Avenues, December / January 2021/2022

avenues.

THE MAGAZINE CHRISTCHURCH LIVES BY

SUMMER IN THE CITY RIDING THE WAVES OF LIFE | STYLE REVIVAL | EXPERIENCES, NOT STUFF ISSUE 198 | DECEMBER–JANUARY / HAKIHEA–KOHITĀTEA 2021–2022

Gift Guide

launches December 1.

Visit ballantynes.co.nz

Christmas Gifting with Ballantynes TO MAKE TICKING OFF YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING LIST THAT MUCH EASIER, WE HAVE CURATED OUR MOST PRESENT-WORTHY PIECES INTO A DIGITAL GIFT GUIDE GUARANTEED TO DELIGHT EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST.

JELLYCAT

R.M. WILLIAMS

AMBER SCEATS

THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY EDITION HAMPER

JO MALONE LONDON

GLASSHOUSE FRAGRANCES

LUIGI BORMIOLI

City Mall, Christchurch OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9am–5.30pm SATURDAY 9am–5pm SUNDAY & PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 10am–5pm PHONE (03) 379 7400 Shop online now at ballantynes.co.nz

Nelson’s average sea temperature in February over the last four years.

Christchurch’s average was 17.4˚ A difference of 3.5˚...

That’s a lot when you’re swimming!

50 Clarence Drive, Tāhunanui Hills, Nelson | www.coastalview.co.nz

An Idyllic Lifestyle!

Coastal View Lifestyle Village is located in the Tāhunanui hills of Nelson, only 5 minutes from the beach. The sunny village looks over Tasman Bay, Rabbit Island and out to Māpua and Kaiteriteri.

Brought to you by the people who developed and operate Burlington and Alpine View Lifestyle Villages in Christchurch.

A subsidiary of

To find out more or book a tour, call Breffni (027 410 9668) or Pen (027 257 9324)

EDITOR’S NOTE

My 2021 retrospective

W

ell, we did it, team. 2021 is done and dusted. 2022 best bring its best behaviour. Am I right, or am I right?

We wanted our final issue of Avenues for the year to celebrate summer in Ōtautahi. There’s so much out there to be thankful for! Pandemic or not, we still put on an excellent summer season, and there are oodles of things to do in the city.

As I look to my own near future (okay, it’s still fifty years away), I can only hope that I’m surfing at Sumner beach in my 90s, like Liam’s featured article on Nancy. Life is for living, and Nancy is coasting along in style. Surf’s up!

We have an incredible cover image of Te Pae, thanks to our friends at Ōtākaro. The keenly anticipated opening is on the horizon – yet another step in the direction of our new city. I look forward to the many events to come! Also, make sure you don’t miss the recipe provided by Te Pae’s very own head chef in Palate.

This year has been transformative for me – I’ve had a couple of drastic changes in my life that have blossomed into something quite wonderful. After a one anastomosis gastric bypass in March, I’ve managed to recently clock over 60kg of weight loss. I now look in the mirror at a brand new person. This process also encouraged me to utilise my newfound energy and confidence on a dream project.

Along with a couple of friends, I’ve opened my own vintage clothing store. Thankfully I have a sweet little set up where I can work on the magazine you have in your hands amongst a myriad of patterns, colours, and fun. Catch me looking a little more… retrospective these days! Flares are on the menu for the third time in my life.

I’m thankful the year is nearing a close, but so excited for what 2022 may bring us all.

Enjoy the sun. Broken record here: SPF!!

AVAILABLE AT WHISKY GALORE E: info@whiskygalore.co.nz

Joshua Brosnahan Editor

P: 0800 WHISKY (944 759)

4

For Everything

Outdoor Living

At McKenzie & Willis we believe your outdoor space is an extension of your home.

The pieces you choose should be characterised by quality and perfect finishes that compare to the finest interior furnishings. Handpicked for the New Zealand lifestyle, our exclusive Outdoor Living Collection features outdoor lounge and dining pieces from the world’s finest brands.

Manutti River Armchair

0800 888 999 | mcw.nz Interior Design | Furniture | Curtains | Blinds | Beds | Linens | Flooring | Wallpaper

A stellar view of Te Pae, a welcoming heart in the centre of the city.

avenues.

THE MAGAZINE CHRISTCHURCH LIVES BY

THE TEAM Publisher Lisa Phelan Editor Joshua Brosnahan Art Director Lucy Arnold Accounts & Admin Hilary Armstrong Sub-editor Liam Stretch Advertising Shelley Eccleton Social Media Ashleigh Muir

lisa@27publishers.co.nz joshua@27publishers.co.nz lucy@27publishers.co.nz accounts@27publishers.co.nz liam@27publishers.co.nz shelley@27publishers.co.nz ashleigh@27publishers.co.nz

PRINT Blueprint, Christchurch

CONTRIBUTORS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Julie Chandelier, Dennis Radermacher, Courtney Reid, Alex Fulton, Lynette McFadden, Jax Hamilton, Desmond Davies, Sam Marchant, Kim Newth, Sarah Rowlands, Nik Mavromatis, Ali Jones, Chris Parker, Ashleigh Muir, Wendy Riley Girls lining up for their porridge at Sunlight League’s health camp, South New Brighton, Christchurch. Ref: 1/2-C-016182-F. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22690160

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

03 3430 919 academyfunerals.co.nz

Avenues is published 11 times a year, and is a registered trademark. While all attempts have been made to verify information provided in this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or contrary interpretations of the subject matter contained herein. The reader assumes all responsibility for the use of these materials and information. Any perceived slight of any person or organisation is completely unintentional. Avenues asserts copyright on all material published within, and none of it shall be reproduced, wholly or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher. Avenues reserves the right to edit or abridge all letters or other material, whether solicited or otherwise, prior to publication.

BOOK NOW FOR 10% DISCOUNT ON OPENING WEEK TICKETS*

GREAT

XMAS G

IFT!

GIVE TH OF MATE GIFT ILDA TICKET

EK.CO.N

BOOK NOW

14 APRIL – 1 MAY 2022 DIRECTED BY

STEPHEN ROBERTSON

ISAAC THEATRE ROYAL

MUSICAL DIRECTION BY

RICHARD MARRETT

*T&CS – VALID FOR PERFORMANCES 14 -21 APRIL ONLY. OFFER VALID UNTIL JANUARY 31 2022.

Z

QUEENSTOWN I S SPEC TA CUL AR

CONTENTS

AZU R ENA BLES Y OU T O B E PART OF T HE S CE NE RY

L U X URY G E TAWAY PE R FE CT FOR T HAT SPE CIAL OCCASIO N

Stay 4 / Pay 3 Stay 5 / Pay 4 Nightly rates also available.

Contact Azur directly for more information.

Valid until 31 March 2022.

Quote “Avenues” when booking.

31

34

37

54

18

EXPERIENCES, NOT STUFF

31

CONTEXT KEY TO A WORLD-CLASS VENUE

34

RIDING THE WAVES OF LIFE

37

STYLE REVIVAL

54

DARK CHOCOLATE, LIME, AND COCONUT TART

10

CHIT CHAT

36

12

CULTURE CLUB

37 HOME

16

HERITAGE

44 DESTINATION

YEAH NAH

20 WATCH THIS SPACE

49 PALATE

22 COUTURE

61 CLINK!

26 PAMPER

64 ALL ABOARD

28

LOVE LOCAL

66 COLUMN

31

CITY SCENE

68 HUMANS OF ŌTAUTAHI

rsvns@azur.co.nz +64 3 4090 588 www.azur.co.nz 8

CHIT CHAT

SHE’S GOT CURVES A linear approach to your home design is boring, and your bedroom is somewhere you can take your aesthetic to a dreamy, curvy level. A&C Homestore’s curved queen bedhead is anything but ordinary and covered in bouclé, the luxe fabric of the moment. Visit A&C Homestore’s recently opened home store in The Crossing. achomestore.co.nz

STORY BALLET

DAY GOOD Next time you’re in the city and ready for a shot of caffeine, take our advice and make a stop at Day Good – Madras Street’s newest café, housed in BOXed Quarter. Within the delicious beige and brown interior, you’ll find the best coffee, amazing staff, a bunch of great cabinet food, and plenty of good vibes. Pssst: get the banana bread. @__day__good

The Royal New Zealand Ballet is a company of dynamic dancers, performing a vibrant repertoire of dance for national and international audiences. The recently launched 2022 Season will include two glorious ‘story ballets’ and two dazzling shorter works. Don’t miss this upcoming season’s opulent production of Swan Lake or the world premiere of a brand-new, fizzy Cinderella, alongside international talent in Venus Rising and Tutus on Tour.

The RNZB invites you to see ballet through fresh eyes and to experience productions by some of the country’s – and world’s – most respected choreographers. The company touches down in Ōtautahi this March. rnzb.org.nz

HOLIDAY HOMEOWNER HAVEN With views that will take your breath away, The Boathouse is an ideal spot for couples wanting to explore Akaroa. For Christchurch holiday homeowners, Bachcare is an ideal way to generate a passive income whilst still making use of the space whenever they choose. Bachcare is on a mission to remove the hassle of holiday home rentals, taking care of homes throughout Canterbury, including Akaroa, Christchurch, Hanmer Springs, and Kaikōura. Gone are the days of dealing with late-night messages from your Airbnb guests and juggling calendars across multiple listing sites. Start your path to stress-free rental returns today! newowners.bachcare.co.nz

CHIT CHAT

PINK PAINT Christchurch has fostered great indie and surf rock bands, and two local teens are hoping they too can make their mark in this scene. Love Me Lazy have just released their first single Pink Paint, with an EP release in early 2022. Described as a “chill sound that can be listened to anytime, by anyone”, you can stream Pink Paint on Spotify. @lovemelazy

JUST ANOTHER FISHERMAN

CURIONOIR Curionoir is the only Māori-owned and operated perfumery in the world. Tiffany Witehira, who is of Ngāpuhi whakapapa, imbues Curionoir with her culture and unique perspective. Hand-blown glass bottles contain hand-poured fragrances: every element of Curionoir is thoughtful and personal. A beautiful, intimate gift for yourself or your loved one. Opia, pictured, has notes of rhubarb, oud wood absolute, Virginian cedarwood, Australian sandalwood, and labdanum absolute.

