In Chinese culture, the choice of a final resting place is deeply tied to the prosperity and harmony of future generations. To understand how feng shui transforms a cemetery into a place of fortune and balance, we spoke with John Ding, Relationship Director at Auckland cemetery, Auckland Memorial Park. Situated in Silverdale, the park is celebrated for its exceptional feng shui design.
Q: John, why is feng shui important for a burial site?
John : In Chinese tradition, feng shui connects the energy of a place to the wellbeing of those who remain. A burial site with good feng shui not only brings peace to the deceased but also ensures that their family enjoys prosperity, health, and harmony for years to come. The principles of feng shui guide how energy flows through a landscape, and Auckland Memorial Park has been designed to maximise these benefits.
Q: What makes Auckland Memorial Park unique in terms of feng shui?
John : First, our location is ideal. The park overlooks a serene lake - a critical element in feng shui as water represents wealth and abundance. Our burial sites are thoughtfully oriented to capture the positive energy brought by this water.
Additionally, the gently sloping hill behind the park offers natural protection, symbolising support and stability for the family. The amphitheatre design ensures a smooth, harmonious flow of energy, creating a nurturing environment for both the departed and their descendants.
Q: Could you tell us about the specific features that enhance feng shui here?
John : Certainly! Let me share a few highlights:
- Location and Orientation: Our plots face the lake, ensuring they receive the prosperity associated with water energy.
- Balanced Environment: The park incorporates all five elements—Earth, Water, Wood, Fire, and Metal—through natural landscaping, plantings, and pathways.
- Gentle Energy Flow: The park’s terraced design promotes even distribution of qi, while meandering pathways encourage a calm and positive energy flow.
- Respect for Nature: The park blends seamlessly with its surroundings, preserving natural harmony and offering a tranquil resting place.
Q: How does this benefit families?
John : Families who choose Auckland Memorial Park can take comfort in knowing their loved ones rest in a peaceful environment that reflects centuries-old feng shui wisdom. This thoughtful design brings emotional peace, supports family prosperity, and strengthens the connection between generations.
Q: What options are available for those interested?
John : We offer a range of plots to suit different preferences, including our sought-after LakeView Terrace. With options starting from $1,800 and extending to $75,000, there’s a choice for everyone. A 20% deposit secures a plot and guarantees a preferential price before construction completion.
Q: Any upcoming events?
John : Yes! We’re hosting an Open Day on Sunday, December 15th, from 2–4 PM. There are two more in January and April. Visitors can explore our North Shore cemetery and park, learn about our feng shui principles, and speak with our team. If you can’t make it, the park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and our office operates Monday to Friday.
Contact Details:
- WeChat: JohndingSGP
- Website: https://aucklandmemorialpark.co.nz
- Mobile: 029 123 1633
- Toll-Free: 0800 85 48 34
You are welcome to visit. Open 365 days. Office open Mon-Fri.
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel: luxurious accommodation in Queenstown
Nestled in the vibrant heart of New Zealand’s adventure capital, Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel offers contemporary, comfortable luxury accommodation. This 5-star hotel in Queenstown is a favourite among discerning travellers, including celebrities, seeking privacy and opulence.
The hotel, with its schist stone exterior and clean lines, exudes a unique blend of contemporary elegance and classic charm, making it an ideal choice for those looking for luxury accommodation in Queenstown. With 22 designer guest rooms, guests can enjoy a private courtyard or balcony. On one side, enjoy stunning views overlooking a tranquil park to the Remarkables Mountain Range. On a fine day, paragliders glide down to land in the park. On the other side, the Gondola rooms look out to Bob’s Peak and the gondola.
The rooms and suites are meticulously designed to provide comfort and sophistication, featuring contemporary furnishings, plush bedding, and state-of-the-art amenities.
Gourmet aperitifs
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel elevates the cocktail hour with complimentary pre-dinner drinks and canapés, setting the stage for a delightful evening exploring the local restaurants, a short 5-minute stroll along the footpath beside the park. Guests start their day with a daily gourmet á la carte breakfast.
The guest lounge, complete with a cozy gas fire and beverages, offers a relaxing space to unwind after a day of exploration, along with a curious selection of beverages and vinyl record collection to set the mood.
