Young businesswoman Laura Foote is a member of Devonport Business Association, as the owner of two stores in the village - ECHO Designer Boutique and its sister store ECHO Designer Living. She has always lived on the Shore and is passionate about the area.
CM: Which suburb is home and what are its best outdoor spots?
LF: I am a true North Shore girl! I grew up here and went to Vauxhall Primary, Belmont Intermediate and Takapuna Grammar.
I live and work in Devonport and love my short morning walk to work everyday. There are so many lovely spots in Devonport, especially when the sun is shining. A walk along King Edward Parade down to the Navy Museum is always nice, especially if there is a cruise ship coming in or going out of the harbour. I always recommend to the many tourists who ask, that a walk up Mt Victoria or North Head offers the best view of Auckland, it doesn't disappoint.
CM: How do you plan to enjoy the outdoors this summer?
LF: This summer will be lots of barbecues and outdoor dinners with friends, making the most of the longer daylight hours. This is the year where lots of friends are getting engaged, married, turning 30, or having babies! So I'll be sure to have my summer dresses and party shoes at the ready!
CM: What is an outdoor activity you’re keen to try and why?
LF: After meeting Alan, from Madloop Windsurf School, at the Explore North Shore launch, he assures me I will love windsurfing....! I jokingly said: "But I can't do that in my high heels!" He seems to think that where there's a will, there's a way! "Lake Pupuke is warm too," Alan told me. All I can say is watch this space...!
CM: Are you a camping or a glamping sort of person?
LF: Glamping...! Sorry!
CM: Tell us who you’d most like to go on an outdoor adventure with and why?
LF: My partner Dave and I both work in retail. And this time of year is our super busy time, leading up to Christmas. In the New Year it will be great to take a few days break to get away and enjoy the sunshine.
CM: What would you recommend visitors to the Shore do to make the most of outdoor living this summer?
LF: There are so many things locally, we are very lucky. Enjoy our beaches, local shops and cafes, markets and genuine Kiwi hospitality.
