Celebrating Ka-piti
Business and Lifestyle Magazine | Spring/Summer 2024
Nau Mai Haere Mai
In every corner of our vibrant district, there are stories waiting to be told - stories of passion, perseverance and pride.
Our magazine is dedicated to celebrating the incredible people and businesses that make our community unique and thriving.
One word sums up the many people featured in the 13th edition of this magazine. Inspiring.
A lot goes on behind the scenes to make a success of something. Vision, planning, risk, teamwork, quality, pivot, people skills, long game, reward.
Our celebration of local excellence features Dirt Farm, Stetson Group, Capstone Gallery, Mostly Music, The Roastery Espresso Bar, Mowbray Collectables and the Kāpiti Aeromodellers.
The Q&A is with the hardworking Michael Tieng who has owned the Beach Bakery and Cafe for well over 20 years. He was a child in Cambodia, when a barbaric regime was unleashing mayhem, but managed to escape with his family and start a new life.
Leo Barber steps outside the district to take on the Camino trail between France and Spain, only a mere 800km. The trail is a lot more than a physical challenge as you will find out.
Shiree White loves getting out and about on the district’s various trails. She describes some of her favourite places.
The front cover is part of Sarah Pou’s colourful mural, on the new amenity block in Maclean Park, Paraparaumu, featuring parts of the district.
Pou’s art studio at 76b Eatwell Ave will be open during the Kāpiti Coast Arts Trail.
She will have a wide range of artworks on display including originals of the mural.
Thanks to Roger Smith for photographing part of the mural for this magazine as well as his image of the Waikanae River on this page.
- Editor David Haxton
EDITOR David
Haxton
Contents
6 | Dirt Farm
Carina Munro and Tim Browne have created an exciting getaway destination in the foothills of the Tararuas. Their off-grid operation in Hautere features two cottages, six glamping tents, and about 30km of mountain bike tracks. It’s set in a natural wonderland high in the hills. Very cool indeed.
14 | Capstone Gallery
Chris and Jeanne Boland had their house specially built so part of it could showcase their art, and in time, transform into a gallery. The gallery has recently opened and what a triumph it is. The lesser-known gallery features a wide range of artworks by the talented couple, and others. Definitely worth checking out on a Sunday afternoon.
20 | Stetson Group
Stewart and Tricia Macpherson are a well respected couple whose company has brought a lot of musicans, bands, and shows to New Zealand over the decades. It all started in 1973, a bit by accident, when the secured a deal to bring country legend Kenny Rogers and his band to New Zealand. The journey from a small production company to a major player is incredible.
26 | Kāpiti Aeromodellers
One of the delights when venturing through Queen Elizabeth Park is seeing various radio controlled planes whizzing about. The pilots, on terra firma, expertly put their planes into turns, dives, loops, and more. The club has a specific airstrip in the regional park for their hobby. Their annual rally is a good way to see the action close up.
30 | Beach Bakery & Cafe
Michael Thieng was a child in Cambodia at a time when a murderous regime was in the early stages of its campaign that would lead to the death of millions of people. Fortunately his family were able to get out of the country and start a new life. Michael learnt to become a baker and it wasn’t long before he had his own bakery which has a loyal following.
34 | Mostly Music
Drum roll please. Jess Deacon and Cam Steel have created a go-to website for musicians and live music enthusiasts alike. Their website celebrates and supports the music scene in Kāpiti and Horowhenua by helping artists and venues promote events, and in turn, making it easy for people to find out what’s on.
38 | Camino Frances
Leo Barber had a window of opportunity to take on the Camino Frances walking trail between France and Spain. What an amazing experience he had along the 800km journey. In his firsthand account, the Paraparaumu resident gives an indepth description of the physically demanding and mentally uplifting long walk.
42 | The Roastery Espresso Bar
Not only do Pete Evans and Serena Harper make great coffee, but they have a strong focus on sustainability. Read about their sustainabilty and climate change efforts. But to really find out, simply pop into the store and have a chat. They’re more than happy to talk about it and show you the art and science of coffee roasting.
44 | Hitting The Trails
Shiree White loves walking and running the many trails between Paekākāriki and Ōtaki. She shares some of her favourite routes. Note the walkway through the Waikanae estuary is for foot traffic only.
48 | Mowbray Collectables
John Mowbray was in college when he started his stamp business and never looked back. It has been an amazing success built on lots of hardwork and dedication. The empire has grown so much that it’s now the largest stamp and coin dealership in New Zealand. What an iconic business.
52 | White heron or kotuku
In Waikanae Beach, birdlife abounds around the estuary and Waimanu and Waimeha lagoons. The area has become well-known among ornithologists local, nationally and even internationally. One of the recent highlights, which led to a lot of excitement, was the appearance of the white heron or kotuku. Cue Roger Smith and his camera.
56 | Back in the Day
Step back in time and see a variety of photographs from yesteryear in Kāpiti. From the creation of Our Lady of Lourdes statue, a busy Kāpiti Rd during Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh’s royal tour, to a beach carnival featuring an oyster shell float with maidens aboard, the photographs will intrigue. Check out the interesting snaps of the Paraparaumu Beach and Raumati Beach shopping centres too.
Dirt Farm
After a slow and steady climb up a snaking, well-maintained gravel drive, an experience in itself, I arrive at one of the coast’s leading adventure destinations.
In the foothills of the Tararuas, in the Hautere area, is Dirt Farm, owned and operated by Carina Munro and Tim Browne.
They have developed a unique accommodation offering and a world-class downhill mountain bike trail network among exotic and native trees, bush, and farmland.
The off-grid Dirt Farm comprises two wellappointed cottages and six cosy glamping tents. The cottages are spacious, inviting and a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Each has a large main room, adjoining bathroom and a veranda offering photo frame vistas.
Breakfast is supplied, and wine and cheese platters are available for the cottages too.
Words by David Haxton
Carina Munro and Tim Browne with border collie huntaway Bonnie.
A
“Everyone loves it because they feel so disconnected from the modern world, but they’re 20 minutes from a shop.”
N N A B E LLE K E B A B H O U S E :
Nearby is an inviting hot tub on a grassy knoll offering a spectacular view of the valley and sea.
Each canvas glamping tent, in its own slice of paradise, has been given a name of a bird: kōtare, korimako, ruru, hihi, kererū, tauhou.
There is a separate bathroom next to each tent, while a hot tub as well as communal kitchen/dining area, featuring a woodfire pizza oven, is close by.
The cottages and tents feature an array of vintage items collected by Carina, who has an art degree.
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Dirt Farm is on land bought by Tim’s parents Paul and Julie many years ago.
About 10 years ago Tim started creating the mountain bike track network because of his passion for the sport.
“I started digging a mountain bike track, and then some people came to help me, and it got bigger and bigger,” he reflects.
“Before long we had about 30km of mountain bike tracks.”
The mightily impressive network features three levels: intermediate, advanced and professional.
It has attracted downhill mountain bikers from all over New Zealand and the world.
Famed riders such as Brett Rheeder, Josh Brycelands, Bas Van Steenbergen and Conor MacFarlane have all visited.
Tim, who is a geologist and computer scientist, is reworking the tracks to cater for novice mountain bikers while retaining the challenge for experienced riders.
The mountain bike track system is only available to people staying at Dirt Farm.
Dirt Farm also features a variety of bush walks, a clay pigeon shooting spot and simply an invigorating environment to relax.
“We get a range of people who enjoy getting away into the middle of nowhere but being close to places like Wellington or Palmerston North,” Tim says.