Personalised service and unforgettable experiences
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel stands out among luxury hotels in Queenstown for its personalized service and attention to detail – a hallmark of the owners, The Patterson brothers Thomas, Michael, and Ken, who also own two hotels in Christchurch. The hotel's team provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that every guest feels at home. From arranging exclusive tours to offering personalized recommendations for exploring Queenstown, the hotel's concierge team are engaging, knowledgeable and friendly.
Complimentary undercover parking (convenient for unloading ski gear in winter), premium car hire arrangements, and complimentary bicycle rentals are just a few of the thoughtful touches that expand the guest experience. If you are looking to explore the area in style, e-bikes are available for rent, providing a convenient and eco-friendly way to see the sights (super network of relatively easy Queenstown Trails).
Luxury car rentals - Travel in style
Guests can enhance their stay with a selection of premium car rentals, with 4WD options suited to explore the scenic beauty of Queenstown in winter (the hotel features a drying room and ski racks). The hotel can arrange a range of high-end vehicles, including the stylish new BMW MINIs, ideal for urban adventures.
For those seeking a more exhilarating ride, the extremely hot Mustang Convertible is available for a thrilling experience. Families and larger groups can opt for the spacious 7-seater Toyota Highlanders or the luxurious Mercedes Vans, ensuring ample space and comfort. Adventure seekers can choose the brand-new Subaru Outback or the versatile Toyota RAV4 Hybrid for their explorations.
Eco-conscious travellers can enjoy the efficient Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, while those needing a robust vehicle can select the Toyota Hilux Ute. For the ultimate in luxury and space, the premium 7-seater Toyota Prado is an excellent choice. The hotel's concierge service ensures a seamless rental process, making it easy for guests to find the perfect vehicle for their needs.
Why choose Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
For those seeking a luxurious and intimate escape, Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel offers an oasis of tranquility and sophistication. Whether visiting for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a business event, guests will find that this boutique resort is a true gem in the heart of Queenstown. With its commitment to excellence and its prime location, Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel is the ultimate destination for luxury accommodation in Queenstown. Booking direct guarantees the best price.
Discover the ultimate boutique resort experience
Discover why this 5-star hotel in Queenstown is the preferred choice for those seeking the perfect blend of luxury and comfort.
Author Bio
Author, Rachel Alexander, loves travelling, exploring and adventuring including skiing and ski touring. Rachel is based in New Zealand and runs a marketing agency in Christchurch. She also has an interest in interior design and recognises genuine service and sophistication when she sees it. Rachel stayed at Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel when on a weekend ski trip to Coronet Peak in 2024. She loved the quiet sophistication of this hotel, so close to central Queenstown. "It's away from the noisy bars, but close to the action. Words don't really capture the "park view" until you experience it. I personally loved the graceful weeping willows in the park that the hotel overlooks. The hotel feels secluded; it felt like a wonderful refuge, a well-needed break from my too-busy life."
For those passionate about classic cars, Upper Classics car restoration Christchurch is the go-to specialist. With a deep commitment to reviving and enhancing iconic British Jaguars, American beauties and Australian muscle cars like Holdens, Falcons, and Chryslers, Upper Classics is not just a workshop—it's a portal back to the golden age of automotive excellence.
Celebrating over a decade of restoration expertise, Upper Classics has become synonymous with quality and nostalgia. The company not only repairs and restores these venerable vehicles to their original splendour but also integrates modern enhancements that make driving an old classic a new joy. From classic car rust repair and bodywork to full engine overhauls and modern interior comforts, every car that rolls out of their workshop is a testament to what passion and craftsmanship can achieve.
Restorations that rekindle spirits and increase value
Every project at Upper Classics is handled with precision and respect for the car's history and potential. The result is not just a beautifully restored car but also an appreciable asset that grows in value both financially and emotionally. This focus on excellence has attracted a community of classic car enthusiasts who trust Upper Classics to bring their cherished vehicles back to life.
Connecting through classics
Upper Classics doesn't just repair and restore classic cars; they build relationships. Their garage is a meeting point for like-minded enthusiasts, a place where stories of the good old days are shared as freely as mechanical tips. Whether you’re looking to buy your first classic or you're a seasoned collector, Helen and Terry offer a welcoming community for everyone passionate about classic cars.
Enjoying the old with the comforts of the new
With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to preserving the authentic feel of each vehicle, Upper Classics also ensures that modern comfort doesn't take a back seat. Improved seating, enhanced braking systems, and upgraded gearboxes make these classics ready for today’s roads.
