Capital 28 by Capital

CAPITAL TA L E S O F T H E C I T Y

CHAIN REACTION SUMMER 2016

BUMP ER SU MMER SPECI AL

ADVENTURE CAPITAL

ISSUE 28

$4.90 CIDER INSIDER

H O L I D AY S O U N D S

THE

ALL

NEW

2015

T OYO TA

HIGHLANDER

The new Highlander encapsulates a total re-evaluation of this practical, spacious SUVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design. With a sleeker, stronger exterior look that underscores the abilities of this seven-seater family favourite, there has never been a better equipped, more refined Highlander.

King Toyota

Rutherford & Bond Toyota

(04) 920 7770 | www.king.toyota.co.nz

(04) 385 1889 | www.rutherfordandbond.co.nz

FROM

WELLINGTON

NELSON

FROM * $ 0204 UpShift

* One way per person, credit card fees may apply

www.originair.nz 0800 380 380

Book now

Every ticket includes a 15kg checked bag

What possible right would New Zealand have to create a world-class contemporary art museum? We’re worldclass when it comes to growing stuff. And we’re world-class when it comes to knocking people over, rowing quickly and throwing things a long way. So why set out to build a world-class contemporary art museum in New Plymouth? Because there’s no point wasting everyone’s time creating one that’s average. And because art makes the world a bigger place. It lends you someone else’s brain for a minute. It throws your gaze on places you wouldn’t otherwise see. The job of the GovettBrewster is to provoke. The point, surely, of visiting an art museum is to feel something. We get that you can live a life that’s insulated but we just can’t see the point. The value of experience lies in the depth of feeling. So we want to make you angry. Get angry. Get annoyed. Get delighted. But get something. Then visit the Len Lye Centre. Spend some time with his Fountain. It’s beautiful and it’s puzzling and that’s ok. Then spend some time with Sister Corita’s Summer of Love. Vivid, fearless and thought provoking. We believe the point of art is to challenge people’s perceptions. To challenge them. Not to gently nudge them. Art isn’t mild. Art is full-fat. Art isn’t polite. Art punches, screams and kicks. We are the Govett-Brewster. Provocateurs since 1970. New Plymouth, Aotearoa New Zealand govettbrewster.com

“ Phantom Billstickers gave our campaign a Kick Up the Arts!”

NEW ZEALAND FESTIVAL 26 Feb – 20 Mar 2016, Wellington

0800 PHANTOM

posters@0800phantom.co.nz

Nationwide Street Level Billboards, Poster Bollards & Art Frames Ready For Your Campaigns Formidable Flyer and Programme Distribution by our Van Go Flying Squad

FESTIVAL.CO.NZ B O O K FAS T

COMPLEXITY OF BELONGING A PROJECT BY FALK RICHTER AND ANOUK VAN DIJK CHUNKY MOVE (Australia)

A powerful, darkly humorous exploration of identity in the age of social media.

PARTNERED BY

“ Deeply moving and frequently hilarious... a must see” AUS TR ALIAN S TAGE

WHEN

WHERE

TICKE TS

FRI 11 — SUN 13 MAR, 7.30PM SUN 13 MAR, 1.30PM

ST JAMES THEATRE

A$89, B$69, C$49, D$39 (EXCL FEES)

IMAG E: J EFF BUSBY

WITH SUPPORT FROM

CAPITAL MADE IN WELLINGTON

THE COVER: Summer stunner Art direction: Shalee Fitzsimmons & Rhett Goodley-Hornblow Model: Babette McLennan, Kirsty Bunny Agency Make-up: Nat Fisher Hair: Laura, gf Hair Photograph: Ashley Church Assisted by: Jess Hill Sunglasses: Geraldine Booth Suit: Katie Collier

SUBSCRIPTION Subscription rates $77 (inc postage and packaging) 11 issues New Zealand only To subscribe, please email accounts@capitalmag.co.nz

C O N TA C T U S Phone +64 4 385 1426 Email editor@capitalmag.co.nz Website www.capitalmag.co.nz Facebook facebook.com/CapitalMagazineWellington Twitter @CapitalMagWelly Post Box 9202, Marion Square, Wellington 6141 Deliveries 31–41 Pirie St, Mt Victoria, Wellington, 6011 ISSN 2324-4836 Produced by Capital Publishing Ltd

PRINTED IN WELLINGTON

This publication uses vegetable based inks, and FSC® certified papers produced from responsible sources, manufactured under ISO14001 Environmental Management Systems

The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Although all material is checked for accuracy, no liability is assumed by the publisher for any losses due to the use of material in this magazine. Copyright ©. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without the prior written permission of Capital Publishing Ltd.

nticipating a new year is fun. There will be lots of surprises. We’re looking forward to them. The summer months are alive with sports events, festivals, of the community and racing ilk and the arts. There’s already been a one wheel cycling school … I might have liked to have been there, just to find out how one could learn such an unlikely mode of transport. So many festivals, so much music, so many events, so much to do in the region. Revel in it. There has been a debate in this office about festivals. Some have loved the free-wheeling Sevens rugby and mourn what they see as “killjoys who want to stop it being the legendary festival it has been.” That argument says every country in the world has festivals – La Tomatina in Spain, Oktoberfest in Munich, Carnaval in Rio, Glastonbury in England, and at every one of them some drink to excess. But the majority have a really good time. That faction says we are killing the “golden goose,” the fun and skylarking that has always been part of the event. Certainly ticket sales have slowed hugely from earlier years and other centres are bidding for the event. The other faction says the numbers will increase as the new “family friendly Sevens” become known, and it will still remain as a “must-do” in Wellington. I hope so. In this two-month issue we look at outdoor adventures, barbecue food, solar panels, music for summer road trips, a journey by road to Jerusalem and a wonderful cider tasting at the Wellington Rowing Club. My thanks to the Vic Uni women’s team who so willingly soaked up sun and cider for the purposes of research. See you again in March. Alison Franks Editor editor@capitalmag.co.nz

Errata: In issue 26, images in the Aroha Nui Ki Te Tangata feature were incorrectly captioned. The errors are regretted. Captions should have read as below: Page 34: Ngā Hau E Whā O Paparārangi Page 36: Middle right: The nursery at Jay Street community gardens Bottom left: Mr Joe McLeod, Dr Christine Kenney, Mr Tamiti Cairns Chair: Te Kakano o Te Aroha Marae, & Mr Terei Koopu, Te Puni Kōkiri Bottom right: The nursery at Jay St community gardens Page 38: Middle: The view from Ngā Hau E Whā O Paparārangi Bottom: Ngā Hau E Whā O Paparārangi

GIOT TO E VOLUZION E

FIND OUT MORE AT L AFFARE.CO.NZ *Machine shown with optional stainless cup frame surround sold separately

CONTENTS

A D V E N T U R E C A P I TA L A surfer, kayaker, tramper and mountain biker walk into a bar...

SOUNDS LIKE A HOLIDAY

CIDER INSIDER

CHAIN REACTION

We ask locals what's on their summer roadtrip playlist

The Vic women's rowing team drink for your information

Mojo has 22 cafes in Wellington, 11 in Auckland, three in Japan and...

12 LETTERS

SUMMER POWER

14 CHATTER

LIQUID THOUGHTS

NEWS SHORTS

PERIODICALLY SPEAKING

BY THE NUMBERS

BY THE BOOK

NEW PRODUCTS

INTERIORS

TALES OF THE CITY

94 ABROAD

26 CULTURE 48

WHAT THE FLOCK

FEAST FOR THE SENSES

98 TRAVEL 102 TORQUE TALK 104 WELLY ANGEL

54 OPINION

106 BABY, BABY

HE HE

108 DIRECTORY

FUSHION CHUPS

110 CALENDAR

62 EDIBLES

112 ON THE BUSES 8

Civic Gardens, Lower Hutt shapeshifter.org.nz

Tickets adults $7, students (15+) $5, accompanied children FREE // Open daily 11amâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;7pm

CONTRIBUTORS

S TA F F Alison Franks Managing editor editor@capitalmag.co.nz Campaign coordinators Lyndsey O’Reilly lyndsey@capitalmag.co.nz Haleigh Trower haleigh@capitalmag.co.nz Dagula Lokuge dagula@capitalmag.co.nz John Bristed General factotum john@capitalmag.co.nz Shalee Fitzsimmons Art direction shalee.f@live.com Rhett Goodley- Hornblow

Design design@capitalmag.co.nz

Tod Harfield Accounts accounts@capitalmag.co.nz Craig Beardsworth

Factotum

Gus Bristed

Distribution

A N NA H IG G I N S I l lu str ator

GEORGE STANILAND Ph oto g r aph er

Anna Higgins is a photography student living in a shack out the back of her first flat in Mt Cook. As an aspiring arty gal, she dabbles in illustration. Her style is influenced by a no bullshit attitude and love for pastels, the golden hour and peachy tones. Catch more of her work on Instagram @annahigginsdesigns

George is interested in documentary photography and images tied to the notion of truth. He enjoys using travel to facilitate his photographic practice and often finds himself drawn to making images with a human element. Ultimately, he is interested in creating something beautiful.

JEREMY HOOPER Ph oto g r aph er

IAN APPERLEY Writer

Jeremy is a lifestyle documenter born and raised in the capital. He's passionate about capturing moments of adventure and being in the midst of it.

