New Designs at the Burlington Lifestyle
The Kensington sets a new standard for modern living. These two-storey homes, complete with convenient lifts, offer breathtaking views of the Port Hills and Burlington’s picturesque lakes.
These new houses are located close to the Pavilion, Burlington’s main activity hub - equipped with extensive facilities... including a heated indoor swimming pool and spa, bakery, wellness centre, bar, movie theatre, restaurant, café, library and more.
Village
Artist’s impressions - final design may vary
Artist’s impressions
Burlington Pavilion
This month’s highs and lows, brought to you by social correspondent and spiller of tea, Shelby Write.
YEAH
Winding up rugby supporters by saying “it’s just a game”. Careful, mate. You’re one more comment away from being tackled in the produce aisle.
Free samples at the supermarket. Another lap around and suddenly lunch is sorted. Don’t mind if I do.
First hot cross bun of the season. Toasted, buttered, and worth every carb. Welcome back, old friend.
Resene Roadster is an outrageous bright red. Hop in your Chevvy and burn some rubber, baby!
NAH
(Hay)FEVER, in the morning, (Hay) FEVER all through the night! DJ Pollen on the decks, spinning itchy hits and eye-watering ballads.
Running out of coffee pods. How am I going to focus toda………………..
Unsolicited aeroplane conversation. I hope your cousin’s sister’s nephew’s dog got over its leprosy, Brian.
Sunburn. Because nothing says “fun in the sun” like spending the next week rotating like a rotisserie chicken to avoid the pain.
EDITOR’S NOTE
The grass is greener
Welcome back for 2025, dear reader. As I’m writing this, the first semblance of summer is here at last! Hopefully, I haven’t jinxed things by the time you’re reading this!
The summer rain brought with it two wonderful things. First was what I like to call ‘Midnight in Parising’. For those unfamiliar with the Woody Allen film Midnight in Paris, starring Owen Wilson – before I lose you, I assure you his performance is excellent, perhaps the best of his career – there is an ongoing theme of rain in the ‘City of Love’. The last line of the film goes: “Actually, Paris is the most beautiful in the rain.”
I got to experience that this summer, in what I’m calling the ‘Paris of the South’ – Christchurch! With warm rain falling, I skipped around the city centre, declaring myself Owen Wilson on the streets of a sodden European street. How do you find joy in the unexpected?
The rain also brought with it green! My lawn has transformed from a deep umber to a bold chlorophyll-filled carpet. Which, if ever there was a segue, this is it!
In this issue, we walk towards a ‘Greener Path.’
We meet the people who are using creativity and innovation to combat big issues, and succeeding – whether that’s frogs or industrial waste.
It’s refreshing to see what can be done and the enthusiasm behind these incredible projects. These people have chosen to walk in the rain of the problem and come up with amazing solutions.
We also look towards a healthier 2025, for you and your heart.
See you on the streets of Paris,
Liam Stretch Editor
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Avenues.
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 Sophie Petersen sophie@27publishers.co.nz
Accounts & Admin Hilary Armstrong accounts@27publishers.co.nz
Blueprint, Christchurch
CONTRIBUTORS & PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dave Richards, Antony & Mates, Dr Reuben Woods, Mary Outram, Sarah Rowlands, Kim Newth, ChristchurchNZ, Rosa Carter, Mike Wilson, Chelita Zainey, Centuri Chan, Neil Macbeth, Sarah Mankelow
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
40
Avenues is published 10 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.
THE MAGAZINE CHRISTCHURCH LIVES BY
A ingot of recycled zinc. Made by ZIncovery. Meet the makers on page 28. Photo by Antony & Mates.
Otara St, Fendalton, Christchurch (Adjacent to Fendalton Mall)
Piano Competition
Musicians Aged Under 25 nationalconcertocompetition.co.nz
Douglas Lilburn Auditorium
Christchurch Town Hall, 7.00pm
PIANO CONCERTO NO. 2 IN BB MAJOR JOHANNES BRAHMS
Henry Meng AKL
PIANO CONCERTO NO. 1 PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY
Shan Liu
Built on Trust
No.1 Bayleys
Canterbury Residential 2017 — 2024 Bayleys National Auction Award Winner (3 years running)
14 STAR-STUDDED 2025
16 HEARTWARMING STORY COMES TO CHRISTCHURCH
27 A GREENER PATH
28 RESUPPLYING THE CHAIN
30 SAVING NEW ZEALAND’S ANCIENT FROGS
39 YOUR HEART HEALTH COMES FIRST
42 COMMUNITY HEALTH AT HEART
48 A GRAND RETURN TO PUBLIC LIFE
50 YOUR GUIDE TO 72 HOURS IN MARLBOROUGH
62 1962 CHEVROLET CORVETTE
THE GRIND
Add a pop of style to your table with Dusen Dusen’s vibrant salt and pepper Everybody Grinders! Each twist creates a new ‘outfit’ in fun patterns. Available in white or black – or grab both for a perfect salt-and-pepper duo. Brighten your daily grind with these playful, functional statement pieces!
hapa.co.nz
HERITAGE HERO
UNESCO has once again recognised Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre for excellence in post-quake restoration. The Observatory Tower in Christchurch received an Asia-Pacific Award of Merit, marking the second time the centre has been honoured. The project restored the 1896 tower with seismic reinforcement and the observatory dome. Director Philip Aldridge called the award a tribute to the skilled team behind the work. The restoration, led by a team of architects, engineers, and stonemasons, was completed on time and on budget, further cementing Christchurch’s cultural and historical legacy.
artscentre.org.nz
ON THE WALL
FORM AND FUNCTION
Make your home office pop! From Logitech, the POP Icon Keys feature contoured, lowprofile keys that offer responsive, hushed, and instantly familiar typing. The keyboard’s fresh colours, transparent finishing, and sleek silhouette will enhance and personalise any desk, wherever you work. logitech.com
Have you tried bouldering? Uprising on Ferry Road is the perfect spot to dive into this fun fitness craze. It’s not just about muscles – bouldering challenges your brain too, as you figure out how to climb from A to B using strength, strategy, and problem-solving skills. It’s for everyone – any age, any ability! Looking to shake up your fitness routine? Bouldering gives you a full-body workout that’s never the same twice. Or, if you’re just after a fun activity with a social vibe, it’s great for that, too! Unleash your inner mountain goat, bring your mates, your work crew, or even a party crowd! It’s a guaranteed fun! bouldering.co.nz
Christchurch
Sat, 29 Mar, 7.30pm
Christchurch Town Hall
AT AN EXHIBITION PICTURES
Gemma New Conductor
Emily Beynon Flute
Gareth Farr From the Depths Sound the Great Sea Gongs: Part 1 – The Invocation of the Sea
Guillaume Connesson Danses Concertantes Concerto No. 2 for Flute and Orchestra (WORLD PREMIERE)
Mussorgsky orch. Ravel Pictures at an Exhibition
TICKETS FROM $25
BOOK AT nzso.co.nz
THE CURTAIN RAISER
WĀNAKA FESTIVAL OF COLOUR
Every two years in autumn, the streets and venues of Wānaka transform into a celebration of the arts. The Wānaka Festival of Colour is renowned for its world-class programme of dance, music, theatre, cabaret, kōrero, and more. Anchored by the majestic Pacific Crystal Palace – set near the breathtaking Lake Wānaka – the festival offers a stunning backdrop for creativity and connection. Whether you’re a seasoned arts lover or a curious adventurer, this is your chance to immerse yourself in the arts in the heart of the Southern Lakes.
29 March–6 April, various venues festivalofcolour.co.nz 1 22 8 & 9
The CSO’s 2025 season opens with The Curtain Raiser, featuring Anna Meredith, hailed as “one of the most exciting compositional catalysts of our time.” Her electrifying Nautilus blends acoustic and electronic worlds. Also enjoy a taonga pūoro performance by Salina Fisher and Jerome Kavanagh Poutama (Papatūānuku), and Rachmaninov’s lush Symphony No. 2
1 March, Douglas Lilburn Auditorium cso.co.nz
BRUCE FUMMEY
Experience the wit and wisdom of Bruce Fummey – where Scottish history meets hilarity! With over 200,000 subscribers on his YouTube channel, Scotland History Tours, Bruce returns to Christchurch this March with a brand-new show. Packed with laughs and fascinating insights, discover how Scotland shaped the world. Don’t miss the fun at Good Times Comedy Club!
8 & 9 March, Good Times Comedy Club goodtimescomedyclub.co.nz
CONCERTO FINAL
Our top young pianists, Shan Liu (Auckland), Otis Prescott-Mason (Wellington), and Henry Meng (Auckland), are set to astonish Christchurch audiences at the 57th National Concerto Final. Three concertos across one dazzling evening, accompanied by the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra with Maestro James Judd. This annual event is a highlight on Christchurch’s cultural calendar. 22 March, Christchurch Town Hall nationalconcertocompetition.co.nz
PREMILLA SHARMA
SELLING YOUR BUSINESS IS MY BUSINESS
REINZ Accredited Business Broker with 21 years of experience at NAI Harcourts Grenadier. Qualified, Experienced, and Successful, delivering exceptional results in business brokerage.