Best of all, Curionoir’s range comes in a pocket-friendly bottle. Don’t be fooled by the size – this parfum extrait means a very little goes a long, long way.

Surf’s up this Christmas with a summery Just Another Fisherman and Superette collaboration for salty gentlemen and their mini mates.

Whether they’re beach bound or street stylin’ this sunshine season, supporting local doesn’t get much easier than this collab with the rough and tumble of a Kiwi summer at its heart. superette.co.nz

francesnation.co.nz

POCKETS OF AWESOME

BEAUTY FUSION

A firm favourite on the browser in Avenues HQ is local page Pockets of Awesome, a community-focused Facebook page and Instagram filled with things to see and do right here, in beautiful Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Follow the page to explore all the #pocketsofawesome our city has to offer.

This is a pendant almost too pretty to be confined to the festive season! This little piece of art is transparent orange coloured glass, fused on to a pink bubble with a hot flame, then blown individually using a method called lampworking. All of Studio A & Co’s glass works are made in the studio at The Mill in Waikuku.

fb.com/pocketsofawesome

studioaandco.felt.co.nz

Simplify your life…

Over 20 with short sightedness, long sightedness, astigmatism, or difficulty with fine print in your 40s?

With over 25 years’ experience, trust the care and expertise of Dr Kent and his team at Fendalton Eye Clinic, offering visual freedom with the safety and accuracy of our laser eye surgery.

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 to Fendalton Mall) LASIK

·

SMILE LASER

·

PRK

·

C ATA R AC T S U R G E RY

CULTURE CLUB

SUMMER IN THE CITY

Liam Stretch Culture Editor

I

’m sure many of us will be glad to see the back of the year that has been 2021.

Despite having to put off or cancel some of our favourite events, it’s been another triumphant year for artists, creatives, and performers. Against the odds (and let’s face it, there have been a lot of ‘odds’), we’ve had great music, films, and gigs – online at times – to get us through. I’m writing this editorial with the knowledge that things could change in a flash, so if you have the opportunity, support our creative community this summer. How can you do this? I’m glad you asked. Go to outdoor theatre, buy a print or a sculpture, sit in the comfort of the cinema, and tip a busker. I know the world I want to live in; it isn’t one without these people.

MARCUS MY WORDS

SONGS WITH SOUL

Have you ever wanted to live like Marcus Aurelius or Seneca? The Daily Stoic makes this possible by simplifying many philosophies of Stoicism into daily affirmations. I’ve been reading this book, one page each day for the last year, and it gives you the perfect morning ritual before you get out of bed. I was surprised by the relevance some of the lessons hold today. Go on, be stoic.

Musical trio SOL3 MIO have just released their latest album, Coming Home, their first since A Very Merry Christmas. According to the group, the album reflects them all coming back together during the global pandemic and the sense of warmth this reunion gave. It is a return to roots with soulful vocals and their signature character.

A real stand out track is a rendition of Prince Tui Teka’s E Ipo.

PENINSULA PENGUINS In a previous issue of Avenues, we covered the white-flippered penguins of Banks Peninsula.

Now, RNZ has produced a feature documentary Kororā: Little Blue Penguin, focusing on that same colony of birds. The film centres around marine conservation, community, inter-generational transmission of stewardship, and hope for the future of the sub-species. It’s an interesting watch, revealing a hidden world just over the hill. You can find it on the RNZ website.

Available Exclusively at the Skin Rejuvenation Clinic

ENDYMED 3DEEPRF

SUMMER SPECIAL Pay for 3 treatments and get the 4th free

SAVE $495 Terms and Conditions Apply

Tel: 03 351 3241 80 WAIRAKEI RD FENDALTON

R

CULTURE CLUB

ISOLATION HOTEL Create a fantasy and tell your story on the cinematic stage of Heather Straka’s immersive new exhibition at Canterbury Museum.

Straka, an Auckland-based artist, has recreated the look and feel of a once opulent and now run-down 1930s German hotel foyer on an elaborate stage set inside the Museum. This set forms the backdrop for a series of Straka’s photographs, which feature a diverse cast of mysterious characters seeking sanctuary in the hotel. It also provides an opportunity for visitors to take their own photos and tell their own stories, to project their own dreams, desires, and anxieties onto Straka’s set.

Until 20 March 2022, Canterbury Museum, canterburymuseum.com

GENTLE MAN

TINY FEST

MEL PARSONS

You will know Chris Parker as our columnist, but he is also a nationally recognised felter and sometimes-comedian, and he’s hitting the road on his Gentle Man tour. Following his win on Celebrity Treasure Island New Zealand, Chris is set to deliver Christchurch audiences some of the greatest hits from his comedy career, or as he’s put it, ‘Now that’s what I call Chris Parker, Vol. 1’.

45 performance makers converge on Ōtautahi for a weekend of diverse, thoughtprovoking performance art, dance, poetry, music, and theatre. Get up close and personal with some of Aotearoa’s most exciting voices as they take risks, push boundaries, and break new ground in this unmissable weekend at the Christchurch Town Hall.

Award-winning songstress Mel Parsons stops by the city on her tour marking the release of her new single, Carry On. Mel Parsons won the Best Folk Artist award at the 2020 Aotearoa Music Awards for her fourth album Glass Heart.

Her new single captures a deep, moody feel with heady piano and her soul-filled voice floats effortlessly in a musical dreamscape.

She is playing at the historic Loons in Lyttleton.

25 February 2022, Isaac Theatre Royal isaactheatreroyal.co.nz

27 & 28 November, Christchurch Town Hall tinyfest.co.nz

11 December, The Loons melparsons.com

New Zealand’s Leading Urban Art Gallery Custom Framing, Original Artworks & Great Service 54 Hawdon St. Sydenham www.fiksate.com / 03 365 0763

CULTURE CLUB

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

T

heatre hungry Cantabrians will be satiated by the Court Theatre’s rendition of Little Shop of Horrors.

As one of the most successful musicals of all time, it is the beloved story of hapless florist Seymour who discovers a strange and unique plant, which he names Audrey II, in honour of his sweet co-worker crush. The plant reveals that it can talk and even sing and promises Seymour his heart’s desires – as long as he keeps feeding it…human blood. Featuring a savvy, streetwise trio of singing urchins, a sadistic dentist, and a cantankerous shop owner desperate for retail success, Little Shop of Horrors is a full-blooded, feel-good hit for the summer, and this production is guaranteed to inject some fresh blood into a show you think you know.

In his Court Theatre debut, director Benjamin Henson is set to bring his unique talents and global experience to the table in a fabulous remake of a classic. Alongside

Benjamin, the musical director Richard Marrett, a stalwart of the Court Theatre and renowned within the New Zealand creative industry, is sure to honour the timeless and exciting soundtrack – like the well-known musical hits Down on Skidrow, Feed Me, and Suddenly Seymour.

Leading the cast in the role of Seymour is a face that many theatre followers in New Zealand will recognise, Rutene Spooner.

Rutene has graced the stage in Anything Goes, The Buddy Holly Musical, Grease, Avenue Q, Lacage Aux Folle, Oklahoma, Chicago, Billy Elliot, and many others. Monique Clementson, known for Jesus Christ Superstar and Jersey Boys, plays Audrey, Seymour’s love interest, and Brady Peeti will play Audrey II, the plant with an exceptional appetite.

Little Shop of Horrors opened on 20 November and runs through to 15 January 2021.

Just remember. Don’t feed the plants!

courttheatre.org.nz

14

YEARS AND COUNTING

TICKETS FROM $21

nzso.co.nz/2022

Join us in 2022, as we celebrate our 75th anniversary and look forward to a golden future.

HERITAGE

NOT ALL SWEETNESS AND SUNLIGHT

T

Assisted by the generous donations from local hosts, the children enjoyed outdoor pursuits, ate ‘wholesome’ food and slept in huts.

The camps were a great success. Doctors examined the children on their return home and described them as “sturdier”, “sunbrowned, their posture greatly improved and their vitality increased”.

The League aimed to make “children better citizens... improve health and give the child happiness; encourage appreciation of country life, love of beauty, and the ideals of health, work and service to others”.

Their “Rules for Sunbathing” recommended starting with five to 10 minutes each day, building up to two to three hours.

Coconut and olive oil should be rubbed into the skin “before sunbathing”.

Speaking at the Sunlight League’s inaugural meeting in 1931, Archbishop Julius claimed that a tabby cat knew more about bringing up kittens than some mothers knew about rearing their children.

The League’s objectives were also “to educate people in the knowledge of the laws of heredity, the importance of civic worth and racial value and by the study of eugenics to exchange racial deterioration for racial improvement”.

he crusade to induce New Zealanders to make use of sunlight and fresh air and promote better community health began in Christchurch in 1931. The Sunlight League’s aims focused on the prevention of disease and maintenance of good health based on the benefits of the sun.

Sub-committees furthered these aims in the areas of dental hygiene, smoke abatement, education, physical training, and heliotherapy.

The camping subcommittee organised health camps for girls from state schools chosen from families unable to afford holidays. The first camp was at Pleasant Point, where “four delicate children from Christchurch” spent their September holiday.

In an effort to illustrate the value of sunlight to healthy living and physical fitness, the Sunshine League’s emblem featured Māui snaring the sun. Tikanga was adopted for running the camps, and the children’s names were translated into Māori.

