Avenues, April 2024

THE MAGAZINE ŌTAUTAHI LIVES BY

P34 CIRCULAR SWANNY

P40

ISSUE 223 | APRIL / PAENGA-WHĀWHĀ 2024

CHAMPIONS OF WOOL

Creating Friendships...

New Generation Lifestyle Villages...

Spinning yarns at the Alpine View Lifestyle Village in Christchurch

What should you expect when sailing on the Douro River,

Portugal

Delectable vino, views, and vistas await you on Avalon’s newest river cruise sailing through Portugal’s dramatic Douro Valley. As you make your way through one of the world’s oldest wine regions aboard Avalon’s newest Suite Ship – the Avalon Alegria, you’ll uncover terraced vineyards, remote riverside towns, and exquisite scenery at every turn. The Douro Valley’s granite bluffs, signature tiled streets, and ancient whitewashed quintas are just a few good reasons to embark on a Portugal river cruise with Avalon.

Lazily snaking its way through lush, green landscapes is the iconic Douro River. These lands are home to centuries-old vineyards, towns and villages that have played an integral part in Portugal’s history. In particular, the Douro Valley  is highly regarded as a wine region. Read on for what to expect when sailing on the Douro River.

The ultimate vino voyage

As mentioned, the Douro Valley is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world! This was declared in 1756, followed by the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. Portugal itself has over 250 grape varieties, with 13 of these found only in the valley. This fine wine region produces reds, whites, and rosés – in particular, the port wine is exceptional here! Local port is made at quintas (estates) dotted throughout the valley and was historically shipped down the river to Porto.

A myriad of taste sensations

With a heavy focus on meat and seafood, the Douro Valley will showcase some of Portugal’s finest local

specialties. Picture slow cooked goat stews, a moreish cod hash, and grilled-to-perfection octopus.

Spectacular scenery

Watching the everchanging scenes from the comfort of your Avalon Suite Ship is one for the books. Sailing past terraced vineyards and docking in the heart of charming villages is a sure-fire way to truly immerse yourself in all that Portugal has to offer. Take the town of Pinhão that sits right on the Douro, with vineyards stretching high above it. It is usually a quiet town which makes it perfect to explore.

A home away from home

Be prepared to be floored!

This Douro cruise starts and ends in Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city. The city is filled with azulejos, Portuguese painted tiles, found on the streets, shop signs and buildings. The São Bento Station is an iconic site to visit with its blue

Avalon are building a brand-new ship to join the award-winning Suite Ship fleet – the Avalon Alegria. Alegria means ‘happiness’ and you are sure to find this as soon you step foot onboard. Unpack once and settle into your Panorama Suite, complete with our renowned Open-Air Balcony to bring the view in. Sailing on the Douro has never looked so ‘suite’!

away all over Porto to capture all of the colourful

Veronika Jorjobert

@jackyblisson

larissaleibel

@giorgio.darrigo

Photo by JW. on Unsplash

YEAH

FedEx – talk about express!

Nurses. Not all superheroes wear capes!

Our community’s firefighters! In the air and on land, we thank you all!

Crop swaps! Trade your homegrown fruit and vegetables with your friends and neighbours.

Resene Merino is a light and versatile off-white evoking memories of high-country stations.

NAH

The Astro Lounge closing down. The loss of another local icon.

Temperamental avocados. Guacamole shouldn’t be this hard!

Heavy bass at parties. Do people not gather around a campfire with a guitar anymore?

After-hours door knockers. Take your clipboard, and let me enjoy The Chase

Christchurch traffic. It seems every hour is rush hour now.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Wool: it’s part of ewe and me

My excitement for you to read this edition is through the roof. Here at Avenues HQ, we have been planning this Wool Issue for some time, and we’ve uncovered some incredible stories up and down the country.

Wool isn’t just a fibre in New Zealand; it’s a part of our DNA. Whether it’s memories of family farms, strolling through A&P shows, parties in woolsheds as a teenager, or wrapping yourself in a cherished heirloom home-spun jumper or a Swanndri, wool is intertwined with our national identity.

It’s been a real pleasure to meet the people involved in this industry from all ends of the spectrum, from those running sheep in the fields of Canterbury to the artisans spinning fibres to make highend furnishings. There are also innovators creating a better night’s sleep, and designers like Untouched World and Liz Mitchell who are working to close the fashion cycle. The team at Sustaina Grow have figured out a way to use it to help plants thrive. Wool is even being used in buildings! They are stories of sustainability, thinking differently, and challenging the norm.

As this issue evolved through the production process, it became evident that this fibre is a hero, as are those working with it.

Here’s to wool!

Yours,

Liam Stretch Editor

•

THE TEAM

Publisher Lisa Phelan lisa@27publishers.co.nz

Editor Liam Stretch liam@27publishers.co.nz

Art Director Lucy Arnold lucy@27publishers.co.nz

GM Advertising Shelley Eccleton shelley@27publishers.co.nz

Food Editor Sam Parish sam@27publishers.co.nz

Accounts & Admin Hilary Armstrong accounts@27publishers.co.nz

PRINT

Blueprint, Christchurch

CONTRIBUTORS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Liz Mitchell, Dr Reuben Woods, Lynette McFadden, Kate Underwood, Chelita Zainey, Kim Newth, Dr Thomas Moritz, Charlotte Instone, Chris Smith, Mickey Ross, Centuri Chan, Sarah Mankelow, Neil Macbeth, Rachel Gillespie, Shelley Sweeney, Charlie Rose Jackson, Nicholas Hoben, Hannah Nott

CONTACT US hello@27publishers.co.nz

Facebook.com/avenuesmagazine

Instagram.com/avenuesmagazine

Avenues.net.nz

Produced by Twenty Seven Publishers Limited PO Box 36753, Merivale, Christchurch, 8146

THE NEW

MINI COUNTRYMAN.

BIG LOVE.

NOW AVAILABLE AT CHRISTCHURCH MINI GARAGE.

We’ve cut the clutter and amped-up the things you love most. What remains are the rugged good looks, sleek lines and 100% indomitable MINI spirit. This is the MINI built to take you to exciting places in extreme comfort. It’s your trustworthy, urban partner in crime – the new MINI Countryman.

Come say hello in person at CHRISTCHURCH MINI GARAGE. Book in for a test drive today and indulge your senses, as everywhere you look there is something exciting to discover.

Christchurch MINI Garage,104 Moorhouse Avenue, Christchurch. Ph: 03 363 7240 christchurchminigarage.co.nz

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Stay and Unwind

Unwind

Good Kiwi craftsmanship

Wherever you go in this creative country of ours, you’ll see talented Kiwis making a living from making great stuff – and wherever you are, Felt brings them to you.

Shopping on Felt means you’re investing in your community, nurturing local creativity, celebrating Kiwi ingenuity, and directly supporting small businesses, communities, and families. More than 1500 Kiwi makers sell their work on Felt, making it easy for you to buy New Zealand made online.

It’s simple for you to shop local.

felt.co.nz

Designing heavenly community spaces

Enriching the way people live, work, worship and play through beautiful architecture and interior design

+64 3 366 5445 design@dalman.co.nz dalman.co.nz

BUILDING OF THE MONTH - HOPE CHURCH ROLLESTON

CHIT CHAT

HANDWOVEN HEIRLOOMS

Wellington textile designer Christine Brimer undertakes extensive research and sampling to design and create unique, beautifully resolved handwoven homewares. These heirloom quality double cloth blankets are truly handmade, using naturally coloured Corriedale wool grown and processed entirely within Aotearoa. nichetextile.felt.co.nz

MADE WITH LOVE

Kate Watts’ designed merino wool gloves are inspired by the warmth and practicality of the beautiful natural material. These are hand-printed in Dunedin and sewn by two machinists in their workrooms in the South Island, and the designs are influenced by vintage ephemera and the natural environment. They also produce a range of tea towels. Their hand-printed designs on 100 per cent linen are inspired by their surroundings, including one featuring items from the kitchen at Olveston Historic Home. Everything is made with love and sent to you beautifully giftwrapped for you and those you love. katewatts.co.nz

FAMILY FARM QUALITY

JUNGLE ROOM

Let’s hear you roar! This tiger rug by Sew Heart Felt is made with organic felt and coloured with eco-friendly dyes. It’s entirely handmade and has a three-dimensional head and tail, adding bucketloads of character! There is no need to head on a safari, you’ll find this fiercely cool rug at Hapa. hapa.co.nz

The Grumpy Merino is a family-owned business, producing a range of 100 per cent merino and New Zealand-made woollen products. They use a soft line of ewe fleece, which is soft against the skin, making it perfect for decor or clothing; it’s also sustainable, temperature regulating, fire retardant, and has antibacterial properties. New to the range is the TGM Child’s Vest, which is available in sizes 2, 4, 6 in ‘oat’. It’s beautifully designed and a practical way to keep your children warm without being constricted through their arms. They also make yarn, baby blankets, and throws. @thegrumpymerino | thegrumpymerino.co.nz

CHIT CHAT

CARPET ENVY

Equipped with extensive product knowledge, Floorpride’s team is highly experienced and includes interior design consultants. They love recommending wool carpets. Strong, soft to the touch, and warm, wool is hypoallergenic, fireresistant, and anti-static. It also has superior insulation, humidity, and acoustic properties. floorpride.com

YOUR CHOICE

Wink helps you to sleep better, and more stylishly! Its fully customisable range of bedhead designs are easily selectable at the click of a few buttons on its interactive website and are proudly handmade in New Zealand using NZ wool padding, so you can rest easy knowing your Wink bedhead is kind to the environment and isn’t releasing harmful emissions while you sleep. The fabulous choice of shapes, fabric, and embellishments means customers can truly get something individual and custom-made, and there is an interior designer always on hand to help out. What are you waiting for? It’s about time you had a good sleep.

winkdesign.co.nz

WRAPPED

In Central Otago, PK Maracin hand-dyes high-end Canterbury merino and weaves it into stunning one-of-a-kind garments, each unique in colour, texture, and design. The beautiful softness, durability, comfort, and elegance of PK’s wraps and shawls make them equally perfect for an evening out or snuggling on the sofa or deck. pksews.felt.co.nz

FLEECE FROM YOUR FAVOURITE SHEEP

On Random Farm in Wairarapa, every sheep has a name. Focused on ethical production of natural coloured fleece specifically for spinners, weavers, and handcrafters, the team uses regenerative farming practices, shearing the sheep and preparing the fleeces themselves to ensure the utmost care is taken with the animals’ welfare. Fleece is sold by name, so you can order fibre from your favourite sheep! While most are Romney, the crossbred flock also includes Corriedale, Finn, and other breeds. The micron range is generally most suitable for outerwear, blankets, socks, and upholstery, but the team is breeding for softness and some fleece is suitable for next-to-skin. randomfarm.felt.co.nz

Introducing SMILEpro

the latest advancement in laser eye surgery

Over 20 with short sightedness, long sightedness or astigmatism?