STAR-STUDDED 2025
One of the world’s greatest violinists, a sensational chart-topping British saxophonist, and Kiwi conductor Gemma New are part of a star-studded array of artists set to perform with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra in Ōtautahi Christchurch in 2025.
NZSO Artistic Advisor and Principal Conductor Gemma New kicks off the season on 29 March at Christchurch Town Hall with the world premiere of Danses Concertantes Concerto No. 2 for Flute and Orchestra with Welsh flautist Emily Beynon, and Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, an extraordinary musical stroll through the gallery of the Imperial Academy of Arts.
On 25 May, Echoes of Home features Douglas Lilburn’s Aotearoa Overture, Dvořák’s Seventh Symphony and Kiwi violin sensation Amalia Hall performing Béla Bartók’s Violin Concerto – all works that express great love and care for the places these composers called home.
The star-studded list of soloists continues when Spanish pianist Javier Perianes brings his passion and brilliance to two exceptional works, de Falla’s Nights in the Gardens of Spain and Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G Major, performed alongside Stravinsky’s legendary Suite from The Firebird (19 July).
Fresh from performing with some of Europe and America’s top orchestras, Virtuoso violinist Pekka Kuusisto brings his considerable talent as both a soloist and conductor to Christchurch Town Hall on 11 October with Vivaldi’s unparalleled Four Seasons and the Third Symphony by early Romantic composer Louise Farrenc. Also stopping by the city is British saxophonist Jess Gillam, who went to No.1 in the UK classical charts with her first two
albums, featuring music by classical composers and Björk, David Bowie, and Kate Bush. Gillam performs in New Zealand for the first time, showcasing Glazunov’s romantic Saxophone Concerto and joining the orchestra for Rachmaninov’s epic Symphonic Dances (22 November).
If you’re looking for a weekend away, there are some sensational artists set to perform with the NZSO across the motu in 2025.
Multi-Grammy and Olivier Award-winning American mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato, Grammy-winning pianist Daniil Trifonov, Austrian cellist Kian Soltani and legendary Japanese maestro Masaaki Suzuki all join the NZSO to perform in Aotearoa New Zealand for the first time.
In August, Maestro André de Ridder leads the winter Immerse Rumakina festival in Auckland and Wellington with three concerts over one weekend, including Oscar-winning musician and comedian Bret McKenzie hosting the family-friendly Creepy-Crawly Carnival
With a host of local and international artists, the NZSO presents a season of the great classics. Tickets start from just $22. To get even more out of the season, there is the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra Membership programme. Members can get their hands on discounted tickets, priority booking, and a straightforward booking process – without extra fees. Whether you prefer to book online, by email, phone, or in person, you’ll receive personalised service every step of the way. Membership also gives you access to special pricing for under 35s, under 25s, and students, along with flexible exchange options. In fact, with just two C-Reserve ticket purchases, a Lite Membership already covers its cost.
Ōtautahi Christchurch is set for a stunning season ahead.
nzso.co.nz
HEARTWARMING STORY COMES TO CHRISTCHURCH
In 2001, the world watched in horror as the terrorist attacks on 9/11 unfolded. But something remarkable happened in the small Canadian town of Gander, Newfoundland. As 38 planes were grounded, 6,700 stranded passengers were welcomed by the residents of Gander, who offered them food, shelter, and kindness in a moment of global tragedy. This extraordinary act of compassion is the heart of Come From Away, the Tony Awardwinning musical, which will have its New Zealand premiere in Ōtautahi in April this year, produced by Showbiz Christchurch.
The show brings to life the powerful story of this unexpected and touching display of humanity. Through a vibrant score, lively choreography, and a cast that brings each of Gander’s residents and guests to life, Come From Away reminds us all of the strength of community in the face of adversity.
Showbiz Christchurch has also announced that Claude Elliott, the former mayor of Gander, will attend the opening night. Elliott, who was the mayor of Gander during the 9/11 events and played a key role in welcoming the stranded passengers, is one of the real-life figures whose story is depicted in the musical.
His acceptance of the invitation to be part of the Christchurch premiere highlights the unique bond between Christchurch and the town of Gander.
Under the direction of Michael Lee Porter, who brings a personal connection to the production with Come From Away, having been part of the Australian touring cast, Showbiz Christchurch is proud to bring this touching and heartfelt story to life.
“Michael’s deep connection to the show and its message makes him the perfect choice to direct this special New Zealand premiere,” Showbiz Christchurch General Manager Craig Ogilvie says.
This extraordinary show will be performed at the Isaac Theatre Royal from 11–26 April, 2025. It’s a production that promises to inspire, uplift, and leave audiences in awe of the resilience and kindness shown by the people of Gander on that unforgettable day. Tickets are available from Ticketek now.
The New Zealand premiere of a show celebrating kindness in the face of adversity is not to be missed. The Saunders and Co. Season of Come From Away is opening in Christchurch this April.
showbiz.org.nz
11 - 26 APRIL 2025
Ghosts on Every Corner
Artist Ghostcat, aka Mike Beer
Date From 29 March 2025
Location Pūmanawa Gallery, The Arts Centre
Ghostcat, aka Mike Beer, specialises in miniatures. By recreating small-scale versions of iconic buildings like the Dog House, Repertory Theatre, Harbour Light Theatre, Atami Bathhouse, and the Cathedral Square Police Kiosk, he has transported locals and visitors back to the streets of days gone by – buildings now lost to the earthquakes. This is a project he’s been working on for some time.
“The idea for Ghosts on Every Corner came essentially from my very first exhibition,” says Mike. “Seeing how people connected through memories of the builds was quite magical.”
“We are moving forward with a new city, but people tend to forget what we used to have. Bringing that back and sharing it in a positive way, not tied to the sadness of the earthquakes, feels like a celebration of the good things we had.”
All works and prints will be available for sale. In addition to the builds, Mike has curated a collection of artefacts from the time. Also for sale will be the eponymous book. Featuring words by Dr Reuben Woods and imagery by Dave Richards, it’s a collaboration by some of Christchurch’s finest.
“The book really memorialises it. It will maintain a connection for people,” says Mike.
For those eager to get an early look at his art, a teaser event will be held at Christchurch Cathedral on 21 March. This first-in, first-served event promises a preview of what’s to come.
@ghostcat_mb
BLUE PRINT
more than ink on paper.
Blueprint is proud to print Ghosts on Every Corner by Ghostcat (Mike Beer).
This catalogue of original works by Mike is captured beautifully by Dave Richards with words by Dr Reuben Woods.
Find out more at ghostcat.co.nz
This year’s A List is a record-breaker. More voters than ever turned out to have their say on what they think are the best spots in our city!
RISING UP
SNACK ON THE GO
The Birdwood Winner, Best Café or Coffee
RUNNER UP Leeves at Portstone Café
Roma Winner, Best Cheap Eats RUNNER UP Sangkutsa Filipino Food Truck
Te Pae Winner, Best Post-quake Build RUNNER UP Tūranga
Brewda
Winner, Best Restaurant RUNNER UP Earl
OUT ON THE TOWN
Moon Under Water
Winner, Best Bar/Pub
RUNNER UP The Last Word
HAPA
Winner, Best Retail Experience
RUNNER UP Merivale Mall
WALL, WALL
New Brighton Mural by the DTR crew
Winner, Best Street Art/Public Sculpture
RUNNER UP Olive by Swiftmantis
OH SO MARY
Curated by Mary Outram | @mary_oh_
Welcome to your go-to edit of style inspiration straight from The Crossing. This month, I’m channelling my inner Iris Apfel, because as she says, ‘More is more and less is a bore.’ Romantic reds, playful pinks, and heart-stealing accessories take centre stage. Why blend in when you can stand out?
Psssst…
Don’t save things for a special occasion. Buy the dress, wear the dress, love the dress.
