Latest news with #HowellDavies
Scoop
14-07-2025
- Business
- Scoop
From Finance To Forest: Auckland's New Bond Brings Benefits For People And Planet
Auckland Council has launched a new sustainable finance initiative, a sustainability-linked bond (SLB), with a clear purpose: to deliver real, long-term benefits to the Auckland region through accelerated native ngahere (forest) restoration in regional parks. While the council has a well-established sustainable finance programme in place, this SLB is a new milestone with its focus firmly on people, place and planet. The bond links funding to the planting of one million native trees by the end of 2027, helping to grow a greener, healthier Tāmaki Makaurau for generations to come. However, what makes this bond particularly unique is its combined accountability and sustainability drive. If the council does not meet its planting target, it will make a donation to organisations supporting the restoration of native ngahere across the region. Unlike other SLB structures which often involve additional payments to investors for missed targets, the donation means whether the council meets the planting target or not, Aucklanders win. Auckland Council's Manager Group Sustainable Finance Sophie Baillie says this innovative bond structure, which incorporates a donation, reflects Auckland's leadership in the sustainable finance space while directly benefiting communities. 'This bond enables us to align our funding with ambitious environmental outcomes.' 'Its structure keeps us accountable and ensures the objective of ngahere restoration to support local biodiversity and climate resilience moves forward no matter what.' The one-million-tree planting target is part of the council's '200 Hectare Programme' - its 2021 Long-term Plan initiative to plant 200 hectares of new ngahere on park land. In doing so, it is transforming areas of marginal farmland into thriving native forests across the regional park network, while protecting sites of cultural significance. These ngahere offer more than just beauty: they provide habitat for native wildlife, improve air and water quality, support carbon sequestration, reduce flood risk and create meaningful green spaces for Aucklanders to enjoy. Auckland Council's Ngahere Programme Manager Howell Davies, who co-authored the council's 2019 Urban Ngahere Strategy, says the environmental and social impact of this work is immense. 'Increasing our native ngahere across the Auckland region strengthens the natural fabric of our city. It is a key climate adaptation action, which improves the region's resilience, enhances biodiversity and connects people to nature,' says Mr Davies. 'Planting these trees now means Aucklanders, especially our tamariki, can grow up with cleaner air, cooler neighbourhoods and stronger connections to our land and cultural heritage.' Auckland Council's Ngahere Programme Specialist Steve Burgess, who is coordinating the planting programme, explains the tree seedlings and planting sites are carefully selected in consultation with mana whenua, ecologists, and parks specialists to ensure 'the right tree is planted in the right place'. Locations span across Auckland's regional parks, in areas that will benefit hugely from this ecological restoration. The initiative also supports the wider Auckland Climate Plan and the Auckland Plan 2050 goals of increasing canopy cover to help create a low-carbon, resilient city that values its natural taonga. This is not Auckland Council's first foray into sustainable finance. Since 2018, the council has issued over NZ$3.7 billion in green bonds and has been a national leader in linking finance to environmental and social outcomes. 'Our sustainable finance programme is a powerful tool for positive change,' says John Bishop, Group Treasurer at Auckland Council. 'It helps us to deliver core services and infrastructure in a way that reflects our responsibility to future generations.' This latest bond is more than a financial transaction, it's an investment in a thriving, resilient, and connected Auckland. Every tree planted will bring us closer to a future where nature and community thrive together.