Ian Apperley is a freelance writer and prolific Wellington blogger. He blogs on local Council issues, writes for the National Business Review, and produces Peninsula News. He lives in Strathmore Park with his wife, three dogs, and five chickens. He can be found far too frequently at the Strathmore Local.

STOCKISTS Pick up your Capital in New World, Countdown and Pak’n’ Save supermarkets, Moore Wilson's, Unity Books, Magnetix, City Cards & Mags, Take Note, Wellington Airport, Interislander and other discerning region-wide outlets. Ask for Capital magazine by name. Distribution: john@capitalmag.co.nz.

SUBMISSIONS We welcome freelance art, photo and story submissions. However we cannot reply personally to unsuccessful pitches.

THANKS Patrick at Thorndon pool | Ross the swan | Paul Kjoss | Carla Burns | Anna Higgins

Ian Scott, Golden Dreams , 1969. Collection of Te Manawa Museums Trust

FREE ENTRY dowse.org.nz 45 Laings Road Lower Hutt

30 Jan â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 29 May 2016

LETTERS

THANKS TO MUZZ A

OUT OF TOWN READERS

I laughed and enjoyed the “Murray Christmas” feature in this month’s issue (#27) and my girlfriend suggested I make Muzza’s beer-can chicken for my work Christmas party barbecue. Top recipe, bro. Jimmy D, Hataitai.

My family have very kindly renewed my Capital magazine subscription for me. I just love reading it each month and always leave it out for my guests to enjoy also. M Robertson, Bay of Plenty

A BEER TRIAL

HUMOUR GRO OMER

The Beer Necessities assessment published in November (#26) has been a very useful resource for our female beer tasting group. We used to do regular wine tastings and have decided to trial beer tasting for at least a few months. It has renewed interest and enthusiasm for the tastings. Beer enthusiast, Miramar (name supplied)

Last month, among all the little amuse bouche in Capital I discovered Dean Watson’s He-He column. He riffed on the subject of song titles that mention food. Yes! Finally some intelligent humour. I laughed, I guffawed, I chuckled (I may have even slapped my knee like dad does). It set off a food pun song game in our flat which went on for days. Thank you Capital – no lame cartoons, no old guard humourists – you took a risk on a young new voice with a fresh take on what’s funny. More please. P Grant, Te Aro

BEHOLD BEAUT Y What an impressive young woman Deborah Lambie, Miss World NZ, is. (#26, November issue) I was intrigued to read about her, although her all round competence and beauty did make me tired and in need of a cup of tea and a lie-down. Thanks for such a good magazine. A Watson, Kapiti

Letters to editor@capitalmag.co.nz with subject line Letters to Ed or scan our QR code to email the editor directly.

SERENITY:

The only mattress you can customise to suit your unique physique Durable maxi-coil pocket spring system will offer you years of amazing support and comfort.

Removable quilted top: Available in plush or firm. Top can be aired and even dry cleaned.

Interchangeable comfort pods allow you to customize the bed to suit each individual perfectly. Comfort pods are available in: firm, medium & plush latex, gel infused memory foam or Viscolux memory foam. Until the end of February 2016

50%

T’s & C’s Off all headboards when you purchase a NZ Beds mattress and base. APPLY

Wellington Outlet: 191 Thorndon Quay,1Wellington, opp Carpet Court, 04 212 4845 2 Our Factory: 10 Norman Spencer Drive, Manukau, 09 2777 488

citygallery.org.nz

RITA ANGUS · BILLY APPLE · DANIEL BUREN · FIONA CONNOR · JULIAN DASHPER COLIN MCCAHON · DANE MITCHELL · MILAN MRKUSICH · JOHN NIXON JOHN REYNOLDS · PETER ROBINSON · MARIE SHANNON · IMANTS TILLERS PETER TYNDALL · JAN VAN DER PLOEG · GORDON WALTERS

5 DECEMBER 2015 – 25 APRIL 2016

support from

Julian Dashper Untitled 1996, collection Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. Courtesy Julian Dashper Estate.

RD E R S E C TCI H OA N THT EE A

INK INC.

S C O O T, KIDS Following the success of Pukeahu National War Memorial Skate Park (see what we did there?), the region’s first purpose-built scooter track has landed at Karehana Park in Plimmerton. The kids had their helmets on and the parents had the band-aids primed at the grand opening, where the dishevelled mayor of Porirua, Nick Leggett, was spotted taking one kid’s scooter for a spin.

DAN HAYSTON What led you to a tattoo? As lame as it sounds, nothing. I just felt the urge. Art or rebellion? Art. I’m no rebel.

SUMMER RUGGER

Why did you choose the design? It pays homage to the first cartoon I remember watching (and most favourite), Samurai Pizza Cats.

#TumekeEke is the best hash tag we’ve seen all year – it’s being used to promote the Hurricanes v Crusaders game in Eketahuna this February. The 2015 game sold out. To get your fill of grassroots rugby and genuine rural hospitality head to the Tararua District. Odds-on there being a sausage sizzle in the car park. Rugby Grounds, Eketahuna, Feb 13.

Family – for it or against? Not pro-tattoo, but not anti either. Somewhere in the middle. Where is the tattoo & why? The back of my upper arm.

C HAT T E R

WELLY WORDS

PRAISE CHRIS Typos are always fun to point out and laugh at (except when they are our own, and then we flagellate ourselves with old wet copies of Capital magazine). At one of the Christmas carol services a Wellyworder noted a doozy. In Hark the Herald Angels it’s customary for Christ to be born in Bethlehem. On the song sheet however it was some guy named ‘Chris’ who was born of a virgin. If you have a Chris in your life with a messianic complex then this could be the song for them...

ORGANIC MONTH

CUTE FACTOR Continuing the Christmas theme (and confused lyrics) a Wellyworder sent us a video of her preschooler’s nativity play. When four-year-old Mary asked why her husband was leaving the manger she came out with the immortal line “Where are you going Jo Smith?” Wellyword HQ thinks this probably the cutest story to pass the editorial desk all year.

If you are keen to buy organic and local, here’s the latest thing: organic tampons from a Wellington start-up. Ngaio couple Rhys Clareburt and Ana Ames-Durey began BON Tampons in August after finding you couldn’t buy tampons certified as organic in New Zealand. Now they’re stocked nationwide (think pharmacies, health stores, organic stores) and by mail order. It’s so busy that Rhys has quit his sales job to work on Bon fulltime, with a distribution deal just signed for Africa.

WRONG CAR , MATE A strange man got into the driver’s seat as a Wellyworder waited in her car outside Island Bay New World. Not only did he not clock the woman in the passenger seat, he tried to start the car with his keys before being alerted to his mistake. “I’ve got to stop doing this,” he said as he jumped out, his face beetroot-red. “Hey, we’ve all done it,” she called back (have we?) but he’d already fled.

IT'S COOL TO KORERO No phrase this month – instead some useful summer words one - beach, onepu - sand, one tauera - beach towel, tīkākā - sunburn, taukahore! - ouch!

LAY IT ALL OUT Extensions and renovations at Wellington Airport have spawned commissions for local artists. Among four providing designs for the new carpet is Lower Hutt artist Sam Broad. Once the extension is complete, 22,400 carpet tiles are to be laid, with each artist designing feature panels for several areas. For the south pier, Broad is preparing a 6 x 10m design with a “sophisticated urban” theme. “There’ll be speech bubbles referencing the hot air from parliament’s debating chamber, and they morph into clouds – we’re in windy Wellington after all”. Carpet laying commences in January.

NEWS SHORTS

C R E AT I V E VISION When trade unionist Lewis Glover died in 1964, his rather odd will bequeathed his bicycle to Wellington’s transport committee – and his false teeth to the town clerk. Both objects are pictured in a new Glover Park mural commissioned by the nearby French Art Shop and painted by Stephen Templer. Glover Park opened in 1971, funded by Glover’s £27,000 bequest (about $1 million today). The mural depicts Glover holding a paintbrush in a nod to his creative vision for public gathering places.

CALL FOR CHANGE

WHERE THERE’S A WILL

TIME-SAVER

The Republic of Kiribati, a country of 34 atolls and islands, is already dealing with rising sea-levels, more tropical cyclones, acidifying oceans and other environmental issues. That’s why its president Anote Tong is coming to Wellington to speak at the first-ever Pacific Climate Change Conference. Organised by Victoria University, In the Eye of the Storm (15 to17 February) will gather national and international activists, academics and other change-makers, with the emphasis on how we can take action, rather than just talk about it.

In its last grants round for 2015, the Nikau Foundation shared $170,000 among 37 Wellington community organisations: from $1,200 for Crohns and Colitis NZ’s camp for kids, to $25,000 for earthquake strengthening at St Mary of the Angels. Nikau follows a philanthropy model that is growing in worldwide popularity, where community foundations manage endowments willed from local people, investing the funds and giving grants to deserving local organisations.