Swarovski Eye Wear from Sunglass Hut, $477 | Pastel Boucle Nixon Jacket from Juliet Hogan, $649 | Ada Necklace from Witchery, $109.90 | Melissa Heartbeat Bag from Fashion Society, $239 | Icing Pink Flats from Andrea Biani, $199.95 | Amore at the Grand Canal Polish, manicures from $38, Professionail | Onte Uxia Rosa Dress from Fashion Society, $289
YOUKNOWI’M SUCHAFOOL FORYOU DANCING WATER
SHAPE UP
1 GLOW TIME
Start the new year with the top glowboosting skin treatment, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light). IPL uses the power of light to eliminate the signs of ageing, sun damage, and broken capillaries. A Stanford University study has shown that two to three IPL sessions a year can restore the gene expression of aged skin to resemble that of younger skin. IPL improves the texture and tone of the skin by reducing the pigmentation caused by sun damage, tightening pores and stimulating collagen to give skin a healthy, luminous glow. Now is the perfect time to treat your skin. The friendly team at the Skin Rejuvenation Clinic are experts, and will guide you every step of the way. skinrejuvenationclinic.co.nz
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SILKY DROPS
Boost Lab’s Essential Collagen Boosters are game-changing freeze-dried pearls that supercharge your routine. Mix them with your go-to BOOST LAB serum for a concentrated marine collagen and hyaluronic acid boost. boostlabco.com
SUPERIOR SUPPORT
A great-fitting sports bra is just as essential as good sports shoes. Wearing an ‘old bra’ to go to the gym or for a run won’t give you the secure support you need! Expert assistance makes all the difference in finding the best size and style to reduce bounce. The Fitting Room can help! With a fabulous range of highimpact sports bras in D-K cup sizes from leading international brands, including Panache (pictured), Sculptresse, Prima Donna, and Elomi, let them ‘support’ you with their friendly, expert in-store fitting service. Book online.
thefittingroom.co.nz
Join two of New Zealand’s top real estate minds, Lynette McFadden & Cameron Bailey, as they share their knowledge in both real estate and personal self empowerment through their
Journeys & Wisdoms podcast
Now available on Youtube and Spotify! Tune in by scanning the QR code:
FEATURE
A greener path
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, Nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”
― Dr. Seuss, The Lorax
RESUPPLYING THE CHAIN
Meet the makers at a Christchurch start-up gaining recognition in taking on a global challenge – industrial waste.
Currently, the steel fabrication industry recycles only half of the zinc it uses for galvanisation, with the rest going to landfill. Even the recycled portion undergoes a carbon-heavy and wasteful process. So, what’s the answer? How do we create a sustainable supply chain for one of the Earth’s most essential minerals?
When chemistry student Jonathan Ring and his master’s supervisor, Dr Aaron Marshall, discovered how much of that waste was leaching into the environment, they decided to act, founding Zincovery. This groundbreaking solution is designed to recover heavy metals like zinc and achieve recycling far more efficiently.
With support from KiwiNet and mentorship from ThincLab, a founder-led business incubator at the University of Canterbury Business School, they devised a plan to take their innovative technology global.
Their efforts were bolstered by financial support from the university and a $1 million seed round from both local angel and offshore investors. Jonathan Ring continued to refine the business during the summer entrepreneurship programme at the University of Canterbury Centre for Entrepreneurship, working closely with local mentors.
“The typical way to recycle is to mix the dust with coal, burn the coal and the dust at very high temperatures, and boil the zinc out of the dust, creating an ore that then has to be sent to a zinc refinery for further purification. It’s a very energyintensive, high carbon-emission, and disjointed supply chain,” explains Leatham Landon-Lane, VP of Business Development at Zincovery. With these challenges in mind, the team sought to identify the sources of costs and emissions, aiming to find innovative ways to improve and develop the necessary technology to unlock those efficiencies. They discovered a method
to use hydrogen at much lower temperatures, resulting in no direct carbon emissions and significantly reduced energy demand. This process makes zinc soluble, allowing it to be dissolved and purified more sustainably.
Zincovery swiftly gained recognition, surpassing 140 other entrants to claim the prestigious 2020 C-Prize competition. Sponsored by Callaghan Innovation, the event rewards ambitious innovators who address environmental challenges. In addition to the $100,000 prize, the competition opened avenues to accelerate the commercialisation of Zincovery’s technology.
Zincovery’s primary market is to sell reclaimed zinc back to the very firms producing the waste, including companies in Christchurch. “Sixty per cent of all zinc is used for galvanising, and the largest galvanisers in the world are steel mills. We also sell to zinc alloy producers. We’ve got commercial agreements with local firm AW Fraser and a European zinc alloy producer as well,” explains Leathem.
“The upshot is no direct carbon emissions, significantly lower energy demand, and the ability to shorten the supply chain. We’re working on projects where we can take the dust from a steel mill, recycle it into zinc metal on-site, and sell it back to the steel mills.”
Looking to the future, Zincovery has set its sights on global expansion. “The market for zinc dust recycling is worth $10 billion globally. It’s a huge opportunity,” says Leathem. The team remains optimistic about their prospects, citing Christchurch as an ideal launching pad for collaboration and innovation. By turning waste into valuable resources, Zincovery exemplifies the transformative potential of sustainable innovation and is paving the way for a greener, more efficient future in the zinc industry.
zincovery.com
SAVING NEW ZEALAND’S ANCIENT FROGS
A set of new resources is ready to provide a leap forward for young frog enthusiasts.
Aotearoa New Zealand is home to three remarkable native frog species: Archey’s frog, Hamilton’s frog, and Hochstetter’s frog. These pepeketua belong to the ancient Leiopelma genus, a primitive group of frogs that has remained largely unchanged for around 200 million years. Unlike their more familiar, introduced Australian cousins – such as the Southern Bell frog and the Brown Tree frog (Litoria ewingii) – New Zealand’s native frogs are often overlooked.
But a new project is aiming to change that.
From the team behind NZFrogs, a charitable trust founded by a group of passionate people to continue the legacy of frog expert Phil Bishop, comes an exciting new initiative: Pepeketua of Aotearoa Officially launched on 10 February, the project is designed to educate and engage young people with native frog conservation.
Thanks to funding from the Unlocking Curious Minds Contestable Fund, NZFrogs has developed a series of bilingual educational booklets and posters that bring years of scientific research to life for a wide audience.
One of the project’s lead authors, Tobia Dale, has a deeply personal connection to the work.
“I started my master’s degree on native frog distributions and movement ecology in 2022 and worked with Debbie Bishop, the wife of Phil Bishop – the ‘frog guy’ of New Zealand. When Phil passed unexpectedly in 2021, I offered to volunteer my time to update the NZFrogs website and keep the information relevant.”
Tobia soon realised the task needed more minds. That’s when Hadley Muller, another researcher studying native frogs, joined the effort.
“One thing led to another, and NZFrogs became a registered charity. That allowed us
to apply for funding,” Tobia explains. This saw the Pepeketua of Aotearoa project come to life.
The Pepeketua of Aotearoa project includes resources aimed at intermediateaged children but accessible to all ages.
“We have made four booklets – one for each of the living native species and one for the extinct species. Each book tackles a threat or concept relating to each frog.”
For example, the Archey’s frog booklet explores adaptations to a terrestrial environment, while another booklet focuses on the three most recently extinct Leiopelma species – examining what made them special, why they disappeared, and how we can prevent history from repeating itself.
Each booklet comes with an A4 poster, and two larger special-topic posters – What Makes Our Pepeketua Special? and Protecting Our Pepeketua – are designed for libraries, classrooms, and even bedrooms.
“Creating Pepeketua of Aotearoa was a team effort,” says Tobia. It brought together passionate experts from different fields, including fun illustrations by Sarah Greig, translations from Te Ngaru Wehi, the scientific brain of herpetologist Luke Easton, wildlife photography by Oscar Thomas, and graphic design by Lucy Arnold.
NZFrogs also acknowledges the invaluable contributions of iwi partners Pare Hauraki, Ngāti Kuia, and Ngāti Koata, who helped shape the cultural and linguistic aspects of the resources, improving them so they would be a valuable resource in the community.
With this initiative, NZFrogs hopes to spark a nationwide appreciation for Aotearoa’s unique amphibians – before it’s too late.
“If just one other kid in New Zealand decides this is their passion, I’m happy. It just takes one person.”
nzfrogs.org
Archey’s Frog. Photo by Oscar Thomas ©NZFrogs.
Archey’s Frog. Photo by Oscar Thomas ©NZFrogs.
Photo by Luke Easton.
Photo by Luke Easton.
SETTING A NEW BAR ON BRAND DISTRIBUTION
On a prominent corner site in Waterloo Business Park are striking new office and warehouse facilities that are home to one of New Zealand’s top fashion, footwear, and lifestyle brand distributors, Liquid Brands.
Kiwis donning their Crocs this summer will likely be unaware of the local distribution success story behind them. Darrel and Nigel Ferguson first started as New Zealand agents for the popular footwear brand in 2006. In the intervening years, they have added many other leading footwear, fashion, and lifestyle brands to their distribution stable, ensuring New Zealanders can enjoy the latest trends and styles from around the world.
Taking their vision to a new level, the couple recently invested in a purposebuilt facility at Waterloo Business Park. Complementing a new 2000sqm warehouse are elegant modern offices, a retail shop, and showroom-level supplier meeting rooms, along with an expansive breezeway canopy. The total area is around 3500sqm. Smart, modern, and functional, this impressive investment makes a strong statement about Liquid Brands, the team, and their commitment to the future of the city.