The sale of Health Stamps helped to fund these camps that grew in number throughout the mid-1930s. Larger groups of girls, and eventually boys, enjoyed month-long camps to Okains, Pigeon, and Charteris Bays, Wainui, South Brighton, Tipapa, and Kaikoura.

okainsbaymuseum.co.nz

16

Cosi Fan Tutte Maileg pixies and decorations cosifantutte.co.nz | Bellbird Bakery Traditional panettone to fruit up your Christmas bellbirdbakedgoods.co.nz | Fascino Shoes Quality shoes and handbags fascinoshoes.co.nz | The Filing Kabinett Contemporary jewelers Elfi Spiewack, Lynn Kelly, and Jeremy Leeming | Mrs Bottomley’s Flowers It’s time to get festive with fine florals and whimsy mrsbottomleysflowers.nz | Penny Black Victorian Tearoom High tea fit for a Queen penny-black.co.nz Morgan and Page Shop our summer range morganandpage.co.nz | HAPA A wide range of locally designed jewellery hapa.co.nz Munns Italiano shoes, made in Italy munns.co.nz

17

EXPERIENCES, NOT STUFF Avenues had a quick five with James Fitzgerald. We talked about the emergence of Chuffed in the midst of Covid and gifting experiences, not stuff.

Tell us about the history behind Chuffed. My business, Rotorua Canopy Tours, was heavily impacted by Covid. When the borders shut, I teamed up with staff who had the skills to bring Chuffed to life. We were confident in the concept, as we had seen how much people sought gift vouchers from Canopy Tours.

With a Chuffed gift, the recipient chooses the expeience they want to do, so it’s totally different to anything else out there. It is a real life solution to gift-buying problems we all have. We pieced the basics together in lockdown and started last year. We now have over 200 experience partners, collectively offering over 750 individual experiences.

So, Chuffed is about experiences, not stuff? Chuffed is on a mission to change the world of gift giving for good. We see a future where people don’t give stuff or material goods anymore. And instead, give inspiring experiences that help people grow, see the world differently, meet new people, and generally are just better for you than cheap wine or fancy chocolate. We think experience gifts simply make people happier.

How does Chuffed fit into the ‘support local’ movement? Chuffed Gifts include experience providers from all over New Zealand. So there are local options for everyone. Beyond that, tourism, more than any industry, has been massively impacted by

chuffedgifts.co.nz

almost two years of closed borders. The majority of tourism providers are small business owneroperators who are passionate about sharing their experience with the world, and we are super proud that our Chuffed Gifts support them.

You’re our principal sponsor for this year’s A List Awards. Tell us why you decided to jump on board? We thought there was great synergy; over time, we expect Chuffed to become recognised as the experience experts where people go to for gifts that you live. So partnering with the A List makes a lot of sense as it is aligned with outstanding Christchurch businesses.

What is next for Chuffed? The Chuffed Gift concept of choice for the recipient will be expanded to include accommodation, restaurants, classes, and more, come 2022.

VOTE NOW! BEST COFFEE | BEST PUB | BEST CAFÉ | BEST RESTAURANT | BEST RETAIL BEST FAMILY ACTIVITY | BEST CHEAP EATS | BEST HERITAGE RESTORATION BEST POST-QUAKE BUILD | BEST GALLERY | BEST STREET ART | BEST THEATRE BEST DAY SPA / BEAUTICIAN | BEST HAIRDRESSER

Be in to win one of 20

PLUS A

Chuffed gifts, worth $150!

With 50 experience choices in each gift, the hardest bit

CHUFFED GRAND PRIZE WORTH

$1000

is choosing what to do!

Vote online now at avenues.net.nz

WATCH THIS SPACE Untitled Artist Robert Seikon and Anastasia Papaleonida Date January 2020 Location Lismore Street, Phillipstown Produced in January 2020, this bright and humming collaboration was part of Robert Seikon and Anastasia Papaleonida’s residency at urban art gallery Fiksate. Seikon, from Poland, and Greek artist Papaleonida arrived in Ōtautahi in late 2019 following wider travels across the globe. With distinct backgrounds (Seneka, a graffiti artist, and Papaleonida, a designer), the duo’s unique stylistic approaches form a harmonious unison in their collaborations, as exemplified in this mural for iconic Christchurch funk store Cosmic. The large work is packed with vibrant colour blocks built around a strong black form, softer gradients differentiating the tones and adding a sense of shifting intensity. Sections of striating lines and vibrating dots add optical dynamism to the visual cacophony. At the same time, sharp protrusions lead the eye across the picture plane as the hard-edged geometry contrasts against the more organic elements. There is an evident lyricism in the composition, sections rising and falling with subtle details as we explore the image, proof that abstraction’s resonance can make for powerful public art.

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/911

COUTURE

BEACH BASICS Summer has been waiting for you! Keep it chic, cool and comfortable with a curation of classics to elevate your beachside look.

FRAME Oversized Cotton Shirt, $437 net-a-porter.com | Caitlin Crisp Florence Jogger, $345 ballantynes.co.nz Matteau Crop Top, $169 sistersandco.co.nz | GUCCI Sunglasses, $959 fashionsociety.co.nz | Alice In The Eve Tai Platform Thongs, $95 generalpants.com/nz | Jo Malone Silver Birch and Lavender Cologne, $122 ballantynes.co.nz Will and Bear Rider Hat, $199 perriam.co.nz | Balmain Gold Barrette, $650 modstoyou.co.nz Curated by Courtney Reid 22

set your 2022 skin resolutions today

To start the new year right, Transform Clinic has four new facial plans of 12 monthlytreatments designed to help you achieve your skin goals and with cost savings!

Skin Renewal * 3x ELOS Fotofacials 3x Microdermabrasion + Glycolic 3x Vitamin C Infusions 3x Dermatech Refresher Facials $1800 (valued at $2235)

Smooth Skin * 6x Microneedling + Glycolic 6x Dermaplaning + Glycolic $2200 (valued at $2780)

Luxurious Pamper * 8x Luxury Dermatech Facials 4x Tropical Paradise Pedicures $1400 (valued at $1800)

Radiant Skin * 6x Fotona ‘Glow and go’ 6x Clinical Facials* $2200 (valued at $2910)

Book a free, no-obligation consultation today. www.transformclinic.co.nz 0800 256 654

*Ts and Cs apply.

See our website for details.

For a limited time only.

COUTURE

LAID-BACK LEISURE Just like Frankie says... relax! It’s time to step out in summer’s direction with breezy styles that will pair with almost anything... including your picnic basket.

Daphne Gingham Dress, $379 perriam.co.nz | Rush Tote, $649 deadlyponies.com | Paloma Sandals, $389 infinitedefinite.com | Ray-Ban Sunglasses, $249 sunglasshut.com | Byredo Rose Hand Cream, $87 meccabeauty.co.nz | Cari Necklace, $100 barejewellery.co.nz Curated by Courtney Reid 24

OPEN NOW

The Crossing, Kettlewell Lane @nicole.rebstock I www.nicolerebstock.com AUCKLAND I CHRISTCHURCH

PAMPER

HERE COMES THE SUN! Arbonne’s go-to guide for lightweight summer-ready vegan makeup products to make your skin glow.

1

2

Arbonne Intelligence® Pollution Defense CC Cream Broad Spectrum SPF30 Get complexion perfection with this medium-coverage, radiant-finish CC cream. The lightweight formula creates a breathable “second skin” to protect all skin types from pollution, provides mineral-based, broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, and camouflages the dulling effects of stress and lack of sleep. RRP: $64

Arbonne® Makeup It’s My Jam Blush Duo

3

4

Featuring two complementary shades with satin and shimmer finishes, each palette is designed to make your cheeks pop. These duos are the perfect finishing touch for any makeup look. The vegan formula is buildable, easy to blend, and light on the skin. RRP: $59

Lip Oil – Tinted Lip Serum & Hydrating Lip Serum

5

6

Pucker up! These lip serums feature organic coconut and jojoba oils to hydrate your pout. Wear on their own or add a layer to your lippie for extra shine and moisture this summer. RRP: $47

Arbonne® Second Nature Pressed Powder You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better face powder. Used on its own, over foundation, or for touch-ups throughout the day, this mattifying pressed powder reduces the look of fine lines and pores, leaving your skin looking fresh all day long. RRP: $62

Arbonne® Makeup Speak Volumes Mascara You’re just a few swipes away from full, fluttery lashes.

Speak Volumes Mascara lengthens, defines, separates, curls, and volumises lashes.

The smudge resistant mascara formula lets you go for a natural or dramatic at the flick of a wand. RRP: $53

Arbonne® Makeup Let it Set Refreshing Finishing Spray

Protect your skin and your makeup with this setting spray. Formulated with Pollution Shield Technology to help defend the skin against the elements, this setting spray locks your look in place. Use throughout the day for a refreshing boost for a skin pick-me-up!

RRP: $53

For more information, please visit arbonne.com/nz/en

26

The season for giving...

At Untouched World we thoughtfully design and consciously curate simple, beautiful pieces. We believe fashion is about connection and people, supporting local suppliers, artisans and communities in need.

This holiday season, give a gift that keeps on giving, to you, to others and the earth.

Christchurch | Wanaka | Wellington | Auckland untouchedworld.com

LOVE LOCAL

BABYFACE

KISS MY PUTT

This summer, choose 100 per cent mulberry silk for your skin. Silk is known for its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. These masks are comfortable, washable, and reusable. The silk is soft and warms to your skin – sewn with three layers of silk and optional filter insert pocket, and a bendy nose piece to easily contour to your exact fit. It feels so good with adjustable ear straps and a chin gusset for a close fit.

Kiss My Putt Golf Mentoring is all about learning the game where it really counts – on the course. The ‘Rookie Retreats’ are for groups of golfing buddies who want to lift their game and soak up some of Queenstown’s finest food, bespoke activities, and boutique accommodation. This programme is perfect for mid to high handicap golfers frustrated by a lack of improvement and inconsistent scoring. It’s personal. It works.