“We also get Kāpiti people who want to get away for a short period of time but still be close to home because someone is looking after their kids,” Carina adds.
“We get a range of people who enjoy getting away into the middle of nowhere but being close to places like Wellington or Palmerston North.”
“Everyone loves it because they feel so disconnected from the modern world, but they’re 20 minutes from a shop.
“Most people come here for a weekend getaway and then find out it’s a bike park so plan to come back again.”
Operating Dirt Farm involved a lot of work for the couple, who have two young children. They’re thankful to Tim’s parents, especially, for pitching in.
“They help out a lot and we couldn’t do it without them,” Carina points out.
The couple are always seeking to improve their business. One of the latest projects is developing a small wedding venue for about 30/40 people.
Carina described it as the perfect job, because of the flexibility needed with two children, but didn’t shy away from hard work either.
“It keeps me fit. We’ve got 11 fireplaces so there’s a lot of wood to chop!”
Tim thrived on the variety of stuff to do.
“It’s hard work, but enjoyable, and you’re working in a lovely place.”
Dirt Farm is located at 321 Mangaone North Rd. Check out the website www.dirtfarm.co.nz
“It’s hard work, but enjoyable, and you’re working in a lovely place.”
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Adver torial
Capstone Gallery
Words by David Haxton
There was one key proviso when Chris and Jeanne Boland had their charming Waikanae Beach home built in the early 2000s.
It had to have a purpose-built area to showcase the various artworks they had created over the years and eventually could transform into a gallery.
Art has been a hobby for the pair, who are pictured, and a good escape from their busy careers.
Chris’s main vocation was as a veterinarian, and Jeanne’s as an editor.
The lovely home was duly built, in three separate areas, with the art space a key focal point.
But after the couple retired, a bit later than initially planned, they decided it was time to take the art space to the next level.
Over a year ago they transformed it into a gallery.
Jeanne said the biggest challenge “was actually committing to doing it”.
“Once we had decided that, it was a matter of deciding how to run it, so that it didn’t end up overloaded with stuff.
“We’ve tried to keep it to a reasonable amount of stuff on display.”
“We’ve met so many people that we never would have had the opportunity to meet otherwise.”
Most of the artworks in the Capstone Gallery have been created by the couple.
Chris does woodcarving, painting, drawing, stained glass and sculpture, while Jeanne enjoys creating textile pieces.
“I’m not sure there’s any medium he can’t turn his hand to.”
Chris reckons his love of art started when he started drawing at the age of 5 or 6.
Art became a lifelong passion and his natural ability could be part of his genes too.
“My mother was an artist, and my father worked his way through university doing illustrations for newspapers back in the day.”
Using his artistic flair has brought a lot of enjoyment throughout the years.
“Just the ability to take an idea, and either put it into three dimensional or two-dimensional form, and then be satisfied with the result.
“Not always satisfied but it’s always a good feeling when it is.”
The couple, who have been married for more than 50 years, moved from Arizona, in the United States, to New Zealand in 1973.
“Chris came straight out of vet school.
“He was bonded to the New Zealand government because at that stage they couldn’t produce enough vets to meet the need.
“So we worked for the government for three years, and then were allowed to stay, and we did.”
They moved around the country a bit, with busy jobs and a family to raise, but have been in the Wellington/Kāpiti region for about 30 years.
The gallery also has two specific spaces for guest local artists.
Jeanne estimates there are about 70 artworks on display.
Some of the guests have included acrylic artist Morag Stokes and stunning photographs by picture framer Warren Ixer.
In time, they want to exhibit more local artists, especially after the gallery’s first appearance in the Kapiti Arts Trail in November.
“We’re getting a bit tired of seeing our own stuff so we definitely want to get more people exhibiting,” Jeanne said.
“Because we’re going to be in the Kāpiti Coast Art Trail for the first time, we’re working towards that, but after that we aim to showcase a lot more artists.
“And hopefully during the arts trail we’ll meet people who are interested in exhibiting.”
The physical gallery has impressed those who visit with its layout, ambience, natural lighting, and more.
“I think people are surprised,” she said.
“When Warren first came here, after we had discussed the possibility of exhibiting some of his photographs, he said, ‘I was expecting it to be a garage’.”
The gallery’s existence has largely been word of mouth, especially as the couple don’t use social media, but the website www.capstonegallery.com gives a taster of what to expect.
An unexpected publicity boost was when the couple were asked if their property could be part of the Waikanae Lions Garden Trail.
The property, which the couple like to devote a
few hours each day to depending on the weather, is on 1.2 hectares and comprises a natural lake, orchard and different garden areas.
“We had about 1300 people through the garden and the gallery,” Jeanne said.
“A lot of those people came back and brought other people.
“Having people see both the gallery and the garden seems to be quite popular, which is great.”
Where did the gallery’s name stem from, you might ask?
It was a nod to Jeanne’s work as an editor.
“We picked the name Capstone because it’s the finishing touch on something, and I liked the name.
“My business was run under Capstone Consultants for many years.
“When we talked about the name [for the gallery] we decided to keep the name.
“It has been a good name.”
Jeanne was delighted with how the gallery had turned out.
“It’s really fun.
“We’ve met so many people that we never would have had the opportunity to meet otherwise.”
Chris was rapt too.
“I spend my time making things and Jeanne actually manages the gallery.
“I think she has done a great job.”
The gallery, located at 71 Rutherford Drive, is open on Sundays between 1pm and 4pm.
In the warmer months it’s open on other afternoons. You’ll know if it’s open if a flag is visible by the roadside next to a large piece of wood with Capstone carved into it.
Our locally owned, family-run business has been creating hosted tours and custom holidays
“
Having
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see both the
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garden seems to be quite popular, which is great.”
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Stetson Group
The driver at the service station in Mercer couldn’t quite believe his eyes. Was that really Donny Osmond pumping gas? In Waikato?
Yes it was — and he’d offered to pay for the fill-up too, but Tricia Macpherson wasn’t having that. Driving pop stars around New Zealand was all part of the job. Osmond had a day to spare before flying back to the States from Auckland and he’d wanted to visit the Mormon temple in Hamilton. So Tricia drove him there and back, complete with the petrol stop that startled their fellow motorist.
“Donny was oblivious to the whole thing,” she says. “He pumped it all up, put it back, put the cap on and away we went.”
Of all the many stars she and husband Stewart have brought to New Zealand over the past 50 years, Osmond was “a favourite of mine”, she says.
Together, the Macphersons, who live in rural Waikanae, run the Stetson Group, which began in the
“Acts have ranged from English folk crooner Roger Whittaker to New York punks The Ramones and pretty much everyone in between.”
Words by Patrick Piercy
Donny Osmond.
Stewart and Tricia Macpherson.
promotions business by bringing Kenny Rogers to New Zealand in 1973. Since then, their acts have ranged from English folk crooner Roger Whittaker to New York punks The Ramones and pretty much everyone in between — from the Electric Light Orchestra to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, as Stewart puts it.
They’re reluctant to spill too many beans about what Stewart terms the “sex and drugs and rock’n’roll” era, in part because, behind the personas, most of the stars were just normal people with children and mortgages, the couple say. Suffice to say that these days they’re all well-behaved and professional — something of a departure from the times when the first thing a band wanted to know when they arrived in a new town was where they could score some weed.
The Macphersons, now in their early 80s, are still promoting shows, though the pace has slackened somewhat and they like to make sure they have enough downtime to spend part of each year with their two sons and grandchildren in the UK.