Prominent on the sleek, brushed copperstyle feature façade at the front of the building is the Liquid Brands’ name.
“That cladding is very individual and shows that here is a company that does things differently,” says Ben Lagan, managing director of Carbon Property. “When you walk inside, you can see that the standard is incredibly high in every detail, from the light ply linings to the polished concrete floors, designer carpets, and kitchen joinery. It reflects who they are as a business, which is all about fashion and style.”
Liquid Brands is delighted with the results they achieved through partnering with Carbon Property, a contract development management specialist, on this project.
“We know how to sell clothing and footwear and how to distribute them, but when it came to property, we had no idea what to do and where to start,” says Darrel. “That’s why we needed someone with expertise like Ben, and he’s been fantastic. At the end of the day, we told him what we needed as far as the size of the property, and he made sure it was set out in a really workable way, he gave us some really good suggestions on how to plan it out on the section to make it really efficient.”
Carbon Property managed all aspects of the project, from sourcing the land to overseeing the design and build process. Gareth Ritchie, of award-winning Archo Architecture, created the inspiring design while Sam Wyatt and his team (Wyatt Construction) delivered the highquality build.
“Developing the operational brief took almost four months, as we worked through what aspects they wanted to take across to their new facility and what new elements they wanted to bring into it,” says Ben. “Central to our thinking was also to plan for the future by ensuring there would be plenty of room for growth.”
This sophisticated office and warehouse development is encouraging for the city and secures Liquid Brands’ presence as a landmark business. “It lifts our profile as a company and gives us opportunity to work with more international brands moving forward,” says Nigel.
liquidbrands.co.nz | carbonproperty.co.nz
Max
Blue Illusion
Sportscraft
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE, POSITIVE IMPACT
Merivale Mall, a unique blend of over 40 boutique stores – from designer fashion and lifestyle to chic cafés – places sustainability at its core. Here, sustainable fashion is more than just a catchphrase; it’s a deeply ingrained commitment shared by many of its tenants. This premium shopping centre actively celebrates the efforts of its retailers to prioritise responsible practices.
Take Max, a women’s fashion brand dedicated to reducing its impact on the planet while crafting garments with care and integrity. Their approach to sustainability includes sourcing regenerative, traceable merino wool through a partnership with the New Zealand Merino Company and incorporating 100 per cent French linen into their designs. One standout initiative is Max’s Wool Take Back Programme, created in partnership with Woolyarns, Inter-Weave, and their brother brand, Barkers Men’s Clothing. This programme invites customers to return wool garments with at least 85 per cent wool content, which are then repurposed into locally made New Zealand woollen blankets – exemplifying the company’s commitment to closing the loop and reducing waste.
Max has also embraced circularity through its resale programme. By teaming up with Designer Wardrobe, Max allows customers to resell their pre-loved pieces through the ‘Sell Later on DW’ programme, giving garments a second life and reducing environmental impact. This ethos extends to boutique retailer STORM. Founded in 2005 by Deborah Caldwell, STORM focuses on quality over quantity, producing limited-edition clothing runs to minimise its carbon footprint and prevent deadstock. Its design philosophy prioritises longevity, crafting versatile, iconic pieces that transcend fleeting trends. STORM works exclusively with trusted factories that adhere
to its Responsible Sourcing Code of Conduct, ensuring every garment is made with care and respect for both people and the planet.
Sportscraft is also raising the bar for ethical and sustainable fashion. The brand’s commitment extends beyond materials, focusing on fair labour practices and supply chain transparency. Sportscraft traces and audits all garment facilities, adhering to a strict Code of Conduct and Global Sourcing Principles.
Clothing and lifestyle store Flo & Frankie actively measures its carbon footprint. They work with the Toitū Envirocare Carbon Assess SME tool to identify their largest sources of emissions, allowing them to set targeted goals for offsetting. One way they’re tackling this is through their work with Greenspark.
Since 2022, Flo & Frankie has partnered with Greenspark to not only plant a tree for every order but also to enable customers to track their impact via a personalised dashboard. At the time of writing, Flo & Frankie had planted over 100,000 trees.
Nationwide boutique Blue Illusion founder Donna Guest shares: “Step by step, we are on a journey to transform our practices, reducing our carbon footprint so that future generations will be proud of the choices we have made.”
Alongside working on their supply chain, in 2023, they partnered with Upparel to improve circularity at the end of their products’ life cycle. They also contributed to reforestation efforts, planting 15,000 trees in collaboration with One Tree Planted.
While Merivale Mall has fostered a unique environment for a premium and relaxing shopping experience through care for its customers, it also leaves them with the peace of mind that the items they take home have been chosen with the same level of thought and responsibility.
merivalemall.co.nz
One of Christchurch’s premium shopping centres has sustainability in focus.
ENGINEERED FOR GENERATIONS
At Swanndri, they believe that true quality is more than just durability – it’s the ability to endure, adapt, and continue to serve.
Starting in March 2025, Swanndri is taking a small but meaningful step toward sustainability and customer care by including a wool repair patch with every wool jacket and bush shirt they sell. This initiative ensures the garments continue to be ‘Engineered for Generations’, a principle that has guided Swanndri for over a century.
This swatch of wool, crafted in the same high-quality fabric as the garment itself, allows their customers to easily repair small holes or tears. Whether from a rugged day on the farm, an uncomfortable encounter with barbed wire, or simply from years of wear, these patches will enable you to extend the life of your beloved Swanndri garment without compromising its integrity. By attaching the patch to their garments’ swing tickets, they ensure it’s always within reach when needed.
The inspiration for this initiative came directly from their customers.
“Many of you have shared stories of Swanndri garments passed down through generations, worn proudly as symbols of quality, tradition, and resilience. These tales of longevity resonate deeply with us
and reinforce our commitment to making products that last. In today’s fast-paced world of disposable fashion, they aim to stand apart by fostering a culture of repair and reuse,” says Darren Barry, Head of Design at Swanndri. By extending the life of their garments, they also help to reduce waste and support a more circular economy. Offering a practical solution to everyday wear and tear not only reduces the environmental impact of their clothing but also strengthens the bond between Swanndri and the community.
Repairing your jacket is straightforward. A needle, some thread, and a little care are all it takes to restore your garment to its former glory. This simple act of maintenance ensures your Swanni remains a trusted companion through countless adventures.
“As we expand this initiative, including repair patches with our wool luggage from Summer 2025, we hope to inspire others in the industry to embrace similar practices. Together, we can champion a future where fashion values quality, responsibility, and timeless design.”
“Because at Swanndri, we don’t just make garments; we create lifelong companions.”
swanndri.co.nz
Darren Barry from Swanndri
Taken by Swanndri with permission
Kickstart 2025 with an unbeatable offer on the All-Wheel Drive Subaru Outback.
The new All-Wheel Drive Subaru Outback doesn’t do things by halves and to prove it, you can now pay in thirds.
Simply pay a third this summertime, and drive away in the Greatest Outback of All Time, with all its revolutionary features and high-end technology.
New Zealand’s great walks, great mountains and great beaches are waiting.
Whether you’re exploring new terrains or navigating city streets, this offer makes it easier than ever to own the Subaru of your dreams.
Act now and start your New Year in a Subaru Outback. Visit or enquire at Armstrong’s Subaru Christchurch.
Book a test drive at Armstrong’s Subaru
161 Saint Asaph Street, Christchurch
03 366 6933 I armstrongs.co.nz
TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Did you know that February is Heart Health Awareness Month? It’s the perfect time to shine a light on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and the importance of looking after your heart, along with your health and well-being in general. Start with the following stories from local health providers, and follow that up with joining a Christchurch’s Walk ’n’ Talk group. These friendly walking groups run throughout the city, from Beckenham to Fendalton, and they’re a fantastic way to keep fit while connecting with your community. Check out schedules and routes on the Christchurch City Council website. Let’s make 2025 a year of good health!
detection key in heart health
A CT calcium score test helps detect coronary artery disease early, in high-risk patients without symptoms
Early detection allows for timely intervention, reducing the risk of cardiovascular events The test is quick, low-risk and non-invasive
YOUR HEART HEALTH COMES FIRST
The issues affecting the heart are wide and varied, and it can be hard to know where to start or how to get help when you need. The Christchurch Heart Group is the largest private cardiology practice in the South Island, and its team is focused on a patient-centred approach.
Their cardiologists offer comprehensive services to prevent, diagnose, and treat a wide range of heart conditions. Whether you need a ‘healthy heart’ check-up, advanced diagnostics, or specialised treatment, they are committed to keeping your heart healthy.