And it’s a whole lot of fun.

babyface.co.nz

kissmyputt.co.nz

EARTH ORGANIC

SKIN REJUVENATION CLINIC

You deserve beautiful hair without using petrochemical-filled products. Beauty without cruelty. Earth Organic Hairdressing is Christchurch’s most mindful salon and specialises in beautiful hair created with sustainable, natural, organic, and mineral ingredients. All colours are 100 per cent plant-based and are developed with a zero approach to animal testing. The skilled team consistently delivers creative, exciting, considered, and confidently carried out results. Enjoy the experience that is Earth.

EndyMed’s 3DEEP skin science offers the latest technology with maximum results and minimal discomfort! 3DEEP delivers targeted radiofrequency energy to three different layers of the skin, reactivating natural collagen production, reducing wrinkles, and noticeably lifting and tightening the skin. The 3DEEP has multiple electrodes in each of the handpieces to specifically target the different layers of the skin for a safer, more effective treatment with more immediate and longer-lasting results.

earthorganichairdressing.co.nz

skinrejuvenationclinic.co.nz

28

LOVE LOCAL

WILLOW COLLECTIVE

HIDDEN LODGE

Chantelle started Willow Collective in 2016 because of a desire to create stunning jewellery without the hefty price tag. Willow Collective prides itself on its S925 silver jewellery, and the Summer Collection, which Chantelle touts as her best release yet, has summer colour splashes throughout. She describes her jewellery as elegance that you can wear, and you can find it in over 60 stockists nationwide and three internationally.

Small, boutique accommodation, secluded on a hillside on the outskirts of town. The four private luxury suites are a perfect base for embracing all that Queenstown has to offer. Overlooking Lake Wakatipu to the mountain ranges, Hidden’s unobstructed views will mesmerise all – the sunsets, sunrises, movement of clouds and water, and the amazing night skies. Hidden prides itself on providing understated luxurious accommodation, allowing guests to embrace the local environment.

willowcollective.co.nz

hiddenlodgequeenstown.co.nz

THE FITTING ROOM

MILLA COLLAGEN

The Fitting Room is your bra fit specialist. With a wide range of beautiful, quality bras, including non-wired bras and bralettes, the skilled, specialist fitters will help you find your best size and style for any occasion. They are post-surgery specialists and stock D to K cup sizes, UK brand Freya (pictured), lingerie, and swimwear. Come experience their friendly, expert fitting service and leave feeling absolutely wonderful! Book online to ensure your fitting room space.

Skin feeling dull and dry from the winter season? Milla Collagen’s highly purified marine collagen with hyaluronic acid leaves the skin looking and feeling refreshed. The addition of vitamin C and E combine to reduce the damage caused by free radicals, slowing the visible signs of ageing. Whether you’re looking to improve your skincare game or getting ready for summer, Milla Collagen’s range of functional or everyday collagen products makes it easy to get your glow back. Healthier skin in just one spoonful.

thefittingroom.co.nz

millacollagen.com

29

LET US STUFF YOUR STOCKING! Our exclusive festive giveaway is back again.

LL

O

B

RS

A

G LOD

UCH

ED

R WO

N

E

N

L

DE

R THE BIG

WIN

ES

SK

TT

O

M

C

TH

G E C ROSSIN

H

AI

R ST RE O

S

TC

HU

P

RI

TE

CH

RS

E

O

C WA L L A

E

THE

ON

TO

HUN

U

U

N

TA

D

T I M AT E E A

O

UL

ST

OO

GREY

I VA L E M A

Y

ER

M 3

M

RCH HELI

CO

SO

LLOS

EUR O

CH

T

E

Imagery is an indication of giveaway, and is subject to change. You must be a New Zealand resident to be eligible to win. Our prize draws may be promoted over several different platforms simultaneously. No alternative prize will be offered and no correspondence will be entered into.

ALL WILL BE REVEALED ON DEC 1ST

@AVENUESMAG

@AVENUESMAGAZINE

CITY SCENE

CONTEXT KEY TO A WORLD-CLASS VENUE On the banks of the Avon and gliding along the edge of Victoria Square, Te Pae Christchurch sits proudly as a new beacon of the city. This mammoth project took some of the best and brightest to bring it to completion, and the iconic Canterbury design makes a statement as an entry to central Ōtautahi.

A

diagonal bargeboards, on the Ngāi Tūāhuriri whare on the bank of the Horotueka (Cam River).

Te Pae Christchurch is New Zealand’s first purpose-built, world-class business events facility, and in terms of activation and investment, it represents the Government’s single biggest contribution to the regeneration of central Christchurch.

Despite the impacts of Covid-19 on the events sector, almost 100 bookings are confirmed for the impressive venue. Collectively those events will draw almost 130,000 locals and visitors into the city centre.

Located in the heart of the CBD, within walking distance of hotels, shops, restaurants and bars, Te Pae Christchurch is proving popular with event organisers. It’s likely to inject $60m a year into the local economy.

Business event travellers are valuable tourists – typically spending up to three times as much as leisure tourists – and many will be here filling hotel rooms and restaurants outside

s Woods Bagot architect Bruno Mendes took in the view of the broad Rakaia River from the window of his plane on the approach to Christchurch, he had an idea.

Architects aim to design civic buildings that reflect their context, and Mendes seized the opportunity to take a photo (shown above) of the distinctive braided riverbed.

In contrast to most new convention centres, which tend to be square designs, Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre is wrapped in a fluid façade, with 43,000 speckled tiles assembled to reference our expansive river landscapes that have formed the Canterbury Plains.

The contoured profile of the building reflects the iconic Southern Alps, central to the Ngāi Tahu origin story, and the strong cultural connections also extend to artworks and other aspects of the building design.

Te Aika, a ngutu or ceremonial archway that will be used to formally welcome visitors, closely resembles the distinctive southern maihi, or

32

of our peak summer visitor season, which tends to be a quieter period for conferences and other meetings.

While it will attract significant national and international business events, some of which the city hasn’t been able to host in the past, Te Pae Christchurch will also be a great facility for locals, with expos and celebratory events.

Te Pae Christchurch will also enable successful local businesses and respected sectors to showcase their strengths to the world. Many of the confirmed events are in areas like food production, environmental science, health, and high-tech services, where New Zealand is a world leader. And, of course, locals will benefit from attending business events without the hassle and cost of travel.

Many event delegates – especially those from abroad – will bring a partner or their family.

Some will stay on in Christchurch after their

event or travel around the South Island, which is a ‘bucket list’ travel destination for many.

So why do many people want to attend business events in an age when so much information is available online? A conference used to be an event where you kept up to date with the latest developments in your sector, but now it is as much about building relationships. Just as we all wanted to catch up with friends and families in person after the last Covid-19 lockdown, our personal working relationships are important as well.

In the wake of the pandemic, some people may be unwilling or unable to travel to events, so Te Pae Christchurch has been designed with the technology to host hybrid events, where some people attend in person while others take part online.

Locals will have the opportunity to visit Te Pae Christchurch at a public open day in early 2022.

tepae.co.nz

33

IN DETAIL

RIDING THE WAVES OF LIFE WORDS Liam Stretch PHOTOS Julie Chandelier

I

n many ways, Nancy Meherne is your normal 92-year-old. Like plenty of nonagenarians, she tends to her garden, feeds a wayward cat, and gushes about her grandchildren and their successes to any visitor – with family photos all within arm’s reach. She does, however, have a passion that tends to be associated with abdominally gifted young people – surfing.

Born in Wellington in 1929 amid the Great Depression, Nancy and her family followed her father’s work, and when she was six months of age, they moved to Ohakune, in the shadow of Mount Ruapehu.

She later travelled the world for three and half years and eventually returned to New Zealand and found her home in Sumner, where she would raise her own family.

She and her husband Doug would go on to have two of their own children and adopt a third. Nancy then impacted the lives of many other young people in her role as a teacher and music tutor; she continues to do the latter with a couple of students a week. In education for most of her life, she still hears from former pupils that remember her fondly, many of them taking part in the operettas she produced.

“A lady who now lives in Australia wrote a lovely letter to me about how she has music for life now.”

She has hopes to see another of her musicals performed by a local school.

It was in raising her family in the seaside suburb that surfing came into Nancy’s life.

Nancy has long had a relationship with the water and swimming, but after her first ride on a board in her late 40s, Nancy developed a deep love for the waves.

Though not being able to take the stroll down to Sumner Beach to cruise atop the breakers as much as she would like, she still tries to get out into the water as often as possible, on the same foam Skellerup board she has used since she started – a 1970s model which belonged to her son.

“People are amazed I’m still using it because it’s so old,” she says. “It’s well made.”

She has never learnt to stand up on the board, and she has never felt the need to. She just enjoys being as close as possible to the water itself. She’s definitely no wuss, though.

“I like a strong wave. The little ones only last a wee while, and I like to go right in.”

Nancy says that she feels freed by the water and enjoys the break it provides her from everyday life.

“It’s lovely and no effort. You just lie there.

So many things are full of effort, this isn’t, I just love it,” she says.

In between surfing, Nancy dances and plays along to the classical music on the radio and spends time in an extensive edible garden. Nancy is a keen vegetarian, and her patch is an outdoor larder full of herbs, vegetables, and fruit. It also has a creek that is home to around 15 wellfed ducks, all on a diet of rolled oats and dumpster-dived fresh vegetables.

35

NAH

YEAH

1 2 3 4 5

The Greenway. Durham Street’s pedestrian-and cycle-friendly shared path; worth checking out.

Grater Goods’ boursan – a cashew-based cheese that’s even better than the original.

Local comedian Jack Ansett getting the nom for a Billy T Award. Make us proud, Jack!

Ravenscar House Museum’s opening, bringing a unique art offering to the city.

Resene Clover is a pastoral green field, fodder for bees and sheep.

1 2 3 4 5

Maskne – the unfortunate pandemic-related term we didn’t need.

Christmas traffic – it’d be nice to have a magical sleigh right about now.

Home fireworks. Is it time they were outlawed? The pets are in agreement!

Eftpos inconsistencies.

Do we swipe? Tap? Insert?

