Takapuna Beach Reserve
Work will start soon on the renewal of the old toilet block on Takapuna Beach Reserve (Gould Reserve). The project will also include landscaping of the area and additional play equipment that will further enhance the reserve. This will include new planting, seating and a drinking fountain.
The changing room and toilet block renewal will include a ‘Changing Places Room’ a space where people with severe disability and mobility challenges can wash and change more easily.
A significant financial contribution to this project is being made by locals Jackie and Chris Reeve who were the driving force and key funders behind the building of the wonderful Takapuna Beach Playground around five years ago.
Katsubi Opening on Lake Road
The popular Katsubi donburi chain of Japanese-Korean fusion cafes is opening a brand new store on Lake Road in Takapuna during May. This is the site that was previously Burger King. Katsubi lovers can build their own Donburi that is fast, convenient and affordable. Welcome to Taka Katsubi!
BYO Wine Offer at SmokePit & Buoy
It has been a challenging time for local eateries but they are all working hard to bring back their customers. SmokePit & Buoy, the wonderful eatery at the Spencer on Byron Hotel is one local example. For the month of May they have a BYO wine offer.
You can bring your own wine and will only be charged a $5.00 corkage fee which will be donated to North Harbour Hospice.
The popular restaurant has a lot more to offer as well. Including $8 cocktails on Thursday and Friday, a wine of the month (this month Saint Clair 2019 Marlborough Premium Sauvignon Blanc, a complimentary Prosecco on Mother’s Day (Sunday May 9th).
Some of their popular dishes include – Grille platter for two, Wagyu beef meat cuts slow cooked, Succulent beef brisket, House cured/made Salmon Gravlax.
For those who like to take out SmokePit & Buoy (at Spencer on Byron Hotel) is also an UBER Eats participating restaurant or have their own ‘click & collect’ website options. Phone 09-916-4982.
Power boxes works of art!
Power transformer boxes on Hurstmere Road are being transformed into pieces of art as a result of a Takapuna Beach Business Association (TBBA) initiative. When TBBA CEO Terence Harpur discovered that the project team were not upgrading the boxes within the scope of the Hurstmere Road Upgrade project, he formulated his own plan. That plan has involved artist Andre Roth lending her special creative talents with sensational results.
“I started getting involved in community art projects as a local artist wanting to make a difference,” explained Andre to Channel Mag during April. “I enjoy sharing my work and style with the community and painting the transformer boxes is a great way of doing that. The project is a fantastic way to showcase art and have a purpose.”
Andre says the art on the box by the Anzac Street roundabout in Takapuna is focused on nature, specifically the ocean – with Takapuna being a seaside town centre. Andre’s design also includes Takapuna highlights like Rangitoto Island, sail boats as well as local fauna and flora.
We reckon it looks fantastic! Well done Andre, Terence and the TBBA!
Comedy at the Bruce Mason Centre
A line-up of New Zealand’ best comedians will perform as the Comedy All Stars at the Bruce Mason Centre Comedy Club in Takapuna between May 7th and 22nd.
Ben Hurley, Paul Douglas, Vaughan King, John Carr and guests are performing on May 7th and 8th. Paul Ego, Tony Lyall, Ray O’Leary, Liv McKenzie and guests are on May 14th and 15th. Michele A’Court, Brendhan Lovegrove, Rhys Mathewson , Hannah Campbell and guests then complete the season on May 21st and 22nd.
To book go to: www.aucklandlive.co.nz – make a night of it, dine out at one of Takapuna’s great bars and eateries as well!
Hurstmere Road construction gets back underway
The Hurstmere Road Transformation recommenced from Monday May 3rd as planned. The pause meant that Takapuna businesses have been able to enjoy a long summer free from construction. Works began with Stages 3A and 3B which will undertake:- underground services upgrades; construction of raingardens, basalt walls and parking bays; reconstruction of footpath surfaces and the single lane carriageway; installation of new street lights and furniture (including seats, bins & bike racks).
Stages 3A and 3B are expected to take three months to complete. When these stages are complete, stages 4A and 4B will follow with the whole project being completed by late 2021, before the busy Christmas period. All tree and garden planting for the whole project will occur as one of the last activities within Stage 4.
For more info visit: www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nzw