With over 27 years’ experience, trust the care and expertise of Dr Kent and his team offering visual freedom with the safety and accuracy of our laser treatment.

Book online for your face to face or virtual free laser assessment with a member of our experienced team.

LASIK.CO.NZ

0800 DR EYES

10 Otara St, Fendalton, Christchurch (Adjacent

6 & 9

FERNS VS THAILAND

New Zealand’s Football Ferns will be kicking up a storm this month with a stop in the Garden City. Squaring up against Thailand over two days at Apollo Projects Stadium, tickets are just $20, with under 16s free. This is the first time our Football Ferns have played at home since their trailblazing stint at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Go on Christchurch, let’s fill the stadium!

6 & 9 April, Apollo Projects Stadium nzfootball.co.nz

RIVER CITY JAZZMEN

As part of the Arts Centre’s Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series, the River City Jazzmen return to Christchurch. Neill Pickard (banjo and vocals), Michael Fairhurst (trumpet, cornet, and vocals), Allan Hawes (clarinet), Glyn MacDonald (trombone and piano), Dave Pitt (double bass), and Louie Moverley (drums) will have the audience toe-tapping. Other performers featured in the Lunchtime Concert Series include Christchurch’s iconic songstresses Ali Harper and Naomi Ferguson, and rousing performances from the city’s only professional brass band – Woolston Brass.

15 April, Great Hall, The Arts Centre artscentre.org.nz

KINKY BOOTS

Don’t miss the musical hit, Kinky Boots, Showbiz Christchurch’s latest sure-to-be hit. Its award list comprises six Tonys, including Best Musical, and a Grammy for Best Musical Theatre Album. Join Charlie Price as he revives his family’s shoe factory with the help of Lola, a fabulous drag entertainer. From the producers of Matilda, That Bloody Woman, and My Fair Lady, Kinky Boots will be unforgettable.

19 April–4 May, Isaac Theatre Royal isaactheatreroyal.co.nz

CSO: JOHN WILLIAMS

Delivering some of the most iconic soundtracks of our time, John Williams’ musical prowess is undeniable. The CSO, conducted by Benjamin Northey, presents Celebrating John Williams. Bring the whole family and immerse yourself in the wonder of the orchestra as CSO performs John Williams hits from iconic films, including Jaws, Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Star Wars

20 April, Christchurch Town Hall cso.co.nz

Pop up Museum

66 Gloucester Street

See Museum highlights and special exhibitions while our buildings are being redeveloped

Fleur by DK Floral Design is a boutique florist with a European feel, creating beautiful bouquets and stocking a unique range of gifts.

186 Papanui Road | fleurdk.co.nz

Treat your entire pelvic floor

Childbirth, menopause, pelvic surgery, prostatectomy, nerve damage, traumatic injury to the pelvic region and aging can lead to a weak bladder and pelvic floor dysfunction in both males and females.

At iWellness we can provide a non-invasive Emsella chair designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improving incontinence and intimate health.

Flow Wellbeing Clinic

229 Fitzgerald Avenue

Christchurch City Central 021 540 698 | info@wellness.kiwi

www.iwellness.kiwi

11,000 Kegels in 28 minutes!

Free entry; Donations appreciated canterburymuseum.com

Julia Ashmore -Smith

OUR HISTORY

Sure to Rise: The Edmonds Story catalogues a Kiwi household name. This book has left a mark, winning local and global awards. It delves into the history of Edmonds and sheds light on its iconic imagery, the beloved Edmonds Cookery Book, and Thomas Edmonds’ journey from humble beginnings to a prominent entrepreneur and philanthropist alongside his wife, Jane.

SPORTY SPICE

The New Zealand Olympic Team for Paris 2024 and Wellington-based TOI have unveiled a stirring video for their newly released track, Ain’t Just Dreaming, featuring Olympians Ellesse Andrews and Max Brown. Co-written by Andrews and Brown, the song beautifully encapsulates their athletic odyssey on the global platform.

PERFECT FIT

FOOD FINDER

Foraging New Zealand, penned by Peter Langlands, is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts and foragers alike. With meticulous research, it explores the diverse edible plants of New Zealand, equipping readers with tools for identifying 250 species accurately. An essential resource for novices and seasoned foragers.

The Outfit, directed by Graham Moore, is a recent addition to Netflix. This film noir-esq mystery is full of twists and tangles as Mark Rylance (Leonard ‘English’ Burling) commands the screen as a suitmaker or ‘cutter’ alongside a group of Chicago gangsters jostling for power. In his typical style, Rylance is able to deliver a character in an offbeat and understated way, weaving an intriguing story. The revelation is a true surprise and oh-so-satisfying.

The Eternal Battle…

Artist Mark Catley

Date October 2023 (since removed)

Location Hereford Street

In a city that has undergone so much change, it is easy to get nostalgic. The scale of new leaves little room for signs of the past, making those we can find more powerful. Which could be why Mark Catley’s work is so effective – not only are we reminded of the direct reference to cherished childhood toys, but we are invited to consider the city of Ōtautahi through a personal history as well. This plastic pair of pasted characters, now covered in a swathe of grey paint, depicted one of the greatest conflicts of a 1980s childhood – the eternal battle of Skeletor and He-Man! The muscular foes were posed in a scantily clad stand-off, weapons drawn, a conflict of good and evil playing out in downtown Christchurch. By taking objects of childhood (especially if you are of a certain vintage), Catley’s work transported us to an earlier time, to memories of places visited as a child – whether a beloved bookstore, a magical cinema, or a favourite toy shop. The addition of these oversized figures not only playfully activates our city streets but also serves to evoke our past experiences and the city itself as a place of wonder…

Explore more of Ōtautahi’s urban art on a Watch This Space guided street art tour! Email tours@watchthisspace.org.nz for booking information.

watchthisspace.org.nz/artwork/1089 WATCH THIS SPACE

Unlocking musculoskeletal health with cutting-edge imaging technology

Dr Thomas Moritz Lead MSK Radiologist, Reform Radiology reformradiology.co.nz

The body’s musculoskeletal system is a remarkable living machine. The dynamic interplay between bones, muscles, tendons, nerves, and all the supporting structures is as fascinating as it is complex in both health and disease. The way the body can adapt, heal, and compensate sets it apart from any feat of engineering.

Medical imaging plays a crucial role in providing essential diagnostic information for the musculoskeletal system. Technical development in recent decades has revolutionised the landscape of diagnostics and minimally invasive procedures. At Reform Radiology, we are dedicated to offering state-of-the-art solutions powered by the latest imaging technology.

Central to Reform Radiology’s commitment to excellence is its investment in two cutting-edge Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines that deliver outstanding image quality and diagnostic accuracy. Our advanced MRI systems utilise innovative artificial intelligence technology that significantly improves image quality and allows faster scan times. The outstanding clarity of the resulting images allows the detection of subtle musculoskeletal abnormalities and conditions. Whether it is identifying soft tissue injuries, evaluating joint abnormalities, or assessing spinal conditions, our MRI systems provide doctors with the clarity and confidence they need to make informed diagnoses.

But modern imaging goes beyond MRI. Reform Radiology’s high-resolution ultrasound machines can fill the gaps where even MRI can fall short, allowing for dynamic assessment of the smallest of structures, all in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Reform Radiology is setting new standards for the diagnosis of nerve conditions by harnessing the power of modern ultrasound. It allows non-invasive real-time visualisation of nerve structures and all surrounding tissue, enabling precise diagnosis and targeted interventions. This can be gamechanging in nerve entrapment and upper limb injuries, frequently allowing treating physicians to offer minimally invasive treatment options, thereby optimising outcomes for patients.

Besides its merits in diagnostics, HighResolution Ultrasound and Computed Tomography (CT) can also be used to guide a wide range of procedures, from joint injections and arthrograms to nerve blocks and tissue biopsies. Our team of specialists has decades of experience in Interventional Radiology, and using the best available technology will provide exceptional care to patients.

The team at Reform Radiology understands that medicine is the science and practice of caring for people. Professionalism, empathy, and clear communication are equally important to innovation and technology when improving both the quality of life and outcomes for our patients.