A blood-glucose-monitoring watch app, and implant designed by Victoria University industrial design student RuiFeng Yeo is one of 20 top entries for the international James Dyson Award. A small implant under the skin of the forearm relays data to the watch and app; it is displayed using colours and animations, meaning diabetics don’t have to stop exercising for glucose checks. “I’d love to find funding to see if Sub-Scope is commercially viable,” says Yeo.

southern cross g a r d e n b a r r e s ta u ra n t

new Garden Bar • veGan, Gluten free, suGar free options • lots of free-ranGe, f a i r t r a d e & l o c a l ly sourced inGredients

39 aBel smith street

NEWS SHORTS

P E DA L POWER More than a million New Zealanders – that’s one in four of us – are now regular pedallers, cycling to work, to keep fit or just for fun. A NZ Transport Agency survey has found that 407,000 more Kiwis plan to take up cycling in the next six months. To help keep that particular New Year resolution, the agency’s Bike Wise Month returns in February, with cycling events countrywide and Bike Tune Ups, where mechanics conduct free maintenance checks. And if you’ve spotted more electric bikes powering up the hills, it’s not just envy: sales at Wellington Electric Bikes doubled in 2015.

CURIOUS MINDS

A CLEANER FUTURE

ON TRACK

Around 40 potential future scientists from Maoribank and Pinehaven Schools in Upper Hutt have put their hands up for new club, Kids in Science. The University of Otago Wellington’s pilot project will see the Year 7–11 kids visit (and be visited by) scientists and experts each week during Term One. The trick to "not boring them", says project head/paediatrician Max Berry, is to bring everything back to the kids’ lives: for instance, how germs from their hands look under microscopes.

The future looks brighter for Porirua Harbour halfway through the Porirua City Council’s $20-million, 10-year implementation of its harbour strategy. In December, the Te Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour and Catchment Joint Committee presented its annual report, highlighting the sediment reduction, better litter management, and continuing sewer upgrades to improve water quality. The committee was set up in 2014 to share information and take joint action.

The new Te Ara Ramaroa track near Paekakariki, with views of Kāpiti Island and the South Island, should be ready to walk next summer. A $1,380 grant from the New Zealand Walking Access Commission’s Enhanced Access Fund will pay for signs as the Whareroa Guardians Community Trust develops the track at the 450-hectare Whareroa Farm Reserve. The Trust has made grants to 79 projects in five years.

• • • •

SUMMER SESSIONS

7 DAYS OF 7’S

Starting 16 January

CHARITY LONG LUNCH 26/2

Family Fun Days Outdoor Cinema Craft Beer - Malty By Nature Circus.

SALVADOR DALI DINNER 9/3 Contact: 04 801 8017 info@stjohnsbar.co.nz

BY THE NUMBERS

SCULPTED GARDENS

2004 50 + 24 7

D O THE LOTION MOTION

year the first Shapeshifter took place. The biennial sculpture exhibition is timed to coincide with the New Zealand Festival

150

number of sculptures you can expect to see in the Lower Hutt Civic Gardens

days it’s open (26 Feb – 20 Mar)

hours when the sun is most intense – 10am to 4pm

numbers of hours between applications – keep vigilant, people

dollar entry fee for adults, nippers are free

CONSERVE A DROP 120 –220 number of litres, in millions, of water supplied to Lower Hutt, Porirua, Upper Hutt and Wellington. Highest demand occurs during summer mainly for garden watering

number of litres used per minute when you wash the car with a hose (a bucket, a bucket, my kingdom...)

25 +

litres of water a day can be wasted if a tap is left dripping; for a year, that's roughly 1,000 buckets of water

the number of minutes you can stay out in the sun with SPF15 sunscreen i.e. 15 times the protection you'd get with unprotected skin. teaspoonful (5ml) applied for each arm, leg, back, front and face (35ml for a full-body application)

SEEING IS BELIEVING

years Geraldine Booth has been in the spectacle business

600 7

number of spectacles in stock

the most pairs of glasses a client has purchased in a single visit

ONE FOR THE BIRDS

number of countries they import from

ARTS OVERLOAD

hours’ journey to get from Wellington to Pukeha Mount Bruce in Wairarapa

number of days the New Zealand Festival runs in February and March 2016

dollar entry fee – this covers six daily talks and eel, tuatara and bird feeds

1986

year of the first biennial festival (it’s now part of the cultural landscape)

white kiwi – Manukura is the world’s only white kiwi in captivity. There are now plenty of brown kiwi in the surrounding reserve thanks to a mass translocation of 28 kiwi in 2010 from Little Barrier Island

1200

number of performers in the biggest event – The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (more bagpipes than you can toss a caber at)

amount in millions injected into the local economy by the 2014 festival

Compiled by Craig Beardsworth

www.thefabricstore.co.nz 15 Garrett St (just off Cuba)

WGTN + AKL + CHC + DND

B OK ALL O THRE E P AND LAYS RECE IVE 2 DISC0% O UNT (limit ed

2 - 20 March

availa

bility)

The James Plays UK

ASB Theatre, Auckland

5 - 12 March

CORE FUNDER

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

HHHHH- Time Out, UK HHHHH- Daily Telegraph, UK

COME UP TO AUCKLAND VER TO CATCH O NTS E V E 50 SIZZLING AL.... V TI S E F AT THE THE AND ENJOY ! R E TH A WE

Photograph by David Eustace

The Theatre Event of the Year

aaf.co.nz Follow us on:

SPONSORED BY

of Great Britain National Theatre of Scotland is core funded by the Scottish Government

ticketmaster.co.nz 0800 111 999

NEW PRODUCTS

3 2 5 6

10 8

11 13 12

T R AV E L ESSENTIALS 1. Giant inflatable watermelon - $99.00 - Iko Iko 2. Women's hipster handprint ocean - $33.00 - Thunderpants 3. Bugs repel spray organic - $30 - Hardyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4. Face Mist - $27.50 - Tailor Skin Care 5. Marley rope basket - $39.00 - Let Liv 6. RFID card holder - $69 - Mandatory 7. Kip & Co dancing girls towel $119 - Let Liv 8. Puzzle socks - $29 - Let Liv 9. Retro sounds stereo - $54.90 - Iko Iko 10. NZ greenstone toki pendant - $79 - Global Culture 11. Notebook, triangle design - Trade Aid - $26.99 12. Hario coffee mill skerton - $65 - Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; affare 13. SunnyLife underwater camera - $34.90- Iko Iko 14. Misery Guts cushion 60.00 - Iko Iko 15. Glass kettle teapot - $149 - Let Liv 16. Black woven pork pie - $49.00 - Mandatory 17. Ashley & Co minibar - $9.50 - Small Acorns 18. Black overnight bag - $690- Mandatory 19. Keune So Pure - colour care conditioner - $26.95 - gf hair 20. Mug with tea infuser - $29.90 - Iko Iko

SECTION HEADER

TA L E S O F T H E C I T Y

IN THE WAT E R

FOOD

T R AV E L

READING

PET

AC T I V I T Y

Floriditas

Australia

Universal Tone

Putu the cat

Swimming

PHOTOGRAPH BY ASHLEY CHURCH Former top hockey player KAREN MORRIS now has her eyes set on ocean swimming. JOHN BRISTED talks to her about being active.

aren swims about a kilometre, (33 lengths) three times a week at the Thorndon pool in summer. It’s all about setting goals, she says. “When I go to the pool I have already set my goal for the day.” At 12 years of age on a school visit to Auckland from Raetihi, the then Karen Thomas saw the New Zealand women’s hockey team play and decided that she would one day join them. And she did, selected as a centre half in 1980 in time for the Moscow Olympics, subsequently boycotted by New Zealand. “We were all set, we had the uniforms. By the time the next Olympics came around I was pregnant with my second child,” she says, ruefully. “In the city we like Cuba St. We love Deluxe Café, Leeds St Bakery, Floriditas or Loretta. “I love to eat healthily, love cooking, and love raw food. I like experimenting. Karen, who lives in Lower Hutt and works in Wellington, began her working life as a teacher. “It was a long time ago, it’s the greatest training for almost anything; but these days I’m a contract manager. “My husband and I have been married for 31 years, and I’ve got five children and a grandson. I affiliate to Te Atiawa and Ngati Mutunga (Taranaki).

"I read a lot. I’ve been enjoying Universal Tone, a memoir about Carlos Santana, the guitarist, he had his own band called Santana and had a belief that music and spirituality were connected. "I’ve got a view that Women’s Lib did us no favours – because women are trying to be superwomen and getting stressed out. It’s important to find a balance between the physical, mental, and spiritual within. I’m also reading Intuition by Osho which is about spirituality and understanding your instincts. "Our cat is called Putu, in Maori that’s short for gumboots, because he’s got black feet. And we’ve got the children who keep coming and going. Like boomerangs. Our home is the family base. I love it. "When I’m not in Wellington I’m mostly in Hawkes Bay somewhere around Takapau’s Rakautatahi Marae, my other home. I’ve got two children on Australia’s Gold Coast so that’s easy to get to, not too far, warm, anonymous; and I like Melbourne for its food, shopping and the art gallery. "If there’s one thing in the world I’d like to do, it would be to take my husband to see a Van Morrison concert live. "Failing that, my goal in the water is do some of the ocean swim series, probably not this Summer, but as soon as I am ready.”