Wait, which way is up?

‘Reply All’ emails. Does everyone need to know about your second cousin’s grandkid’s fundraiser?

HOME

STYLE REVIVAL While the footprint of the original dwelling continues on, a strikingly different aesthetic emerges in this Young Architects project, winning National Winner for Residential Interiors in the recent ADNZ Resene awards.

PHOTOS Dennis Radermacher ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER Greg Young and Andy McLeod, Young Architects

T

his Moncks Spur home is an earthquake rebuild. With the owner’s love of the architectural style developed in Ōtautahi, locally known as the “Christchurch Style”, Young Architects utilised similar forms, with high pitched ceilings following the rooflines, solid walls, and large windows. This architectural movement has had a strong influence on the aesthetics of the design and utilisation of materials, while the technology and engineering have been updated to best practice wherever possible.

The project’s material palette combines concrete, steel, glass, and timber, relying on the materials natural honest beauty. Large views are captured with the glazing in deep recesses to prevent overheating.

The ADNZ Resene Awards judges mentioned that “the careful and well-

controlled articulation of a rich material palette has contributed to a very successful interior in this project that both respects and references the Christchurch Style with a clear authority and understanding”.

Interior elements like concrete and timber sit alongside each other, creating the primary visual experience. “Timber adds to the warmth and richness, and this is successfully contrasted against the harder bleached surfaces that the concrete provides the base for.

“Planning is also controlled particularly well,” the judges added.

“The interior to exterior flow is carefully crafted with a continuation of materials and excellent attention to detailing. Careful control of natural and artificial lighting is a final key to a very well-articulated solution that creates a set of refined interior spaces.”

38

Cedar has been used on the ceilings, oak on the floors, and birch on the walls. This is combined with crisp white on plasterboard and exposed concrete blockwork.

Lighting has been chosen predominantly for its simplicity, with feature pendants selected to reflect original influences.

Crisp white concrete blockwork defines the simple form of the home, with areas of the house recessed in a protective skin of a warm natural cedar cladding, which carries on into the interior of the home.

Touches of colour have been used throughout, in tiling, joinery, and wallpapers, adding to the refinement of the home, with the red oxide a nod to The Christchurch Style.

Greg Young of Young Architects mentioned the firm’s continued success in the Residential Interiors Awards.

“We designed virtually every element of this home, including furnishings, which allowed us to keep a cohesiveness throughout the home with its detailing and finishes. The inside of your home is where you spend the most time.”

Advanced Joinery was tasked with virtually an entire ‘house lot’ of architectural bespoke interior joinery. The coordination of the project had a ‘smooth transition’ according to the project manager, Jason Dean.

“The use of quality materials and finishes with superb craftmanship right from the architects plans to the reality of the build were easily achieved.” The standard of work is clearly apparent as you walk through the home.

The Christchurch Style has been described as “one of the few original and lasting cultural movements in New Zealand’s modern history”.

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN | COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES | SUBDIVISIONS Level 4, Te Uruti Building 48 Hereford Street, Christchurch

kamomarsh.co.nz

It’s worth leaving your comfort zone to discover new ideas. Why? Because that’s what the future demands. The best quality of living

requires continuous development, so we research the changing

needs of cabinetry users to come up with innovative new solutions.

Our hardware is designed to improve quality of living. So let‘s create the future together @blumnewzealand

blum.com/movingideas

HOME

WHICH HUE FOR YOU?

Resene Kamikaze

Resene Resene Burnt Crimson Double Concrete

Here, Alex Fulton sets the stage for the mid-century style Craftbuilt chair with a backdrop of Resene Double Concrete and artwork textured with Resene SRG Grit while accessories in Resene Kamikaze and Resene Burnt Crimson provide a playful contrast.

G

rey is often considered a cold colour, but by adding warmer tones, it creates a comforting and sophisticated space.

A room’s colour can be emphasised, and a space modernised, with the addition of a custom textured artwork in the same colour.

Combining texture with paint and painting onto a canvas in a random way works to great effect.

The grey colour is Resene Double Concrete, and I added Resene SRG Grit for the texture. A selection of shaped vases helps move your eye around the space and adds interest. Modern shapes bring a sense of design wow-factor.

Seasonal not-so-traditional blooms increase the architectural form of the zone. This beautifully patterned cushion ties in the colours of the space. Scatter cushions are an easy addition.

Also, the substrate from a chair or sofa often ties together the room’s design and colour elements.

The subtle design of the cushion softens the block colours of the wall and vases.

The tonal story of the grey walls, the canvas, and the rug is the perfect backdrop to the colours of the other items in this room. Think of it as a theatre background, making the accessories the central characters in the play. We have set the stage for colour, pattern, and texture.

DIY Painted Canvas by Alex Fulton Design in Resene Double Concrete and Resene SRG Grit; Terra Belle Stool and Soria Bottle in Coffee from A&C Homestore; Assorted Books from Corso; Winter berries from Harakeke Florist; Rug from Bunnings; Kanas Vase painted in Resene Kamikaze from Ned Collections

Chair in White Oak with Linen Fabric from Craftbuilt; Patterned Cushion from Corso

Sedona Vessel in Sienna and Sedona Vessel in Marron from Casual and Country Homestore Photos: Sarah Rowlands

41

HOME

IN SEASON

I Lynette McFadden Business Owner & Mentor Harcourts gold @lynette_mcfadden

’m totally biased when it comes to living close to Hagley Park, and although every in and loving my hometown, but the season – and we’re lucky to enjoy the full thought of summer in the city – especially four here (unlike our northern cousins) – has this summer and this city – feels particularly its variations, the summertime brings more enticing. people, more park-based events, and a really After such a long year, long on issues and strong sense of community. challenges, it’s the perfect time to dress up Finally, I’m going to eat plenty whilst and sample our city’s best features. drinking mindfully and do my utmost to So, what’s on my list? First will be a visit visit with family and friends some of my to the recently finished and completely favourite restaurants and cafés. These new Ravenscar House Museum. This stylish include Unknown Chapter, Mediterranean establishment houses an incredible New Market, Hali, and Earl, in the knowledge Zealand art collection of over 110 paintings that the season and our location will be and is the generous legacy of Christchurch represented by imaginative fare that hasn’t couple Jim and Susan Wakefield. The been overhandled or overthought. museum itself is funded with insurance Having seen what a year of constant Covid proceeds from their previous home, also issues can do throughout the country, I’m called Ravenscar House, which was for supporting the city, especially the city destroyed in the Canterbury Earthquakes. businesses, the best way I can. I’m going to Being able to visit something so beautifully spend, invest, and eat locally. gifted to our city, with the added attachment I’m for backing my own backyard, and of a legacy that has come from the pain of here’s to every other Cantab who has the our earthquake losses, is deeply special. same idea. If you’re dreaming of a simpler Next will be numerous (I hope) walks life in this, the silly season, it’s all there or around our largest park. I’m fortunate to live should I say ‘here’. Thanks, Canterbury.

42

IT’S A

BETTER HOME YOU OWN...

0800 22 22 36 www.goldenhomes.co.nz christchurch@goldenhomes.co.nz Visit one of our Showhomes today!

DESTINATION

SEASIDE SUMMER IN TIMARU It’s hard to beat a seaside summer holiday; that feeling of the sun on your face, sand between your toes, running from the waves or jumping straight in. Long hot days spent at the beach, carnival rides, picnics, ice creams, sandcastles, and cool coastal walks. In the little seaside city of Timaru, you can cross the road from the beach to wine, dine, and shop. Then head back to the beach at dusk to watch the little penguins return from a day’s fishing.

DASHING ROCKS WALK

TIMARU TRAILS

One favourite walk among locals starts and finishes at Caroline Bay. Experience the beauty of Timaru’s coastline, enjoying panoramic views over Caroline Bay, wandering over ancient lava flows, and examining the rocky cliffs that proved treacherous to early shipping. Start with brunch, or finish with sunset drinks at the fabulous row of eateries at the Bay Hill.

Download the free Timaru Trails App while you’re there. There are cool self-guided tours of street art, Caroline Bay, and the stories behind some of the earliest burials at the Timaru Cemetery. You can also use the app to navigate coastal walks and Centennial Park, Timaru’s inner-city biking and walking track reserve. Bring your bike or hire one while you’re there.

44

DESTINATION

PENGUINS AND DOLPHINS SEASIDE FESTIVAL There is a resident rookery of kororā/little penguins that nest at the southern end of Caroline Bay over the summer. You can watch them noisily come ashore at dusk after a day’s fishing for free. Also calling the area home is a pod of Hector’s dolphins that you can spot in and around Caroline Bay if you time it right.

Celebrate all things good about seaside summers with Timaru’s new Seaside Festival.

Planning is underway for a series of fun events to be held over a two-week period in early February. Think incredible sandcastles, amazing kites, merpeople gathering, and heaps more.

Stay tuned as more information is announced for the family friendly Seaside Festival.

DAY AT THE BAY

ROAD TRIPS

It’s easy to spend a day at Caroline Bay. If There are plenty of cool places to take a day you’ve had enough of sand and saltwater, trip to, from your base in Timaru. Check there’s a playground, a skatepark, a bike out Temuka’s vintage stores, and carry on skills park, disc golf, mini-golf, a beach to Geraldine for outstanding food, boutique volleyball court, and a rose garden of shops, and fabulous art galleries. Head to National Significance. Let’s not forget The Pleasant Point, check out the vintage railway Caroline Bay Carnival! It runs from Boxing and grab a real fruit ice cream. Plus, all the Day until 9 January with fairground rides and adventure of the legendary Mackenzie is an live entertainment every day. easy excursion too.

45

DESTINATION

WANDER WAITAKI

T

he Waitaki is a rich study of both landmarks and geology, where culture, heritage, wildlife, and topnotch food offerings can be discovered. The words ‘It’s Famous Because It’s Good’ have been written in the fabric of its heritage.