Visit Upper Classics auto car restoration services to experience firsthand the magic of bringing a piece of automotive history back to life. Their expert team is ready to guide you through every step of the restoration process, ensuring that your classic car dreams become a thrilling reality.
Upper Classics owners Helen Stewart and Terry Cartwright stand beside an SS Jaguar they have restored to its former glory, at a classic car event.
Above: shows before and after examples of auto car restoration of a VW Combi
Above: classic car on its first road trip after restoration
Affordable Secret Santa Gift Ideas
Stand out at your office party or family gathering this Christmas time with a thoughtful Secret Santa Gift.
As the days begin to get longer and summer swells in New Zealand, Christmas is just around the corner. Of course, Christmas is a time for celebration and with this comes end of year work office parties and family functions where you can have some fun!
At these events, Secret Santa gift exchanges are the norm. Deciding what to buy as a gift can be stressful, especially if you pick a colleague you hardly know or a family member you haven’t seen in years! We’ve come up with ten elegant, meaningful and low price ideas sure to get your colleagues and family smiling, no matter who you pick. Have a look through our list until you pick out the ideal gift for your recipient.
As you’re spending money, you will want to make it count by ensuring you buy something your recipient will actually want. We’ve grouped gifts depending on your budget!
$10 Secret Santa Gifts
Boutique New Zealand-made chocolates
Does your recipient have a sweet tooth? This gift will not fail to delight. Donovans offer a range of indulgent handcrafted chocolates to indulge their taste buds.
Reusable shopping bags
Help them save the environment by gifting them printed reusable bags they can take with them to the supermarket.
SugarCraves have created Bubbly Gummie Bears made with Moet and Chandon Champagne, the perfect treat for your co-worker or older family member.
Fudge
A sweet treat will surely make your recipient smile. Bailey’s Fudge offers an array of scrumptious flavours including Russian Fudge and Bailey’s Irish Creme.
$20 Secret Santa Gifts
Stylish candles NZ
Make the home of your secret santa recipient smell sweet this Christmas time. Pick between pleasing soy wax candle fragrances including Gardenia Patchouli, Pistachio Macaroon and Precious Wood. Fatbird are the new owners of Waxglo.
Everyone has things they need to plan ahead and remember to do. Get them a diary or planner so they can make next year the best (and most organised) one yet! Frank Stationary offers luscious diary’s with bright geometric patterned designs.
Reusable takeaway coffee cup
Help fuel your recipients coffee addiction and help the environment as well by gifting them a nifty reusable coffee cup!
$30 Secret Santa Gifts
Self-care set
Gift a pamper package for your co-worker or family member to help them relax this Christmas season. Waxglo sells gift sets which include a botanical wax fragrant candle paired with moisturizing hand and nail cream.
Indulge the senses of your recipient with an aromatic fragranced diffuser. You can pick luxurious scents such as banoffee pie, chocolate fudge and rainbow trifle.
Check out some of these NZ Secret Santa gift ideas and more at Fatbird.
Add zest to your décor
Trends in blinds design come and go. Roller blinds give your home a classical look and are a wonderful alternative to curtains. Patterned roller blinds add a bit of zest to a room, filling it with life and joie de vivre. If you’re looking to inject some life into a kitchen, sunroom or children’s room, consider some of these groovy patterned blinds.
Tropical Blinds
Tropical lush leaves and birds are hot in interior design right now. The jungle theme is an uplifting theme, ideal for children. Try it out in a white painted room and throw in some plants and green cushions to create a funky space.
Feather patterned blinds
White never goes out of fashion and tone on tone white is a classic elegant look. The white on white feather pattern can be used anywhere – kitchens, bedrooms, sunrooms and lounges. It is a timeless look.
Fun dinosaur blinds for boys’ rooms
Both of my boys were mad on dinosaurs. If you are expecting a boy or redecorating, these fun blinds with t-rex, brontosaurus and triceratops bring Jurassic Park home – in a safe and playful way. This pattern pairs well with white or contemporary soft blues and duck egg paint colours. Show this to your toddler or primary school son – to get them excited about their room renovation.
Cute deer & rabbit blinds for boys and girls
If you’re not sure what gender your baby is, or you have two kids sharing the same room, these deer blinds bring nature home and suit either or both genders.
Textured roller blinds
Coffee or grey textures give depth and warmth to clean white walls – and also look awesome paired with chocolate, brown greys and black feature walls.