CONFIDENT STRIDES

1

STAYING POWER

Revlon’s new range of ColorStay Limitless Matte liquid lipsticks is changing the game. With 24-hour wear and no-budge matte, the application is a breeze with a lip-hugging applicator and lightweight formula. Available in 16 shades.

revlon.com

PERFECT PAIR

Cologne Intense fragrance invokes a rare encounter in a tropical forest, and it features striking red hibiscus notes, jasmine, sambac, and sensual vanilla for a solar, exotic aroma.

mecca.com

The Elomi Kintai Plunge Bra and Full Brief offer drama but also practicality. Inspired by the shape of the Kintai bridge in Japan, comfort remains key to the Elomi bra design, hence the soft fold-over underband and comfy stretch mesh. The Elomi Kintai Plunge Bra is $94.99, and the Full Brief is $54.99. Stop by the Fitting Room in Christchurch or Wellington to chat with the expert team.

thefittingroom.co.nz

4 INTENSIF FOR RESULTS

EndyMed Radiofrequency treatments offer a revolutionary approach to skin rejuvenation by being able to treat all layers of the skin. Intensif needling provides deeper, more structural improvements, while FSR (fractional skin resurfacing) focuses on enhancing the superficial layers. For a more robust treatment, combine Intensif with FSR. Get youthful, radiant skin with EndyMed’s transformative power only at the Skin Rejuvenation Clinic. Check out the monthly specials! skinrejuvenationclinic.co.nz

Choreography Russell Kerr after Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov Music Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky Staging Turid Revfeim Set

Costume Kristian Fredrikson Lighting Jon Buswell Conductor Hamish McKeich

RNZB

Principal Mayu Tanigaito, photograph by Ross Brown

CREATURE COMFORTS

The seasons are changing and so are our wardrobes. Rug up in style with these earthy picks.

The Modern Musterer Jersey, $359 davaarwool.co.nz | Max Mara Weekend Sweater, $849 ballantynes.co.nz Manuela Classic Jean, $384 nz.camillaandmarc.com | Isabel Marant Étoile Sabine Coat, $1498 workshop.co.nz Sol Jacket, $529 untouchedworld.com | Astana Jacket, $6989 seletticonceptstore.com | Zadig et Voltaire Borderline Bucket Grained Record Bag, $989 fashionsociety.co.nz | Flow Military Green Lemon Jelly Boots, $240 theshoecurator.com

Discover the wonders of Waitaki

Three reasons to visit Waitaki this autumn

Steampunk NZ Festival

Thursday 30 May - Monday 3 June 2024, King’s Birthday Weekend

Discover an era only dreamed of at the Steampunk Festival in Ōamaru. Themed “Botanical Mechanical”, enter a world where industrial meets Victorian elegance. Everyone is invited to dress up, celebrate, and follow their quest for botanical mechanical treasures through the historic streets of Ōamaru. Anything goes at New Zealand’s Steampunk HQ.

Alps to Ocean Cycle Route

This spectacular journey traverses stunning landscapes, from the majestic Southern Alps to the scenic Ōamaru coastline. Cycle past snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and charming coastal towns on this breathtaking 300-kilometre trail. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a weekend warrior, this promises to be an unforgettable adventure. www.a2ocycletours.co.nz

Penguin Encounters

Ōamaru boasts two penguin colonies, offering unique opportunities to witness these remarkable birds in their natural habitat. Observe the little blue penguins as they waddle ashore at the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony, or embark on a guided tour to see the endangered yellow-eyed penguins at nearby Katiki Point.

WaitakiNZ

Waitaki_NZ

Champions of wool

Wool’s versatility, beauty and value truly make it one of the best fibres in the world. It is regenerative, recyclable, non-allergenic, temperatureregulating, sound and moisture-absorbing, flame-resistant, durable, and biodegradable.

“Throughout my career, I’ve always loved natural materials and have had strong ties with the New Zealand Wool Board. I love the beauty of the fibre. It is enduring, versatile, and breathable. The New Zealand wool industry is one we can be incredibly proud of and should continue to invest in – both its products and its people.”

Liz Mitchell, MNZM – Ambassador for Wool

FEATURE

FUTURE-PROOF FIBRE

Liz Mitchell MNZM is the director and creative force behind the Liz Mitchell atelier and Liz Mitchell Homeware. As a champion for the New Zealand wool industry, Liz has centred her design practice around this regenerative fibre. As a child, Liz spent time feeding lambs and assisting in the wool shed at her grandparents’ sheep and dairy farm, where she developed an appreciation and understanding of the animals and the fibre they produced. Liz was taught by her mother to knit, which was her introduction to sustainable creativity and the synchronicity of human relationships and craft. Whether in Liz’s made-to-order fashion, fine art, or homeware products, her design practice falls under a framework of circularity and community, with the environmental and economic benefits of wool at the centre point.

“By the day, we are edging nearer toward environmental catastrophe as a result of unconsidered mass production, the demand for quick turnarounds in the fashion and design space, and the overbearing waste mismanagement across manufacturing,” says Liz. “The impact of unaccountability across our industry is very much a lived reality for countries that are the backbone of the first stages in the supply chain, and it’s critical we find solutions that rectify this.”

At the time Liz kick-started her bespoke career in the nineties, innovation and investment in wool were thriving. Yet, with the rise of fast fashion and the convenience of synthetic fibres, the demand for New Zealand wool has dropped, making agricultural investments more expensive for farmers, fibres less accessible for manufacturers, and the qualities of wool less available to New Zealand consumers. The mission behind Liz’s wool-centred design has always been to close such detachments in the wool supply chain by building a network that enables more human

touch points between farmers, fibre developers, designers, and manufacturers – maximising the environmental and economic benefits of the fibre through slower production demands and sharing knowledge and resources to bring wool back home.

Liz believes wool’s versatility is unparalleled by any other fibre. She continues to explore its endless textural and creative possibilities at her textile development lab, which is researching wool felting techniques, an ancient art used throughout Liz Mitchell Homeware products. These products are just as valuable at the end of their life as they are when purchased, as a result of their biodegradability when re-entering the earth.

In 2024, Liz Mitchell and her team will continue to spearhead exciting developments for New Zealand wool. Liz and her Campaign for Wool New Zealand partners are advancing resources, knowledge, and scientific innovations to showcase wool’s technical prowess and its ecological benefits. Liz’s partnership with Palliser Ridge Station in South Wairarapa, highlighted by their collaboration on a wool-based capsule travel wardrobe last year, continues to flourish. Joining the Wool On showcase as a judge this July, Liz looks forward to a competition that highlights the design potential of wool yet holds space for both emerging and established fashion designers.

Liz is proud to be part of a community at the forefront of addressing the challenges of today’s wool industry and working toward solutions through this regenerative fibre. Her design-led approach highlights New Zealand’s strong wool as a circular resource and puts wool design back on the world stage.

“The New Zealand wool industry is one we can be incredibly proud of and should continue to invest in – both its products and its people.”

WOOLLEN INNOVATION

In the evolving world of architectural design and interior acoustics, Floc stands out as a premier choice for professionals seeking to blend aesthetics with functionality and environmental responsibility.

With 90 per cent of New Zealand’s wool being strong wool, a few entrepreneurial thinkers have developed new ways to use and apply this natural resource.

From a Christchurch-based warehouse, the team at Floc is taking wool to the walls by developing specialised wall panels.

With backing from the government, Floc makes the most of wool’s natural properties. Extensive research, development, and modern thinking have created woollen panels that are not only a testament to the beauty and versatility of organic materials; they also boast significant acoustic and health and safety benefits.

Wool’s unique properties allow for excellent sound absorption, enhancing the interior environment of commercial and educational spaces by mitigating common acoustic issues like echoes and reverberation.

The company behind Floc, T&R Interior Systems Limited (T&R), has spent years refining its wool panels to ensure they meet Aotearoa’s strict building and fire compliance standards and launched the product in 2022. Wool’s natural characteristics, along with a patent pending natural fire retardant, makes Floc a safer alternative to synthetics. When burning, Floc produces less smoke and heat than synthetic fibres, resulting in a charring whereas synthetics like polyester will catch fire and melt away. This makes Floc a safer choice.

Its natural elements, which can be traced throughout the entire manufacturing process, from shearing to pressing, also make it a safer option for other reasons. Wool is naturally hypoallergenic and further enhances an interior environment with its unique ability to regulate temperature and improve air quality.

Because it is crafted from 100 per cent New Zealand-strong wool, Floc embodies a commitment to sustainability, offering a renewable and biodegradable solution that can be returned to the earth at the end of its life cycle. This not only addresses the increasing demand for environmentally friendly materials but also provides an effective alternative to petrochemical-based artificial fibres, aligning with global trends towards more sustainable construction materials.

Floc panels are designed with practicality in mind. It doesn’t matter if it’s a new build or an existing space that needs noise control; they are easy to install and offer a cost-effective solution.

On top of their practicality, they also come in a range of colours, and the panels can also be customised with printed designs, making them suitable for bespoke projects and developments where design is key.

Alongside the Floc Panel is the Floc 3D, a pressed and shaped panel, available in a range of three-dimensional designs.

As New Zealand and the world continue to seek out innovative solutions that meet the challenges of modern design and sustainability, Floc stands as a shining example of how natural materials can be harnessed to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also beneficial to both people and the environment.

SUPERIOR SHEEPSKIN

For well over a century, Bowron Sheepskins has been tanning sheepskins in Woolston, a marker of the area’s industrious past, having once employed around 700 people.

In 2024, Bowron Sheepskins continues its legacy of quality. Now, a team of around 50 craftspeople enhances the sheepskin’s natural characteristics to become a little bit of luxe for your home, bringing the natural in.

Their range is extensive, featuring naturally coloured as well as dyed pieces. The Premium Natural Sheepskins will pleasantly surprise you with their earthy browns, greys, whites, and creams, bringing warmth to any living space. They’re thick and plush, incredibly soft to touch.

Thomas van der Willik, responsible for Bowron’s sales in New Zealand, loves the naturally coloured sheepskins. He states, “They are absolutely unique; you will not have the same one as someone else.” Being a premium product, Thomas suggests buyers invest in a quality product that is crafted in Christchurch by workers who have dedicated much of their working lives to making the high-end sheepskins.

“You can feel the craftsmanship of our staff. It’s just softer and looks better.”

“On top of that, it brings you back to nature.” Bowron Sheepskins are also made in a sustainable way.

All of their sheepskins are sourced from free-range farms across New Zealand and obtained as a by-product of the food industry.

This would otherwise go to waste if not for the care and commitment to quality that their craftspeople exercise. The skins are hand-selected, meticulously cleaned, tanned, softened, and handcrafted to be turned into upcycled luxurious rugs, seat covers, cushions, baby rugs, and furniture.