Start with lazy days at the beach at Kākānui or Moeraki, with an opportunity to build sandcastles or hit the surf. Then picnic with the family, enjoying a cheeky chilled glass or two of locally crafted wine or beer, and of course, don’t forget the local tomatoes and cheese.

See the Waitaki in every detail as you bike the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail from the foot of Aoraki Mt Cook or Lake Tekapo, weaving through high-country vistas to undulating green hills and farmland through to the edge of the Pacific Ocean at historic Ōamaru.

If camping is your summer highlight, venture to the Waitaki Lakes. Take the tent, the boat, the biscuit, and the kids for an allout lakeside adventure.

It’s been said that Waitaki rocks for scientists and explorers, young and old. Discover the

Waitaki Whitestone Geopark, Macrae’s Gold Mine, or visit the Vanished World Centre to view the fossils uncovered from sites nearby.

Stroll through Ōamaru’s historic precinct of Harbour and Tyne Streets, filled with art galleries, museums, cafés, and assorted retail, and home to Steampunk HQ. It’s a special place to enjoy the authentic Victorian streetscape that’s been so carefully protected.

The long summer evenings allow for a relaxed dining experience at any of the district’s well-known restaurants such as Riverstone Kitchen, Cucina, Fleurs Place, or enjoy tapas at Casa Nova House.

For your last stop, there is the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony, where you can check out the cutest little locals coming home at dusk.

End your day in style by spending your night in one of the many re-vamped historic accommodation houses, or a motel-hotel, or stay in luxury.

Take your time to explore every corner.

There’s a little something for everyone to indulge in over the summer.

waitakinz.com

46

telephone 03 35 1 77 6 4 ho l l y l e a.c o.n z

historic & iconic

The very best in care and retirement living.

New Summerset village on its way

Summerset is excited to announce a brand new retirement village, Summerset Prebbleton, opening in 2022. As our fourth village located in Canterbury, it will o er nearly 300 homes to choose from once complete, including villas, cottages and serviced apartments.

Request a free information pack today

Enjoy the freedom that a Summerset village o ers, with no worries about maintenance or upkeep. We take care of the little things so you can continue to live the life you choose.

0800 SUMMER summerset.co.nz

Summerset Prebbleton is conveniently located for easy access to Christchurch CBD, a supermarket and the soon to be completed community hub, Prebbleton Village.

Many Summerset residents I speak with enjoy that their housing is secured, finances sorted with no surprises, and care is on hand at any level should you need it in the future. There’s a certain freedom in knowing the big (and not so big) things are taken care of, so you can just get on with living life.

Find out more at summerset.co.nz/prebbleton

SUM3532_8X8

Jude Dobson, Summerset brand ambassador

PALATE

SUMMER DAYS AND WINTER NIGHTS

W Jax Hamilton, Food Editor jaxhamilton.co.nz

hen I close my eyes on the first day of December, my body tells me I should expect dark wintery days.

My fingers tingle for woollen mittens, and my neck has serious scarf expectations.

Gossamer breath, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, winter flurries, central heating, and plates heaped with roast dinners, swimming in rich, thick gravy. For the first 35 years of my life, this is what I came to expect from living in the Northern Hemisphere.

When I open my eyes, however, my reality is very different. Spring is in full flourish, and my garden pregnant with bursting buds, salad greens, fruits, and vegetables.

With winter boots all packed away, my toes welcome the relief of bare feet on sand and jandals. The days are long, my sleeves are short, and most importantly, it’s time to clean my BBQ – hahaha!

Regardless of the hemisphere within which I reside, I absolutely adore Christmas. My tree goes up on December 1, and you can bet I’ve meticulously constructed and coordinated

49

my wrapping paper and decorations. Most of the time, I make my own, usually dependent on the past 11 months.

This year, because I so miss overseas travel, my tree will be adorned with small globes and ribbons flowing from branch to branch, uniting each as a sign of worldwide community. Friggin’ deep, I know. I believe having a reminder of our collective struggle and combined humanity is essential.

Of course, the festive season is also all about family, friends, and celebration. The glorious thing about living deep within the South Pacific is, over Christmas, we get to enjoy long, hot days and warm sultry evenings.

I’m a curious night bird and love to investigate what’s available and stretch my 24 hours out for as long as possible. I’m talking shopping, cinema, cocktails, dinner. A short walk, then somewhere to perch over flickering candles, a steaming Irish whiskey, and a plate of something naughty and sweet – or savoury and crunchy – chattering away until the clock strikes 12.

PALATE

NIGHT SWEETS! Late night treats for warm sultry evenings.

THE LAST WORD

FRANCESCA’S ITALIAN KITCHEN

DUSK BAR

31 New Regent Street , Central City lastword.co.nz

149 Gloucester Street, Central City fransitalian.co.nz

127 Hackthorne Road, Cashmere duskbar.co.nz

Walking into the Last Word is like stepping into the living room of an old, wise friend who just wants the best for you. Open fires and spongy sofas. Tin trays and dancing candles.

A deep hug of moments and whatnots, with whiskey and wine.

Something is comforting about flicking through the multipage menu of choices, from old school cocktails or a dram from one of the 500 bottles of in-house global whiskey. Open till late; you can while away the evening over a platter of European antipasto, pop next door to Rollickin Gelato and grab a sticky pud, or just sip away whilst nibbling a slab of artisan chocolate.

When the night’s over and the hug released, New Regent Street is the perfect magical platform from which to head home.

If I only had $20 left in the world or the request for my last ever meal, it would be the tiramisu at Francesca’s. Light, creamy, just sweet enough. There is texture, body, and a deep dusting of cocoa powder to ensure your entire spoon is fully coated to slowly tease and melt the velvety mascarpone filling on the heat of your tongue.

Grab your vibe or your tribe and spend a moment caressing this dessert – post-dinner or theatre, or just as the queen of ‘afters’ pick me up. In perfect partnership, their coffee is small, dark, and handsome. It treats you mean to keep you keen and is the best ever accompaniment to the tiramisu.

It is sex on a spoon… can I say that? There, said it!

The best place in Christchurch to watch the sunset hues transform from yellow to orange and then blaze the sky with red is the Dusk Bar. Sat high above Christchurch, with views of the whole city and beyond, you can almost touch Mother Nature.

Thanks to their Filipino chef, the menu is a wonderful pan Asian fusion of snacks, large dishes, sharing platters, pizzas, plus incredible desserts. With local brewery Cassels on tap, there’s something for everyone. But you can also just grab a wine and a slice of strudel as an end of the day ritual.

For a sunset table, be sure to book. Open for breakfast all through the day until 9:30pm.

So feel free to take your time, as Mother does her thing.

50

PALATE

top pick C1 ESPRESSO 185 High Street, Christchurch coffee.c1espresso.co.nz

I love that something can be insignificant and innocent during the day, like a park, for instance, then at night becomes mysterious and full of magic; the woods!

C1 has this dual personality. It is a daytime bolt hole for shoppers, office workers, pedestrian city dwellers, students, and the odd corporate lunch. Then once the clock strikes 7pm, a whole different breed of clientele emerges. Leather satchels and dusty

VISIT

books. Linen overcoats with Burberry check versus yoga mats and guitar cases. Wrinkled cinema tickets and groovy glasses. Singles punctuate the tables with an occasional glance and side smile, welcoming each other into this safe night fraternity.

Regardless, the menu matches the clientele, with a wonderful collection of cakes, biscuits, and sweet treats. But for me, it is the selection of locally curated Golden Panther teas,

THE QUARTERS THIS SUMMER

The Quarters is open Monday to Friday and Sundays 9am till 4.00pm.

Dine in the cafe or outside in the Rose Garden. Enjoy live music on Sundays or order a picnic and relax in the beautiful grounds.

Celebrate a special occasion with family in our Private room.

We look forward to welcoming you to the house and grounds this summer.

P: (03) 348 - 6190 E: events@thequarters.co.nz W: www.thequarters.co.nz

delivered in little matchboxes, divided into two – one for now and one for later. The chocolatey tisanes to white witch infusions and calming aromatics capture my heart. The food menu is available from 7am until 8:30pm.

A collection of full meat and well balanced plant-based dishes, all delivered, of course, via the overhead pneumatic tube system.

All in all, it brings to mind that curious poem

by Anon “There was a man of double deed….”

PALATE

Te Mana Lamb Rump KUMARA PURÉE, HONEY GLAZED BABY CARROTS, KAWAKAWA, AND EGGPLANT Chef Desmond Davies joined Te Pae Christchurch with over 20 years of experience in the hospitality sector across Malaysia, Africa, and Europe, including time in convention centres in Borneo and his native South Africa. Since arriving in New Zealand two years ago, he has worked with local suppliers to design a menu that is a true taste of Canterbury, making the most of fresh seasonal, sustainable produce and native ingredients.

Learning to forage for traditional ingredients has been a highlight of his time here, and he has enjoyed incorporating natives, such as harakeke and kawakawa into the Centre’s menu. “It’s been an amazing opportunity to put a new, distinctly local twist on my European and Asian-influenced food background.”

SERVES 6

1kg or 4 whole rumps of Te Mana Lamb Rump (or any lamb rump), with cap on 550g of kumara 25g of butter 50ml of coconut cream 40ml of olive oil 2 eggplants each, cut into 1cm cubes 100g of white onion, diced 10g crushed garlic 1 red capsicum each, diced 1/2 tsp dried kawakawa leaves (alternative: dried basil) 500g of baby carrots 1 tsp of honey 100g of pomegranate seeds

Lamb Season the lamb rumps with salt and pepper. In a hot pan, seal the rumps, cook the fat side down until crispy, and seal the other sides. Put the lamb in a hot oven at 200°C and cook through, using a probe thermometer to cook lamb to 60°C. Allow to rest for 10 mins before slicing into 2cm slices. Once plated, garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds.

Kumara Purée Cook kumara in salted water until soft; drain off water. Mash with butter and coconut cream.