The Christchurch Heart Group offers specialist services such as cardiovascular risk assessments and proactive evaluations to help prevent heart disease. They also provide advanced imaging services, such as echocardiograms and stress tests, to assess heart function. Interventional cardiology procedures, including minimally invasive treatments like angioplasty and stenting, are available to treat blocked arteries and restore blood flow. Additionally, they specialise in TAVI (keyhole
When it comes to matters of the heart, you shouldn’t skip a beat. christchurchheartgroup.co.nz
heart valve replacement) and left atrial appendage occlusion for stroke prevention.
While this may all sound quite technical, Christchurch Heart Group believes in providing personalised care and engaging actively with their patients.
“Our cardiologists take the time to explain your diagnosis, answer your questions, and create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We combine compassionate care with the latest medical technology to deliver the best possible outcomes.”
With February being National Heart Health Month, the team reminds us not to leave our heart health to chance.
“If you’ve experienced chest pain, shortness of breath, or have a family history of heart disease, now is the time to take action. Take control of your heart health today. Ask your GP for a referral to the Christchurch Heart Group and let our team help you live a healthier, heart-strong life.”
Don’t leave it to chance. Get your heart checked today.
Your heart health matters
Whether you need a ‘healthy heart’ check-up, advanced diagnostics, or specialised treatment, we are committed to keeping your heart healthy.
Broad-spectrum investigation, testing, and management services, including:
Electrocardiograph · Exercise Stress Test · Echocardiogram
Holter Monitor · Scans · Exercise Tests · Stress Echocardiogram
Ambulatory Blood Pressure
NURSE MAUDE HEALTH AND MOBILITY SHOP
Situated at 87a Gasson Street, the Nurse Maude Health & Mobility Shop is a onestop shop for your health and mobility needs. With off-street parking and centrally located, it’s an ideal place to check out everyday household aids to help make your life easier, mobility equipment at a reasonable price, continence products, and much more.
One of the new arrivals in the household aids range is an eight-inch digital clock that shows the day (morning, afternoon, or evening) and time in big, bold letters, along with the date and year.
For those who might need a hand on the go, there is the magnifying bar, which can be discreetly popped in a purse or pocket, a very portable magnifying sheet, and bottom wipers (who knew such things existed?).
They offer a very extensive range of continence products with a variety of brands because, one size or type of product does not work for everyone.
If you are unsure of what you might need, come and talk to the very knowledgeable team. They also have samples you can try.
The Gasson Street store also stocks washable continence products, including underwear, mattress protectors, bed pads, and chair pads in various sizes.
For those with mobility issues, they stock a variety of walking sticks, crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs, which will be adjusted to fit your needs. They also offer a hire service, where you can hire a piece of equipment for a week or longer to try something out or for someone who’s visiting you.
You can also order online and have the products delivered directly to your door.
The staff at Nurse Maude Health and Mobility Shop offer a judgment-free zone and are available to help with any needs. If you’re not sure where to start, you can call 03 375 4240 or email visit@nursemaude.org.nz.
maudesonline.org.nz
FENDALTON EYE CLINIC WELCOMES DR. ZEA MUNRO
Dr Kent and the team at Fendalton Eye Clinic are delighted to welcome Dr Zea Munro to the practice.
Established by Dr Kent in 1996, Fendalton Eye Clinic has proudly served the community for nearly three decades, delivering exceptional care and trusted expertise in eye health. With Dr Munro joining the team, Fendalton Eye Clinic continues to build on this strong foundation, offering their patients even more advanced treatments and specialised care.
A skilled ophthalmologist (eye surgeon), Dr Munro brings a wealth of experience, with a specialised focus on corrective laser eye surgery, including SMILEpro, LASIK, and PRK procedures. She also has expertise in cataract surgery and refractive lens exchange.
Dr Munro completed her ophthalmology training in New Zealand before further honing her skills internationally. Spending a year overseas, she advanced her expertise in corrective laser procedures and cataract surgery. With this additional experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for helping patients achieve better vision and quality of life.
Reflecting on her new role at Fendalton Eye Clinic, Dr Munro shares, “The most rewarding aspect of our work is helping people achieve visual freedom, ultimately enhancing their quality of life. It’s incredibly humbling when a patient tells us that we’ve changed their life for the better. The team at Fendalton Eye Clinic is dedicated to providing the highest level of care, and I’m thrilled to be part of this exceptional team.”
With Dr Munro’s expertise now complementing Dr Kent’s, Fendalton Eye Clinic proudly offers expanded services to its patients.
If you’re looking to reduce your reliance on glasses or contact lenses, corrective laser eye surgery could be the solution – whether you’re short-sighted, long-sighted, or have astigmatism. To take the first step, book your complimentary laser screening assessment with one of the technical team members. Complimentary screening assessments for laser eye surgery are available in Christchurch, Invercargill, Dunedin, Queenstown, Nelson or virtually (via phone or Zoom). You can easily schedule your free screening online at lasik.co.nz or by calling Fendalton Eye Clinic at 0800 45 27 45.
lasik.co.nz
COMMUNITY HEALTH AT HEART
WORDS Kim Newth PHOTOS Sarah Rowlands
Years of having to make do with cramped premises are starting to feel like a distant memory for the staff and patients of Redcliffs Medical Centre, who have been enjoying new purpose-built facilities since November 2023. Conveniently co-located on the same site is Redcliffs Pharmacy. Housed in a street-facing renovated building at the front of the site, the pharmacy is a perfect complement to the medical centre and blends beautifully with the Redcliffs village environment.
Redcliffs Medical Centre owners Dr Felix and Kirsty Rueppell thoroughly investigated all options before selecting the one they knew was best for their community. The result is a win for health and well-being in Redcliffs, with the uplifting design also drawing accolades, having received a 2024 Canterbury Architecture Award and a Bronze in the 2024 Best Design Awards.
“After the earthquakes, we spent ten years or more going down different avenues and
weighing up various options,” says Kirsty. “We’re very grateful for the opportunity and help given to us, which enabled this project to come to fruition. It has changed everyone’s lives. For our staff, going to work is a joy. Everything is user-friendly. We have so much more room, and staff have space of their own upstairs. The consulting rooms are much quieter, and we’ve got the pharmacy at the front of the building. We can offer more services, employ more staff and, consequently, we can enrol more patients, so our books are still open.”
A light and welcoming central entry links the pharmacy to the black brick medical centre’s consulting and treatment rooms, surgery, offices, and other ground-floor amenities. Above the timber-clad entry and waiting areas are dedicated staff-only facilities, housed in a cantilevered white steel box form.
“A big driver for lifting up the staff and administration areas was staff well-being,”
explains project architect Mike Callaghan of Johnstone Callaghan Architects. “It means when they’re not in the core medical centre, staff have somewhere separate to go and relax, with a picture-window view to the coast.”
Constraints for the medical centre design included requirements for floor levels to be 1.2m above the ground, as well as working with a narrow site that needed carparks and dual vehicle access down the side. Before the centre was built, staff were able to view a scale model. Mike says their feedback helped fine-tune the final layout and make best use of internal spaces. The design is also futureproofed to allow for further growth if required.
He says local residents appreciated efforts made to respect the village feel. “For example, we found an old photo of the street-facing shop premises and tried to bring that building back as much as possible to its original look. That’s where the pharmacy is now.”
Builder Steve Brown says knitting old and new was a construction challenge, but one that ultimately paved the way to a better outcome. “Everyone involved was on the same page and worked brilliantly well together. Redcliffs is a great village with a library, shops, dairy, butcher, and a café – and now has a purpose-built medical centre and pharmacy too.”
redcliffsmc.co.nz
P 3844-699
M 0274 326 956
E sbbuilders@xtra.co.nz stevebrownbuilders.co.nz
Unit A/6 Lupins Lane PO Box 24266, Christchurch 8140
A MARKET ON THE RISE
Rosa Carter
New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty
As a 20-year veteran of Canterbury’s property scene, Rosa Carter, owner of New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Canterbury and Marlborough regions, has seen the dynamics of this unique market firsthand. Often defying national trends, Christchurch has faced its share of challenges. Rosa shares why the future of Canterbury’s property market is looking promising.
Why are buyers choosing Christchurch?
Many are drawn to Christchurch not only for its family-friendly lifestyle but also for its consistent and steady growth. Unlike the sharp peaks and troughs experienced in markets like Auckland or Wellington, Christchurch has maintained stable property prices post-Covid and beyond. While a stable market might offer slower capital gains than other regions, it has little bearing on those planning a permanent move. Currently, Canterbury attracts Kiwis returning to raise families, those leaving busier NZ cities, and internationals seeking residency and Christchurch’s appealing lifestyle.