They look good anywhere in your abode – or even your caravan. The sheepskin pieces are just as at home draped over a sofa as they are used as a floor rug.

A customer favourite is the natural Colossus Bean Bag. These round bean bags are colossal by name and by nature, surrounding you with comfort as soon as you sit down. The Colossus range is available in dyed varieties, but there is also a natural-coloured option, which makes each bean bag unique and is a luxurious addition to your living space, and not your usual bean bag.

The craftspeople at Bowron have also created a wider range of natural and dyed sheepskin products, from kids’ bean bags to Ottomans, to cushions and throws.

For something with a bit of drama, there are the rugs made from Icelandic and Tibetan sheepskins – two long-haired varieties that you’ll be snuggling into.

To see the quality of the products up close, the Bowron factory shop is open to the public.

Their complete range can be found at the store on Long Street in Woolston, just around the corner from The Tannery boutique shopping centre, or on their website.

bowron.com

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR WARDROBE?

Our clothes are often more welltravelled than we are. Have you ever thought about how that sweater you’re wearing was made? A typical garment can travel between five to ten countries before landing in your wardrobe.

Eighteen per cent of major brands scored zero per cent on the 2023 Fashion Revolution Transparency Index. Fashion supply chains are often convoluted and opaque.

Over the last 40 years, Untouched World’s craftspeople have mastered the art of creating decade-lasting, pill-resistant knitwear. Traceability is not just a fanciful notion; it’s a reality.

With 94 per cent of the Untouched World collection proudly made in New Zealand, their supply chain is simple, and they directly support over 110 local families. The brand’s Ecopossum™ range features brushtail possum fibre, which is spun into yarn in Wellington before being knitted into garments in their Christchurch workrooms. Using possum fibre helps control the possum population, which poses a huge threat to New Zealand’s native flora and fauna.

Untouched World takes a regenerative approach to their practice. Over 90 per cent of the merino wool used in the collections is sourced from Glenthorne Station, a ZQRX™ accredited farm in the beautiful Cantabrian high country. Located just 110km away from the Untouched World workrooms, Glenthorne leads the way when it comes to regenerative farming practices and their merino is grown to the highest standards of animal, social, and environmental welfare.

Regenerative farming takes a systemsbased, holistic approach, with the goal of making the land more productive and biodiverse over time. In most situations, improving soil health and function is pivotal to improving productivity and biodiversity.

At Untouched World, they consider the whole life cycle of everything they make, from

the fabrics and fibres they use to how long a garment will last, and how easy it is to care for. Fabrics like their ZQ™ certified merino, organic cotton and luxurious Ecopossum™ can naturally return to the earth and break down without contributing to landfill.

Wool takes as little as three to four months to decompose, and organic cotton up to six months to decompose – a mere heartbeat in time when compared to synthetic fabrics, which can take anywhere from 30 to 500 years to decompose.

This is where the circular economy comes in: a system where materials never become waste and nature is regenerated. Products and materials are kept in circulation through processes like repair, reuse, recycling, and composting.

In 2023 alone, Untouched World saved over one tonne of waste yarn from landfill. Any wool scraps were either recycled back into new yarn for their kids and baby collections, or given to recycling companies to make into home insulation.

The Untouched World team is always looking for innovative ways to minimise waste. In 2023, they launched ‘These Socks are Rubbish’. Leftover knitwear scraps were shredded and spun into new yarn for socks. This recycling process is completely water and dye-free, and the stunning colours of these unique new yarns are derived naturally from the offcuts.

Experience the entire collection at the Untouched World flagship store at 155 Roydvale Ave. While you’re browsing, take a peek through to the workrooms to see the garments being made, then grab a coffee and a bite in the oasis of the adjoining Untouched Kitchen. Freshly renovated, the store has undergone an exquisite transformation. Inspired by nature’s timeless beauty, the new design harmoniously blends clay tones, soft woods, and local stones to create a sanctuary of comfort and calm.

Words by Charlotte Instone | untouchedworld.com

CIRCULAR SWANNY

If asked what was quintessentially New Zealand, we’d all rattle off a couple of things. For many, the Swanny is on that list. For over 110 years, Swanndri has been crafting durable garments designed to endure for generations. They believe that their apparel is meant to be worn regardless of the weather, season, or occasion – for making memories.

There will be those of you who have a Swanny in the wardrobe that has been passed down from father to son, mother to daughter.

These timeless designs are stitched together by the team with some nifty clothing engineering. Every seam is reinforced with single, twin, and even triple topstitching. For those high-wear areas, they add bar tacks to strengthen pocket openings. Tensile strength, shrinkage, seam slippage, and abrasion are all tested to withstand the toughest situations – whatever New Zealand can throw at them.

In many ways, it’s a garment that lasts forever, but recently, Swanndri has been looking at the life cycle of its products beyond the wardrobe and our great big backyard.

So, what happens to a Swanndri once you’ve worn it out? When it’s been handed down over the decades, and it is finally time to let it go?

The core ingredient of a classic Swanny is wool – a natural fibre grown from the land. That’s why, in 2023, they returned one to the land and decided to bury a Swanndri. This shows how this natural fibre, wool, can be so hard-wearing and long-lasting while it’s on your back, but when the time comes, it can be returned to the earth and will break down naturally, leaving no trace.

Up on a hill at The Wandle, a farm in Middlemarch, Central Otago (run by Swanndri suppliers), Tara, the co-manager of the farm, gifted an old Swanny of hers that was about ready to retire. It was cut into four pieces. Three of these were buried on the farm, and the fourth was to be taken away and buried close to Swanndri’s Christchurch head office so they could monitor progress.

Passionate about the project and the science behind it, Swanndri enlisted the help of expert Emma Wilding, Innovation Project Manager at The New Zealand Merino Company. Emma’s role involves collaborating with farmers to enhance the value of their businesses and the brands they supply through sustainable, ethical, and regenerative practices.

According to Emma, there will be some decomposition in six to twelve months, but it might take 18 months for it to break down completely. As Emma points out, though, it’s not just about how fast wool breaks down. “It’s about showing how wool can be a force for good.”

“Because when you buy a woollen garment from Swanndri, you’re not just buying a piece of clothing that’s completely biodegradable, you’re supporting farms that are regenerating the land and their sustainable supply chain – you’re supporting a whole circular ecosystem.”

As Emma mentions, “Plastics have only really been around for 80 years. And they have completely changed the way we live – often not for the better. Whereas wool’s been around for thousands and remains unchanged.”

“Wool is back to basics. Back to nature. Back to what’s best for all of us – for you, for the animals, and for our planet.”

swanndri.co.nz

THE GROUND UP

From their farm in the shadow of Mount Ruapehu, Rita and Dave Hammond have developed a product that is shaking things up.

Their business, Sustaina Grow, creates wool-based products for the planting industry. They also offer corporate and delegate gifts to help companies achieve their sustainability goals.

Their product range includes growing bags, mulch mats, nursery growing kits, and tree guards.

Rita says the idea for Sustaina Grow came from firsthand experience and a desire to move away from synthetics.

“I used wool all the time in my own garden from our wool shed. I have three young children, and it horrifies me how much plastic is used in gardening.”

Helping clients on their journey to introduce their 100 per cent New Zealand-made wool products is something Rita says they love to do, and interest is far-reaching.

“We are a one-stop shop; we not only produce and sell wool mulch rolls for erosion and sediment control, but we also work with organic orchards to help with their mulch options. We provide all things from wool spray guards to wool tree guards and wool tree wraps.”

In light of the growing trend of forest and scrub fires in summer, Rita sees real potential for their wool tree guards in the protection of orchards, forests, and private plantings.

“Wool is a natural fire retardant. Wool tree guards are much less of a fire risk than cardboard or plastic alternatives.”

Sustaina Grow is self-funded, but it’s a challenge that the Hammonds have embraced.

“As a family with young children, this has been hard; however, we believe in what we are doing, and we see that people are starting to believe in us.”

Alongside environmental benefits, Rita says she is excited about the added value their products bring to the wool market.

“We currently source our wool from over 200 farms. We would love to see wool tree guards replace the alternatives on every highway in New Zealand, supporting a stronger wool industry and better farm gate returns for our sheep farmers.” sustainagrow.co.nz

A YEAR IN WOOL

In 2023, Davaar & Co achieved a milestone with the opening of its farm store, located in the old shearer’s quarters on the family farm. Founder Kate Macdonald says it has offered a unique chance to interact with customers and harness the magic of the multi-generational family farm.

“I think it’s very special for people to be welcomed onto our century-old family farm and try on a beautiful woollen jersey that has been grown right here and entirely made in New Zealand. It’s a wonderful story, and I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to tell it.”

Kate’s appreciation for wool has continued to grow over this past year.

“I love seeing customers so happy with their woollen jersey and the smile on their face when they purchase their Davaar & Co piece.”

With winter approaching, Kate reiterates the wonders of wool, citing its sustainability. “Wool is naturally grown, not made. Each year, a sheep grows a new fleece, and all that is required to grow its fleece is water, sunshine, air, and grass.”

“It’s a staple item that isn’t going to go out of fashion and will last decades to come.”

To get the most out of your garment, she offers a couple of care tips.

Store your jersey in the wardrobe to maintain its shape. Hand wash with wool-approved detergent, then lay flat to dry. If you’re sensitive to wool, consider wearing a longsleeve top underneath. Store in a cotton dust bag, included with every Davaar & Co jersey purchase, to protect from pesky moths.

Producing garments from a less common crossbreed sheep’s wool means Kate gets a few questions about the product.

“Many people ask us if our wool is merino, which it’s not. Here at Davaar Station in Southland, our average rainfall in a year is 1100mls – a lot. Our winters are typically cold and wet, which our crossbred sheep can withstand. The sheep we farm are a Romney Perendale crossbreed. They are hardy animals and don’t seem to get the same foot problems that Merino sheep can get if it is wet underfoot.”