“The majority of [our work] is approaches are made to us because of our longevity and our connections and that’s what happens on a fairly regular basis: ‘Do you fancy X, Y, Z?’ and the majority of times it’s ‘No, we don’t.’ We are very selective, at our age, about what we do.”
Slash.
In recent years, the shows have mostly been musicals, including Phantom of the Opera, Bat Out of Hell, American Idiot and this year’s Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. In 2018, they brought The Art of Banksy exhibition to Auckland — wasn’t that a departure from the norm, I ask. “Funny you should say that,” says Stewart, who when we met had yet to announce that Stetson was bringing a similar show to Wellington this summer, billed as the world’s largest collection of Banksy artworks.
“This time it’s bigger than it was last time, there’s over 150 works, and we’re bringing it exclusively to Wellington, into Takina,” says Stewart.
“We’re very excited,” adds Tricia, who praises how quickly Wellington City Council was keen to come on board and work with the couple.
They got into the promotions business partly by accident, while working at 2ZM in Wellington. They were music enthusiasts; they made contact with an agent in Los Angeles, through whom they secured a deal to bring Kenny Rogers and his band The First Edition out here on a tour in 1973.
“We put them in a 12-seater coach and ran them around New Zealand,” says Tricia. “It wasn’t limos and that sort of thing,” adds Stewart. “We all learned on the road.”
Rogers and his management became friends but the couple say it’s rare for them to become too close to their work.
Glen Campbell.
“Very few actually become friends. Glen Campbell, Roger Whittaker … Kenny Rogers and his management, Jethro Tull, David Gates of Bread — every now and then we have an email exchange,” says Stewart. “Colleagues, really,” adds Tricia.
She says of the business: “Obviously, it’s changed hugely. It’s a risk business and you wouldn’t do it if you didn’t love it. We’ve made good friends, we’ve made good relationships and we do enjoy it.”
The Stetson Group name came from a meeting with the agent in Los Angeles at which Stewart was asked the name of his company. He didn’t have one but the agent was doodling with the words Stewart and Macpherson and they came up with Stetson. On that first tour, Kenny Rogers brought with him a gift of a Stetson hat, which he has since signed. After that, there was no going back.
“We’ve got totally different skills,” says Tricia. “My skills are more in creating a team and getting out there and making it work … and Stewart does all the marketing, publicity, contact with the stars and the agents. I say to him, ‘You get the contract, give it to me and I’ll make it work’.”
They met in broadcasting in Wellington in the 1960s, got married and “shot through” to London, where Stewart worked for the BBC and Tricia as a technician for record company Decca. “They told me they didn’t hire female technicians. I said, ‘Well, what
“We’ve made good friends, we’ve made good relationships and we do enjoy it.”
Judy Collins.
do they [female staff] do?’ and he said ‘Make the tea’. I said, ‘Well, I’m not making tea.’ Anyway, they took me on and it was fun.
“We’ve had a bit of a charmed life and we’re lucky to get to our 80s now and have good health …”
They left London after a couple of years, bought a motor caravan and drove home across Asia and Australia, taking about a year. When they reached Pakistan, they needed work done on the van. The garage put the van up on a hoist and let Stewart and Tricia stay in it overnight, doubling as security guards.
“We did little tape recordings on audio cassettes and mailed them home. They arrived weeks after we’d done it.”
They moved to Kāpiti from Wellington in 1978. Ngarara Rd back then was unsealed beyond the swimming pool and Kapanui School, as it was then called, had only about 100 pupils. “We love it here, we’re a bit tucked away,” says Tricia.
“We’re part of the Chamber of Commerce and we go to most shows here. We’re very involved with the Kāpiti Playhouse and have a good connection with Southward Theatre and we enjoy putting shows on there.
“Otherwise we’re quite happy with our own company and our friends.”
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Kāpiti Aeromodellers Club
Words by David Haxton
Nestled amid Queen Elizabeth Park is the home of the Kāpiti Aeromodellers Club.
The club, which was formally registered as a not-for-profit incorporated society in 1995, has a long-term lease from the Greater Wellington Regional Council.
It has its own specific area which comprises a clubhouse and a regularly mowed grass airstrip of about 100m in length and 30m wide.
Club members are active on any given day depending on favourable weather conditions.
“Generally if it’s a fine day, and the wind is all right, there will be someone there,” club president John Pfahlert said.
Weekends are the most popular for flying, and the annual rally, normally on the third weekend in March, which sees people converge from other clubs, is a drawcard.
A wide range of aircraft are operated from vintage gull-wing planes, small almost-ready-to-fly electric powered foam planes, ordinary sport models to turbine jets, and more.
Back in the day, diesel engines were used, before moving to methanol engines, and nowadays, petrol motors and electric motors are the go-to.
To become an aeromodeller pilot, you’d learn how to fly a model plane and undergo a flight examination before a licence was granted for a registered airstrip.
The club has about 110 members with a strong culture around health and safety.
There are various protocols to abide by before takeoff such as being careful when starting motors and not taxiing through the pit area.
And of course, rules to follow during take off, in the air, and landing, a lot of which are regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority through the aeromodellers’ national body Model Flying New Zealand.
Members must keep their aircraft visible at all times and can’t fly them above 600 feet.
The club has a hazard designation around its flying field to warn full-size planes from Kāpiti Coast Airport that it’s there; aeromodellers need to keep an eye out too.
Often they’re assisted by an observer making sure there’s nothing else in the sky, or helping ensure no mishaps if other radio control planes are operating at the same time.
An eye needs to be kept out for people using a nearby shared pathway too.
“There’s always a degree of nervousness when you open up the throttle and thunder it down the runway because once it hits airspeed, you’re effectively committed.
“If you take the power off you’re going to run into a fence or sand dunes, or if the engine stops on takeoff for whatever reason, you’ll crash and damage the plane.
“As a retired individual it’s something to do, it’s entertaining, and you mix with others with a similar age and interest.”
“You have to be fully focused on the orientation of the plane, in the sky, and making sure you don’t lose your memory of what its orientation is particularly during aerobatic manoeuvres.
“And when you’re bringing it into land, the control sticks are in the opposite direction, as it comes towards you.
“The landing is probably the more complicated thing because you can clip a wing on the ground or bounce the plane.
“Most of us would fly our planes on a tank of fuel for eight to 10 minutes and then land.
“You might have half a dozen flights and then go home or stay the whole day.”
John has had an interest in radio-controlled planes for a long time.
“I started flying control-line planes when I was about 10.
“You sat it on the ground, started the engine, let it go, and it would go around in a circle.
“The only thing you could do with it was make it go up and down.
“Before the advent of radio-control flying, there was that sort of flying, and free flight flying planes, where you’d wind up rubber bands and launch them into the air, or you’d have little diesel engines that had a 10-second motor run, with the objective of getting them to stay in the air for two minutes before a timer flicked the tailplane up, and they came down again.
“There’s still a large following of people who build those types of planes but not in our club.”
Later in life, when his children had grown up, John returned to his interest in model planes.
He’s got vintage planes, gliders, sport aerobatics, warbirds, and so on.
“I’ve got a whole mix of planes.”
The hobby can become a bit addictive too.
“I met an elderly gentleman who said he had 92 planes stacked up in his shed.”
There were a variety of reasons for his interest.
“As a retired individual it’s something to do, it’s entertaining, and you mix with others with a similar age and interest.”