What is changing? Following years of rebuilding, the city is now experiencing an influx of high-end homes entering the market. Additionally, there is a rapidly growing demand for inner-city living, which is fuelling the development of high-end apartments. These green shoots, combined with the renowned appeal of the Christchurch lifestyle, paint a very positive picture for the South Island’s largest city. This positive shift is evident in recent sales data. A few years ago, a
$6 million sale was rare – in 2024, we saw five sales exceed $7 million, marking a significant shift for the region.
How is Christchurch connecting with international buyers? New Zealand
Sotheby’s International Realty’s global networks have been key in connecting with overseas buyers, whether expats returning home or new residents. NZSIR’s smart marketing channels help reach and connect with potential investors, making these networks vital for expanding the client base and driving market success.
What is the Domino Effect? Locals upsizing, often after selling businesses or lifestyle properties, are driving a domino effect – that is, releasing equity and inventory into the market. I predict Christchurch could soon rival Auckland or Queenstown in sale prices, with $20 million sales possible within five to seven years. The CBD’s redevelopment, including projects like the new stadium, is enhancing the city’s appeal. Apartment prices currently range from $800,000 to $8 million, but new high-end stock could push values higher.
nzsothebysrealty.com
JOIN THE NEW GENERATION
EarnLearn’s new Industry Trained Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying Apprenticeship training programmes are now available.
The programmes have been designed to align with new PGD qualifications developed by Waihanga Ara Rau (Workforce Development Council) and to meet the needs of both employers and apprentices across New Zealand.
The new suite of Level 4 apprenticeships is made up of six new PGD training programmes, plus an additional ‘on-site wastewater treatment systems’ optional strand for all drainlaying programmes. The new apprenticeship structure offers more flexibility around which PGD programme, or combination of programmes, a learner can complete on their journey to gain a New Zealand Certificate in Plumbing, Gasfitting and/or Drainlaying.
Other features of the new programmes include more workplace training and assessment and online learning support, as well as the ability to load all practical evidence directly via EarnLearn’s My eLearning platform
for fast assessment and recording of unit standards. Each programme starts with health and safety courses to ensure apprentices are kept safe while working on-site.
EarnLearn Executive Director Kaarin Gaukrodger says the goal of the new EarnLearn apprenticeship training programmes is to make sure New Zealand’s PGD workforce is able to grow to meet demand while being equipped with the skills and knowledge that are relevant to today’s industry and recognised through national qualifications.
“The changes are refocusing the training programmes on industry training that is undertaken on-job, with a more streamlined and efficient training structure, so apprentices stay on track for successful completion,” says Gaukrodger. “Employers can be assured their apprentice receives the required training support to gain the skills and qualification that is set at a national level. The new training delivery options also provide an opportunity for industry-qualified employers to become assessors and play a greater role in the training and assessment of their apprentices.”
Enrolments are now open for the Industry Trained Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying Apprenticeship.
Tap into your potential and start your journey to becoming a qualified Plumber, Gasfitter and/or Drainlayer in 2025 with EarnLearn’s new suite of Level 4 apprenticeship programmes.
✓ Flexible options: more opportunity for workplace training and assessment
✓ Industry-focused: designed with industry to meet future needs
✓ Earn while you learn: gain valuable skills and experience - and a wage!
A grand return to public life
After 100 years of hiding in its own Victorian oasis, a rare Canterbury treasure is returning to public duties. Built in 1891 by the renowned Christchurch firm Collins and Harmon, the 21-room homestead was constructed for George Edward Rhodes and his wife, Ellen Laura Perry. A masterpiece of Victorian design, Heritage New Zealand describes it as “one of Canterbury’s finest country houses,” highlighting its English architectural roots.
Meadowbank was originally a 1,000-acre farm that, under the ownership of the Rhodes family, hosted fêtes and lavish multi-day parties. It became a key political influencer, not only for the early Ellesmere district but also nationally and internationally.
George Edward Rhodes sold the house in 1916, but its legacy continued with subsequent owners. Among them was George’s second cousin, Arthur ‘Tahu’ Rhodes, who acquired the property in 1923. Renowned for his extravagant gatherings, Tahu’s Meadowbank became a destination for some of the era’s most notable figures, including the Duke of York (later King George VI), Antarctic explorer Robert Scott, and crime writer Dame Ngaio Marsh – a regular guest at its many parties.
Now, after 100 years of private seclusion, the new owners, Claire and Shaun Maloney, are dedicated to restoring this Category 1-listed mansion and its 23-acre arboretum to its Victorian splendour, returning it to a more public role.
Claire and Shaun are no strangers to hard work and ambitious projects, having spent 28 years developing their Broadoak Gardens in Ohoka, North Canterbury. “We feel very honoured to become the next guardians of this New Zealand treasure,” say Shaun and Claire. “Meadowbank deserves to be enjoyed by the community and Canterbury, just as it was 100 years ago.”
It’s a daunting task. Imagine the Christchurch Botanic Gardens left to grow unattended for a century – that’s just one of the challenges they face. After eight months of working closely with specialist arborists, heritage architects, and landscapers, the plan to return Meadowbank to public life is taking shape.
Also celebrating 100 years of service to the community is the Cholmondeley Children’s Centre in Governors Bay, which provides planned and emergency respite care for whānau with children aged 5–12. To honour both Meadowbank’s return to public life and Cholmondeley’s centenary, a charity Meadowbank estate tour and Devonshire tea will be held on Sunday, 30 March.
This event is limited to 150 ticket holders across three time slots: 10am, 12.30pm, and 2.30pm. It includes a guided tour of the Meadowbank Homestead and Arboretum, with historical insights shared along the way.
Tickets for this unique Tour and Tea are $40 per person, available by emailing info@meadowbanklodge.co.nz.
FOR SOUTH’S SAKE!
Award-winning gin, an iconic Kiwi company that’s been filling the nation’s pantries with condiments over the decades, fabulous local cheeses, charming cafés, and an incredible military memorabilia museum to boot! You’ll find all this in the boutique village of Geraldine in the Timaru District. Humdinger Gin has moved to its new main street premises, offering the chance to see the distillery, enjoy tastings, and take away a bottle of their best. At Barker’s of Geraldine Eatery, there is an elaborate tasting station, and at Geraldine Cheese Company, you’ll be hard-pressed to leave without a stack of delicious cheeses to enjoy. Cafe Verde serves fabulous food in a beautiful garden setting, and to top off your visit, the newly opened Geraldine Military Museum is drawing the crowds with its extensive interactive collection of artefacts. welovetimaru.nz
At the Nelson Italian Festival, on 2 March, enjoy Italian street food, cooking demonstrations, folk music, traditional crafts, and the largest classic car and motorbike display yet. Last year, 5000 people attended, and 2025 promises to be bigger and better! fb.com/nelsonitalianfestival
Kaikōura is an extraordinary place, renowned for its rich and diverse wildlife, and one of the best ways to experience it is through Dolphin Encounter Kaikōura. This incredible opportunity lets you get up close and personal with some of the most fascinating and playful creatures of the sea. Whether you choose to swim with these magnificent dolphins or simply observe them in their natural habitat, you’ll be immersed in their world, creating memories that will last a lifetime. And the best part? It’s
NELSON
GERALDINE
KAIKŌURA
Your guide to 72 hours in Marlborough
Discover Marlborough this autumn – where rural valleys with world-class vineyards meet the sparkling waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. Savour fresh produce, sip wines, and enjoy the buzz of the harvest season. From scenic coastal drives to unforgettable culinary experiences, every day offers something exciting in our neighbour to the north! Don’t forget to pack your camera, as the autumn colours are unbeatable.
NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK
There may be some new ventures since you last visited. Kaiaka Catering has moved location with a new look and feel but the same top-notch food. After almost a year-long closure, the restaurant at Wairau River has reopened – ‘Number 11’. This new dining hotspot, a collaboration between Wairau River & Sam Webb (Franks Oyster Bar & Eatery) offers a fun, shareable menu designed to complement Wairau River wines perfectly and encourage sociable dining. For small bites and impressive wine lists smack bang in the heart of Blenheim, be sure to visit Fidelio and Small Town Winery. Finish up with a sweet treat from Marlborough’s only locally made ice cream shop, Only Scoop, located in the quaint seaside town of Picton.
WINE TOUR VINEYARD
Enjoy lunch at Roots Gin Shack located at The Vines Village, a charming location with boutique shops and playgrounds to keep the kids entertained. Afterwards, join a guided wine tour to visit a handful of the 30-plus cellar doors of the region. Visit boutique wineries such as Hans Herzog Estate, family-owned gems like Bladen, Clos Henri, and Forrest Wines, and renowned wineries like Cloudy Bay and Wither Hills. Opt for a scheduled minivan tour, drive at your leisure in a private car, or enjoy the leisurely pace of a guided or independent bike tour. Whichever route you choose, you’ll be immersed in the heart of the vineyards, where the magic of winemaking unfolds. Travel tip: Visit in autumn, and you’ll experience the region filled with beautiful hues of orange and red.