The Irish Sun
04-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
Historic city straddles both Asia and Europe and you can get there for £25
INTOXICATING Istanbul draws visitors back again and again to explore its magical historical sites, buzzing bazaars and fabulous food. While Turkey's biggest city — with a population of more than 15million — has always been a value city-break destination, recent inflation in Turkey has made many things significantly pricier. 5 Istanbul draws visitors back again and again to explore its magical historical sites Credit: Getty 5 Hagia Sophia is not cheap to enter but you can admire its exterior from Sultanahmet Square for nothing Credit: Getty But this captivating city by the Bosphorus river, straddling Europe and Howell Davies gives you the lowdown on how best to explore . . . WHY SHOULD I GO? Just four hours from the UK and a great long-weekend option, you're truly transported into another world, rich with culture and plenty to see and do. There's a wealth of shopping opportunities to pick up bargains, as well as winding streets to explore, delicious cuisine and sunny, warm weather from May to October. read more on travel THESE STREETS MADE FOR WALKING? Yes, but pack sturdy shoes and be prepared for the city's cobblestone streets and hills. There's options if you want to take the weight off your feet, though — trams and metros cost from 30p a ride if you get a reloadable Istanbulkart travel pass. ANYTHING FOR THE BUCKET LIST? It is free to enter but the queue can be long so arrive early — and check prayer times, when it is closed to non-worshippers. Most read in City breaks Nearby is another Ottoman gem — the Entry isn't cheap at £38 but you can stroll the neighbouring Gulhane Park, once the outer garden of the palace, for free. My holiday at TUI Magic Life Beldibi The imposing Hagia Sophia, which has served as a cathedral then a mosque, is also not cheap to enter but you can admire its exterior, domes and minarets from Sultanahmet Square for nothing. WHERE SHOULD I SHOP? There are more than 4,000 shops and stalls, selling everything from tea and Turkish delight, to knock-off football shirts and decorative tiles. It gets busy so arrive when it first opens, at 8.30am, or an hour or so before it closes at 7pm. Prepare to haggle — aim to counter the asking price with an offer 40 to 50 per cent lower and settle at 50 to 70 per cent. Be ready to walk away. In the neighbouring Spice Bazaar, foodies can pick up authentic Turkish spice blends, from sumac and pul biber, to smoky red-pepper flakes. For something more modern, Istiklal Street is the place to go to pick up some bargains. It runs for just under a mile, from Taksim Square to Galata Tower, and is lined with high street-favourite stores, and outlets selling some somewhat dodgy 'designer' gear at bargain prices. 5 The colourful buildings in Balat, Istanbul's traditional Jewish quarter Credit: Getty 5 The recently built 3* Ibis has modern, comfy rooms and a buzzing bar and restaurant Credit: Supplied WHERE SHOULD I DRINK? I thought I'd cracked the code by going to the Barnathan brasserie's rooftop by Galata Tower to get its views at a fraction of the price, but I ended up with one of the most bitter and expensive margaritas I've ever had. Instead, double up your drinking and sightseeing by booking on to a sunset cruise down the Bosphorus. WHERE SHOULD I EAT? There are good restaurants near the city centre's Sirkeci train. station — and if you've got a sweet tooth, there are joints dedicated to just desserts on almost every street. To escape the bustle, head to the hip and trendy area of Fisekhane for bougie restaurants with outdoor dining and attentive staff. I had a lovely chicken shish in the beautiful courtyard of the Levantine restaurant. For a Turkish breakfast, check out Zennup 1844 where an array of traditional dishes will cost from £15. WHERE SHOULD I STAY? Heading slightly out of the city centre, to the Zeytinburnu district, near trendy Fisekhane, will help to lower costs. The recently built 3* Ibis has modern, comfy rooms and a buzzing bar and restaurant, it is just a ten-minute walk to a train station that takes you directly into the city centre. Ask for a room on a higher floor, facing the waterside, as the road beside the hotel can get busy. 5 Double up your drinking and sightseeing by booking on to a sunset cruise down the Bosphorus Credit: Getty GO: Istanbul GETTING THERE : Wizz Air flies from Luton to Istanbul from £25.09 each way. See STAYING THERE : Double rooms at the ibis Istanbul Zeytinburnu from £41. See Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club.
Scottish Sun
04-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
Historic city straddles both Asia and Europe and you can get there for £25