Their Romney/Perendale sheep produce a beautiful, coarser wool that is perfect for cosy knitwear like the Davaar & Co collection. And they’re thriving on Davaar Station.

@davaarandco | davaarwool.co.nz

A MORE NATURAL SLEEP

David Henderson’s passion for a good night’s sleep is contagious.

From his Christchurch work and showrooms, he shares with Avenues the secrets of his Dreamwool Beds, a business that has been in the family since 1974 – with its beginnings in 1934.

Dreamwool mattresses comprise two types. The craftspeople create top-ofthe-line luxury latex and pocket spring mattresses, which offer maximum breathability and climate control without compromising on comfort. The materials used are of the highest quality and natural. Both beds will guarantee you a restful sleep, but the truly special element in them is the 100 per cent merino wool sourced sustainably from South Island farms.

In 1978, Edgar Henderson, David’s father, was an ex-farmer with a bad back. Recalling old-fashioned black wool singlets worn by the shearers and how they regulated their body temperature was the inspiration for his invention of the first woollen under quilt.

“With that, we were always known for the quality of our product. That’s stuck with us.”

Each Dreamwool mattress is crafted to mimic the wool’s natural state as it is on the sheep. The needled layer of merino wool is softer on the top, and as you go deeper, its density increases. That, combined with the natural latex or Europeanstyle springs, has David comparing it to a chocolate brownie rather than a sponge cake.

“A brownie is dense. The mattress may look thinner, but you get far more in it.”

David says natural fibres have a calming and cooling effect.

“They draw away excess body heat before it turns into perspiration. This creates the perfect microclimate in the bed.”

Every Dreamwool luxury bed is made to order, and fewer than 500 handcrafted merino wool mattresses are made each year.

David says they’re made to the highest quality. “Yes, you might be paying a little bit more, but beds are like shoes. If you’re not in one, you’re in the other. It’s important that you’re comfortable – life’s too short for a bad sleep.”

dreamwool.com

The Mackenzie: Untamed simplicity

Welcome to the Mackenzie Country, a place of glacial lakes and wide open skies. Take a sip of highland air and listen; it’s quiet enough amongst the caramel tussock hills and snow-dusted alps to hear the echoes of a history filled with scallywags and hardy characters.

The Mackenzie is, in many ways, just as wild now as it was for the first brave sheep musterers to traipse in on foot, ready to make their life on its frosted and barren earth. These days, however, you’ll find pockets of comfort and warm hospitality. At the heart of the basin, on the banks of Lake Tekapo, sits the Cairns Alpine Resort and Golf Club.

Like the Mackenzie itself, the Cairns shows us the way to a simpler time. The resort is owned and run by the Simpson family, Merino farmers who have been in the basin for three generations. ore specifically, they’ve been here since their Grandpa Jack answered an ad for a shepherd at Mt Cook Station in 1928. It

demanded he ‘must stand like an Arctic hero’ and ‘hate town life’. Jack fit the bill, started a family and stayed in the Mackenzie for life.

Through elegant lodges, cottages and refurbished homesteads, the Simpsons offer their guests a modern take on the rugged alpine lifestyle that runs through their veins. Thoughtful design entwines the spirit of the place with just the right amount of luxury, and there are options for couples, families, and groups of all sizes. A world unto itself, Tekapo is just 225 kilometres from Christchurch, and 256 kilometres from Queenstown.

The views, whether you’re gazing across the lake to the mountains or up at one of

the brightest night skies in the world, are an invitation to pause in awe. For those who book early enough, many of the lodges include a private hot tub.

The 110-year-old Mt John Homestead has the spirit of the Mackenzie in its walls. It has been masterfully refurbished to conserve its century-old character and has five bedrooms, multiple living areas, a private hot tub, and a crackling fireplace. The Bunker House, meanwhile, tucked into farmland fifteen minutes from Tekapo, is an architectural triumph and a haven of solitude.

The freshly built wood-lined Alpine Lodges have been designed with a nod to the old musterer’s hut. They are open-planned, private, and flooded with natural light. Each lodge is named after a character of Mackenzie history, including James Mackenzie, the trailblazing settler and infamous sheep rustler. Also in there is Billy Hamilton, the inventor of the jet boat, and Freda du Faur, the first woman to climb Aoraki Mt Cook.

The Cairns offers a place to retreat from the world, be it for a weekend away, a group gathering or a corporate event. Tekapo is the antidote to a stale boardroom – expansive

skies, mountain air, and an abundance of activities are fertile ground for fresh ideas and new connections.

The Cairns nine-hole golf course may not be built on sand, but the way it follows the natural contours of the hills carries a whisper of the Mackenzie’s predominantly Scottish heritage. The course offers a wonderful way to spend the afternoon in the high-country air, but we’d advise you to leave plenty of time – the views are distracting.

Summer in Tekapo brings lake swims and long days of sunshine, whilst winter sees the mountains blanketed in snow. But autumn, when there’s magic in the air, is undoubtedly the best time to visit. Come April, the mornings are crisp, the sunsets are brilliant, and the star-clustered nights are long and restful. The trees glow amber, and the quiet village is filled with the scent of log burners crackling back to life.

And so it stands: your invitation to simplicity. Are you ready?

thecairns.co.nz

BREATHE TEKAPO

This May, Tekapo is set to become the home of wellbeing, thanks to the inaugural Breathe Tekapo Wellness Festival.

Breathe Tekapo gives attendees the chance to slow down and take a holistic approach to wellness, all within the stunning natural backdrop of Tekapo and the Mackenzie Country.

The weekend boasts an impressive lineup of keynote speakers. Professor Julia Rucklidge stands out as a leading clinical psychologist and Director of Te Puna Toiora, the Mental Health and Nutrition Research Lab at the University of Canterbury. Nigel Beach, a physiotherapist performance consultant, brings over two decades of experience in health and performance enhancement, while Nadia Lim, a celebrated chef and co-founder of My Food Bag, advocates for healthy eating and sustainable living.

Each keynote speaker is an expert in their respective fields and will impart their research and insights to the weekend’s attendees.

Alongside the keynote speakers, Breathe Tekapo, which is spread over three days from 24 to 26 May, has a packed agenda with a diverse range of events and workshops centred around four key themes: Nature, Movement, Food, and Inspiration. Attendees will have the opportunity to register for specific sessions and workshops tailored to their interests.

There will be everything from workshops to movement sessions immersed in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular environments. Whether it’s sunrise yoga, foraging, or stargazing experiences, Breathe Tekapo promises to be a transformative journey for all who participate.

breathetekapo.com

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS: SORTED

With a giant shipwreck, lighthouse slide tower, taniwha, and 50-metre tandem flying fox, the epic new playground at Caroline Bay in Timaru is a must for kids and the young at heart. Named CPlay, this is one of the largest destination playgrounds in the southern hemisphere. It has over 40 play pieces and embraces a range of ages, stages, abilities, and sizes to foster inclusive play while learning a little history along the way. It’s a space to connect to the Māori and European stories of the area, history, and heritage, themed to the Caroline Bay environment.

cplay.co.nz

The Arts Centre has a stacked line up these school holidays including digital technology workshops for 11–15 year olds, a ceramic cup workshop with ceramic artist Emma Turner and waiata from Ōtautahi’s favourite sister duo Loopy Tunes. Plus, fudge making, movies, drumming, theatre and much more. For the full programme, head to the website.

artscentre.org.nz

Home to the first UNESCO Global Geopark in New Zealand and the renowned Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, Waitaki offers a treasure trove of natural wonders, including the Moeraki Boulders and Elephant Rocks. You’ll encounter award-winning dining, vibrant cafés, galleries, and exquisite local beer, whisky, and cheese, all in quaint valley towns and the picturesque Ōamaru precinct. For an unforgettable journey with whānau or friends, make Waitaki your next adventure.

waitakinz.com

Experience the ultimate getaway during these school holidays and upcoming long weekends with CPG hotels! With five convenient locations across the country, including Auckland, Wellington, Picton, and Hanmer Springs, CPG hotels offer comfortable, affordable, and family-friendly accommodations. Immerse yourself in the charm of these stunning destinations while indulging in top-notch hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, CPG hotels promise an unforgettable stay for you and your loved ones. Book now for an unforgettable experience!

@cpghotels | cpghotels.com/cpg-hotels-our-best-deals

Dunedin’s wild side

Every year during the Easter school holidays, Aotearoa’s wildlife capital Ōtepoti puts on Wild Dunedin: New Zealand Festival of Nature. With a programme as big as a blue whale, with everything from masquerades to tours, we picked out a few must-dos for this year’s fest.

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM

The festival takes flight at Tūhura Otago Museum with the official opening night, Up Late at the Museum. Though Ben Stiller won’t be on hand, this celebratory night at the museum does have fun things like live music, free mini-tours, crafts, refreshments, and the beauty of the galleries after hours.

LIFE’S A BALL

Ever wanted to live the fantasy of attending a grand ball at a castle? Well, now your Cinderella story can become a reality at the Wild Night Masquerade Ball at Larnach Castle. Don your nature-themed mask and outfit for the event, which also works as a fundraiser to support the endangered hoiho.

ARTISANS OF THE ALLEY

After last year’s success, the wild laneway pop-up market returns. The artisans of No Name Alley team up to make one-off products for the market with the same wild ingredient. Last year, it was hawthorn, but which foraged favourite will be turned into food, tonics, drinks, and treats this time around?

TREASURE ISLAND

Looking for something fun to do with the kids? Get the whole family out and about on Quarantine Island/Kamau Taurua during the festival and they might find some treasures. Take the Port to Port Ferry across for the Island Treasure Hunt. Scoot past the boat wreck and traverse the island in search of loot.