About fabrics & Home Vision Blinds
These are just a few of the new releases in patterned blinds from Louvolite available at Home Vision Roller Blinds Auckland.
Home Vision deliver roller blinds NZ wide and have supplied blinds to over 100,000 customers.
The Louvolite fabric is high quality fabric, from the UK, so patterned blinds are a little more expensive than single colour blinds. Just like a feature wall, it’s popular and fun to use for a feature window. If the room doesn’t warrant the cost of a patterned blind, an alternative to printed roller blinds is single-colour roller blinds. It’s important not to skimp on blind prices, because cheaper fabrics can release toxins over time with exposure to heat. At Home Vision Blinds, they are very ethical re quality, and source certified fabrics from suppliers that have a commensurate focus on quality.
The blinds are made in Auckland, New Zealand at Home Vision Blinds’ factory in East Tamaki – so you can get the exact size you need and chose the components to suit your window frame, paint colour and décor.
The owners of Home Vision Blinds have extensive knowledge and a depth of engineering knowledge that has arisen from years of operation and ongoing requests for improvements in blind components. That’s why they offer a 5-year warranty on their blinds (including components). They have invested heavily in their manufacturing facilities and are now one of the largest blinds manufacturers in NZ selling to both residential and commercial customers.
Just as you love your home, Home Vision has been established for more than 30 years and is passionate about providing a solution that fits in with your vision for your home.
When designing a new home, a staircase in your hall or entry foyer can be a feature or style statement. Hot trends in stairs design include:
Floating stairs built with resin or engineered stone slab steps sitting on a centered steel rail for strength. The larger landing on these architectural stairs adds a touch of elegance and class.
Glass balustrades with no handrail – though check your local regulations re stairs: Christchurch City Council insisted on hand rails on both sides in a recent commercial staircase renovation I did.
Timber finish on stair treads for a warm natural look
Office, homework nook or book shelves under a floating staircase. Often an awkward corner to furnish, this is a really practical idea for utilising the space well.
So where do go for staircase design?
Engineering companies or architects. I can recommend Division Group who designs, manufactures and installs architectural stairs Christchurch-wide, supplying supporting engineering services. Check out the cool metal detailing on their offices and meeting rooms at their Kaiapoi engineering base. Anthony is what I’d call a “creative engineer”. His team co-ordinate the whole shebang including glass balustrades, metal handrails and staircase brackets as well as documentation/consents as required.
By the way, one of the surprising issues few people consider at the design stage is installation. Stairs can often be in tight spaces and need installing after walls and doors are in, which can make access tricky. Division Group has a range of nifty, specialist gear for installing staircases in tricky spaces with some funky spider cranes – Anthony reckons he loves a challenge but it pays to have a site visit or show him your plans early on just in case!
For those looking to buy or sell an Auckland business or any business within New Zealand, there is a great NZ website offering just that! For 20 years, nzbizbuysell.co.nz have offered New Zealanders a highly successful platform to buy and sell businesses and franchises.
The listings on nzbizbuysell.co.nz provide a wide range of business opportunities, such as cafes, motels, service stations, manufacturing, e-commerce, and many others. The buyer may be looking solely for businesses for sale Auckland, or they can search another location, and choose from over 2500 businesses for sale NZ wide.
Listings on the website include those from both private sellers and leading New Zealand business brokers. To list a business privately, the seller simply visits nzbizbuysell.co.nz website where they follow a simple process to create a listing that will appeal to the buyer. Once they are happy with the listing, they pay, and the listing goes live. For brokers, nzbizbuysell offers a variety of appealing volume-based packages. This provides brokers with an effective way to reach buyers with their clients’ listings, and to market their broker services.
The nzbizbuysell.co.nz site seamlessly connects business buyers with sellers. As well as their popular nzbizbuysell.co.nz website, nzbizbuysell also engages via newsletters, bulletins and via the comprehensive resources available on the website.
Newsletters and bulletins feature new listings and links to new articles on the website, as well as up to date news in the arena of NZ business. The nzbizbuysell website features some great resource articles that offer invaluable expertise around both buying and selling a business. The articles are free and available to anyone who wishes to use them.
If you are looking to buy or sell a business in Auckland, or NZ wide, nzbizbuysell can help! Check out nzbizbuysell online at www.nzbizbuysell.co.nz