Kawakawa, Eggplant, and Red Capsicum Combine the onion, garlic, red capsicum, eggplant, olive oil, and kawakawa in a medium saucepan over low heat and cook, occasionally stirring for 8–10 minutes or until eggplant softens. Spoon over plated kumara purée, and serve warm.

Honey Glazed Baby Carrots Cook the baby carrots in salted water. Once tender, place the carrots in a saucepan, spoon over the honey, and toss the carrots until they are all coated with honey.

52

PALATE

Dark Chocolate, Lime, and Coconut Tart The chef at the Quarters at Riccarton House, Sam Marchant, oversees the daytime restaurant and also heads up the kitchen when hosting events. With menus reflecting the seasons, daily lunches are created from the restaurant planter boxes or utilise the local produce from the onsite Christchurch Farmers’ Market, which operates every Saturday in the historic grounds. Tailored menus are also created for weddings, anniversary dinners, cocktail events, whisky and gin nights, all held in the historic quarters of Riccarton homestead.

This indulgent tart ticks all the boxes: decadent, gluten- and dairy-free, vegan if you omit the mascarpone garnish and use the maple syrup instead of the honey. A staple on the menu at The Quarters, try it for your next dessert.

SERVES 6

Pastry 150gm ground almonds 75gm walnuts, ground Zest of 2 limes 50ml coconut oil 50ml maple syrup or good local honey Filling 400ml coconut cream 400gm 70 per cent dark chocolate Pinch of sea salt To serve Mascarpone Lime zest Pistachios Freeze-dried berries

In a food processor, pulse the ground almonds, walnuts, and lime zest until combined.

Meanwhile, slowly heat the coconut oil and honey (or maple syrup) until melted, then add to the nut mixture and pulse until mixture resembles sticky breadcrumbs.

Line a 24cm round baking tin with baking paper. Press the mixture into the tin, pressing up the sides slightly and bake at 180°C for eight to 10 minutes or until golden. Remove from oven and let cool.

Meanwhile, heat the cream until just simmering. Place the dark chocolate in a large bowl, then pour over the hot cream. Let it sit for a minute, then whisk the mixture from the inside out until smooth, add the salt and give a final whisk.

Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the baked pastry case and chill for two to three hours until set.

Serve in slices with mascarpone, chopped pistachio, extra lime zest, and freezedried berries.

54

CELEBRATE THE SEASON WORDS Kim Newth PHOTOS Sarah Rowlands

A

line-up of colourful, fresh seasonal salads is a delight to the eye at the Merivale Fresh Choice Deli and a source of quiet pride for the deli team, led by Lauren Donnell. At this time of year, they are flying out the door.

“We’re doing a lot of salads and orders for daybefore-Christmas pick-ups,” says Lauren. “Of course, glazed hams are top of many people’s shopping lists too. We make our own glazed hams, and they look and taste amazing. It’s a beautiful ham and a great option, especially if you’re hosting a large number of people.”

The legendary reputation of this deli is such that the Crusaders place a regular weekly bulk salad order, and the All Blacks have sampled its salad selection too. This is truly champion fare. Every day, all salads are made fresh on-site from the Fresh Choice Merivale produce range, offering plenty of choices and inspiring variety.

With a busy catering schedule for the end of year business and festive functions, December means platters aplenty for the deli squad. Merivale Fresh Choice Deli provides a custom service tailored to the needs of each customer and their requirements. Platters from the deli comprise an inspiring spread of customised items including dips and pâtés, fresh veggies, fruit, salads, sundried tomatoes and olives, breads, sliced ham and other gourmet meats, crackers and quality cheese.

Fruit platters with seasonal favourites like rockmelon and strawberries are another popular choice, and Christmas mince pies and chocolates can be added if desired.

“We can do absolutely anything including grazing tables with pork belly slider buns, crostini, and cocktail blinis – you name it, we can put it on there. We also do a lot of canapes.

We’re a one-stop-shop as we work closely with our butchery team and can even sort out the beverage side and organise servers.

“Everyone is different, so we cater for what people want and for their particular function.

We don’t advertise our services as such. What happens is someone will go to a party where they love what we’ve done and then get in touch asking if we could do the catering for their next social function. It grows by word of mouth.”

The butchery team, headed by Lauren’s husband Stu, is next to the deli, which is a real plus for customers. “People can come to us if they need advice on, say, preparing and glazing a ham; Stu can walk them through that.”

Conversely, readymade deli roast meals such as lamb off the bone, pork loin, beef fillet, and chicken breast with all the trimmings may be just what some are looking for this festive season. Deli made gourmet pizzas and bacon and egg pies are other great convenience options.

Lauren, who has a background in café management, has led her talented team for the past six years. She grew up with a passion for cooking and loves making sure that everything on display is made fresh that day to a high standard and beautifully presented.

“No two days are the same. I love the busyness the most. It’s pretty fast-paced. If you can finish your day wanting more hours, then you know it’s the right job for you!”

merivalemall.co.nz

PALATE

PLANT THE TOWN RED

Y

ou may recognise the name Red Eight mentions that Chris and Kate, the owners Café – arguably one of Kaiapoi’s best- of Portstone Garden Centre, would come kept secrets, Stephanie Reeves’ iconic into the café in Kaiapoi regularly. After a few institution took out the winning votes for months of chatting about the possibility of Best Café in 2019’s A List awards. taking over the café at the garden centre, Red This overwhelmingly positive response to Eight at Portstone was born. And now, with her approach to food and coffee means Red the original Kaiapoi café sitting with new Eight is a name synonymous with good fare. owners, Stephanie is full steam ahead on In recent months, Stephanie has added putting Red Eight Portstone on the map. a new string to her bow – Red Eight Café at Everything on offer looks stunning and Portstone. This latest venture is a fantastic tastes even better, from classic eggs benedict place to meet your friends and family for stacked on crispy rostis to rhubarb and early brunch on a Saturday or Sunday whilst spiced blueberry pancakes with butterscotch sitting in the sunshine among the delights of sauce and gingernut crumb. The cabinet is Ferry Road’s Portstone Garden Centre. adorned with even more options for those on Stephanie keeps it simple. “I love food that the go, and the coffee is top-notch. looks delicious and tastes fantastic.”

Stephanie also mentions their lemon She’s definitely earned her stripes. After meringue tarts are so popular, to a point retraining as a pastry chef about a decade where they are struggling to keep up with ago, she went on to work at the Crowne demand, “which is understandable since Plaza pre-quakes. She also cut her teeth at they are so yummy!” famed French baker’s J’aime les Macarons Check out Red Eight at Portstone – brunch before creating Red Eight Café in 2016. She is available till 2pm.

58

PALATE

THE TREATS ARE SWEET

CINFUL

BUTTER’S BUCHE

NOUGAT NOMS

South Town Club is amongst the best café offerings in the central city; with a modern, delicious food menu and the nicest team to boot, you’ll have a new regular brunch spot in no time.

When you’re there, take our word for it, and order one of their cinnamon scrolls. These are absolutely smothered in citrus icing, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get one still warm.

Perfect mid-morning snack with coffee number three. Or is it four?

Butter’s table centrepiece for the festive season is the famed bûche de Noël – a yule time tradition in France, with a decidedly Butteresque twist for the Kiwi palate. This is an artful display of an almond praline crémeux, wrapped up in a handmade choux sponge roulade and slathered in a milk chocolate mousse. This is a perfect option to replace the classic Chrissy trifle this year. Pre-orders are open now.

As always, our friends at Ballantynes are your one-stop-shop for stocking stuffers. Why not give your loved ones a touch of decadence in their present pile with this smooth, creamy nougat from Bramble and Hedge? This latest flavour release has arrived in-store and is filled with candied pear, caramel, nuts, and honey. It’s a sweet treat for a special person. And you know what, perhaps that person is you?!

butterpastry.nz

ballantynes.co.nz

@southtownclubnz

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS… …is Swte Sos ul’ etursigna Chtmasri e!akc Availbe only in the month of Deembrc in-e,orts s it’ the etivsf aplets ouy ned on oury side when edingf the opstr oundar the sily ason.e The schef ta Swte Soul ehav spent months tingecprf this authenic ecip,r and the esultr is a ervy el-w edalncb mix of tnes,w eshfr citrus sourflav and env a hint of emiupr rum. Each eakc is infused with plenty of tescr tricks tha only Swte Sos ul’ amet . wkno How erious!tmy Grab one and tle us wkno who delicous it is. sweetsoul.nz

60

CLINK!

A FESTIVE FEW

SWEET STRAWBERRY

RIVIERA READY

LONG AND LINGERING

Made from the free-run juice of Pinot Noir grapes, this delicious Rosé is instantly appealing on the nose with sweet strawberry, red apple, lemon peel, and subtle spice aromas. The palate displays excellent fruit purity combined with fine texture and juicy acidity, making it super tasty and lingering. This wine is at its best from now until 2023 and is $28.

Review by Sam Kim, Wine Orbit.

Earl is Christchurch’s love letter to the vivacious coastlines of Italy, bringing European summer to the heart of our city. The pre-dinner aperitivo is an Italian tradition. It might be a while before we’re sipping spritzes in a Roman piazza, but we’ve got the next best thing right here with the Riviera Spritz. It is sweet and refreshing, with elderflower, Lillet Blanc, Prosecco, cucumber, and a sprig of mint.

Greystone has released a new bubbles – Petillant Naturel. Made without the addition of any sugar or preservatives, this is bringing back a traditional way of making natural sparkling wine. With citrus on the palate and lively aromas of crisp pineapple and lemon balm, this is the perfect summer tipple. It’s also certified organic and vegan.

ataahuawine.co.nz

earl.co.nz

greystonewines.co.nz

LET’S TALK FURKEY This Chtmas,ri esav the tame and obleg te(g ? it ) up some of Grerta Gos od’ insaely delicous Rotas Fu.eyrk The ‘Fey’urk is a e-whit tame anseit tasor with herb tuing,s apedwr in a yso ,’skin‘ and omesc with a maple e.glaz It is asye ot ok,c delicous tho or old,c and a edfint w-sho operts on the able.t It esariv en,zofr so emak esur ouy thaw eorbf the big day! gratergoods.co.nz

61

CLINK!