FESTIVAL FEASTS

Wild Dunedin is almost about the feasts as much as the beasts. Special guest Fleur Sullivan of Fleur’s Place is hosting a three-course menu at Glenfalloch Restaurant using foraged ingredients. No.7 Balmac is back with its Garden to Plate multi-course dinner, while Tītī is holding a five-course Wild on the Menu degustation thanks to head chef Hannes Bareiter.

WILD FARES

During the festival, Dunedin’s wildlife tour operators work together, offering subsidised experiences that you’re unlikely to get at any other time of the year. Cruise along the harbour spotting native seabirds and sea lions, spy the enormous Northern Royal Albatross from the observation deck at Taiaroa Head, watch blue penguins emerge from the sea at dusk, or visit the rarest penguin species in the world, the hoiho. You’d be a silly seal not to!

dunedinnz.com

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

AT HOME WITH STYLE

Lynette McFadden

Business Owner & Mentor Harcourts gold

@lynette_mcfadden

I’ve had a lifetime passion for arranging ‘things’, especially objects that make a home look better (in my eye). It’s become an important part of my livelihood given I’m also one of the owners of a real estate company and, in addition, a staging business. This work has taught me a great deal, not only with regard to what looks good when placed in a property, but also how difficult it can be for owners to cope with change and have their home represented in ways that are unfamiliar.

It’s hard preparing your house for strangers to come through. There’s often an instruction that the home must ‘sparkle’ to initiate interest, and the usual signs of life are minimalised or banished. This leaves an emotional void for some, and despite the reality in many cases that the home looks better and the floorplan and flow vastly improved, it’s still a wrench.

If I’m involved, I try to make that mix more cohesive. A home completely devoid of personality can feel a little sterile, and while a monochromatic colour scheme can be calming, for others, it can be deflating.

My personal preference in my own home would be described as maximalist, but I’m well aware that there are limits to that approach!

So, what to do? If you’re the professional requested to stage, present or sell the property, it’s always about doing your best.

Style stands out and often precedes an exceptional result.

To that end, and because it’s been a lifetime dream, I’m off to London to meet and spend time with some of the world’s foremost interior designers. After that, I’ll endeavour to put some of those insights into the world of real estate as I know it – and I can’t wait!

The art of relaxation

The lines between furniture and art blur with this statement piece from Nextdore. The Qeeboo Primitive Chair features soft green fabric on a strong geometric form with wall arch in Resene Contour and darker cocooning edge in Resene Rewilding.

The dark natural green of the rug connects to Resene Rewilding, creating a cocooning effect with the statement piece highlighted by the arch in Resene Contour.

The playful geometry of the Primitive chair evokes the paradox between the movements of the 20th century, from cubism to abstract art. The sharp angles are softened by rounded accessories and an arch wall motif.

Form and function can go hand in hand.

This Ming vase-style design from Qeeboo functions here as a side table.

The green Rabbit Baby Chair was conceived for children’s fun, and the black doorstopper rabbit doubles as a stylish accessory.

Golden Brothers are a family of lamp characters, reflecting a soft light on their body, enhancing the plasticity and fluidity of their silhouette in different postures. This rechargeable battery-operated LED lamp is equipped with a soft touch switch.

The rich texture of this deep olive rug brings a taste of nostalgia. Inspired by nature and made from 100 per cent New Zealand wool.

Resene Rewilding

Resene ColorShop.

Qeeboo Primitive Armchair Green; Qeeboo Golden Brothers Lamp Ron; Qeeboo Ming Stool and Side Table Black; Qeeboo Rabbit Chair Baby Balsam Green; Qeeboo Rabbit XS Door Stopper Black; Weave Silvio Rug in Oakmoss from Nextdore. Resene Contour and

from

Resene Rewilding

Resene Contour

SEASON’S JOBS

With autumn comes a change to the colours of our gardens, but it’s also the perfect time to get stuck in. Avenues chats to Chris Smith, Southern Woods’ plant centre manager.

It’s now April; what should we be planting?

Autumn has definitely arrived now and marks the start of the planting season through to October. With the hope of muchneeded rainfall, this period offers the best conditions for planting native shrubs, trees, ornamentals, and fruit trees. With milder temperatures and reduced water stress, plants get a chance to settle and establish their roots. Additionally, I find it’s a great time to select plants for their autumn foliage! The colour in Christchurch is stunning.

What else is good to do at this time of year?

Water in the morning to ensure plants are dry by nightfall. It’s also a good time to complete the last of the stone fruit pruning before winter. Plant blueberries, feijoas, lemons, and limes, and apply the last feed of citrus fertiliser. Hygiene is important around fruit trees, so pick up fruit that has dropped. It’s also timely to apply liquid copper fungicide on Camellia and Rhododendron to prevent thrips damage. Adding compost and mulch will keep the weeds at bay and prepare the garden beds for spring. Most perennials can be deadheaded now, although I would like to keep those with interesting seed heads.

How can we improve our soil at home?

Understanding your soil is everything. I would suggest getting a soil test. Once you have that, you can start to amend the soil to make it sing!

Compost is very beneficial along with gypsum and can really aerate and feed the soil. It is particularly useful in clay or sandy soils. Postplanting, organic matter can be added to the soil by regular mulching with the likes of bark and wood chips. I find maintaining the mulch is one of the most valuable gardening jobs.

For those with small gardens/patios, what trees grow well in pots? Japanese maples like Acer palmatum ‘Tamukeyama’ are a good option. For fruit, try upright crab apples – Malus ‘Ballerina Maypole’ – or Prunus persica ‘Bonanza’, a natural dwarf peach tree with full-size, freestone orangered fruit with sweet, yellow flesh. It is a winner for a small garden, potager, or patio pot. It is best with plenty of sun and summer moisture. A spray programme is recommended.

If someone is unsure where to start with their garden, what would you recommend? Come visit us at Southern Woods. Walk though your neighbourhood to get ideas. Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Visit Broadfield Gardens in Selwyn.

Is there a plant you’re loving at the moment?

Our native alpine Edelweiss. Leucogenes sp

Anything else you want to leave readers with?

The best time to plant a tree is 30 years ago, and the second best time is today! If you don’t have great soil, build raised gardens!

kamomarsh.co.nz

03 366 8181

Kamo Marsh is a landscape architecture practice based in Central Christchurch and Queenstown. As well as residential design, we have worked and collaborated on a variety of subdivisions, educational and commercial projects throughout our 40 years in business.

Kamo Marsh provides a professional service in landscape planning, design and project management and we take pride in offering a friendly and personal approach to each project we are involved in. Our talented team look forward to working with you on your next residential or commercial project.

BY DESIGN

BUNKER BEAUTY

Like some conjuror’s trick, a high country retreat at the foot of Mt John is so well-blended with the tussock alpine landscape it practically disappears into it.

WORDS Kim Newth PHOTOS Mickey Ross ARCHITECT Dalman Architects BUILDER Wilson Building

From Mt John, Tekapo, the views of tussock grasslands and lakes stretching to distant peaks are magnificent.

Having grown up on a high country farm in the Mackenzie, Ben Simpson has a deep respect for this precious landscape. Taking care of it was top of mind when he started planning for a private retreat in the hills here.

“My number one requirement was for a house that would not stand out and would not be seen,” says Ben.

Given this whole area is a Dark Sky Reserve – and Mt John is a magnet for stargazers – his concept was for something that would melt into the landscape by both day and night. The end result is simple, strong and utterly unique: a concrete bunker house buried in a sloping hill site. So well camouflaged is this place that a local town planner recently needed help to find it. Bunker House doesn’t just touch the land lightly, it pulls off a vanishing act.

The project’s lead architect, Richard Dalman of Dalman Architects, is well-versed in designing practical solutions for big landscapes.

“I’d never been asked to design a house quite like this before – largely underground – but we know from experience what works in the high country,” says Richard. “This underground bunker approach is very appropriate for a place of extremes where it can get very cold in winter and very hot in summer. The insulation quality that comes from building underground helps even out those extremes.”

Tussock planted over the top of the house screens it from above. From below, the slope of the hill obscures it from view. The Bunker House, tucked in halfway up the slope, looks down onto a little tarn with sweeping views beyond.

“After visiting the site for the first time, I pretty much designed the layout in my head on the drive back to Christchurch: central kitchen/dining/living with bedrooms and bathrooms off both sides and with access

The Menzies Group is based in Timaru and delivers domestic, commercial and industrial services for plumbing, engineering, roofing, drainlaying, gasfitting and contracting throughout the South Canterbury region.

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straight in via a large, glazed wall facing west away from Mt John. I find that projects with big constraints, like this one, are often the most rewarding and can inspire the best architecture.”

Ross Sweetman, Associate at Dalman Architects, developed the details on how the compact 145 square metre house plan with discreet front deck would be built, working alongside the engineer, builder, and client.

“We wanted it to be durable, weathertight, and easy to maintain,” says Ross. “It is fully waterproofed underneath, on the sides and

over the top. With exposed concrete inside, it really does feel like a bunker but it’s wellinsulated, warm, and light.”

Clerestory windows bring light deep into the house from above. All mechanical services are housed inside the building, with a fully ducted electric HVAC system vented through the clerestory. Underfloor heating systems add to the sense of comfort.

At the back of the house is a small reading room that marks the start of a future second stage, yet to be built, comprising a 30-metre tunnel leading to an underground hangar.

Meyer Cruden is proud to be associated with Dalman Architecture to work collaboratively offering structural and civil engineering expertise to bring this innovative project to life.

03 445 0670

mcengineering.co.nz

South Canterbury’s Wilson Building has a reputation for thinking outside the square, and it was certainly put to the test on this unique project. Garry Wilson says building the fully waterproofed envelope was a big challenge for his team, as was completing all the on-site concrete work.

“It has been an awesome project for us and a great result,” says Garry. “This was a highly technical and detailed build. Many of the panels were made off-site, but there was still

a lot of concrete that had to be boxed and poured in situ and it required a high standard of consistency.

“We do a lot of unique houses but there’s only one bunker house. This building will be here forever.”