- Photos by Roger Smith
Dee Warring Art
Kapiti Jewellery Design and Manufacturers
Writes Kem Ormond
Do you have jewellery that has been sitting in your drawer for years needing to be repaired, or a ring that needs to be remodelled as you no longer wear it because of its style?
Then visit Kapiti Jewellery Design and Manufacturers, and chat to Rachelle Frazer, owner, jeweller, and designer for over 30 years, and along with her staff, Adam Pointon ( jeweller) and apprentices Bonnie Frazer, Evy Dewhurst and Leon Frazer, they can offer ideas and advice on turning your unused jewellery into something special.
Situated at Shop 19, Kapiti Lights complex, Paraparaumu, they have been in business coming up eight years, and here you will find the most
amazing jewellery, from hand crafted rings, earrings, bangles, bracelets, necklaces, and one-off bespoke pieces to an extensive range of hand carved Pounamu.
With less than twenty apprentice jewellers employed in New Zealand, they are one of the few jewellers who employ apprentices, and they have three, Evy and Bonnie who are in their first year and Leon in his third year
While many apprentices who are employed in the industry mainly work in manufacturing and do not get a chance to design or interact with the public. Rachelle says,” our apprentices are hands on from day one and they get to learn every aspect of jewellery design and manufacturing With apprentices no longer going off premises for extra training, an apprentice takes up a lot more time and this is why the demand for apprentices is dwindling ” Their shop has been designed
so not only can you view the beautiful products they have hand crafted, but you can also see firsthand, the jewellers at work
Remodelling or designing can involve Rachelle hand drawing up to six designs for the client, free of charge, before any work is commenced She said ninety percent of their work is rings Modern classic is still the preferred choice of design, but they jump at the opportunity to design something a little different They carry a wide
selection of stones, or you can also have your old stones resurfaced
No matter what the size of the job, working in gold, silver, and platinum, they can repair, re size, manufacture and offer years of knowledge when it comes to designing jewellery
“Collaborating with customers to help them design their own one-off piece of jewellery is what I enjoy most” says Rachelle Their work can be viewed on their Facebook page, check it out!
Beach Bakery & Cafe
One of the hardest workers on the coast is Michael Tieng, who owns the Beach Bakery & Cafe, in Maclean Street, Paraparaumu Beach.
Can you tell readers a bit about your background?
I’m originally from the Kandal province in Cambodia. I was very young when my family became refugees in Thailand and then Australia, in 1980. It was a terrifying time in Cambodia as the Khmer Rouge were rising to power. I thought we were going to be killed. I remember being handcuffed, blindfolded and separated from my parents. I’m lucky to be here.
How did you learn to become a baker?
A friend in Sydney suggested it. His father needed help. I was a teenager and had no experience in baking though. I started working after school. I was taught a lot, embraced the opportunity, and have never looked back.
What inspired you to open a bakery?
My brother Hak had a bakery in Cuba Mall, in Wellington. He was swamped and asked if I could help him. This was 30 years ago. I worked at Friendly Bakery for a few years before I saw a bakery for sale in Maclean St, Paraparaumu Beach. I wanted to start my own business so I bought it. It was 1997.
Who are the other members of your team?
My wife Theary works alongside me. I couldn’t operate the bakery without her. She’s amazing. We’ve been married for over 30 years. She worked in a bar in Sydney when I first got to know her. Our children are Kevin (25), Maia (20), Jaden (18) and Ethan (15).
“Making sure the food is prepared in the best possible way, tastes good, and customers come back. Running a successful bakery requires attention to detail and consistency.”
Describe a typical day in the bakery?
I get up at 2.40am. Everything is freshly made. I get under way and then my wife comes and she makes some more. We make everything from pies, sandwiches, slices, and more. I finish about 6.30pm.
How do you maintain such a high workload?
Divine assistance. I just pray to God to give me energy. I believe someone above is helping me.
What are the challenges of owning a bakery?
Making sure the food is prepared in the best possible way, tastes good, and customers come back. Running a successful bakery requires attention to detail and consistency.
What are the most popular items in your bakery?
Everything sells equally well. During summer, sandwiches are popular. During winter, it’s pies. We try and cater for all tastes.
“Everything sells equally well. During summer, sandwiches are popular. During winter, it’s pies. We try and cater for all tastes.”
Away from the bakery, what do you like to do?
I enjoy walking the dog. We’ve got a huntaway cross called Pixie. A walk along the beach provides a refreshing break from a busy bakery life.
What do you enjoy about living on the coast?
The support we’ve had from people. We know quite a lot of people through the bakery. The pleasant weather is also enjoyable.
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Cam Steel and Jess Deacon
Mostly Music
Words by Shiree White
Jess Deacon and Cam Steel, partners in life, love, and music, recognised the need for a central hub where artists and venues could promote their music events.
Since November 2022, they have been diligently sending out a weekly gig guide, emphasising consistency to build trust with musicians and audiences.
Mostly Music, currently thriving on a shoestring budget, relies on musicians to regularly contribute by posting their live gigs, ensuring more people can attend these events.
It’s a win-win for musicians, venues and live music enthusiasts.
Jess, a writer and musician by profession, finished studying jazz performance at the New Zealand School of Music in late 2020.
She started gigging in Kāpiti well over 10 years ago, and is pleasantly surprised there is a thriving, bustling community of musicians.
Since its inception, they have seen over 11,000 visitors to the Mostly Music website, averaging around 150 people per week. It has far exceeded their expectations.
“We’ve even offered assistance and guidance from finding musicians to book, to what to pay them, which helps us feel sure that a ‘voice’ for the music industry was needed at a local level.”
“We’ve even offered assistance and guidance from finding musicians to book, to what to pay them, which helps us feel sure that a ‘voice’ for the music industry was needed at a local level,” Jess says.
“We hosted our first Muso Meetup (hosted at The Bond Store) in NZ Music Month, which was attended by local musicians, providing a place and space to get together and network.”
Mostly Music, a finalist in the 2024 Electra Business & Innovation Awards, is not just a website, it’s a vibrant platform and gig guide dedicated to showcasing the rich tapestry of live music events from Paekākāriki to Levin.
It offers a comprehensive calendar of live music events, making it easier than ever to find and attend gigs.
With over 850 events listed since its launch, the platform covers everything from EP launches and orchestral showcases to solo performances and jazz jams.
The platform is a beacon for local musicians and venues, promoting their events through various marketing channels.
It takes the burden off venues to consistently spread the word, ensuring that every performance gets the attention it deserves.
The platform has built a steadily growing email database and sends out a weekly gig guide, keeping music lovers informed and engaged.
The first Muso Meetup provided a space for local musicians to network and collaborate, fostering a sense of community and support.
Mostly Music aims to expand its offerings with artist profiles, a Book A Band directory, more networking events, and increased visibility for local musicians’ recorded music.
Their mission is clear: to celebrate and support the diverse and vibrant music scene in Kāpiti and Horowhenua.
Kōanga Spring
Raumati Summer
Patricia France & D Dinah Hawkeen Poetr y readinng Dinah Hawk k ken
Kei ’ ea te kōmmako e kō?
Selections from t the Field Collection
Floor talk Dr Pamela Gerrish N Nunn
Toi MAHARA Young Ar tiists Exhibition Kāpiti Coast Ar t Trail A stor y of a lake through h time Gerrda Leenards
Floor tallk Gerda Leenards and Dr Mike Joy
Sue Soo, a tribute show
Yukihito Kanaii, textile dye ar tisan
Discover Kāpiti Heeritage Weekend Tours of Te Kohinga | Collection n Store
Thomas Baker
Ar tist in Residence, The Kilns at Te Horo
Summer looks good in our colourful seaside paradise full of vibrant events and charming villages
Mark your calendars as we have a stellar line up of events happening right here in Kāpiti. Make sure these events are locked in with your crew this summer.
