- By Charles Miller
I recently had the privilege of sharing a moment with Ted Waters, known to most as Ted, an iconic Howick business personality.
With four hospitality venues clustered around the west end of Picton Street, he’s arguably ‘the host with the most!’
Ted’s journey began in Taranaki, followed by family moves to Lower Hutt and Pukeoware.
His father, a sports journalist turned business owner, influenced him early on, passing down an entrepreneurial spirit and a capacity for hard work, traits that have served him extremely well.
Also, as a keen cricketer, Ted’s early years on Auckland’s pitches and a spell in Manchester helped develop his resilience and teamwork.
After a short stint in logistics, Ted realised he was best suited working for himself.
He started with an antique shop at 31 Picton Street, marking the beginning of his journey as a business owner.
From there, his ventures grew, culminating in a hospitality hub that includes The Apothecary, Daisy Chang, Piggy, and most recently Despensa.
Today, his establishments are all popular destinations of choice in Howick, known for their eclectic ambiance and quality.
He and the team are currently celebrating Daisy Chang’s being named east Auckland’s Restaurant of the Year.
Ted’s talent for building strong relationships with suppliers, customers, and business partners has been key to his success. He believes in collaboration and the strength of networks.
Surrounding himself with capable support, like his business partner Carmen Holmes and close business associates, Ted is free to focus on what he does best: creating unique customer experiences.
Through his hands-on approach, from personally collecting produce each morning to connecting with patrons daily, and a knack for understanding ‘what people truly want’, he keeps in tune with his supply chain and market, ensuring his offerings are always fresh and on point.
Challenges have been plentiful, but Ted views them as “school fees rather than failures”.
This attitude helped his businesses survive and thrive through the Covid-19 pandemic, with innovative events like BBQs, comedy nights, and, of course, the famous bottomless oyster and prawn lunch with another one coming on December 13.
Daisy Chang, the newest venue at the time, played a critical role in supporting the whole group during that tough period. Ted is a son, husband, father, and proud ‘Howickian.’
He’s deeply committed to Howick’s business community and enjoys supporting emerging entrepreneurs and supporting local businesses.
His availability, generosity, and commitment flow from his passion for Howick’s unique village feel.
Ted’s venues are more than places to eat and drink. They’re spaces that vibrate with energy, fun, and innovation.
His secret? “Great service, happy staff, and employing ‘characters’ who enjoy what they do and back it up with their actions.”
This simple formula keeps customers coming back. For Ted, business is about more than just profit.
It’s about connection, community, and creating an environment where people can come together to enjoy good food, good company, and a sense of belonging. With another venture in the making, watch this space.
