From the Editors: The general election has been and gone

What a result for the country – we offer our congratulations to National for taking power and our commiserations to Labour.

The PN offices are in the Mt Albert electorate and there are only a tiny number of votes separating Helen White and Melissa Lee. By the time this issue is published will the special votes decide?

We also offer our congratulations to Chlöe Swarbrick for retaking Auckland Central. It was a hard fight and Mahesh fought a tough campaign for National. After his efforts knocking on 11,000 doors and putting in a huge amount of work, it was Chlöe’s seat to win.

Don’t forget this month is the annual Grey Lynn Park Festival. We suggest coming to do your Christmas shopping, eat from around the world, enjoy their mix of free live music and family friendly fun at Grey Lynn Park on Saturday, 18 November from 9.30am - 6pm. Fingers crossed for good weather!

We received sad news from the team at Prego… their restaurant cat has passed away. He had multiple names and was loved by all who knew him and Prego told us, "We only found out today that his name was Reco. He brought so much joy to Ponsonby locals for as long as we can remember. The little man will be sadly missed by all of us. You were the coolest cat, a feisty little feline, but cool nonetheless.”

In her feature this month, Helene Ravlich asks if we are feeling plant curious? Many say Grey Lynn has become vegan central!

Ready for summer? The humble backyard is now, more than ever, an extension of the house, providing the backdrop for all sorts of activities with pools, fireplaces and thoughtfully selected furniture that continue an aesthetic from lounge to lawn. Outdoor sanctuaries to fill our souls and more… (JAY PLATT & MARTIN LEACH)

#chlöeSwarbrick #Mahesh #HelenWhite #MelissaLee #mtalbert #greylynnparkfestival #plantcurious #plantbasedlifestyles #vegan #pregoponsonby #greylynnvegancentral #outdoorliving #summerliving #aucklandcentralmp #msheleneravlich