IN YOUR OWN BACK VINE YARD

N Nik Mavromatis North Canterbury Wine Growers northcanterburywines.co.nz

o, I’m not talking about that Albany Surprise vine down the side of your house that needs a good prune!

I’m talking about how many people don’t realise what a fantastic place Canterbury is to grow grapes. Although, hot tip for your backyard vine, prune it hard in winter and make sure you allow for plenty of air to flow through to stop your grapes from getting mouldy. Our position on the east coast of New Zealand means we get nor’west winds all summer long that develop intense flavours and keep our grapes disease-free.

In Manuela Gansser’s famed cookbook Autumn in Piemonte, she lists the best places in the world to grow food and wine.

“Some of the richest agricultural land in the world is to be found where plains spread out below mountain ranges.” Her examples are Piedmont, California, and Canterbury, New Zealand! There aren’t many places in the world that produce wine, truffles, porcini, and other food of such intensity as these.

Yet here is Canterbury as one of the deluxe regions, sparkling in the spring sunshine.

Most of New Zealand’s wine production heads overseas each year, but the Covid pandemic has left us wineries unable to travel to foreign markets to sell our wine. At

62

the same time, most Canterbury wineries produce top wines aimed at the premium sector, so the shutdown of many of the world’s best restaurants have hit them harder than those multinationals who supply only supermarket wine.

At Greystone, we supply 23 export markets. The feedback from our partners there is horrifying regarding the impact Covid has had on hospitality and how lucky we are in New Zealand. Feedback from other exporters such as Pegasus Bay and Pyramid Valley reveals similar dealings with international restaurants.

So now more than ever, your local wineries need support. They aren’t far away, and even if your idea of foraging is hunting out the free samples in the wine section of your supermarket, you should probably get out there and try something new. Maybe a new variety or a new winery?

My top picks for something new would be the Terrace Edge Albarino for a classy crisp white with balanced acidity and richness, Tussock Hill’s Huntsbury Hill grown Pinot Noir 2017, or a multi varietal Rosé from Georges Rd ‘Field Blend’ 2021.

Time to step out of your comfort zone and try something grown and made on your back doorstep; you won’t be disappointed.

ALL ABOARD

DESTINATION: DYLAN

Ali Jones Writer, broadcaster, and housebus adventurer. @AliJones2 | @luverduck

I

love Christmas. Not because we spend time with family, eat and prepare delicious food, or enjoy the warm summer weather. I love it because it is the one time of the year when most of us stop working. There are still many, of course, who keep working – thank you – but essentially, nobody expects to get emails, phone calls or even plans anything to do with work – for a few days anyway. Kiwis are well known for having an awesome work ethic (read that as ‘work their butts off’), and there-in perhaps lies part of the problem: how much work we do is expected by others and ourselves.

Covid-19 has enabled people to change the way they work, and many have said it’s been wonderful spending more time with family. Some of us have re-examined how and why we do our work. I have. After more than a decade of dealing with earthquake and insurance issues – ours and others – the created stress has played a part in our health and well-being. After the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, some people re-set their lives; they re-examined what was truly important to them.

Unfortunately for many, their ability to make decisions and control their choices was taken away from them by insurance companies and EQC. Some still aren’t out the other side. Our house is being demolished

because it is a failed EQC repair. This is the second time we have been through this after the house we owned at the time of the earthquakes was demolished in 2015. It’s not easy to re-set your life only to then slide back to where you were.

Covid-19 has also been an opportunity to re-examine what is important. Over the last couple of years, my husband and I have lost a few close friends, family members, colleagues, and acquaintances – some our age or younger. I am sure we’re not alone.

The mid-50s isn’t old.

We are fortunate to be able to make the choices we can, including living in a house bus (Dylan) when our home is demolished in early 2022. We have learnt over the last few years that you can’t take life for granted.

‘Life is a journey, not a destination’ might sound like a bumper sticker (in fact, I think it is a bumper sticker), but it sums up things right now. We are very lucky in New Zealand in so many ways. Sure, there are always going to be things that make us grumpy (naked people in the spa next door, I am talking to you); however, Aotearoa is a pretty cool country.

I look forward to taking you on the road with us over the summer as Dylan visits some of the unique people and places across the South Island.

64

Want more income & less admin from your holiday home?

List your holiday home with Bachcare to make the most of the increased demand this summer. We’re the only holiday home managers in New Zealand with a dedicated team to manage your revenue. This means your property could be receiving 16% higher bookings and 8% higher revenue*.

Plus, by listing with Bachcare you’re also listing with over 20 partner sites including Airbnb and Booking.com, making it easy to have your holiday home pay for your summer holiday. * as at 27/07/21 with data from 03/10/21 – 26/07/21 based on Bachcare properties on Super Income Max vs Fixed Price plan.

gs

kin

Boo

List your holiday home with Bachcare today.

0800 42 22 42 newowners.bachcare.co.nz

COLUMN

IN THE WEEDS

Chris Parker, Comedian fb.com/itschrisparker | @chrisparker11

I

and there, I chose to give up on my summer entertainment paradise dream. I decided to move on to bigger and brighter things like filming Celebrity Treasure Island New Zealand.

I signed up for the show as a way to escape the weeds of my everyday life; I had visions of myself drinking directly out of a coconut on the sandy beaches of Fiji and making friends with the likes of Art Green.

Unfortunately, due to our dear friend Covid, I found myself instead only a half-day drive out of Auckland and digging for treasure, not in the golden sandy beaches of my dreams, but on the coast of Northland, face to face once again with my mortal enemy – the kikuyu weed.

Watching my fellow contestants dig feverishly for treasure through the kikuyu, I stopped searching, and it struck me, there is no way the treasure would be under this stuff. I’ve tried for the last five years to dig that weed up to no avail. How has some underpaid intern with the television production company dug up the kikuyu and buried the treasure underneath in a matter of a few days?

Once again, I let the kikuyu win. I walked away from the weeds and decided to dig somewhere easier. It was there, in my defeated state, that my spade happened to slide right through the soil and hit the treasure. A reality show victory was mine, and 100k went to Rainbow Youth.

So, this summer, I’ve hired a gardener to come in and dig up the kikuyu for me. I will finally have the summer garden paradise of my dreams, and while It may feel like I’m cheating by paying someone else to do it for me, it still feels earned.

have an annual tradition of standing outside my Auckland flat at this time of year and staring into the abyss that is my overgrown, undermaintained garden and wishing I cared enough or just had the general know-how to landscape my garden into the summer outdoor entertainment paradise of my dreams.

What this usually transpires into is me impulsively getting elbow-deep in the weeds and continuously attempting to pull them out in an almost trance like state until I’ve soiled the completely inappropriate outfit that I happened to be wearing at the time.

My latest blitz earlier this year got me thinking. After three hours of pulling at weeds, causing significant strain to my lower back, the thought struck me that I should reach out to my community of amateur weed experts on Instagram for advice.

Sadly, Instagram only had devasting news for me. I wasn’t just dealing with any old garden weed; I was trying to take on kikuyu. A native from East Africa, this grass was imported to New Zealand because of its resilience in coastal climates. It grows deep and thick into the soil, twisting and tangling in on itself like the cable of some headphones lost in a tote bag. “You leave one bit of that grass untouched, and the whole thing will grow back in a week,” said one concerned Instagram follower. “Just give up now and let it grow out into a full lawn,” said another.

Kikuyu’s reputation had me trembling in my pristine white sneakers that I had regrettably started gardening in and had since ruined.

It felt like there was no conceivable way I was ever going to win against the kikuyu. Then

66

BUILDING OF THE MONTH - OXFORD TCE APARTMENT

Enriching the way people live, work and play through architecture and interior design Architects and Interior Designers of beautiful homes

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

Rest assured, they’re in good hands

HC NMA0710_HAR

If you can’t be with your loved ones over the summer holidays, rest assured they’re in good hands at the Nurse Maude hospital. We provide around-the-clock hospital level residential and respite care with world-class nursing services, from our contemporary facilities in the heart of Merivale.

Contact: Ph (03) 375 4145 25 Mansfield Avenue, Merivale www.nursemaude.org.nz

HUMANS OF ŌTAUTAHI

Kitty and Topsy SUMNER

weren’t allowed to have a clock ticking and told me how to interview them all properly, and then he put it on a tape.

“It was 1942, straight after the Battle of Pearl Harbor, when they arrived. Once those troops arrived, they took the school over, and we had to go to Waltham School.

“There was an awful lot going on because there was a big tank trap along the beach, and you weren’t allowed in it. So, I had to go and fall in there. And because I got soaked, I didn’t dare go home. It never entered my head that my mother and father would have a search party looking for me. And I was lying in the wet sand trying to get my clothes dry because I’d get into trouble with a wet dress. I can remember the walloping I got.

“I must’ve been a shit of a kid. I broke that many bones. It was really a horror.”

Kitty “My husband John knew Topsy and her husband Stan before I did. Topsy and I have been in the museum together for about 46 years.”

Topsy “Ken Maynard was having a yack one night about the mischief they got up to down at Scarborough when we were kids. And I said, ‘but Ken, we had to go straight home’. We weren’t allowed to dilly dally like that. Your parents had to know where you were. Well, I was only five.

“I said to him, ‘there was two worlds in Sumner, the naughty boys at your end and the good girls at my end’. And he said, ‘oh, we used to give the soldiers hell in the sandhills’.

And I said, ‘Ken, this won’t do, you were living in another world to me’.

“So, we got them all, and it was interesting.

Jim Sullivan, who ran Radio New Zealand archives, said, ‘I’ll come and show you how to do it right’. So, he came to my house, and you

facebook.com/humansofchch

68