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) INTOXICATING Istanbul draws visitors back again and again to explore its magical historical sites, buzzing bazaars and fabulous food. While Turkey's biggest city — with a population of more than 15million — has always been a value city-break destination, recent inflation in Turkey has made many things significantly pricier. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 Istanbul draws visitors back again and again to explore its magical historical sites Credit: Getty 5 Hagia Sophia is not cheap to enter but you can admire its exterior from Sultanahmet Square for nothing Credit: Getty But this captivating city by the Bosphorus river, straddling Europe and Asia, can still be a bargain if you plan carefully. Howell Davies gives you the lowdown on how best to explore . . . WHY SHOULD I GO? Just four hours from the UK and a great long-weekend option, you're truly transported into another world, rich with culture and plenty to see and do. There's a wealth of shopping opportunities to pick up bargains, as well as winding streets to explore, delicious cuisine and sunny, warm weather from May to October. THESE STREETS MADE FOR WALKING? Yes, but pack sturdy shoes and be prepared for the city's cobblestone streets and hills. There's options if you want to take the weight off your feet, though — trams and metros cost from 30p a ride if you get a reloadable Istanbulkart travel pass. ANYTHING FOR THE BUCKET LIST? The Blue Mosque, the creation of which began in 1609, is one of the most magnificent buildings of the Ottoman Empire. It is free to enter but the queue can be long so arrive early — and check prayer times, when it is closed to non-worshippers. Nearby is another Ottoman gem — the Topkapi Palace with manicured gardens, views over the city and holy relics. Entry isn't cheap at £38 but you can stroll the neighbouring Gulhane Park, once the outer garden of the palace, for free. My holiday at TUI Magic Life Beldibi The imposing Hagia Sophia, which has served as a cathedral then a mosque, is also not cheap to enter but you can admire its exterior, domes and minarets from Sultanahmet Square for nothing. WHERE SHOULD I SHOP? The Grand Bazaar is one of the world's oldest covered markets. There are more than 4,000 shops and stalls, selling everything from tea and Turkish delight, to knock-off football shirts and decorative tiles. It gets busy so arrive when it first opens, at 8.30am, or an hour or so before it closes at 7pm. Prepare to haggle — aim to counter the asking price with an offer 40 to 50 per cent lower and settle at 50 to 70 per cent. Be ready to walk away. In the neighbouring Spice Bazaar, foodies can pick up authentic Turkish spice blends, from sumac and pul biber, to smoky red-pepper flakes. For something more modern, Istiklal Street is the place to go to pick up some bargains. It runs for just under a mile, from Taksim Square to Galata Tower, and is lined with high street-favourite stores, and outlets selling some somewhat dodgy 'designer' gear at bargain prices. 5 The colourful buildings in Balat, Istanbul's traditional Jewish quarter Credit: Getty 5 The recently built 3* Ibis has modern, comfy rooms and a buzzing bar and restaurant Credit: Supplied WHERE SHOULD I DRINK? I thought I'd cracked the code by going to the Barnathan brasserie's rooftop by Galata Tower to get its views at a fraction of the price, but I ended up with one of the most bitter and expensive margaritas I've ever had. Instead, double up your drinking and sightseeing by booking on to a sunset cruise down the Bosphorus. has dinner cruises including food, drink and entertainment from just £25pp. WHERE SHOULD I EAT? There are good restaurants near the city centre's Sirkeci train. station — and if you've got a sweet tooth, there are joints dedicated to just desserts on almost every street. To escape the bustle, head to the hip and trendy area of Fisekhane for bougie restaurants with outdoor dining and attentive staff. I had a lovely chicken shish in the beautiful courtyard of the Levantine restaurant. For a Turkish breakfast, check out Zennup 1844 where an array of traditional dishes will cost from £15. WHERE SHOULD I STAY? Heading slightly out of the city centre, to the Zeytinburnu district, near trendy Fisekhane, will help to lower costs. The recently built 3* Ibis has modern, comfy rooms and a buzzing bar and restaurant, it is just a ten-minute walk to a train station that takes you directly into the city centre. Ask for a room on a higher floor, facing the waterside, as the road beside the hotel can get busy. 5 Double up your drinking and sightseeing by booking on to a sunset cruise down the Bosphorus Credit: Getty GO: Istanbul GETTING THERE: Wizz Air flies from Luton to Istanbul from £25.09 each way. See STAYING THERE: Double rooms at the ibis Istanbul Zeytinburnu from £41. See Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club.
The Sun
04-07-2025
- The Sun
Historic city straddles both Asia and Europe and you can get there for £25
INTOXICATING Istanbul draws visitors back again and again to explore its magical historical sites, buzzing bazaars and fabulous food. While Turkey's biggest city — with a population of more than 15million — has always been a value city-break destination, recent inflation in Turkey has made many things significantly pricier. 5 5 But this captivating city by the Bosphorus river, straddling Europe and Asia, can still be a bargain if you plan carefully. Howell Davies gives you the lowdown on how best to explore . . . WHY SHOULD I GO? Just four hours from the UK and a great long-weekend option, you're truly transported into another world, rich with culture and plenty to see and do. There's a wealth of shopping opportunities to pick up bargains, as well as winding streets to explore, delicious cuisine and sunny, warm weather from May to October. THESE STREETS MADE FOR WALKING? Yes, but pack sturdy shoes and be prepared for the city's cobblestone streets and hills. There's options if you want to take the weight off your feet, though — trams and metros cost from 30p a ride if you get a reloadable Istanbulkart travel pass. ANYTHING FOR THE BUCKET LIST? The Blue Mosque, the creation