2/3 + 9/10 Nov 10 Nov 22 Nov 30 Nov 8 Dec 15 Feb 22 Feb 23 Feb 8/9 Mar 26-30 Mar
Kāpiti Coast Art Trail, Kāpiti Coast
Kāpiti Half Marathon, Paraparaumu Beach
Raumati Village Street Festival, Raumati
Kāpiti Food Fair, Paraparaumu
Christmas on the Coast, Paraparaumu
Block Party, Paraparaumu
Kapiti Womans Triathlon, Raumati
Xterra Wellington Festival, Paekākāriki
Ōtaki Kite Festival, Ōtaki Beach
Māoriland Film Festival, Ōtaki
Make a weekend of it
Check off the best of the Coast by discovering uniquely Kāpiti experiences, right here on your doorstep. Head to our new Visit Kāpiti website to start dreaming.
visitkapiti.co.nz
Come for the event, stay for the weekend
We’re waiting for your footprints
visitkapiti.co.nz
@kapiticoastnz
World Famous Walk
Leo Barber, from Paraparaumu, gives his account of the physically challenging, and mentally uplifting, Camino walk between France and Spain.
The Camino Frances is considered the most well-marked and popular long-distance walk in the world. Following an ancient pilgrimage route, the trail starts in the small French village of St-Jean-Pied-de- Port, traverses the Pyrenees and then crosses northern Spain to what is believed to be the resting place of the Apostle St James in Santiago de Compostela.
People from very different backgrounds, faiths and generations have walked this 800-kilometre journey for over 1000 years. However by the 1980s, fewer than 100 people were completing this journey. With strong local motivation, The Camino Frances experienced a resurgence towards the end of the 20th century and the start of the 21st with a modern pilgrim seeking adventure and cultural immersion along with those enjoying spiritual rejuvenation.
Media played a pivotal role in this revival. Works of literature sang praises of its transformative power, and films portraying the Camino not just as a religious pilgrimage but also as a journey of self-discovery and personal growth resonated with a global audience.
I was one of those inspired by watching the movie The Way, starring Martin Sheen, when attending a fundraiser for the kids’ local primary school several years ago. A fictional movie, it is based on the reallife emotions and experience of walking the Camino. Having finished a long-term job this year to accept a position with a new organisation, I found myself at a midlife point with that rare opportunity of time. It is said that the Camino is perfect for taking a period of rejuvenation between the “finish of one thing, and the start of something new” and, with six weeks available between jobs, this just felt like the right time to attempt this adventure.
The Camino can be done completely your own way depending on time, fitness and budget although the standard undertaking from the traditional start in France to the finish generally takes anywhere from 30-40 days. With less than three weeks to plan and an optimism that was being paralysed by the weight of fear and uncertainty, I simply booked a return ticket in and out of Spain and backed myself to “figure it out”. Of course, I had done some research but it seemed the more I read, the more I found reasons why I might not be able to do this. Although an established trail on well-formed surfaces, it still maintains the spirit and intent of simple, safe and affordable passage across beautiful countryside and through a network of well-spaced small villages, often existing it seems, solely for the benefit of the pilgrim. Periodically, the Camino intersects with thriving larger cities.
“It is said that the Camino is perfect for taking a period of rejuvenation between the ‘finish of one thing, and the start of something new’.”
Leo Barber at finish line Santiago de Compostela
There are numerous accommodation options along the way to suit all budgets. However albergues, or hostels as we know them in New Zealand, tend to be the social hubs and most popular. Beds are provided in either a shared dormitory or a limited amount of private rooms and many offer community-style dinners in the evening where, for a reasonable spend, you can enjoy a multi-course meal alongside fellow pilgrims complete with wine or water.
The busiest time of the day is the mornings when most rise with the sun and the trail is lined early with people setting out for the next town. Throughout the day, walkers spread out with options presenting for stops and with everyone travelling at their own speed, this can create time and space to be with yourself. For someone who enjoys meeting people, it was often these periods on my own where I gained the most fulfilment, taking in the sights and sounds of nature free of distraction, and without realising it, relaxing the mind almost to a meditative state, opening up moments of thought and reflection.
The Camino is divided into three sections. The first stage is said to focus on strengthening the body and with the first day traversing the Pyrenees Mountains that separate France and Spain, it certainly called on every muscle. After the descent, the trail guides you across the Spanish province of Navarra, through its beautiful beech forests to the walled city of Pamplona. Each year in June, this city gains international prominence with the annual running of the bulls and although I narrowly missed this famous festival, it was thrilling to explore its narrow laneways.
Entering into La Roija, a province famous for its wine, you walk through the vineyards, often for days. Just outside the town of Estella, the vineyard of Irachi generously rewards pilgrims with complimentary access to a fountain that literally flows with free wine! The numerous small villages are all blessed with the most amazing churches but when you reach the city of Burgos, you are wowed by a cathedral so majestic it has been listed by Unesco as a world heritage site.
With a much stronger body, you are encouraged during the second section to focus on opening your mind. This part of the walk covers a stretch of 200km across a region known as the Meseta. A central tableland with poor soils and long flat plains, this can be an inhospitable region with little in the way of shade and hardy vegetation. There are long days looking at little more than wheat fields and your mental fortitude is certainly challenged. This section
“There
were inspirational stories from people who had recovered from serious illness, and people who were on the Camino hoping to unlock the next chapter of their lives.”
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actually surprised me and there was plenty of beauty if you looked a little deeper — a good metaphor for life in many ways with the Camino experience full of these little subconscious learnings.
Exiting the Meseta after eight days, I reached the beautiful city of Leon, complete with another impressive cathedral and historic laneways. This marks the start of the last section which transports you into the pretty province of Galicia and is said to “uplift your soul”.
At 1504 metres above sea level, the highpoint of the trail is reached at Cruz de Ferro. The location is marked by a cross atop a large mound of stones with pilgrims encouraged to lay down a stone — an act to symbolise the unburdening of an issue which might have been weighing you down. Strangely therapeutic! The descent brings you to the town of Ponferrada with a castle built almost 900 years ago to protect pilgrims walking the Camino. Such fortresses are obsolete these days with locals creating an incredibly safe environment and going out of their way to offer hospitality to those walking.
After one more ascent over a large range, the final 100 kilometres is walked through lush forest. At this point, the numbers swell almost tenfold with the Compostela Certificate (for completion) awarded to those that walk a minimum of this distance. This section of relatively benign trail is perfect for those who are time-poor or unable to cope with longer distances whilst still wishing for a “pilgrim experience”, and is popular with groups of friends, family or schools.
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Everyone is walking the Camino for a reason and it was interesting over the course of the journey to meet and listen to the stories of others. Sadly there were many that had lost loved ones or were coming out of broken relationships and took this as an opportunity to emotionally heal. There were inspirational stories from people who had recovered from serious illness, and people who were on the Camino hoping to unlock the next chapter of their lives. In another situation, these types of stories might have had an air of despair but on the Camino the atmosphere seemed to be one that was more filled with hope.
For me, it was a chance to just “be”. To enjoy the simplicity of waking each morning and worrying about nothing more than walking. In many ways, it was unashamedly selfish and, interestingly for me, the further I walked the less it became about completion. I wasn’t out there to find myself or learn a lesson or to be spiritually awakened. However, it is said that the Camino doesn’t give you what you want, it delivers what you need and, without even realising it, I think I might have experienced a little of all of the above, and it felt perfect.