Shop online today

Kanemistu Japanese ancient natural brewed Organic Miso & dipping sauce. Hakata Japanese Traditional Soy Sauce & Vinegar with 100 years of Quality guarantee

FREE DELIVERY To the greater wellington region with purchase over $40, Nationwide free delivery with purchase over $69.99

www.osavmo.com | customerservices@osavmo.com | (04) 5892501

CROSS THE ROAD WITH A CLEAR HEAD Leave your distractions at theÂ kerb

Think. Look. Cross.

CULTURE

GRAMMY GONG Taylor Swift and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra don’t have all that much in common, but they’ve both been nominated for a 2016 Grammy Award. Up against four American orchestras for Best Orchestral Performance, the NZSO shares the nomination with Singaporean conductor Darrell Ang for their recording of Symphony Humen 1839, one of 60 recordings the NZSO has released through the Naxos label. Who knew our national orchestra has sold more than a million CDs internationally? Meanwhile, the NZSO has announced its own prize winners: Wellington’s Reuben Jelleyman and Aucklander Jay Greenberg share the NZSO Todd Corporation Young Composers Award.

NO LOVE LOST

ANYONE CAN DANCE

CAPITAL CHARACTERS

A debate is raging among the Summer Shakespeare crew: is the play spelled Love's Labour’s Lost or Love’s Labours Lost? We suggest Love’s Labours’ Lost? Either way, Summer Shakespeare's annual production will transform first Carterton’s Gladstone Vineyard (4–6 February) then the Dell in Wellington’s Botanic Garden (12–27 February) into Elizabethan England. The comedy about four womanising friends is directed by Ania Upstill, an experienced Shakespeare director and nominee for best promising young director at the 2015 Wellington Theatre Awards.

Even the un-co can take part in the Fringe Festival's (12 Feb – 5 March) online caper. Photograph or record a “movement selfie” (dance, jump, or just touch your toes) and post it on Instagram between 5 Feb and 5 March with the hashtag #LoveBombMovement. Each week, Wellington choreographer Brigid Costello will turn the selfies into a simple dance sequence for YouTube tutorials. She’ll then turn it all into a choreographed dance to screen online. If enough people post, there’s talk of a flashmob dance.

What do Maori warrior Te Rauparaha, writer Robin Hyde, spy Nancy Wake, poet James K Baxter and drag queen Carmen Rupe have in common? They were all activists who lived in Wellington at some point. They’re also the characters in theatre show Page Turners, which wowed crowds during July’s Capital 150 celebrations and returns during the NZ Festival, with three free shows on 6 March in the St James Theatre lobby. The set is a giant pop-up history book.

Chamber Music New Zealand presents

URI CAINE

(PIANO)

& NEW ZEALAND STRING QUARTET

JAZZ MEETS THE CLASSICS SUNDAY 20 MARCH, 5PM MICHAEL FOWLER CENTRE, WELLINGTON chambermusic.co.nz/uricaine | Buy tickets: ticketek.co.nz | 0800 842 538

Core Funder

In association with

CULTURE

F E S T I VA L FREEBIES The budget-conscious don’t have to miss out on the biennial New Zealand Festival (February 26–20 March), which is putting on more free events than ever. On opening night, join Le Grand Continental: a mass “dance-off” in Civic Square. Other freebies include the lunchtime artist talks, and two outdoor Orchestra Wellington concerts. Got kids in tow? The rides, the music and the icecream are free at waterfront fairground Arquitectura de Feria, where seven freaky-looking but perfectly safe rides made from recycled materials are powered by parents who wind or push them (yes, we feel tired at the thought too).

CULTURAL FUSION

BACK TO CAMP

HIGH LIGHTS

The world-touring Little Egrets Chinese Folk Dance Troupe is coming to town for the Chinese New Year celebrations. Little Egret and youth from the Deirdre Tarrant Dance Theatre will co-create a performance for the East Meets West showcase at the TSB Arena (13 February), which brings together dancers, singers and musicians from Wellington and sister city Xiamen. On 14 February, the festival day at various venues includes a carnival, food and craft markets, cultural performances and a street parade.

During World War I, six out of 10 New Zealand recruits went through Featherston Training Camp. A century after it opened, the Featherston Camp Centenary Exhibition: 1916–2016 opens on 23 January at Aratoi in Masterton. Find out about their daily routines, how they coped physically and emotionally, and what became of some of them. The exhibition visits Featherston’s Anzac Hall in March. Meanwhile, applications for the Friends of Aratoi Art Awards are open to Wairarapa artists until early February.

Fancy seeing your own art on one of the three-metre-high glass lightboxes on Courtenay Place? Wellington City Council is calling for proposals for up to three artworks to transform the lightboxes; applications close 22 February. Meanwhile Toi Poneke Gallery, which exhibits largely emerging Wellington artists, is calling for proposals by 31 March to fill the first two spots for 2017. Its summer exhibition (15 January to February 5) is Soliflore: Lee Jensen’s evocative photographs of the white rose and Oriental white lily.

19 MAR – 24 JUL 2016 EXCLUSIVE NEW ZEALAND VENUE 326 MAIN ST PALMERSTON NORTH WWW.TEMANAWA.CO.NZ Banco de México Fiduciario en el Fideicomiso Museos Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo | World tour management: Terra Esplêndida | Admission charges apply

CULTURE DIRECTORY

VI VI E N H I R S C H F E L D SE A SO N

THE A CB WI T H H ON O R A L E E The world premiere of Kate De Goldi’s novel for the NZ Festival. This is a charming exploration of kindness, patience and acceptance, it explores the relationship between young Perry and her eccentric Gran, Honora Lee, who’s losing her memory. Starring Ginette McDonald and Lauren Gibson 27 Feb–20 March Ticketek 0800 842 538 22–26 March Circa 801 7992

ART I S T OP E N S T UDIO S

HILLARY CLINTON / YOUNG LOVER

S UM M ER S HAK ES PEAR E

Circa Theatre hosts a hilarious new form of Presidential campaign as a dashing young Wellingtonian tries to save the Free World by becoming Hillary Clinton’s Young Lover. “Demented” – New York Magazine

The Botanic Garden transforms to an Elizabethan setting for Summer Shakespeare’s February production of Love’s Labours Lost - decadent, frivolous, and witty... with a bit of a twist. The outdoor event, sponsored by Victoria University and directed by Ania Upstill, will be showing in both the Wairarapa and Wellington this year. Shakespeare under the stars.

29 Jan–20 Feb Circa Theatre, 1 Taranaki St (04) 801 7992 www.circa.co.nz

12–27 February eventfinda.co.nz or on the door sales

FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

M AURI O RA -

Whanganui will be hosting its annual Artist Open Studios event over two weekends in 2016: 12-13 & 19-20 March. With 65 artists' studios open to the public 10am to 4:30pm the event is packed full with both free and paid options, and offers something for everyone.

The Alliance Française French Film Festival has grown to become the foremost French cultural event and the second largest film festival in New Zealand. Now in its 10th year, the 2016 edition will showcase the best of French-language cinema in 12 cities across New Zealand, launching in Wellington on 17 February.

THE ESSENCE OF ALL THING S

Event Facilitator: 0204 096 5310 www.openstudios.co.nz

17 Feb–6 Mar 2016 Embassy Theatre

alliance française

www.frenchfilmfestival.co.nz 28

french film 10 years

festival

An exhibition showcasing the diversity of Maori cultural expression through a range of mediums, materials and techniques...

3 January–20 March Kura Gallery,19 Allen Street www.kuragallery.co.nz free event

WE CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS TAKE OFF Building and sustaining a business can sometimes feel like jumping off a cliff and building a plane on the way down.

Our full suite of business services, together with our commitment to providing practical, easily understood advice, means we are ideally suited to working with you to help guide your business to realise its full potential. WELLINGTON OFFICE Contact Robert Elms or David Hulston Ph (04) 472 7919 info@stapleswellington.co.nz

www.staplesrodway.co.nz

Wairarapa Family Holiday Bed & Breakfast Package from PER NIGHT*

$174

www.solway.co.nz | 0800 SOLWAY *See website for conditions

BEHIN

D-

ENE C S E TH

ENC I R E P EX

OPS R P THE HIND R E V E DISCO ODELS B SERIES M V AND PULAR T ED BY ID PO THE TOUR GU CREW. OP ON A WORKSH WETA FAB.

BOOK NOW

www.wetaworkshop.com/tag ÂŠ ITV Studios Limited / Pukeko Pictures LP 2015

MUSIC

SOUNDS LIKE A H O L I D AY ILLUSTRATED BY ANNA HIGGINS

Are you looking for inspiration for that road trip around the country this summer? MELODY THOMAS asked locals about their music choices and added in her own to help you choose your playlist.

30 30

SECTION HEADER

MUSIC

SAMUEL FLYNN SCOT T

GEOFF MARSLAND

LISA TOMLINS

Musician, composer and founding member of The Phoenix Foundation

Havana Coffee Baron

Musician and soul queen

On long road trips…

I make Spotify playlists rather than listen to albums in the car. I have to try and please the whole family, you see. We all agree on Supergrass being excellent driving music. Some Glenn Gould playing Bach is pretty great when everyone’s getting cranky and you need some calm time. I had a great road trip through Taiwan where all we had to listen to was Aerosmith’s greatest hits. I don’t think I actually like Aerosmith but I sure as heck enjoyed them on that journey. “I Don’t Wanna Miss A Thing” became the big singalong by day three. Great tune, dude. Well, pretty terrible in reality, but on a groovy road trip it’s perfect.