of which began in 1609, is one of the most magnificent buildings of the Ottoman Empire. It is free to enter but the queue can be long so arrive early — and check prayer times, when it is closed to non-worshippers. Nearby is another Ottoman gem — the Topkapi Palace with manicured gardens, views over the city and holy relics. Entry isn't cheap at £38 but you can stroll the neighbouring Gulhane Park, once the outer garden of the palace, for free. The imposing Hagia Sophia, which has served as a cathedral then a mosque, is also not cheap to enter but you can admire its exterior, domes and minarets from Sultanahmet Square for nothing. WHERE SHOULD I SHOP? The Grand Bazaar is one of the world's oldest covered markets. There are more than 4,000 shops and stalls, selling everything from tea and Turkish delight, to knock-off football shirts and decorative tiles. It gets busy so arrive when it first opens, at 8.30am, or an hour or so before it closes at 7pm. Prepare to haggle — aim to counter the asking price with an offer 40 to 50 per cent lower and settle at 50 to 70 per cent. Be ready to walk away. In the neighbouring Spice Bazaar, foodies can pick up authentic Turkish spice blends, from sumac and pul biber, to smoky red-pepper flakes. For something more modern, Istiklal Street is the place to go to pick up some bargains. It runs for just under a mile, from Taksim Square to Galata Tower, and is lined with high street-favourite stores, and outlets selling some somewhat dodgy 'designer' gear at bargain prices. 5 5 WHERE SHOULD I DRINK? I thought I'd cracked the code by going to the Barnathan brasserie's rooftop by Galata Tower to get its views at a fraction of the price, but I ended up with one of the most bitter and expensive margaritas I've ever had. Instead, double up your drinking and sightseeing by booking on to a sunset cruise down the Bosphorus. has dinner cruises including food, drink and entertainment from just £25pp. WHERE SHOULD I EAT? There are good restaurants near the city centre's Sirkeci train. station — and if you've got a sweet tooth, there are joints dedicated to just desserts on almost every street. To escape the bustle, head to the hip and trendy area of Fisekhane for bougie restaurants with outdoor dining and attentive staff. I had a lovely chicken shish in the beautiful courtyard of the Levantine restaurant. For a Turkish breakfast, check out Zennup 1844 where an array of traditional dishes will cost from £15. WHERE SHOULD I STAY? Heading slightly out of the city centre, to the Zeytinburnu district, near trendy Fisekhane, will help to lower costs. The recently built 3* Ibis has modern, comfy rooms and a buzzing bar and restaurant, it is just a ten-minute walk to a train station that takes you directly into the city centre. Ask for a room on a higher floor, facing the waterside, as the road beside the hotel can get busy.
Scottish Sun
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Heading to Glastonbury festival? Don't make these mistakes – and follow our best hacks
All recommendations within this article are informed by expert editorial opinion. If you click on a link in this story we may earn affiliate revenue. How to beat the crowds in the most popular places, what to pack and the hidden gems to explore GLASTO TIPS Heading to Glastonbury festival? Don't make these mistakes – and follow our best hacks EVEN on a bad headliner year, Glastonbury is the best music festival in the world. The mix of music and other activities... and general vibe of the place makes it like no other place on earth. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 The Sun's Bizarre, health and travel teams share their top tips for Glastonbury festival But it's also very large and very busy - it covers 1,100 aces (around 500 football pitches) and has a capacity of 210,000 people - more than twice the population of nearby Bath. It's also famously temperamental weatherwise - in my eight Glastonbury festivals, I've had everything from torrential rain and mud baths to scorching heatwaves. So failing to come prepared has the power to make or break you weekend, which is why we've compiled a list of all our favourite Do's and Don'ts for Glastonbury... to make sure you have the best time. Caroline McGuire, Head Of Travel - Digital (pictured bottom right, above) Beg whoever you know who owns a camping trolley (from £20 at Decathlon) to borrow it for the weekend - the site is enormous and you'll be carrying all your belongings a long way before you set up camp. Make sure to experience some of the unique areas that make Glastonbury so special - the theatre and circus fields, the Healing Fields, the Lost Horizon Nomadic Spa (aka secret nudist area with sauna, massage parlour and plunge pool). Speaking of which, don't just buy your food from the nearest vendor - make sure to make a pilgrimage to Permaculture, a shaded haven near the middle of the site that serves delicious food made from produce grown in their own garden on the site. Finding your tent can be tricky, especially when it's dark and you've had a few drinks - memorise some notable things near your pitch, like a flag or a gazebo. It's possible they're placebo, but my friends and I swear by Happy Tuesdays - vitamins that support your body's natural recovery while they sleep. We're convinced they help us deal with the post-festival blues far easier. Finally, stick a plastic bag or bin bag in your bumbag, so you always have something to sit on when it's a muddy and rainy weekend. 