Over the course of 33 days, I had become physically stronger, I felt emotionally more open and, as I walked into the square at Santiago de Compostela, 820 kilometres after setting out from St-Jean-Pied-de-Port, there was a definite feeling of euphoria.
Buen Camino — good walk.
The Roastery Espresso Bar
Words by Shiree White
Local and sustainable bean-to-cup is what Pete Evans and Serena Harper strive to be known for.
Pete established The Roastery in Sheffield St, Paraparaumu, in 2016.
To ensure consistent quality, he invested in two state-of-the-art Probat roasters from Germany.
These precision-engineered machines, with computerised controls, guarantee a consistent roast every time.
Pete met Serena for the first time when she visited him about her prized possession, a La Pavoni coffee machine, which she brought back from the UK.
The machine, used daily, needed a thorough maintenance check.
Pete provided Serena with great advice, so she could service the machine herself.
His journey into coffee roasting began as a hobby using a basic popcorn maker, which performed surprisingly well.
“The Roastery Espresso Bar offers handson tours, providing an immersive experience in the art and science of coffee roasting.”
Serena started her brand working with The Roastery, creating The Raumati Coffee Company, and selling her coffee at local markets.
In early 2023, combining their brands, passion and expertise, they teamed up to offer takeaway coffee and coffee experience tours and renamed the business The Roastery Espresso Bar.
They also lease out the roasters, helping new entrepreneurs enter the market with their brands.
Both Pete and Serena want to do their bit for sustainability and climate change.
In 2020, they identified a need for reusable coffee packaging to reduce waste. Most coffee bags have a plastic liner that is not recyclable or compostable, leading to significant landfill waste.
While some recyclable and compostable bags exist, they are not the norm.
Pete and Serena introduced reusable glass jars that customers can return for refills, promoting a circular, sustainable packaging model similar to the old milk bottle system. This one initiative has saved many bags from going to landfill, with some jars being reused more than 100 times. For the takeaway bar, they store roasted coffee beans in reusable plastic containers instead of bags, further minimising waste.
Pete Evans and Serena Harper.
“Enjoy the buzz and aroma of roasting beans in the background. It’s the perfect spot to relax with your coffee, catch up on work, or read a magazine.”
Their efforts to reduce waste extend beyond packaging. They have partnered with Kaibosh to recycle Tetra-Paks into products such as building panels. They wash, flatten and remove the plastic spouts from the packs, preparing them for upcycling at Otaihanga Zero Waste.
The Roastery Espresso Bar offers hands-on tours, providing an immersive experience in the art and science of coffee roasting. Visitors can relax with their favourite brew, enjoy the aroma of roasting beans, or indulge in another of Pete’s passions — playing on his many pinball machines.
Discover their inviting open space, where you can savour barista-made coffee, freshly baked scones, slices and delicious pies. Enjoy the buzz and aroma of roasting beans in the background. It’s the perfect spot to relax with your coffee, catch up on work, or read a magazine. Open seven days a week.
Exploring by foot or bike
Words by Shiree White
Kāpiti is a fabulous place to enjoy the outdoors, offering many walking tracks, trails, and reserves to explore by foot or bike. The track recently opened last May, stretching from Peka Peka to Ōtaki, completes the concrete/gravel trail from Paekākāriki camping grounds, providing about 35km of cycling pleasure.
The track heading down to Paekākāriki winds through Queen Elizabeth Park, featuring a concrete trail perfect for cyclists. For those who prefer off-road adventures, the reserve offers numerous trails. Just be mindful of the many walkers, runners, and dog walkers enjoying the natural beauty and diverse, challenging paths. If you’re on foot, you can also take the beach route, though you might need to return to the tracks midway around Whareroa Stream to avoid getting wet feet.
“There are plenty of spots along the trail to stop for refreshments. Paekākāriki boasts many
delightful
cafes for a good coffee, snack, or a more substantial brunch/lunch.”
There are plenty of spots along the trail to stop for refreshments. Paekākāriki boasts many delightful cafes for a good coffee, snack, or a more substantial brunch/lunch. As you leave the reserve, you will need to use the streets for another 2km to reach the Paekākāriki township. Otherwise, you could pack a picnic lunch and take your pick of many lovely spots around the reserve.
Heading north, you can find many cafes to stop and refuel off the track. If you want to spend some hours walking, cycling or running, relax and enjoy many options in Paraparaumu, Waikanae, Peka Peka, Te Horo or Ōtaki.
One of our favourite walks is driving and parking at Raumati South with our pup Alfie and walking a mix of the beach and tracks in the Queen Elizabeth Park to Paekākāriki village. We always stop to treat ourselves to a wellearned break of coffee and a scone before heading back on a different trail. It’s around 13-16km round trip, depending on routes taken.
I’ve also ventured up the cycle track from Paraparaumu to the middle of the reserve for a long run for variety. The reserve is very popular, and many different route options to keep it interesting.
“So many different routes to mix it up and keep it fresh! And it’s good seeing other people either walking, running or cycling on these tracks so you never feel alone!”
I usually run north from home in Paraparaumu, and dependent on distance and stamina, will choose different routes to beat the boredom. Either running up the cycle track as far as past the Ngarara bridge, or utilising the Waikanae River trail and Waikanae estuary which is a bit more interesting and scenic. So many different routes to mix it up and keep it fresh! And it’s good seeing other people either walking, running or cycling on these tracks so you never feel alone!
3 Garden Road, Raumati Beach, Kapiti Coast manager@waterfrontbar co nz
“We are so lucky to have this great purpose-made track that weaves beside and under the expressway, with many alternative routes off the cycleway to keep it stimulating.”
The main track is popular with cyclists, walkers, and runners, featuring some inclines. Its terrain is suitable for beginners to advanced.
We are so lucky to have this great purposemade track that weaves beside and under the expressway, with many alternative routes off the cycleway to keep it stimulating. So, get out there and explore off the track or stick to the main cycle route — you won’t be disappointed. It’s a great way to explore our backyard, get physical exercise, and be one with nature.
Saturday 16th November 2024
Experience Authentic Italian Flavors at Passo
Where Ever y Meal is a Celebration!
Passo brings authentic, modern Italian cuisine to Paraparaumu, offering everything f rom handcrafted pizzas and housemade pasta to f resh seafood, steak, gelato, and indulgent desserts We take traditional Italian and Sicilian recipes and add a modern twist, making the most of New Zealand’s f reshest produce. All our pasta, pizza dough, breads, and sweets are made in-house—just like Nonna would have made at home. Our menu is perfectly paired with an excellent selection of wines and beers f rom both New Zealand and Italy, creating the ideal dining experience
Whether you’re dining in,
picking up, or ordering delivery, Passo caters to all dietary needs, with vegan, gluten-f ree, paleo, and keto options. We also offer healthy choices for kids, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy
Established in 2019, Passo has become a beloved local spot, known for its outstanding food and warm, f riendly service. The name “Passo” means to pass by or stop in—reflecting the vision of our local chef and restaurateur, Michele Passarello. It’s also inspired by his family’s history, named after the street they’ve lived on for generations, symbolizing the lasting mark we aim to leave—just like footprints in the sand.
At Passo, we’re open all day, so you can enjoy a delicious meal and a glass of wine whenever you like. If you’re planning a Christmas function, birthday, or another special event, Passo is the perfect venue for small groups of up to 60. We can also cater to larger groups at other locations with menus tailored to your event.