William Orbit, “Strange Cargo”. I love listening to this driving BIG GERMAN FAST CARS on great roads in the middle of the night.

I’ve never really been one to buy whole albums before, but the D'Angelo & The Vangard album Black Messiah has been on high rotate the last few roadies. Every song is on point. I don't think we've found a “skip track” on it.

My current favourite song… I keep listening to Arthur Russell “A Little Lost”. It was in Master Of None and seeing it on a TV show reminded me of how profoundly touching it is as a lyric and a performance. I’d recently been listening to more of his dancey stuff and in the back of mind I kept thinking, “What is that great tune with the cello where he sounds so lonely?” and then on cue it popped and I was just there, in the moment, feeling it hard. “Hotline Bling” will be my song of the summer though; I can’t resist its power.

My current favourite song… “Black Woman” (Judy Mowatt) and Bronski Beat’s “Small Town Boy”. Both of these songs remind me of great times in days gone by. What I listen to when I’m feeling happy. Fela Kuti and Ginger Baker – Live! I just love to turn it up LOUD ON A BIG SYSTEM AND DANCE. BOOGIE LET IT RIPPPPPPPPP. Plus Suburbia Vol.1, 64 minutes of lawnmowering in stereo by Geoff ‘Mad’ Marsland (sold in 16 countries) is great for lying around inside feeling everything is being looked after outside, and I LOVE LISTENING TO THE NZSO! ANYTIME as well.

What I listen to when I’m feeling sad. Pixies – Bossanova.

My current favourite song… Some songs I enjoy because I like to perform them, others I just like to listen to. Most of my personal song collection was released pre-2000. One song I do currently love is written by a friend, and is a true story. I'm thankful she is still around to have written it, as it was about her being in a car crash! Mel Parsons' “Get Out Alive” – lucky to have you around, buddy! What I listen to when I’m feeling happy. CeeLo Green's song “F*#k You” is one song that appeals to me, and instantly makes me love life. I wish I had written it!

MUSIC

MELODY THOMAS

ANJALI STEWART

GRANT ELLIOT T

Capital writer, presenter for Summer Music 101 on RNZ National

Co-founder of fashion label twenty-seven names

Cricketer – Black Caps, Wellington Firebirds

On long road trips…

A playlist of my laid-back, feel-good faves. Would feature a whole lot of Tame Impala's Currents – the album is made to be enjoyed with the window down and hair whipping about the face. It sounds sunshine-dipped. Also Unknown Mortal Orchestra (probably every song from Multi-Love), a bit of Courtney Barnett, D'Angelo (to get in the mood for the gig in March), Grimes; and from home shores: Groeni, Electric Wire Hustle, The Nudge, Estere, She's So Rad, SJD, Womb, Leisure and Mel Parsons.

Wale – The Album About Nothing. The album has a really interesting narrative. He collaborated with Jerry Seinfeld so the track intros really make the album. “The Bloom’s intro is taken directly from the Seinfeld episode where Elaine and Jerry attempt “friends with benefits”… it’s hilarious. It’s a great road trip album and a good excuse to reminisce about the best sitcom ever made.”

Johnny Cash, Bob Marley (first CD I ever bought 20 years ago, still going strong) and acoustic versions of songs.

My current favourite song… I'm still pretty obsessed with Justin Bieber’s “Sorry”. What got my attention was the amazing dancing in the music video – choreographed by Auckland Polyswagg superwoman Parris Goebel and her dance crew. But the song is really fun and super catchy. Also can’t get enough of “Hotline Bling” – the Drake original as well as the many remixes. What I listen to when I’m feeling sad I go back to the classics when I'm sad. Nina Simone, Otis Redding, Bill Withers, maybe some Jeff Buckley if I'm feeling particularly moody. This year Bjork's Vulnicura turned me into an emotional wreck – as soon as I hear the album's string section I fall apart.

My current favourite song… Vince Staples – “Summertime” It's definitely one of his more poetic numbers, but what can I say... I'm a hopeless romantic. He’s coming to Wellington in February and I'm really looking forward to it. What I listen to when I’m feeling happy. It would have to be OutKast, the American Hip Hop duo formed in Atlanta in 1992. ATLiens and Aquemini were both released in the 90s and I still have them on heavy rotation when I need some motivation. I dare anyone to listen to those albums and not feel inspired – the songs are mature and enlightened; the lyrics are full of astute social commentary, humour, and sharp storytelling.

My current favourite song… Tom Odell – “Another Love” (Zwette edit). What I listen to when I’m feeling sad and happy. Coldplay always has a lot of emotion to it. I was going through a tough time and it was the only album I had in my car at the time. So whenever I hear it, it has a lot of meaning for me. I am also not scared of any music which is upbeat, especially before a cricket game. I have had to embrace an eclectic mix with all the young guys in the team these days. Please, no Bon Jovi or Bryan Adams!

A R T YFA R T Y WRITTEN BY BETH ROSE | PHOTOGRAPH BY BEX MCGILL

Rising above the din of burbling and raspberry-blowing, Meredith Robertshawe insightfully presents the latest exhibits at City Gallery Wellington to culture-craving new mums (and occasionally dads) and their babies. Gallery Babes is a once-a-month tour unpacking the art on display at City Gallery, put on especially for new parents looking for a creative weekday dalliance with the arts, in the company of other baby-clad folk. Unperturbed by the swaying, bouncing spectators – who occasionally duck off to attend to spontaneous or suspected outbursts – Meredith delivers lively humorous discussion that penetrates the minds of even the sleepiest parent. Meredith joined City Gallery Wellington as its Public Programmes Coordinator from the, revamped Govett-Brewster Art Gallery in New Plymouth, where she ran a version of Gallery Babes for five years.

Eyes are wide and little mouths gape at the bigger, brighter and sometimes the noisy installations. “Moving images and noise can captivate the babies and the air-filled, brightly coloured sculptures of Seung Yul Oh seemed a hit, but the focus is really on the mums and dads. It’s a sociable and relaxed way to stay connected with the gallery,” says Meredith. Given the drought of baby-friendly, parent-focussed fun in Wellington, Gallery Babes is a social highlight for many new parents. What’s more, the precious single income remains undented, as the tour is free of charge. Personal interpretations of the works – along with various parental divulgences – are shared over complimentary morning tea afterwards. It’s art, then therapy. Upcoming dates Tuesday 19 January, Wednesday 17 February and Tuesday 15 March. Citygallery.org.nz.

View From Canvas Camp (Photograph: Commandant Col. Adams) Courtesy of William Adams Collection

FEATHERSTON CAMP CENTENARY EXHIBITION: 1916-2016 ARATOI WAIRARAPA MUSEUM OF ART AND HISTORY January 23 – July 31, 2016

Anzac Hall, Featherston March 2016

BEDROOM

FURNITURE

All Bedroom Fur nitures

N ow o n S a l e from 20-50% off

1 4 7 D Tho r n don Quay, Wellin gton 0 4 4 7 3 2 2 9 7 | www.oakan odes ign .co.n z 36

F E AT U R E

ADVENTURE C A P I TA L

WRITTEN BY BETH ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMY HOOPER

Wellington is full of outdoor enthusiasts who are cashing in on the long summer days to get their fix of fresh air and adrenalin. The scenery of the capital is the perfect backdrop for calorie-burning fun most of the year, but the warmer months allow a more inviting introduction to some sports, particularly the water-based ones. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve handpicked a quartet of alfresco aficionados to talk about their adventurous devotions: A surfer, kayaker, tramper and mountain biker give some tips for gearing up this season and tell us what makes Wellington such a great place for their passionate pursuits.

F E AT U R E

SURFING

he breaks around Wellington lured Andrew Wood all the way from his home country, Wales. “I grew up surfing on the beaches of South Wales and I’ve spent 20 years travelling and surfing different breaks around the world.” A surfing stint in the States introduced Andrew to Wellingtonian Chris Benham, and visiting Chris later in New Zealand, Andrew became hooked on catching waves in the capital. “Wellington is a really cool place to surf. I can leave the office at five and be in the water by five-thirty. I basically plan my week on what the swell is doing. Houghton Bay is one of the best spots, and then there’s the right hand break at Moa Point, ‘The Corner’ by the sea wall at the airport, and Lyall Bay is great for a range of abilities.” Andrew works in IT in the city and also runs a custom surfboard business called Shapers Inc. with Chris and another surfing mate, Harry A’Court. “We bring together the surfboard-making community. We have a list of local and international artists who create designs to go onto the boards, and another list of shapers who can build them.

“If a surfer wants a particular design on their board, they request it from our website and we can negotiate the entire build for them. If a surfer has a preferred local shaper, they can pick a design from us and we can send it to their shaper wherever they are in the world, which also lowers the carbon footprint.” Wellington artist Gina Kiel (see Capital #11, pg 61 ) is one of the names working with Shapers Inc. and the Blackbird album cover she created for band Fat Freddy’s Drop is one of the designs that can be put on a board. Shapers Inc is what Andrew calls “a passion project”, which the surfing trio run at weekends and evenings when not out on the water. “The whole idea for Shapers Inc came about when we were chatting about different types of board and designs, while waiting for a wave.” He tells us why he loves surfing: “It doesn’t matter what type of day you’ve had, you can go in the water stressed, catch some waves and just have great chat with your mates. I always come out smiling”. Shapersinc.co.nz

How do you get into surfing in Wellington? Get down to Real Surf in Lyall Bay and grab some lessons or even just some advice.