EXPLORE THE SOUNDS
Drive to nearby Picton and board a boat cruise to explore the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Popular tours include dolphin watching, seafood cruises, wildlife spotting, or simply sailing through the Queen Charlotte Sound. For an active morning, how about joining a guided kayak tour? Or, if you’re up to covering some more distance, tackle a day walk on the Queen Charlotte Track, a renowned multi-day hike. The iconic Queen Charlotte Track, stretching from Ship Cove to Anakiwa, is a journey from past to present via panoramic ocean views, thriving native bush and encounters with the likes of weka, fantail, wood pigeon, and even seals.
NATURE’S CALLING
Autumn is an ideal time to get up close and personal with the endemic kārearea (NZ falcon). During your one-hour Private Tour, you’ll enjoy a small group experience with a knowledgeable member of staff to learn about these amazing falcons and the work that Kārearea Falcon Trust do. Private Tour visitors may be offered the opportunity for a Falcon Encounter. These encounters will give you the chance to enter their advocacy enclosure safely with a member of staff and experience a falcon landing on your gloved hand. Find out more about Private Tours and Falcon Encounters at kareareafalcon.org.
HISTORY & HERITAGE
Check out two incredible family-friendly exhibitions focusing on World War One and Two. The WWI collection features Sir Peter Jackson’s own collection of WWI aircraft and artefacts. New Zealand’s most respected cinematic and special effects craftspeople have created a dramatic aviation theatre with full-scale replica WWI aircraft – both static and flyable – presented in all their glory. The second exhibition, Dangerous Skies, brings to life stories from World War II. Featuring iconic aircraft such as the Spitfire and the unforgettable Stalingrad Experience. Find out more at classicfighters.co.nz.
TRY SOMETHING NEW
You’ve heard of the Abel Tasman and the Queen Charlotte Track, but what about the Nydia Track? The 27-kilometre rugged Nydia Track runs from Pelorus Sound across to Duncan Bay, with an overnight stop in Nydia. Most people get a shuttle back, so they don’t have to do the return walk/ bike. You’ll climb saddles through dense fern forest, catch a glimpse of Marlborough’s highest mountain, and pass through lush farmland – with only birds for company. Water access can be provided by a range of transport operators in the Marlborough Sounds. Check the MarlboroughNZ website or call the local isite for more information.
Stay inspired, plan your trip at marlboroughnz.com/explore
Wānaka: Sustainability in action
Lynette McFadden
Business Owner & Mentor, Harcourts gold @lynette_mcfadden
Innovation, health, and sustainability, qualities that feel essential to improving the world we live in, would ideally meld together easily, and if I applied all three concepts to a physical place, I’d immediately think of the small but burgeoning town of Wānaka.
Margaret Mead wrote: “Never doubt that a small group of committed citizens have the power to change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” I get a strong sense of this enduring belief whenever we visit this picturesque lakeside settlement.
Wānaka represents a small place taking big actions in its endeavour to prioritise care for our land, its health, and the health of the planet.
It’s said to be the ‘home base for gamechanging businesses’ that are banding together to make sustainability the heart of every decision.
This philosophy is also evident in the care locals show for their surroundings and the beautiful lake.
One such move is the presence of an incredible waste and recycling centre known by everyone as Wastebusters.
This colourful (there’s something for everyone!) centre acts as a community enterprise where recycling and sustainability are seen in daily action.
Because our eldest son lives in Wānaka when he’s home from the Northern Hemisphere, we visit frequently, and Wastebusters has been given the family name of Mitre 11 because of the bounty available and the nature of what you can find there or contribute to.
Besides the local shops encouraging mindful living in the curation of their product selection and seasonal produce dominating restaurant menus, there’s one very simple – but very big – movement that local coffee drinkers are part of.
It’s SUC (Single Use Cup) Free. Yes, you guessed it, this innovation has at its core the ultimate goal of making it the first single-use-cup-free town in New Zealand.
As part of this, 29 cafés and caravans implement cup-lending schemes, where you either borrow a cup (for a fee), keep it forever, or return it for a refund at any participating café.
At last count, this has saved a staggering 180,000 cups from landfill.
I feel better just by participating, and I can’t help but think if we all look to tread a little lighter, be a little more thoughtful and encourage others to do the same, our health and that of others – as well as our world – might just be a little bit better.
To me, that’s sustainability in action!
Curated colour
This curation of colourful pieces from Bolt of Cloth connects with the wall in Resene Meringue, the plinth in Resene Fluffy Duck, and the floor in Resene Idyllic. Art comes in many forms, including homeware, and the art of giving is just as varied. Pink, blue, yellow, and orange shades combine in a collection of gifts for that special someone who enjoys a touch of novelty.
Unikko Shape Plate; Banks Peninsula 3D Wooden Map; Orla Kiely Early Bird Mug; Lexon Flip + Alarm Clock in Yellow and Orange; Lexon Tykho 3 Radio/Speaker in Duck Blue; Bikers Embroidered Cushion Cover with feather inner; Disco Leopard Rug – Small; Hinza Green Plastic Bag in Dusty Pink; French Bulldog Salt and Pepper Shakers from Bolt of Cloth; Resene Meringue, Resene Fluffy Duck and Resene Idyllic from Resene ColorShops.
Resene Meringue
Resene Fluffy Duck
Resene Idyllic
When experience and results are important to you. With over 20 years experience in marketing homes, Janice and Philip will ensure that your selling experience is both successful and enjoyable.
Call for a no obligation appraisal of your home.
Philip Cox 027 488 8968
Janice Hamilton-Cox 027 232 2356
janiceandphilip@bayleys.co.nz
Don’t get saucy with me!
Sophie Petersen Food Editor | @fulltimetart
In a room brimming with secondhand treasures, bathed in the golden haze of the late afternoon sun, I sifted through piles of books in search of a summer read. Amid the chaos of dog-eared pages and fading spines, I stumbled upon a cookbook titled Don’t Get Saucy With Me, Béarnaise. A smirk danced across my face, and in that moment, Peta Mathias found her way into my ever-expanding bookshelf.
Each page of this book exudes the unmistakable charm of a woman deeply devoted to flavour and the joy of food. The chapters whisk you through the regions of our beautiful country, recollecting the days from Peta’s adventures filming A Taste of Home for her Town and Country segment with TVNZ. Written with such spirit and wit while accompanied by dishes that make you want to cook with one hand and scribble notes with the other. This was a portal into a life led with flavour and fabulousness.
Just as every good story deserves a perfect ending, every great dish is elevated by the addition of a sauce. On the final pages, I found a recipe for Béarnaise. This had me thinking about how a great sauce can transform a dish from simple to special. Whether it’s a glossy gravy cascading over a Sunday roast, an unapologetic dollop of aioli on fries, or hot butterscotch caramel pooling over sticky date pudding, sauces bring that little something extra to every forkful.
So, when I glanced over at my plum tree, drowning in fruit, spilling onto the lawn like confetti, the race began with my food-driven labrador, who seemed to have forgotten the consequences of his previous indulgences. Determined to be as plum drunk as the kererū grazing above.
With more plums than I knew what to do with, I painstakingly halved each plum and pried out each stubborn little stone until my hands were sticky and stained. I got to work on a plum sauce that now lines the pantry walls.
Into the pot goes a slosh of apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, a pinch of chilli, and a scattering of salt. I stirred, watching the mixture bubble and darken. The house fills with the heady aroma of sweet, tart fruit. Once thickened, I blitzed it until smooth and funnelled it into a collection of jars and bottles. Hoarded relics of Christmas feasts past.
As I sealed the last jar, with my dog by my side, begging for a taste, I looked down at him, wiped the sauce off my hands, and, with a playful grin, said, “Don’t get saucy with me!”
Between two slices
From stuffed focaccias to pita pockets packed with personality, the sandwich game in Christchurch is seriously strong. So, whether you’re a baguette buff or a sourdough supporter, here are a few of the best bread-bound destinations to sink your teeth into.
DALANTE ARTISAN BAKERY
4/4 Eastfield Drive, Lincoln
@dalante_artisan
Dalante Artisan Bakery, at Lincoln’s Rosemerryn shops, is well worth the venture beyond the four avenues. It’s hard to go wrong here, especially when it comes to their chicken schnitzel pita. The golden, crispy schnitzel is packed into a soft, fluffy pita, loaded with a fresh Mediterranean medley, hummus, and a spicy hit of jalapeño. Their elite sandwich menu is rivalled by Roman and Sicilian woodfire pizzas, housemade sourdough, and sweet treats like baklava and Moroccan doughnuts. I do have to confess that the cinnamon doughnut I intended to save for after lunch may have disappeared while I waited. I regret nothing.