With a beautiful restaurant, personalized menus, and a delightful range of pizza, pasta, mains, and desserts, Passo promises to make your next celebration unforgettable.
Join us and celebrate la dolce vita—enjoy every moment at Passo!
Mowbray Collectables
Words by David Haxton
Mowbray Collectables, New Zealand’s largest stamp and coin dealer, is celebrating 50 years in Ōtaki.
A celebration was held recently at the iconic business attended by past and present staff, Kāpiti Mayor Janet Holborow and Ōtaki MP Tim Costley.
Founder director John Mowbray became interested in stamp collecting as a child and, by the time he was a student at Wellington’s Scots College, he had started his business trading stamps.
In 1974 he shifted his Wellington-based mailorder stamp business to Ōtaki.
John bought the Pacey Engineering building in Dunstan St for $6000 and set about looking for customers nationally and overseas.
“With a staff of two, we started a postal auction which realised $1100 in its first year and got Ōtaki’s first photography machine.”
By 1984, the business had outgrown the building, so the large Dalgety’s building on Main Highway was bought, where it remains with a staff of 16.
John and Jane Mowbray.
“To date, we have sold over $100 million stamps, coins and notes, and exported over $50 million from Ōtaki.”
Some of the many highlights over the years range from starting a World Wildlife Fund stamp collection in Australasia, which lasted more than three decades and raised more than $1m for the charity, to getting Ōtaki’s first fax machine, which sped up connections with overseas customers.
John held important positions including being on the board of stamp dealer Stanley Gibbons in London and world president of the International Federation of Stamp Dealers.
He travelled the world and recalled a fiveday exhibition in Hong Kong where the queue stretched around two blocks.
John praised the staff, past and present, and thanked its printers Graphic Press and NZ Post and especially the Ōtaki community, who had assisted in the growth of the business “in many ways”.
“With a staff of two, we started a postal auction which realised $1100 in its first year and got Ōtaki’s first photography machine.”
“It has been a wonderful experience to be in Ōtaki and help put it on the map internationally.”
Managing director David Galt said Mowbray had demonstrated “that you can develop and run a hugely successful venture in Ōtaki”.
“It’s part of Ōtaki but part of the world.”
Tim congratulated everyone involved in the business.
The business proved “we can be successful from Ōtaki – nothing is stopping us”.
“We want to see more people coming into this region, bringing their talent, bringing their skills, creating opportunities, like you [John] and the team have. It’s a fantastic role model.”
Janet said the business was “iconic”.
“Ōtaki wouldn’t be what it is if you [John] hadn’t created this business here.”
She noted its “mixture of history and innovation”, which embodied “what Ōtaki is”.
“The business proved ‘we can be successful from Ōtaki – nothing is stopping us’.”
“It’s a place with such a rich past but a place that embraces change and the future.”
John, a Kāpiti Business Hall of Fame inductee, noted economic times were tough for businesses locally and encouraged them to think beyond local and develop a broader-based business plan.
“It’s up to each retailer to promote themselves. The world is getting far smaller with technology. Use it and let’s get Ōtaki moving again. It’s a unique town and the opportunities are endless.”
“What
- Jon, Bequestor
White heron or kotuku
Words
The great egret species occurs in many countries of the world but, in New Zealand, there is only a very small population of the sub-species eastern great egret.
While essentially our birds are members of the great egret family, we refer to them as white herons or, in te reo, kotuku.
The only breeding location for our small population of white herons is at Okarito, on the West Coast of the South Island.
While there is an estimated population of 200 birds, the breeding colony usually comprises about 50 pairs.
During the non-breeding season, many of the birds fly to wetland locations throughout the country, returning lateAugust when breeding commences.
To see one for the first time is a wonderful experience because these elegant and beautiful birds are rarely seen — perhaps once or twice in a lifetime for many people.
This year, one of the white herons has taken up temporary residence at the Waimanu Lagoons, at the Waikanae River estuary.
While there have been previous visits for a few days or so, this particular white heron has stayed in the vicinity of the Waimanu Lagoons for several months.
“While normally being observed at a great distance, this heron has become used to passersby and will sometimes fly over to fish close to people.”
and photos by Roger Smith
“To see one for the first time is a wonderful experience because these elegant and beautiful birds are rarely seen — perhaps once or twice in a lifetime for many people.”
Undoubtedly the fishing must be good!
The area where it has chosen to live is accessible by several public walkways where locals and visitors frequently walk and exercise their dogs (on leads), so many people have had the opportunity to observe and photograph the heron as it goes about its daily routines of fishing, preening and resting.
While normally being observed at a great distance, this heron has become used to passers-by and will sometimes fly over to fish close to people.
Allowing the heron to carry on with its routines undisturbed is so important however, and people are encouraged to keep a respectful distance, perhaps using binoculars or telephoto lenses to get closer views.
Within a month or so, the heron will probably leave to fly south.
When it has departed, those that have had the chance to enjoy one of nature’s beautiful creatures should count themselves so lucky.
Maybe it will return one day.
Kāpiti connection to gr e at gold discover y
Kāpiti connection to gr e at gold discover y
NNew Zealand’s largest gold discover y for 40 year s, at Bendigo near Cromwell, was enabled by the Australian-listed mineral explorer, Sant ana Minerals
ew Zealand’s largest gold discover y for 40 year s, at Bendigo near Cromwell, was enabled by the Australian-listed mineral explorer, Sant ana Minerals
When Sant ana str uck a bonanza body of ore, it capped a projec t led by geologist s K im Bunting and War ren Bat t, both having had 50-year career s and achieved global distinc tion It was Bat t who discovered what is now known as Macraes mine, near Oamar u, in the 1980s
When Sant ana str uck a bonanza body of ore, it capped a projec t led by geologist s K im Bunting and War ren Bat t, both having had 50-year career s and achieved global distinc tion It was Bat t who discovered what is now known as Macraes mine, near Oamar u, in the 1980s
Sur pr isingly, the Bendigo projec t, now valued at A$439 million ( by mar ket capit alisation), has a Kāpiti connec tion
Sur pr isingly, the Bendigo projec t, now valued at A$439 million ( by mar ket capit alisation), has a Kāpiti connec tion
Bat t and Bunting had had long connec tions with the Kāpiti boutique investment bank/sharebroker Chr is Lee and Par tner s, having had the Kāpiti fir m’s help in raising capit al and debt
Bat t and Bunting had had long connec tions with the Kāpiti boutique investment bank/sharebroker Chr is Lee and Par tner s, having had the Kāpiti fir m’s help in raising capit al and debt
T hey approached Chr is Lee and Par tner s Ltd in 2018 to invest in, and fund, their company Mat akanui Gold, which had the licence to explore valleys in the Dunst an ranges around Bendigo, the centre of the Central Ot ago gold r ush in the 1860s
T hey approached Chr is Lee and Par tner s Ltd in 2018 to invest in, and fund, their company Mat akanui Gold, which had the licence to explore valleys in the Dunst an ranges around Bendigo, the centre of the Central Ot ago gold r ush in the 1860s
T he Kāpiti fir m and some of it s high net t wor th client s funded Mat akanui whose exploration succes ses led to the
t akeover by Sant ana Minerals in 2021