Ideal weather conditions? Southerly swell with a northerly wind.

What equipment do you need? A surfboard and possibly a wetsuit if you feel the cold.

Time it takes to get to on location? Depending on where you are, from office to water in about 30mins.

Favourite thing about the sport? How it makes you feel coming out of the water and being able to surf with your mates.

Tips for a beginner? Get some lessons from your local surf shop and try and go in the water on a nice calm surf day; and stick with it.

Your sporting hero? In the surfing world, Kelly Slater, as he’s a pretty insane athlete. (But my Welsh hero would be footballer Ryan Giggs.) Favourite season? Got to be summer! Love the beach.

F E AT U R E

S E C T I OF N E AHTEUARDEE R

F E AT U R E

M O U N TA I N BIKING

ick Hensman grew up riding motorbikes in Hawkes Bay, and switched to an eco-friendly alternative six years ago. “I started riding a mountain bike to work as a way of avoiding catching the bus. Then I realised I could go off-road via Mount Vic, but I underestimated the skill required and went straight over the handle bars.” Luckily, this false start didn’t affect Nick’s enthusiasm, and instead of heading back to the bus stop he kept on riding. “My brother was living in Wellington and he was into mountain biking, so I teamed up with him.” A jeweller by trade, Nick completed his apprenticeship with The Village Goldsmith then worked for six years until leaving to go travelling with his mountain bike. When Nick returned to Wellington after nine months’ cycling in the States and Canada, he became involved with WORD, a non-profit organisation that teaches kids how to mountain bike. “There are around 20 instructors in Wellington and we teach groups of six kids. Ages range from 6 to 17 and classes run after school and in the holidays. I’ve been teaching a group of fearless 13-year-olds who are all just getting the strength to be great mountain bikers.” “We teach them techniques like keeping momentum through core moves, and how going fast over a ridgy

section allows you to skip over the top rather than letting your tyre drop into every gap. It’s about teaching progression and commitment.” Both Nick and his partner Vee Burroughs volunteer with WORD and Vee also teaches adults. “Women are really well represented,” says Nick. “It’s around a 60/40 split of male and female instructors.” Nick and Vee met while competing in mountain bike races, and neither of them tires of bike talk. Nick and Vee are just completing renovations on an Aro St house where they plan to both live and work. It is a convenient location not least for the adjacent mountain bike tracks. “Polhill Reserve is my local, only two minutes from my house. Like Mt Vic, it’s mostly dirt tracks and there are some really steep bits. When I first started riding I exhausted the rocky tracks at the Makara bike park, so it’s great heading out for a lunchtime ride at Polhill and there’s a new track going in this year.” Just for fun, Nick and biking buddy James Duncan, who owns Aro Street’s bike shop Dirt Merchants, have filmed some of their tricks and jumps on the custombuilt paths of Polhill. It’s viewable on YouTube as ‘Aro Valley – Cutting it Fine’.

How do you get into mountain biking in Wellington? For me it started by avoiding riding the bus, then I went off-road and was addicted!

Time it takes to get to on location? Wellington mountain bikers are very lucky: there are tracks all over place, from Ngaio, to Eastbourne and the airport.

Ideal weather conditions? A little rain the night before and a nice bit of sunshine.

What equipment do you need? A bike with some decent brakes, helmet, shoes and a buddy or two.

Tips for a beginner? Respect the trails, build up your skills and always ride with a friend.

Favourite thing about the sport? Freedom and friendships! You can explore on a bike, and cover some amazing country while meeting amazing people.

Your sporting hero? Tyler McCaul and Randy Spangler - Both freeride mountain bikers. Favourite season? Pros to every season, but I'm a summer lover.

F E AT U R E

K AYA K I N G

river engorged by torrential rain does not seem like the most inviting place to be messing about in a little boat, but these are the exact conditions that kayaker James Coubrough looks out for. On a day like this, he can be found paddling through the Kaitoke gorge on the Hutt River. “Once every few years the river gets really high – three or four metres higher than normal – and parts of it are quite challenging; grade 3 or more. The river can change so much and it’s a real adrenaline buzz,” says James, who’s been kayaking for 16 years and has raced on white water in India and Nepal. “The levels can rise and fall quickly, so kayakers need to be ready to act fast and get out there. I work for myself, which means I can drop everything and go when the conditions are right. You shouldn’t paddle alone though, so I text and call my kayaking friends to see who else is heading out.” James is a member of the Hutt Valley Canoe Club but knows most of the keen kayakers across Wellington. “Joining a club is a great way to get into the sport. That’s how I first learnt. They have pool nights and will teach you how to paddle and roll. They also have beginner trips on local rivers so you can read river features and try paddling in a safe way.”

More practiced kayakers like James pass their experience on to beginners through the clubs. “The Otaki River is a Grade 2 and is good for beginners. You wouldn’t take a beginners' group out onto a flooded river. And there’s always the harbour for gentler kayaking.” While James is happy to lower the adrenaline levels for beginner tutorials, in 2013 he sea-kayaked across Cook Strait. “We timed it with the tides and left Makara at four in the morning. The middle was pretty choppy and we made it to the mouth of Tory Channel in three hours and 45 minutes. It took a total of eight hours to get to Picton and we were pretty relieved to arrive.” In spite of the apparent risks involved, in all his time kayaking James hasn’t been injured. “Apart from having ten seconds of downtime under a waterfall, I’ve never had any real near misses. I don’t throw myself off waterfalls any more though. It’s important to know your ability and assess the risk. Preparation and building experience is important and you have to be able to rely on your friends.” With so much water around the capital, there is plenty of kayaking potential, provided the Wellington weather performs. “The wind is not a kayaker’s friend in any situation,” says James, “but with the number of the bays in the harbour, there’s always somewhere sheltered for a paddle.”

How do you get into kayaking in Wellington? Go along to a club such as Hutt Valley Canoe Club, Victoria University Canoeing Club, Kupe Canoe Club or Mana Kayak Club.

improve a lot faster knowing you can right yourself when you tip up.

What equipment do you need? A kayak, paddle, pfd (life jacket) and a spray skirt; if you intend to do white water kayaking, a helmet. These are the minimum, and if you get fully into kayaking then dry bags,

air bags and a knife… The list goes on. Time it takes to get to on location? Wellington is great, as you are always near the harbour. For white water paddling then Upper Hutt, Otaki or Wairarapa rivers are reachable within an hour.

Ideal weather conditions? Best conditions are if it pours down overnight and next day is fine and sunny. Favourite thing about the sport? You can get into some amazing parts of the country only accessible by kayak and I enjoy the physical and mental side of pushing myself. I’ve also made a lot of friends.

Tips for a beginner? Join a club. Clubs have all the gear for hire and know what to do. Also, learn to roll, as you will

Your sporting hero? I have great respect for Mike Dawson, having raced against him in the past and seen him make the Olympics in Slalom and have success at world white water championships. Favourite season? White water kayaking doesn't have a season but you can't beat a hot sunny day in summer when you roll on purpose in a full flooded river.

F E AT U R E

SECTION HEADER

F E AT U R E

TRAMPING

mily Shrosbree is relatively new to overnight tramping, having taken it up only since arriving in New Zealand from the UK three years ago. “I used to do day walks in the UK, which would usually end up at a country pub. When I moved here, I joined the Wellington Tramping and Mountaineering Club (WTMC) so that I could do more challenging walks. It’s easy to get away to remote places from Wellington and being part of the club makes it safer and more fun. “I tend to do two weekend trips a month to either the Orongorongo Valley or the southern Tararuas. Day walks can be anywhere from the southern skyline to the Eastbourne hills or Belmont trig.” Since joining WTMC, Emily has gone from novice tramper to trip leader. She takes groups of six to twelve people into the mountains around Wellington for overnighters in huts. “Each person is responsible for carrying their sleeping bag, dry clothes, snacks and their lunch. The leader allocates ingredients for the main meal and safety gear amongst the group, so everyone is carrying a share of the load. We also carry a Personal Locator Beacon in case of emergency. We tend to arrive at the hut in midafternoon and we all prepare the evening meal together, usually from the WTMC recipe book, which is a really nice experience after a day tramping.” Department of Conservation huts provide most of

the basics: bunks, mattresses, cooking provisions and a woodburner. The popularity of some DOC huts, which can’t be booked, can sometimes leave trampers out in the cold – not that this dampens Emily’s spirits. “We always take emergency shelter with us, which we rarely need, but if it’s raining occasionally huts can be full. This is a good reminder of why we carry the extra gear. If the weather is good, we sometimes choose to stay outside anyway.” Last year Emily completed the Southern Crossing, a west to east tramp across the ridgeline of the Tararuas that takes several days. “A typical overnight weekend tramp for me consists of one ten-hour day and one eight-hour day. I wouldn’t have attempted this when I first started, as it’s no fun if everyone is going faster than you.” There are usually four or five overnight tramps for all ages and abilities run by WTMC each weekend and Emily will lead up to four of them in a year. Her love of tramping has also taken her to Ruapehu and Tongariro, along the Abel Tasman and Heaphy Tracks, around the Nelson Lakes and through Kahurangi National Park. Emily spent much of the Christmas holidays, including Christmas Eve, in and between huts in the New Zealand wilderness. The best bit about tramping for Emily, though, is “getting into a warm sleeping bag for a good sleep after a long day in the hills.”