JOLLY DELI
28 Tuam Street
@jolly_deli
I can’t help but feel a little jolly stumbling upon this epic sandwich shop on the Hagley end of Tuam Street. The roast chicken sandwich is pure lunchtime deliciousness. Juicy marinated chicken complemented by a creamy herb mayo, sharp cheddar, crisp lettuce, and red onion – this was a sandwich that ticked every box. The pickled jalapeños and a hint of chilli provide just the right kick; all cradled in a golden, chewy focaccia that soaks up the flavours! With ‘toasted’, ‘fresh’, and ‘breakfast’ menus, I can’t wait to get back to try the rest of their jolly good food.
TOM’S SANDWICH SHOP
36 Southwark Street
@toms_southwarkst
Tom’s is a small shop with a big personality, serving up sandwiches that hit the spot. I tried a baguette brimming with halloumi, harissa, toasted almonds, pickled onion, spinach, and mayo. Sweet treats like lolly cake, cake from Cakes by Anna, and fluffy pink buns filled with raspberry jam sit atop the counter, just begging you to add a little sweet treat to your order. I couldn’t resist the pink bun, which was the perfect accompaniment. Most sandwiches are vegetarian, with vegan options always available. Playful, delicious, and brimming with charisma, Tom’s is a must-visit for a satisfying lunch.
CENTRAL DELI SANDWICHES
8 New Regent Street @centraldelisandwiches
Central Deli Sandwiches on New Regent Street is the place for a sandwich that delivers big on flavour. Surrounded by the street’s colourful Spanish Mission architecture, take a seat at this little lunch spot and watch as the tram rumbles by, packed with travellers who ought to know what they’re missing out on by not hopping off here. We ordered the Avo Spiced Potato, the Nashville Hot Chicken, and a side of fries for good measure. Both packed with layers of flavour and texture, these sandwiches are a must. Whether you take a seat and get stuck in along New Regent Street or take these sammies to go – conveniently wrapped in wax paper for clean hands and delicious disposal – you’ll be a happy snacker. Bon appétit!
Manu Restaurant: A Gentler Path to Dining
ETERNAL SUNSHINE
KIWI AS
Gin Gin’s ‘Gin of the Month’, Strange Nature, captures the quintessential flavours of its uniquely New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc origins. Aromatic and fruity, it’s a vibrant mix of tropical zest and herbaceous depth. Savour sweet notes and savoury hints in every sip. It’s gin and tonic time! Try it now at Gin Gin, alfresco in the late summer sun or inside the cute New Regent Street bar. gingin.co.nz
BEAUTIFUL IN AND OUT
Dancing Water’s Georgie Rosé embodies its terroir’s beauty. This boutique vineyard recently restored its soil and is a haven where nature thrives – birds, bees, the family dogs, even sheep serve as a trusty crew in winter. The team embraces their role as stewards, which is evident in every bottle. Georgie Rosé is a reminder that the results are truly special when nature is nurtured. dww.co.nz
STRAWBERRY SEDUCTION
This is a match made in strawberry heaven. Zodiac’s Arnie has crafted the Strawberry Seduction, using strawberry sake and strawberry gin, and brought it together with the warmth and aromatics of star anise. This will have you sipping on memories of warm summers, backyard parties, and mum’s fruit salad. To find out how to make this cocktail, head online to avenues.net.nz. zodiacbar.co.nz
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Ilex Events
Tucked away from the urban hustle, Ilex honours the Christchurch Botanic Gardens’ stunning natural beauty and storied legacy. Renowned for hosting some of Ōtautahi’s most iconic events, Ilex blends exceptional design, lush botanical backdrops, and the culinary mastery of the city’s top chefs and event professionals to craft truly one-of-a-kind experiences. The event space can accommodate up to 140 seated guests, while the café can host 150 people standing.
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HEALTH WITH SPROUTS
Poroporoaki – a peaceful farewell
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.
I’m sitting in international departures as I write this – another airport, another flight, more farewells.
In te ao Māori, the essence of poroporoaki, or the custom of formally farewelling guests, is as intrinsic as the pōhiri, or welcome.
In recent years, I have been called ‘across the ditch’, as many of our whānau are, and now karanga are signalling further and further away – to the lands of Turtle Island (America), Hawai’i, and beyond.
But what happens when you find yourself in the position of being both tangata whenua of this land, yet a karanga signals a destiny for you further afield, sometimes resulting in becoming a guest in lieu of a resident?
This recent expedition home has felt like a farewell – a poroporoaki that wraps up a decade of devotion to this land, this community, these waters, and my rongoā Māori arts. There is a knowing this time that the cycles have shifted, that skins are signalling to be shed.
It’s made me ponder the necessity of Saṃsāra, the Buddhist/Hindu cycle of death and rebirth.
Throughout this wild and wonderful journey of life, we all engage in many little and large deaths and rebirths. Moments, shifts, and recalibrations call us to farewell the old in order to birth anew.
Sometimes the calling comes from deep within – a knowing of gut instinct and intuition, a calling so strong that we surrender to it, prepared to release all that is holding us back in order to move forward with blind courage.
Saṃsāra is no ‘love and light’ experience. It requires a dance of duality between shadow and light.
The push/pull nature of this dance as we bid farewell, as we weave our own poroporoaki whilst simultaneously being karanga and welcomed to the new, is a pas de deux of everything it means to be both a soul and a human.
From the outside, people may view the process as quite mad, but for those with the calling that stirs us in the middle of the night, for those with a spark of desire to ‘seek and ye shall find’, the calling rattles our bones, causing a more pertinent discomfort until we act upon it.
So, as I sit here waiting for our plane to carry us to ‘the west island’, aka Australia or Te Whenua Moemoeā, the land of the Dreaming and home to the Rainbow Serpent, I wish everyone, in this incredibly apt Year of the Wood Snake, a blessed and beautiful rebirth. No matter how big or small – if you feel the call, shed what no longer serves you. Farewell the old to make way for the new, and move forward with courage, elegance, and grace. And don’t forget to take a breath.
1962 Chevrolet Corvette
OWNED BY THE NELSON CLASSIC CAR MUSEUM
DRIVEN BY MIKE WILSON
PHOTOS & WORDS Mike Wilson
Ever dreamt of being an astronaut? For most of us it seems like an impossibility as vast as space itself. What if there was a way to at least feel like an astronaut while here on Earth?
This stunning Chevrolet Corvette from the Nelson Classic Car Museum is almost identical to one given to NASA astronaut Alan Shepard in 1961 – after he became the second person in space. The US government didn’t like their employees getting gifts so GM soon offered NASA crews Corvettes for a $1 yearly lease. After that, astronauts and Corvettes became synonymous and their antics racing around the otherwise quiet roads of sun-bleached Cape Canaveral, Florida are legend.
For the full astronaut experience, find a private stretch of hot black tarmac, strap in, prepare for launch, feel the G-forces pin you to your seat as you accelerate, and listen to the V8 roar like an Apollo boost rocket. Or, if you’re less of a space pilot and more of a cruiser, try a leisurely run along the coast, top down, aviator sunglasses on, your significant other in the passenger seat, and the V8 thrumming gently behind the Beach Boys crooning on the 8-track.
Casey
CHRISTCHURCH CENTRAL
“I wasn’t aware of it when I was going through it, or growing up in that environment, you just think it’s your normal until you get out of it. Narcissistic abuse. Have you heard of it?
“I was the black sheep. I left home real young, like, 17. I went to the Salvation Army; I was homeless. I went back to my parents thinking they’d changed, or, I don’t know, something will be different, but it just wasn’t. I had to come to terms with reality. Now I’m estranged; I’m doing my own thing. I’ve had no contact in ages. It is what it is.
“I’m trying to get the skills I want to pursue music as a full-time job. Even if it just pays for the basics. That’s what I really want to do with my life; I need to do it; it feeds my spirit.
“I learned bass guitar and electric guitar. I learned how to rap, sing, and a bit of metal growl. So, like, you know, the heavy vocals. It’s like an outlet; if I’m going through some
real heavy-duty stuff, I can just fall back on the music. I always feel better.
“I saw someone had an advertisement for a band, so I got their number and gave them a ring. You never know what might happen. I used to be so insecure and shy. I hid away on purpose. But these days, I want to be an open book; I’m more confident in my own skin.
“I might be going back to the Salvation Army. It’s better than being on the streets in the elements, cold, freezing. Yeah, you get a roof over your head and three meals a day.
It’s better than being stranded.
“I was born in Christchurch, been here my whole life. I also like getting out into nature. If I had money, I’d be a nomad, just travelling with a backpack. I do like it here, but it would be a good change to see the world. Yes, this is just a tiny little island, it’s a big world out there.”
facebook.com/humansofchch
At ROCA, we source ingredients from local and regional growers who are committed to being the very best. From Spain to the Middle East, ROCA is a contemporary tribute cooked with fire and smoke. Contact us at www.rocabar.co.nz
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