6 Bizarre's Jack Harwick, Ellie Henman and Howell Davies are Glastonbury pros Howell Davies, Associate Bizarre Editor (pictured right) Don't over-pack your schedule. You won't be able to see half of one set and half of another - and you'll spend the whole time walking, only to get nowhere near the stage. Don't wear uncomfortable shoes, even if they do look trendy. You should expect to walk a minimum of 25,000 steps a day and the last thing you want is blisters. Do plan individual outfits for each day, and pack them separately so that you're organised and not scrambling for pants or matching shorts. Do go off the beaten track to explore the activity away from the Pyramid Stage. That's where the maddest memories will be made. Ellie Henman, Bizarre Editor (pictured centre, above) Do scope out the best food places. You don't want to be stuck eating burger and chips every day, and there are genuinely amazing places to eat when you're there. Don't put up your tent near a path, at the bottom of a hill, or next to the loos - you won't get a wink of sleep with the banging of the doors, let alone the stench. Do pack an eye mask and ear plugs. You don't want to be woken up by the sun streaming in through your tent at the crack of dawn, having only just gone to sleep. Do walk up to the Glastonbury sign at least once. As well as spectacular views, there is a bar near the top. Jack Hardwick, Senior Showbiz Reporter (pictured left, above) Do make sure to carry spare toilet roll with you. Getting caught short miles from a toilet is no fun. Do take a refillable water bottle - there are loads of water points around the site These camping water pouches come with hooks so you can clip them onto your bag - fill some with water and two with booze. Don't leave it until mid-morning to leave on Monday. Getting off the site will take hours, so either get up early, or have a long lay-in and lunch before going. 6 Vanessa has been to the festival three times, and has finessed how not to lose your friends in the busy site Vanessa Chalmers, Assistant Head of Health, The Sun Take a flag. They are incredibly useful for finding friends in a sea of people - or for them finding you - as there is rarely phone service. Most flag poles bought online can be shortened, so you can easily carry it around with you when moving between stages. Drop any expectation at all that you will see who you want to see, especially if you are in a large group as it's hard to find your group again once you are split up. Choose one or maybe two acts you simply must see, and stick to your guns. Make something in the healing fields, or buy a souvenir, to take home! There is so much on offer. My friends and I have made a silver ring each year we have been. It takes about two hours. Follow @secretglasto on X, formerly known as Twitter, and turn on notifications. If you are lucky to get service, you might just be in the right place at the right time for a surprise set. We saw Fatboy Slim at Greenpeace completely randomly one Sunday afternoon, standing right underneath him in 'the tree'. There is no shade at Glastonbury. Well, certainly not enough for the number of people - there are so many crammed under the singular tree at Pyramid stage. So wear a hat! But if you are desperate, there is a hammock area in Park stage - near lots of camping - which is quite shaded. 6 Jamie Harris has the best tech tips for the festival Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun Definitely use Vodafone's new Glastonbury Festival app, as this will help you keep all the acts and locations organised - allow the notifications as well, as they'll let you know about surprise acts. This year they've added a handy feature to find your friends on the map if you lose each other. A power bank is a must but if you forget, you can buy a fully charged battery pack from the Vodafone tent. 6 Sophie shares her packing tips - including bringing the kitchen sink Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor You'll save cash and time queuing by bringing your own booze. There's a no glass rule and cans take up too much space. So fill a cool bag with boxed wine (ditch the box and take just the pouch). Or decant your favourite spirits into plastic bottles with a bit of mixer. I always pack a collapsible sink from The Range that costs a few quid. It's the most-used item among my pals at Glasto - when a pal fell in the mud, when I got sticky ketchup in my hair, and for clean hands when removing contact lenses. Pack a small bag, so you don;t have to venutre back to the tent for more supplies. Cram it with everything you need for the day: water, a portable charger, sunglasses, SPF, a jumper for when the sun goes down. Food for £6. It used to be 'food for a fiver' but this is nearly as good. Many food vendors commit to selling meal deals and dishes for £6. The scheme ran last year and although they haven't announced anything yet for this year, keep your eyes peeled on the blog posts. 6 Will reveals how to beat the crowds late-night at Shangri-La Will Hagerty, Associate Editor at The Sun If you intend going to Shangri-La on Friday or Saturday night, skip a headliner and head up there early, or you might not get in for hours. It's a long walk and they often close the area because it gets so crowded. Take something to sit on if it's likely to be muddy. I take a genius umbrella which doubles as a shooting stick stool. Go up to the Crows Nest, high above the Park Stage, for the best view of the site and the odd secret gig