How do you get into tramping in Wellington? Join a tramping club like WTMC and come along to club nights. Go on a bush-craft course to build up essential outdoor skills like basic navigation.

that doesn’t always mean staying clean and dry. Have some scroggin or Jet Planes in your jacket pocket for a handy energy boost. Go as part of a group and always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.

What equipment do you need? A sense of adventure! If you’re going for a day walk, then sturdy footwear with good ankle support and a good set of waterproofs. For an overnight trip you’ll need a sleeping bag, some dry

clothes to change into at the hut and food to cover the length of your trip. Time it takes to get on location? For day walks, it’s about 20 minutes on the train to the start of the Skyline track. The nearest overnight tramp to Wellington is 45 minutes drive to the Catchpool stream, which offers access to the Orongorongo Valley.

Ideal weather conditions? Cool and sunny…but you can tramp in almost any weather as long as you choose a route suitable for the conditions. For example avoid river crossings around heavy rain, avoid ridgelines in high winds.

Tips for a beginner? Be prepared to get wet and muddy – tramping is about exploring and

Favourite thing about the sport? Surviving with only what you can carry – and getting away from the city. Your sporting hero? I don’t have a “tramping hero” but I am very grateful to anyone who has ever volunteered any of their time to maintain a backcountry track or a hut for others to use. Favourite season? You can’t beat a winter tramp on a crisp day, which ends up at a hut with a wood-burner!

W HAT T H E F L O C K

G R A NNY W H IT E H E A D Name: Whitehead. Māori name: Pōpokotea. Status: Endemic, not threatened (common within range). Habitat: Restricted to the North Island and neighbouring islands. Naturally common on Little Barrier and Kapiti (where they are among the most abundant bird species) and successfully reintroduced to a number of other islands and sanctuaries including Mana Island and Zealandia. Look for them: In hilly areas around Wellington and the Wairarapa, in Akatarawa Forest and Keith George Memorial Park if you’re in the Hutt Valley, or else at the predator-free sites listed above. Whiteheads are small, tit-like songbirds, so listen out for their call or keep your eyes peeled for small flurries in the forest canopy. Whiteheads are similar in size to a sparrow or silverye but are easily distinguished by their white head and undersides. Call: Very vocal birds that constantly call when in flocks. Listen for several chirps followed by a canary-like twitter and descending slurs, ending with a chuckle. Feeds on: Insects, especially caterpillars and beetles, and spiders. Sometimes fruit. Did you know? Whiteheads play host to the brood-parasitic long-tailed cuckoo. The cuckoo lays an egg in the whitehead's nest, and when the chick hatches it ejects whitehead eggs and chicks from the nest. If they were human they would be: With their small stature, white heads and chattery social nature, we can’t help but imagine a flock of whiteheads as a gaggle of kuia or grandmas, on their way to bingo or out for a spot of bowls.

RIP INTO

2016 2-WEEK FREE TRIAL* Another Xmas has come and gone.

You popped the bubbly and let yourself be seduced into seconds by that sweet little Pavlova. But hey, it only happens once a year, right? Just like our New Year 2-week free trial. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect way to rip into your 2016 fitness resolutions with our world-famous group fitness classes, high-intensity 30-minute workouts and top-of-the-range equipment.

Visit lesmills.co.nz/newyear or head straight to your nearest Les Mills club.

LES MILLS HUTT CITY 7 Pretoria Street, Hutt City

LES MILLS EXTREME 52-70 Taranaki Street, Wellington

LES MILLS LAMBTON QUAY 86-90 Lambton Quay, Wellington

For full terms and conditions see lesmills.co.nz/newyeartrial

org05018-jan-capital-press_210x140mm-01.indd 1

14/12/15 10:08 am

Study with us in 2016 + Creative Writing

+ Photography

+ Film

+ Publishing

+ Journalism

+ Radio

+ Music

+ Stage & Screen Arts

+ Performing Arts

+ Visual Arts & Design

1WNZ16_UYC_CAP

>> BECOME PART OF OUR JOURNEY IN 2016 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>

ENROL NOW Whitireia and WelTec are strategic partners delivering more choice to students.

F E AT U R E

FEAST FOR THE SENSES WRITTEN BY SARAH LANG | PHOTOGRAPHED BY BENJAMIN & ELISE

Documentary-maker Jess Feast is tackling interactive digital theatre for the New Zealand Festival.

F E AT U R E

Have you ever wanted to be someone else for a week? A day? An hour? Jess Feast’s new digitaltheatre show The Woman Who Forgot will let you become someone else for 75 minutes as part of the New Zealand Festival. She calls it “immersive, interactive adventure theatre.” Let’s imagine you’re taking part. You’ll meet seven other audience members and a guide at the Wellington Railway Station, where you will download the show’s app and plug in your headphones. Your group will then step onto a bus heading for Courtenay Place (the driver and other passengers have no idea what’s going on, nor do they need to). “The app turns your phone into the main character’s phone,” Jess explains. You’ll imagine you’re Elizabeth Snow, who wakes up on a bus with no idea who she is, and tries to piece together the puzzle of her life. “You never see her or a photo of her, but Elizabeth Snow is a fully formed character. You hear her inner monologue, and you receive her texts and Skype calls, so you hear conversations between her and other characters.” You’ll get off the bus at unexpected locations around town, where various characters will interact with different audience members as though they’re Elizabeth, mainly through eye contact and gestures. There’s locationtracking technology, but if you get lost, there’s a map to fall back on. The show is a collaboration between Jess as director and her husband Rob Appierdo as producer, with Rachel Davies as scriptwriter. Rob runs design and video production studio Storybox, where Jess works part-time as creative director, fitting work around the couple’s other joint projects: Giotto, 5 and Mia, 2. Her work at Storybox includes developing concepts for, producing and directing various storytelling projects using various media (particularly installations and video) for commercial clients, museums, festivals and other organisations. Working together on many projects, Jess and Rob have also made digital and video art together for art and light festivals. They pitch to various festivals, and some festivals approach them directly. They’d never done digital theatre, but much of their work has been interactive. When the New Zealand Festival sounded out the couple about a digital-theatre show, Jess had an idea. “I had wanted

to do something around memory and identity for a while, and was really interested in setting up a situation where the audience could embody the emotional state of the main character. Then I found a documentary, Unknown White Male, about a New York man who wakes up on the subway with amnesia and no idea who he is. The film follows the next two years of his life as he figures out his life, his relationships and the world. I thought 'What if you didn’t know who you were and rebooted yourself? Who are we when we strip away everything we own or know? What is our true self?’ So there were lots of inspirations, but we’ve tried to make something really original – and something very much of this time and place.” Before working on this show, Jess had never worked in theatre, despite studying it at Victoria University. She headed to Berlin for two years, waitressing in a hamburger bar and nightclub called White Trash Fast Food. There she shot her first independent doco, Cowboys & Communists, which zoomed in on the residents of the tower block housing the club to examine cultural conflicts in postwall Berlin. Sick of waitressing, she came home in 2005, needing to earn money to complete the film. For two years she worked as documentary development executive for TV-production house Gibson Group, writing and developing documentary and factual projects for New Zealand and abroad. Cowboys & Communists premiered at the 2007 New Zealand International Film Festival and screened at other international film festivals, winning best documentary by a young filmmaker at Germany’s Kassel Documentary Film Festival, and screening on the Arte television network in Germany and France. Many of her documentaries have been made for TV, including segments for the likes of Artsville, The Living Room and The Gravy. Jess also directed the comic TV documentary Flight of the Conchords: A Texan Odyssey about the duo’s attempt to break into the US music market. In 2008, she made an online film, Sisters of the Planet: Ursula’s Story for Oxfam’s campaign to highlight the impact of climate change on women. However, she’s best known for her second independent feature Gardening with Soul, about Wellington’s nonagenarian gardener Sister Loyola.

F E AT U R E

The film sold out at the NZ International Film Festival, won Best Documentary at the 2013 New Zealand Film Awards, and then – unusually for a doco made on a shoestring – it was picked up for theatrical release in New Zealand and Australia. “I was amazed at how well it did,” Jess says. “It was such a simple story but it touched people’s hearts.” In December Gardening with Soul screened in Guangzhou and Beijing, China, in the Guangzhou International Documentary Film Festival. Jess was there to introduce her film, one of five female documentary-makers chosen to attend by the NZ Film Commission. “People in China really connected with the film – it’s a good reminder of our shared humanity.” The nine-day trip was the longest she’s ever been away from her children. “I’m really enjoying having the kids in my life – it’s time you don’t get back – and actually I don’t want to do anything full-time,” says Jess, who usually works two days a week. “I try to keep it simple – one or two projects at a time – because scatterbrain doesn’t work for me.” Rob, she says, is better at juggling multiple projects. “It’s great working with Rob. It can get hard sometimes – we have to say ‘right, work is over’ – but it can be exciting and inspiring.”

