LOVE LOCAL

Hannah Hardy-Jones, Kite Founder and Steve Kenchington, Jaguar NZ CEO with the all-electric I-PACE.

IN DETAIL

SMALL STEPS, BIG DREAMS

Christchurch entrepreneur Hannah Hardy-Jones has been recognised for her change-making work in tech and mental health. She was awarded a grant to develop a programme that allows better support for women on their cancer journey. Launched earlier this year, the ‘She Sets The Pace’ community grant by car brand Jaguar recognises changemakers and people challenging the status quo by providing funding for their ventures. In Hannah’s case, the $10,000 prize will go towards The Kite Program, a mental health app publisher that creates apps to support groups, organisations, and causes. The Kite Program aims to overcome mental health challenges, especially for women. It highlights the gender-based obstacles that prevent people from receiving the help and support they need by creating highly specific app programmes. These include services for eating disorders, maternal mental health, veterinarians, HR professionals, and an offering for small businesses, to name a few. Hannah started Kite due to her own difficult mental health journey with postpartum bipolar disorder following the birth of her daughter in 2013. Using her HR experience, she created a solution to support mums through the challenges of motherhood – an app was the perfect way to reach as many women as possible. “Since the success of Kite for Mums, we have launched versions of the app into new markets and focus areas, particularly within corporate wellbeing. All are based on the Kite app philosophy of small achievable steps each day.” As people move through the app, they select the Kite modules that apply to them, and they receive one quick, practical and achievable task, idea or activity to complete that day. When stressed and overwhelmed, our ability to retain and apply ideas and suggestions is limited, so breaking it down into small steps is effective, according to Hannah. “It was important that I was open and transparent about my mental health journey when I launched Kite. When I was unwell, I couldn’t find anyone who was thriving or who was able to manage their illness successfully – all I could find were heartbreaking stories. I wanted to show that it is possible to live a full life and come out the other side. It has been my mission to break down the stigma of mental health and be open about my experience wherever I can.” Hannah mentions how incredibly exciting it is to be chosen as the first recipient of the Jaguar She Sets the Pace grant. “Being a sole female founder of a tech start-up can be challenging, and winning this grant was wonderful validation for me, personally. I love what Jaguar is doing with challenging conventions for women, and these values fit so well with my own values and that of our wider organisation. The grant has allowed us to start working on some epic projects in the mental health space, plus being able to drive a beautiful I-PACE has just been the icing on the cake and a great way to experience an EV. “No matter what you are going through right now, there is always hope and always a way through. I would never have thought I could start a mental health tech company based on my mental health and being a mum of small children, but anything is possible. It just takes small steps each day to get to your dream.”

For our full interview with Hannah, head to avenues.net.nz

JENNY BURTT FLORIST

Jenny Burtt Florist has long been considered one of Ōtautahi’s leading florists, and it’s easy to see why. This Fendalton stalwart has graced homes internationally and locally with its resplendent floral artistry for decades. The team can cater to any event you may need a touch of meaningful love for – from birthdays to weddings and funerals. You can even complement your arrangements with thoughtful, considered gifts from their beautiful range of homewares in store. jennyburtt.co.nz

CAFÉ ENCOUNTER

Coffee on the beachfront, anyone? Café Encounter has a fabulous outdoor courtyard to take in your daily dose of vitamin D while enjoying a shot or two of delicious OZONE coffee accompanied by freshly prepared eats; all made on-site in the café kitchen. Open every day (except Christmas Day), Café Encounter is a meeting place with a relaxed vibe and excellent service. Check it out when you are visiting Kaikōura! dolphinencounter.co.nz/our-cafe

SKIN REJUVENATION CLINIC

Ultherapy is the only FDA-approved treatment for nonsurgical lifting and tightening of the face, neck, and brow. It is an in-clinic treatment that uses ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen. Ultherapy is the gold standard in skin tightening and helps to restore the skin’s firmness as well as lifting and tightening for a smoother and healthier-looking complexion. Check out the special to refresh your eye area this month! skinrejuvenationclinic.co.nz

THE FITTING ROOM

Pretty, lacey lingerie is a way to add some flirty fun to your day, even if only you know about it! The Fitting Room has a delightful selection of delicate lacey bras, pastel spring colours, and of course, the fitting assistance you need to find a pretty bra that’s also comfortable enough to wear all day. A feature back (like the Cleo bra ‘Addison’ pictured) is designed for being seen under summer tops and dresses. Find out more or shop online. thefittingroom.co.nz

SOUTHERN WOODS

Southern Woods has grown millions of quality plants for over a generation. Locally owned and passionate about plants, it prides itself on expert service, and the range is second to none. With over fifty staff and an ever-expanding nursery just south of Christchurch, Southern Woods can supply large quantities of plants New Zealand-wide. Talk to the knowledgeable team about planting for your next project. Stop in at 1002 Robinsons Road or online anytime. southernwoods.co.nz

MARC BENDALL JEWELLER

Everyone deserves to make a statement, and every piece from Marc Bendall can be as unique and individual as the wearer. Specialists in bespoke rings, clients’ own materials and stones can be used to create an iconic heirloom. Also, in-store is the MB designer collection range of rings and jewellery, crafted to the highest standards by Marc, who has been perfecting his art for the past 40 years. Marc Bendall has relocated to a studio in Sumner! Phone 384 5156.

marcbendall.co.nz

FELT

Wherever you go in Aotearoa, you’ll see talented Kiwis making a living from making great stuff – and Felt brings them all to you. Run by a small team in Christchurch who are passionate about supporting local, Felt hosts more than 1500 makers from all over New Zealand so you can buy online directly from the artist, designer, or craftsperson. Look out for the Felt Christmas Gift Guide, online from 1 November – finding amazing, locally made gifts has never been so easy! felt.co.nz

CAFÉ VALENTINO

Café Valentino is a vibrant Italian dining institution, serving chef Karren Gray’s scrumptious, soul-satisfying food alongside a buzzing atmosphere with excellent service – something its customers have been experiencing since 1991. They have a devoted international customer base and a wall full of awards through consistent flair, originality, and love of good food – heavenly pizzas, perfect pasta, and decadent housemade desserts. Open Tuesday to Sunday. cafevalentino.co.nz