North Shore Hams: Takapuna Radio Club Aims High with Strong Community Focus

Takapuna, Auckland – For radio enthusiasts across Auckland's vibrant North Shore, the Takapuna amateur radio branch (Branch Number 29) stands as a dynamic hub for communication, learning, and vital community service. While currently seeking a new President, this active group maintains a robust schedule of meetings and a popular VHF net, ensuring connections remain strong across the region's airwaves.

The club convenes at the CDHQ located at 400 East Coast Road, Sunnynook, Auckland. This strategic location serves as the central point for their monthly gatherings. For postal correspondence, their address is 400 East Coast Road, Auckland 0630.

Dedicated Leadership and Collaborative Spirit

The North Shore branch is guided by a committed team of officers who ensure smooth operations and a strong focus on crucial amateur radio functions, including emergency preparedness:

• AREC Group Leader & Alternative Contact: Andrew Brill (Callsign ZL1COP) plays a pivotal dual role, leading the club's essential Amateur Radio Emergency Communications (AREC) efforts and serving as a key alternative contact. He can be reached at abrill0653@gmail.com.
• AREC Officer: M. Motion (Callsign ZL1MIT) provides crucial support for the club's AREC initiatives, contactable at mal2motion@outlook.com.

While the President position is currently vacant, the club continues to operate effectively, showcasing the strong collaborative spirit among its members. The Club Call Sign Trustee is ZL1GER, ensuring the proper management of the club's on-air identity.

Regular Meetings and Active Nets for All

The North Shore branch maintains a consistent schedule for its members to gather, learn, and connect:

• General Meetings: These are held at 7:30 PM on the first Monday of each month, with the exception of January and public holidays. These gatherings are an excellent opportunity for members to discuss club news, share technical insights, and socialize.

Beyond in-person gatherings, the North Shore branch keeps the airwaves active with its regular VHF Net, held every Wednesday at 7:30 PM on the 146.700 MHz repeater. This provides a consistent opportunity for members to make contact and engage in discussions.

Fostering New Talent: A Strong Team of Exam Supervisors

The North Shore branch is particularly strong in its commitment to fostering new talent, boasting a dedicated team of Exam Supervisors ready to guide aspiring radio amateurs through the licensing process:

• James Knightly (Callsign ZL1KNI), zl1kni@knightly.co.nz
• R. Boshier (Callsign ZL1RO), rboshier33@gmail.com
• Graham Barton (Callsign ZL1GMB), zl1gmb@xtra.co.nz
• J.J. Lamberton (Callsign ZL1BP), jim.lamberton888@gmail.com
• Nick Emery (Callsign ZL1BOP), nickemery37@gmail.com
• H.T. Falkner (Callsign ZL1AAN), hfalkner@xtra.co.nz

Whether you're a seasoned "ham" looking for a vibrant local community, an aspiring radio amateur keen to earn your license, or simply interested in the world of wireless communication, the North Shore amateur radio branch offers a welcoming and active environment.

For more details on the North Shore amateur radio group and their activities, visit their website at https://nsrc.nz or drop by one of their upcoming meetings!