Latest fromBirkenhead

My Auckland: Birkenhead
Vibha Soni moved to Auckland from a computer career in Mumbai, India. Now she and husband Sanjay run an Asian spice store in Birkenhead, North Shore and sell their Indian spice mixes online and to more than 300 shops around the country.

<i>The Spencer family:</i> One rule for the rich?
One of New Zealand's wealthiest families is on the verge of signing a special deal with North Shore City Council.

Beauty: Best face forward
Facials these days are fit for all fancies, with many different experiences on offer.

<i>Hinemoa Street Organic Cafe</i>, Birkenhead
We came here because a friend had alerted us to the fact the cafe, formerly known as Grace, had undergone a facelift.

<i>Eight Point Two</i>, Birkenhead
A new chef and an ever-evolving menu ensure a Shore favourite rivals the best our neighbours across the Tasman have to offer.

<i>Eight Point Two</i>, Birkenhead
We had just finished our desserts (two helpings of poached quince with ice-cream; four spoons) when they arrived. There were probably a dozen but they had the impact of 100.

Creating a dream home
A North Shore couple had coveted a site just three doors down their street for years, so when it became theirs they built a house that fulfilled all expectations.

Weedy boy wonders
The parore, or black snapper, is common in many fish-and-chip shops - although customers would never know.

Chocolate fundraiser not so sweet
A primary school's chocolate fundraiser turned into a debt-collection exercise after parents failed to cough up around $3000.