Ben says it is a real credit to both architect and builder that the home has been shortlisted for a New Zealand Institute of Architects’ award. “The original brief has been delivered, one hundred per cent.”

Bunker House is now available as boutique guest accommodation through the Cairns Alpine Resort.

A longing for lamb

Iimagine on the majority of restaurant menus across Aotearoa right now, you’d find a lamb dish of some description. On 14 February in 1882, now marked National Lamb Day, we sent the first shipment of New Zealand lamb to London. Using intel from fellow cooks, I’ve scoped out some lamb-laden dishes to devour as winter kicks in.

I’m drawn to the rich, dainty allure of lamb ribs, though the conviviality of a lamb roast shared with family can’t be denied. The Christian tradition of eating lamb at Easter makes a great excuse to get roasting. Our Avenues food editor Sam Parish has a recipe in her book Cook Me that my dear mum adores. It’s one of those ‘bung it all in a tray and let time work its magic’ dishes. Full of olives, preserved lemon, herbs, and spuds, and both a shoulder or leg produce equally delicious results.

There are so many different lamb cuts available these days. Beef & Lamb NZ has some amazing resources if you ever need advice on technique. Food writer Kathy Paterson, author of Meat and Three, is a big fan of shoulder chops, which are significantly cheaper than their bougie cutlet counterparts. She swears by marinating them in lemon juice, olive oil, and oregano and throwing them on the BBQ.

Word on New Regent Street is that Odeon is now serving brunch. I can think

of nothing better than a plate of lamb kofte, tomato ragu, feta, mint, and garlic toast on a Sunday morning. Along the road, Downstairs is serving a dish of marinated Canterbury lamb chops with mint bearnaise and Jersey Benne potatoes. Across town, the roasted lamb shoulder at 5th Street doesn’t ever leave the menu, and for good reason. With companions that change regularly, it’s currently teamed up with Romesco, whipped Labneh, and Za’atar.

Another recipe queen, Jen from The Modern Mess, has an incredible subscription-based recipe site that makes everyday dinners feel fancy and achievable. She recently posted about a lamb bolognese baked pasta with burnt eggplant, which sounds like a comfy weighted blanket.

My food friend Aliesha tells me the horopito pizza at Arbour tastes just like ‘a roast lamb on a pizza’. Where shredded lamb is nestled next to confit garlic, goat’s cheese, mozzarella, caramelised onion, and horopito dust. If you can’t face cooking a roast yourself, head to Lyttelton for a slice.

I’d be remiss not to mention Black Estate’s organic lamb pies. With their own cult following, these gratifying bundles are held together in the most buttery, golden pastry. Now officially ravenous, I’m hopeful these will help us all satisfy our lamb cravings this season.

Kate Underwood @relishthememory @eat.newzealand

Sam Parish @sam.parish.food

BREWDA

93 Cashel Street

@brewda_nz

Chef Cian Curtin, one part of the duo behind the famous Christchurch Korean street food van Jaeju, has finally taken his global experience to the heart of the city: Brewda, found in the new Terrace Courtyard. The warm and tranquil wood panel entrance opens into a beautiful, calm dining room with an open view of the kitchen, where executive chef Cian and head chef Jake Lee work their magic. My top picks would have to be the tteokbokki (pictured), which was a real East meets West dish: pillowy gnocchi in a buttery gochujang sauce with surprising pops of crumbed bocconcini and finished with parmesan. After speaking with Cian, I found out Brewda means ‘to call’, with their restaurant ethos being ‘gather together’. Book your next gathering here ASAP!

Korean flavours taking over

You’d be forgiven a few years ago for not knowing what gochujang (Korean red chilli pepper paste) or kimchi (fermented and spiced vegetables commonly using cabbage) were, but these days it’s as popular as miso. K-pop might have something to do with it, but 2024 has seen a burst of Korean-flavour-forward eateries open across the city. Establishments push the boundaries of sweet and salty by layering iconic Korean ingredients, often fermented, to carry their food with depth and complexity. Maximum flavour with the right amount of fuss.

SEOUL POCHA

270 St Asaph Street

@seoul_pocha_chch

Fairy lights, roller doors, mirrored tables, iPad menus, gas cookers and warm, friendly faces. We must be at Seoul Pocha. Located along the back lane within the Boxed Quarter on St Asaph Street, this small but mighty establishment is giving a Korean street vibe. The fit out here is unique and inviting, from the tables to the signage and plastic peg stools. Soup broths leave the kitchen in gold teapots with plates full of Korean-style fish cakes, udon noodles, and other additions for hot pots, and dazzling Korean fried chicken (pictured). This is Korean comfort food at its finest. Seoul Pocha is now on my list of must-tries in Christchurch, and should be on yours! Seoul nights with a glass of soju sounds like the perfect combo heading into winter.

JIGGLE

95 Riccarton Road @jiggle_kbbq

If you were sad to see Gangnam go, you will be happy to hear that Jiggle, the team’s new venture, is keeping us fed in the same delicious way at this Korean BBQ-forward restaurant. We tried two of their lunch specials: bulgogi (a must) and spicy pork, which came with banchan side dishes, kimchi, noodles, and mung bean salad. However, my favourite was the rice pots: beautifully cooked mushrooms and mixed grains of black rice and beans, chickpeas, and jujube berries (dates). Mixed at the table and shared between us, I learnt that you then scrape the dish clean, top it up with hot water (provided), return the lid, and leave it to sit while you finish your meal. Then give it a good stir and spoon the broth into cups for drinking. This is meant to help digest the meal, and I loved it. It was almost like a toasted rice tea – mashit-da! (it’s delicious).

NOKI

6 Papanui Road

@noki_chch

Noki has truly embraced the worldwide phenomenon I’m calling ABF (Asian brunch fusion). From cheese-loaded kimchi scones to furikake-scattered bowls of dak jukk, broken rice porridge to spicy pork sisig (a sizzling plate of gochujang-marinated pork), and the obligatory brunch benny (pictured) but with tom yum hollandaise (wow). These guys are changing the brunch landscape one plate at a time. When asked what makes their café unique, husband and wife owners Adora and Moon said, “We believe many people discover something new in something familiar. Our menu items are based on traditional Western brunch dishes with an Asian touch.” Being relatively new to the city, it’s a beautiful thing to see the Christchurch dining landscape evolve, and I love the direction we’re heading in with Asian fusion being embraced and celebrated.

PALATE

A NATURAL ALTERNATIVE

Aflock of Stathclyde Stud sheep is changing the way we milk in New Zealand on serene farmland between the Waimakariri and Rakaia rivers in Canterbury.

This part of the world has a long history of running sheep, pretty much since the ovine beasts were introduced to our shores in 1843. Since then, they’ve thrived both for wool and meat production.

However, there’s a family who saw another way. The Joneses (Matt, Tracey, Annabelle, Gabrielle, and Samantha) are the folks behind Jones Family Farm, which produces sheep milk and sheep milk products, from creams to cheeses.

Though not a new concept globally, it’s not very common in New Zealand. But there are plenty of reasons why the Joneses think it’s the next big thing.

With lactose sensitivities in their family, Matt and Tracey Jones needed to find a dairy alternative. They wanted a dairy product that was both gentle on the stomach and on the environment – what they found was sheep milk.

It is more easily digestible, better for gut health, and has more vitamins and minerals than cow’s milk. Though it does contain lactose, sheep milk contains only type A2 beta caseins and no A1 protein – A1 is the protein commonly associated with gut discomfort.

Now, after pouring years of research and dedication into developing sheep milk breeds, optimising land use, and understanding the nutritional values that can be harnessed from their flock, they’ve got a product that they say is among the best in the world.

Their Stathclyde Stud graze all year round, and the quality of the flock’s milk is directly related to their diet and environment – grazing on the lush, green pastures of the northern Canterbury Plains.

The Jones family also believes that sheep milk is a sustainable alternative with a significantly lower environmental footprint compared to conventional dairy systems.

Sheep are well known to survive and thrive on marginal land, often unsuitable for other grazing animals or cropping.

They are also actively working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, taking steps to minimise their impact on the environment.

In addition to its environmental credentials, it contains plenty of good stuff – and it tastes good.

In addition to being more easily digestible, sheep milk is high in calcium and protein. It contains nearly double the calcium and protein of other animal milk. Plus, it’s packed with other vitamins and minerals. One serving of sheep milk contains 11.8 grams of protein – that’s a lot. One serving of sheep milk contains 49 per cent of an adult’s recommended daily intake of calcium.

Sheep milk is also packed with essential amino acids. It contains all nine essential amino acids, which are vital to various bodily functions and aren’t found in plants.

Why does it taste so good? Sheep milk is naturally homogenised. This means the fat droplets are small and evenly dispersed, and the cream won’t separate and rise to the top. This is why sheep milk has an exquisite, velvety creaminess. Other milk varieties require pressure or mechanical homogenisation.

Currently, Jones Family Farm produces five varieties of cheese: Creamy Havarti, Classic Gouda, Peppered Havarti, Aged Cheddar (all with Gold Awards from the NZ Artisan Awards in 2023), and Pecorino. They also produce A2 Sheep Milk. All are available at various supermarkets around the country and online. jonesfamilyfarm.co.nz

BRUNCH AT ODEON

Nestled on Gloucester Street, Odeon stands out as an Andalusian gem. It serves up the best of the Mediterranean with its own unique twist. And now, after establishing itself in the Ōtautahi evening dining scene, it offers a vibrant new brunch experience.

Set within an airy and calming restaurant space lined with bottles of wine from across the globe, executive chef Shafeeq Ismail and his team bring a fresh approach, focusing on refined flavours with simplicity at its core.