Sant ana contr ibuted tens of millions to spend on dr illing into promising rock It s seventh (007) of around 400 holes str uck bonanza levels and is now known as the James Bond hole
Sant ana contr ibuted tens of millions to spend on dr illing into promising rock It s seventh (007) of around 400 holes str uck bonanza levels and is now known as the James Bond hole
Fur ther dr illing has led to a wor ld clas s discover y, with high grades of gold and some t wo million ounces of recoverable gold (At cur rent pr ices the recoverable gold would have a value of $8 billion)
Fur ther dr illing has led to a wor ld clas s discover y, with high grades of gold and some t wo million ounces of recoverable gold (At cur rent pr ices the recoverable gold would have a value of $8 billion)
Sant ana, now dual-listed, plans a multi-decade projec t, with investor s and the Crown anticipating unusually high retur ns for the r isks they took when the projec t was beginning Chief Executive of Chr is Lee and Par tner s, Edward Lee, notes the fir m’s client s have around $1 7 billion under advice, with Sant ana a cur rent br ight light
Sant ana, now dual-listed, plans a multi-decade projec t, with investor s and the Crown anticipating unusually high retur ns for the r isks they took when the projec t was beginning Chief Executive of Chr is Lee and Par tner s, Edward Lee, notes the fir m’s client s have around $1 7 billion under advice, with Sant ana a cur rent br ight light
“Our role is to help create pas sive income for our client s and to search out oppor tunities for grow th,” Lee said
“ We are not simply salesmen for exchange traded funds or other managed funds
“ We are not simply salesmen for exchange traded funds or other managed funds
T he Kāpiti fir m and some of it s high net t wor th client s funded Mat akanui whose exploration succes ses led to the t akeover by Sant ana Minerals in 2021
“Our role is to help create pas sive income for our client s and to search out oppor tunities for grow th,” Lee said
“ T he Bendigo projec t initially was only for investor s who accepted high r isk in retur n for high retur ns It is nice that the r isks now have reduced, and the potential retur ns have r isen ”
“ T he Bendigo projec t initially was only for investor s who accepted high r isk in retur n for high retur ns It is nice that the r isks now have reduced, and the potential retur ns have r isen ”
144 Kapiti Road, Paraparaumu
REAL ESTATE MOVE
After 24 years in financial ser vices, it was time for a change…
Cathy Myers
Connecting sellers with buyers
For obtaining a free appraisal either scan the QR code or call me on 02 7 517 3790 or email cathy@oneagencyselect.co.nz
After 24 years in the financial ser vices industr y, I have decided on a career change and now enter the real estate market with a renewed vigour and excitement . Why am I excited? Because I love helping people to improve their lives and I love homes – it just seems such a natural fit for me With a background in banking and investment management , I know it will help me to help others. I’ve bought and sold numerous proper ties in the past , as well as owned multiple investment proper ties - I understand the end-to-end process from both a seller ’s and a buyer ’s perspective and I appreciate selling or buying a house is one of the largest investments many people make. I understand the stress involved and I aim to relieve stress as much as I possibly can - communication is the keykeeping people informed all the way.
After 24 years in the financial services industry, I have decided on a career change and now enter the real estate market with a renewed vigour and excitement. Why am I excited? Because I love helping people to improve their lives and I love homes – it just seems such a natural fit for me. With a background in banking and investment management, I know it will help me to help others. I’ve bought and sold numerous properties in the past, as well as owned multiple investment properties - I understand the end-to-end process from both a seller’s and a buyer’s perspective and I appreciate selling or buying a house is one of the largest investments many people make. I understand the stress involved and I aim to relieve stress as much as I possibly can - communication is the keykeeping people informed all the way.
I know the angst first home buyers experience trying to
I know the angst first home buyers experience tr ying to enter the market , Mums and
Dads wanting a bigger home for their growing families, through to those needing to downsize and realise some capital for retirement , or move to a retirement village for an easier life
enter the market, Mums and Dads wanting a bigger home for their growing families, through to those needing to downsize and realise some capital for retirement, or move to a retirement village for an easier life.
People have said to me, “Oh, is now a good time to be entering the real estate market?” and my response to that is – “The market will do what the market will do – ups and downs are a constant – making a success isn’t down to what the market is doing, it’s down to me and my attitude.” I intend to keep my focus on supporting sellers and connecting buyers for happy real estate outcomes.
People have said to me, “Oh, is now a good time to be entering the real estate market?” and my response to that is –“ The market will do what the market will do – ups and downs are a constant – making a success isn’t down to what the market is doing, it ’s down to me and my attitude ” I intend to keep my focus on suppor ting sellers and connecting buyers for happy real estate outcomes.
If you would like an appraisal of your home, please don’t hesitate to give me a call.
If you would like an appraisal of your home, please don’t hesitate to give me a call.
Cathy Myers ■ Mobile: 02 751 7 3 790
Email: cathy@oneagencyselect co nz
Back in the Day
Our Lady of Lourdes statue, August 1, 1958.
Artist Martin Roestenberg in 1958.
An aerial view of Paraparaumu Beach, taken in 1956.
Copperfield in 1975.
A family camping in Paraparaumu on December 22, 1958.
Kāpiti Rd in 1954 during the Queen Elizabeth Royal Tour. Maclean St, Paraparaumu, in August, 1968.
Paraparaumu Beach in 1958, with Hughe’s Post Office and Wylie’s Store in the background.
Waikanae Rail Station in September 1949.
Paraparaumu Beach in 1950.
Paraparaumu Carnival, December 26, 1958, featuring a Waikanae float of an oyster shell with maidens.
Paraparaumu Airport in August 1971.
Raumati Beach Shopping Centre, October 19, 1968.
The Our Lady of Lourdes statue being built in 1958.
Cocktails
APEROL AND LIMONCELLO
Ingredients
▸ 100ml vodka
▸ 100ml limoncello
▸ 1 tbsp triple sec
▸ 200ml Aperol or Campari
▸ 300ml orange juice
▸ Sliced lemons and oranges
Directions
STEP 1: Mix together all the ingredients in a jug. Chill until ready to serve. Pour into four tall glasses with ice.
STEP 2: Decorate with citrus skewers and sliced oranges.
COSMOPOLITAN
Ingredients
▸ 45ml lemon vodka
▸ 15ml triple sec
▸ 30ml cranberry juice
▸ 10ml lime juice
▸ Ice
▸ Orange zest or a lime wedge
Directions
TEQUILA SUNRISE
Ingredients
▸ 120ml orange juice
▸ 60ml tequila
▸ 15ml grenadine
▸ Ice
▸ Orange slice and maraschino cherry
Directions
STEP 1: Fill a tall glass with ice. Add orange juice and tequila and stir to combine.
STEP 2: Add grenadine, then garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.
STEP 1: Shake ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and transfer into a cocktail glass.
STEP 2: To make the garnish: hold a 3cm round piece of orange zest about 10cm above your cosmopolitan and very carefully wave it over a lit match or lighter flame. Bend the outer edge of the zest in towards the flame so that the orange oils are released, then drop the zest into your drink.
IRISH COFFEE
Ingredients
▸ 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee
▸ 1 tbsp brown sugar
▸ 1 jigger Irish whiskey (1 and a 1/2 ounces or 3 tbsp)
▸ Fresh cream, slightly whipped
Directions
STEP 1: Fill footed mug or a mug with hot water to preheat it, then empty.
STEP 2: Pour piping hot coffee into warmed glass until it is about 3/4 full.
Add the brown sugar and stir until completely dissolved.
STEP 3: Blend in Irish whiskey. Top with a collar of the whipped fresh cream by pouring gently over back of spoon.
