 people, comprising 15% of Hobsonville Marina’s 592 vessels currently live onboard their boats. Marina manager David Hollingsworth, says that the marina which is one of the biggest in New Zealand, is well maintained, very secure and sheltered and that liveaboards contribute to the marina by providing vibrancy and a feeling of community and safety...
Ask Dr Heather
A friend asked me the other day, why is sunscreen so important? With the upcoming long hot summer El Nino is expected to deliver (wahoo!), it got me thinking. Why do we bang on about sunscreen? It must seem like sunscreen companies are sponsoring us to (they aren't)....
Get set for summer with Westgate Optometrists
Sunglasses are a great fashion accessory, but their most important job is to protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Westgate Optometrists have a wide range of contemporary sunglasses with brands inclusive of Kate Sylvester, Nina Ricci, Furla, O’Neill, William Morris, Barkers and more – all can be paired with our polarised prescription lenses for single vision and progressive lens wearers. Purchase any complete pair of glasses and receive 50% off your second frame. Stop by to check out our range and have a chat to our friendly team. Opposite NorthWest Shopping Centre and the Kiwibank, just around the corner from Goode Brothers Restaurant. Phone: 09 831 0202 Website: www.westopt.nz.
A new chapter for Butter Baby
leek, industrial Butter Baby HQ opens its doors for takeaway in West Auckland.
Saturday 30th September 2023 - Brioche donut, Cinny bun and cookie darlings, Butter Baby are thrilled to announce the official opening of their new flagship kitchen and very first shop at Unit 70, 11 Northside Drive in Westgate, West Auckland...
Importance of training your dog from the first day
What to do and what not to do.
Training your dog from the day you bring them home is crucial to help you build a harmonious and fulfilling relationship with your doggo.
Early training sets the foundation for a well-behaved and happy pet, benefiting both you and your canine companion...
Refinancing
Mortgage refinancing involves repaying your current mortgage and taking out a new loan with different terms, usually with the goal of obtaining better conditions. This can involve working with your existing lender or switching to a new one, depending on which best meets your needs...
STIHL SHOP Westgate
STIHL SHOP Westgate opened its doors to the public last month and to celebrate they will be holding a Grand Opening Weekend on November 11th and 12th! Head to their new store at 15 Kakano Road, Westgate for a weekend of product demonstrations, STIHL themed games and sensational opening specials across the entire STIHL range, Masport lawnmowers and Hansa Chippers. Don’t miss chainsaws, linetrimmers, waterblasters all from just $279!
Catalina Bay Farmers Market
Get ready to experience the joys of summer at Catalina Bay Farmers Market's upcoming events. As we close out 2023, we invite you to join us for two exciting family-fun events - our highly-anticipated annual Pet Day and the Twilight Market at Hobsonville Point. Take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere while indulging in the delectable treats and artisanal crafts...
Mitre 10 MEGA Westgate – Ladies’ Night 2023
It’s that time of year again to get the girls together for a fabulous Ladies’ Night out at Mitre 10 MEGA Westgate.
A night of fun with plenty to take part in, we expect a large crowd on the night having received feedback from our previous events. The Ladies have told us how useful it is to learn practical DIY skills and this year we have many suppliers showcasing their products along with demonstrations and engaging activities...
Smart tips to slash food waste
In this second article on reducing food waste we look at more great ways to get more value from your food and significantly reduce food waste within the home.
FIFO (First In, First Out): When unpacking groceries, make sure to place newer items at the back of the pantry or fridge and move older items to the front. This practice ensures that food doesn't get forgotten and go to waste...
Ever wondered if dog daycare might be good for your best friend?
Dog daycare can be a valuable option for your doggo for several important reasons:
1. Daycare provides socialisation opportunities for your dog.
Dogs are naturally social animals, and regular interaction with other dogs can improve their behaviour, reduce anxiety, and enhance their overall well-being. Socialisation at daycare can also help prevent behavioural issues stemming from fear or aggression towards other dogs...
Boston Café – Great Quality
Boston Café, 7 Northside Drive, Westgate. Located just a stone’s throw away from Mitre 10 Mega Westgate. Boston Café is the latest addition to the bustling Café scene in the area and under the meticulous and watchful eye of Antonio the quality of service, food and beverage offering is second to none...
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