Highlights include the Green Shakshuka, a unique twist on the classic breakfast dish featuring spinach, herbs, eggs, feta, tomato chutney, almonds, and served with house focaccia. Another standout is the Lamb Kofte, succulent koftes served in a tomato ragu with feta, mint, and garlic toast. For those seeking variety, the Odeon Breakfast offers a bit of everything: hummus, pickles, eggs, pastrami, toast, halloumi, and house condiments. Traditionalists can

opt for the Odeon Eggs Benedict: potato and fried onion hash, eggs, and preserved lemon hollandaise, with the option to add pastrami or salmon for an extra touch of indulgence.

For a sweet start with a twist, try the Challah French Toast, topped with caramelised honey, vanilla ice cream, pistachio, and rhubarb – simply delicious.

These dishes, crafted with the finest ingredients, leave you feeling invigorated rather than weighed down, especially when paired with a speciality coffee from Coffee Embassy, cocktails, or bubbles for brunch.

Why not try a Breakfast Martini? Gin, orange liqueur, marmalade, and lemon juice make for a refreshing option. Or indulge in a Seasonal Bellini for a fruity twist.

Odeon is open for brunch Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 3pm, and on the weekend from 8.30am to 3pm. It is open for dinner seven nights a week from 1 April. This is one to add to your dining-out schedule.

HOSPO HEROES

MIA

Mia Mullett’s favourite drink is a gin martini, which is fortunate because she is the restaurant manager at Gin Gin, New Regent Street’s gin bar and restaurant. Having arrived in New Zealand with her family from Newfoundland 11 years ago, Mia has studied at jazz school and worked at various hospitality spots around the city, but she loves Gin Gin the most, and has found her second family here. She credits Operations Manager Kim Proyer for creating a friendly culture within the bar.

“We all meld together really well,” she says. “I think we all have the same goal in mind. The entire team genuinely cares about the products they’re serving and the place they’re working. It’s the little things, like dimming the lights or changing the music.” When she isn’t looking after patrons at Gin Gin, you can find her knitting. She says she loves being on New Regent Street: “It is like a big family”, and she loves the vibe. “Come on in, we’ve got cocktails for everybody. We’ll look after you and have a good time.”

gingin.co.nz

JULIE

Julie Han has 18 years of experience as a sought-after pastry chef in London. Her impressive CV includes institutions like Claridge’s, the Lanesborough, and the Lord Mayor’s residence. She has also created Michelin-starred desserts and is used to providing exclusive experiences to clients such as Chanel, Dior, and Sir Elton John. She, along with fellow chef Simon Suffolk, started their patisserie business Table Bloom to share their five-star flavours with Christchurch. “Table Bloom can be best described as artisans of bespoke patisserie creations dedicated to crafting unique and high-quality delights in collaboration with their clients,” says Simon. Table Bloom creations can now be found all over the city. There are bespoke desserts at the new Korean restaurant Brewda, Ilex, Brewmoon in Amberley, and other restaurants. Julie says she is excited to see how far the Christchurch dining scene has come. “We look forward to collaborating with more restaurants, chefs and clients in this awesome city.”

@tablebloomnz

CAM

Chef Cameron Woodhouse, who leads the culinary team at Greystone’s Cellar Door, is renowned for his creative flair and dedication to showcasing the best of local, seasonal produce. His passion lies in sourcing the freshest ingredients from the region and cooking within the season, not only for their superior taste but also for their positive impact on the environment. Inspired by nature, Cam believes in making the most out of every ingredient, like butchering Greystone’s sheep and sharing the cuts in a nose-to-tail approach. This commitment to sustainability is evident in every dish he creates, offering guests an unforgettable experience that honours the flavours of the land. Outside of the kitchen, Cam enjoys growing his own veggies, hunting, and fly fishing. But these activities are not merely recreational: knowing where his food comes from, whether harvested from his garden or sourced from local suppliers and the backcountry hills and rivers, is an essential part of Cam’s culinary philosophy.

greystonewines.co.nz

NEW TAKES ON OLD FAVES

HARVEST COLLINS

Who said you can’t have a cocktail and be healthy too? Making the most of fresh produce, the latest cocktail from Zodiac’s head bartender, Nick, is the Harvest Collins. This five-plusa-day twist on the classic Tom Collins is a fresh accompaniment to a meal, perfect for sipping on an autumn evening with the sun low on the horizon. Find out how to make this and many more at avenues.net.nz.

zodiacbar.co.nz

TRIUMPHANT RETURN

Old Wilson’s Misty River was once a beloved favourite, remembered fondly by customers for decades. Now, it’s back and as delicious as ever! Handcrafted in Dunedin from New Zealand Barley and aged in Ōamaru, Misty River Whisky Liqueur boasts delicate flavours. Produced and bottled locally in Ōamaru, it’s made with premium whisky and high-quality ingredients.

thenzwhisky.com

NO DRUNK DRINK

Good George’s Virtual Reality Hazy

IPA is a full-flavoured, hazy beer bursting with juicy hop aroma and flavour but with virtually no alcohol. Crafted using a speciality yeast strain, it surprises with punchy bitterness and a full-bodied taste yet contains less than 0.5 per cent alcohol by volume. Perfect for those craving a delicious beer experience without the buzz.

goodgeorge.kiwi.nz

Long Lunch 4 courses $96pp ($115pp including wine pairings) Open Thursday to Monday, 11-4.30pm (Tues & Weds – tastings by appt)

Discipline vs devotion: The road to mastery

Chelita Kahutianui o-te-Rangi Zainey, Waitaha/Ngāpuhi/Ngāti Kahu/Ngāti Haua Chelita is a māmā, writer, Kai Rongoā, spiritual mentor, and certified breathwork facilitator. Her passion activates and inspires others to heal and transform their lives into one of aligned purpose, love, and joy.

Iwas talking with a friend recently about the difference between discipline and devotion.

For me, discipline has a distinctly masculine energy, whilst devotion sits in the wellspring of the feminine.

To be disciplined (i.e. a disciple) is to be trained in a controlled, regulated way. Discipline is also a term of reference for a branch of knowledge which requires the practice of discipline to achieve mastery in the chosen field.

For the last 10 years, I have disciplined myself in two things – personal healing and the healing of others using my ‘taonga toku iho’, or the inherited gifts from my Tupuna.

Like the ancestress Hine-Tītama, the daughter of the dawn who later transforms into Hinenuitepō, the goddess of the night, I have disciplined myself to stay on the path through all the light and all the dark, to eternally and consistently show up to do the work both within and without.

My spiritual discipline has landed me in a magnificent place, one of being healed, one of mastery over my spiritual self, and mastery over my healing arts.

Now, let’s talk about devotion. To be devoted to oneself, one’s craft, one’s calling, or indeed to another is to love, be loyal, and maintain enthusiasm for the point of focus.

In my experience, both discipline and devotion are required in equal measure. If love truly is the medicine, then discipline is the sometimes rather large spoon that serves it up!

We have a saying: “The most kawa (bitter) Rongoā is the one you need the most.” Kawa

Rongoā hits the palate and shocks both taste buds and the body on a cellular level. It resets the cellular memories, like a bitter wake-up call to the senses.

Sometimes, the truths we must face on the pathway to healing are harsh and kawa realisations to the mind, body, and spirit, and this is where both discipline and devotion are required.

Staying the course, refusing to bypass, and leaning all the way into your darkest truths will ultimately pay the biggest rewards and lead you to a place of love, freedom, and peace. However, to reach these places, you must be disciplined and devoted to your destination, even when you’re not entirely sure where it is going to land you.

As someone who mentors, guides, and navigates others in whatever stage of their journey they are in, it’s always fundamental that I ‘practice what I preach’, and that I am never too good not to take some kawa medicine myself.

In this era of authenticity, true teachers, leaders, coaches, healers, and mentors will be called to greater service. They’ll be easy to recognise because they will not only be able to speak authentically about their craft, but they will show up in an embodied way and be living, breathing examples of someone who is both devoted and disciplined in their craft.

Everyone has the potential to transform into their best, authentic expression, but it requires discipline, devotion, and savage honesty of the most kawa kind to truly embody that authentic expression.

Don (Sawdust)

AKAROA

“I’m known all over New Zealand as Sawdust.

“When we left the mill, we were all covered in sawdust. We used to go to the pub – four guys and me had our little corner. By the time we left, there was about half a metre of sawdust on the floor. I was called Chuck for a start, and it evolved to Sawdust.

“I was not a particularly bright child at school; I was good at woodwork, geography, and things like that.

“I came here to Akaroa High School. When I was 18, I went into compulsory military training. That was very successful. I stayed a wee bit long which took us on big trips to Fiji and whatever areas needed peacekeeping overseas.

“I did firewood from the age of 15. I built my own saw bench in those days. I bought an Austin Seven, I jacked this Austin Seven up in the air, put the belt on the back wheel and built a sawbench.

“My father saw an opening after all the sawmills in Banks Peninsula closed down

after 1890. They planted macrocarpa and pine trees to get shelter, and because the trees were big enough to mill, he started milling over there in 1945. Then we shifted from Okains Bay to Duvauchelle Bay.

“I got pretty well involved with it, you know. Dealing with builders all the time and cutting timber for their houses or whatever they were doing. Timber was cut at the sawmill at Duvauchelle. Some of it went to the Chatham Islands. The first chainsaws arrived in about 1950 – sometimes it took longer to get the chainsaw going than if you cut it with a hand saw.

“It took me four years to build my house, all made of macrocarpa. I had to keep my business going as well. That’s a real thing of self-satisfaction. Going to the bays, cutting down the tree, carting it, sawing it up, bringing it here, and building a house out of that – not many people get that opportunity.”

facebook.com/humansofchch

“The food at Roca was the best I’ve had in years!”

Bree J

“Fabulous food! Beautiful flavours. Not a single dish disappointed.”

Angela M

“Loved the local and seasonal philosophy of the menu.”

Jo D

“A beautiful view of the Avon river as you eat. The food was amazing! every single dish was delightful and full of flavour.”

Oreahna K

“Loved it. Food stunning… Felt like we were in a different city.”

Lynne M

Contact us at www.rocabar.co.nz