Being a perpetual freelancer has never bothered Jess. “I like the whole idea of a creative life: generating your own work, stepping into the unknown. That swings from being frightening to exciting, sometimes in the same breath or depending on how much sleep you’ve had. It’s a bloody tough juggle as a working mum, but it’s worth striving for.” Right now, this show is her baby. “I’m stoked to be doing something brave both narratively and technically. And it’s my first foray into drama, a direction I’m actively exploring. I’m more and more interested in different modes of storytelling. I love traditional linear narratives but I’m also interested in how technology can inform storytelling and shape our thinking.” But she certainly won’t be giving up documentaries, with a secret project at the pitch-for-funding stage. “Documentary lets you be nosy and voyeuristic. It’s about authenticity and emotional truth and that's what I strive for in everything I do.” The Woman Who Forgot runs March 2–9 as part of the New Zealand Festival (February 26 – March 20). Eight people leave the station every 15 minutes between 12.00 and 2.00pm and 6.00 and 9.00 pm. See festival.co.nz

Leading the way in Skin Cancer Treatment • Free spot checks (1-2 lesions of concern) and full skin cancer consultations • Skin Cancer – Surgical and Non Surgical Treatment Options • Mohs/CCPDMA Micrographic Surgery – for facial cancers, recurring cancers and difficult excisions

• Cosmetically superior results • Self Referrals Accepted

Dr Mark Gray

Mr Steve Benson

Mr Rajan Patel

Dr Shona Dalzell

We are an Affiliated Provider* to Southern Cross and work with all other major health insurance providers.

Call today: 04 499 8001

Wellington: Corner Customhouse Quay and Panama Street Affiliated Provider to Southern Cross Health Society for selected skin cancer and vein treatment services. Southern Cross criteria and conditions apply. *

Skin cancer | Veins | Appearance

www.skininstitute.co.nz

OPINION

WE MIGHT H AV E A CONTEST It’s local body election year. To kick the new year off to a good start, independent commentator IAN APPERLEY casts his eye over the Wellington City Council line-up.

Iona Pannett has a high profile thanks to her promotion of earthquake strengthening work and her love of heritage buildings. She is highly intelligent and active in the community and council. Her inflexibility at times could be seen as a negative. Voting off her own bat rather than listening to consultation has dimmed the shine somewhat. Iona should be back in, albeit with a narrower margin. Helene Ritchie is unlikely to make it back into office, which I think is a shame. She brings a frenetic energy to the game, sees the world in a very different way, and is heartfelt in her communications. I like her. However, after the narrowest of margins last time I am not sure she will get enough votes to be back. Malcolm Sparrow will be back unless there is some significant competition in his ward. If there was a mayor of Tawa, it would be Malcolm. Most of his time is spent in the ward. Simon Woolf is a compassionate councillor who cares deeply for the city. He is outspoken and not afraid to say things others won’t. He acts on his own volition in investigating city issues and is doing well in his first term. He will be back. Nicola Young will be back. She has been a regular presence in her ward and has a high profile despite not holding a major portfolio. As an independent, Nicola has proven she will work with everyone, to the left and the right. She stands a good chance of taking the Mayoralty if she stays her course. A solid performer. Celia Wade-Brown may run for Mayor again. If she does she is in for a fight. On her side is her total domination of social media and the fact she has a formidable media machine at her disposal. She’s up against Nicola Young and Justin Lester, however, who will take a lot of votes from her. Of course, at this stage we don’t know who else intends to run. A high-profile name could unseat less well known councillors. I hear a rumour that the Greens will be placing more candidates, which could tip some Councillors out into the cold. The city has a very strong Green following. And so the grand game begins for 2016. The board is set and the excited players arrive to participate in the contest. All with one common goal. To make Council so that they can serve Wellington’s people and in so doing make our city shine. Here’s to the players.

he new and enthusiastic, the idealistic, battle-scarred veterans and party puppets are all preparing to throw their hats into the ring. The contest has been boiling for a few months, with shots traded publicly in the media and promises already made. What of our incumbent councillors and mayor? Will they get back in or will they be ousted? Ray Ahipene-Mercer and Mark Peck have stepped out of the grand game; Mark after only a single term and Ray after a life dedicated to the Council and community. Ray has been a stalwart of the arts in Wellington and an ardent environmentalist. I’ve got a dollar each way on Jo Coughlan; I don’t think she has done enough to guarantee another term. The economy is her portfolio and it’s looking a little battered. Paul Eagle will walk back in with more votes than ever before. He’s seen as a high-performer, has a great profile, and could be Mayor one day if he escapes the clutches of the Labour Party. His seat is safe. Andy Foster has very high energy and is a clever thinker. The Transport Portfolio is his responsibility and it has been a total nightmare. Very little has been achieved. However, Andy has a high profile and good name recognition. He will be back. Sarah Free is a new councillor who got in on a Green Party ticket. She cares about the community and is regularly out and about. She is very much bound by the Green Party, however. A vote for Sarah is a vote for the Greens. If the party back her, she’ll be back. David Lee is another new councillor, also on the Green Party ticket. He has struggled to be heard among higherprofile politicians, which is a shame, because he has some very smart ideas that need to come through. Again, if the Greens back David, he’ll likely be back. Justin Lester should be back in again with flying colours. Running for the Mayor and Councillor guarantees high visibility in the campaign and name recognition counts. His profile has been increasing in recent months. Simon Marsh may just squeak back in again. Simon has name recognition, but struggles to get his voice heard in the din and is old-school in his methods – no social media presence to speak of at all. You are more likely to find Simon in his caravan out Eastern suburbs way than online. 54

cbdrealty.co.nz Licensed REAA 2008

PROFESSIONALS & TECH FIRMS Refurbed offices 201 m2 - 256 m2 Meeting rooms & offices provided 105% seismic rating Central location

Call Brendan Clegg: 029 916 5100

A NATURAL UNDER TAKING CONSULT OUR ONLINE FUNERAL GUIDE

FUNERALS NATURALLY 45 HAINING STREET TE ARO WELLINGTON 04 974 5076 BROADBENTANDMAY.CO.NZ

QUINOVIC

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

VIVIAN STREET

CALL US TODAY & SPEND SUMMER OUTSIDE!

Is loving Love’s Labour’s Lost a labour of love? 6pm-8pm starts Tuesday 26 January

Basilicas of Rome: In the footsteps of pilgrims 6pm-8pm, starts Wednesday 3 February

04 382 8300 info@quinovic-vivianst.co.nz www.quinovic-vs.co.nz

Everyday Maori for Beginners 5:45pm-7:45pm, starts Wednesday 3 February

For more information visit our website www.victoria.ac.nz/conted

HE-HE

GAME SHOWS YOU CAN’ T LIVE WITHOUT THEM

WRITTEN BY DEAN WATSON

verybody loves game shows. You love them, your mum loves them, even vegans love them – and they don't like anything. According to my studies, humans need five things to survive: food, shelter, water, game shows and syndicated game shows. As someone who has made at least part of their living as a writer for comedy game shows, I’ve noticed that the effect of game shows on the community goes far beyond fabulous cash prizes. Especially in the twilight years of our lives, game shows are there for us, as much as any loved one who wants a mention in our will. Game shows have no ulterior motive, except to entertain. We are born. And then we watch game shows, usually with our grandparents. At that age we don’t have a choice. It’s either watch game shows or listen to grandpa’s jazz records. A lot changes in a person between the time they love listening to the Wiggles and the time they love listening to Quincy Jones, but our fondness for game shows stays the same. Game shows are a constant, the perfect formula. Life begins as it ends: watching game shows. How do game shows manage to engage everyone from the hyperactive child to grandparents who’ve seen it all? For starters, game shows are the complete opposite of a flag referendum. They’re exciting. One of the keys to staying young is staying excited. I know this because I wake up every day excited about life and I’m 25 years old. Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, Sale Of The Century, Deal Or No Deal, Family Feud, Wheel Of Fortune, Jeopardy and 7 Days. Even those who are losing their minds love them. Ask any nurse at Wellington hospital and they’ll tell you game shows are in higher demand than morphine. The tired and bewildered may not quite grasp what’s going on, but they watch anyway because it’s colourful, flashy and exciting. It’s a reminder of the life they’ve lived. And thanks to the magical world of game shows, they get to live it a little longer, five nights a week.

Game shows are one of the few institutions that invite elderly people to play (along at home). It’s all good, safe, fun that won’t hurt the joints. Not to say that reruns of The Bill aren’t exciting. It’s just that for a show called The Bill, cash prizes are few and far between. The Oxford Dictionary defines a game show as a television programme in which people compete to win prizes. Usually cash prizes. Money is a big hit with elderly people. Money can’t buy you happiness, but it can buy you health care. Game shows remind seniors of a time before they spent their life savings on pay TV, home of the syndicated game show. Nevertheless, it was all worth it, because with the pursuit of a prize comes hope. At a time in their lives when everyone around them tends to be losing hope, game shows say “Yes, you can make it to your 85th birthday! So long as you answer the next five questions correctly!” Fire fighters save lives, paramedics save lives, people who work on game shows save lives (in exchange for fabulous cash prizes from their bosses). Behind the glitz and the glamour is a team of highly dedicated professionals who, in collaboration with actual professionals (doctors, nurses and health care workers), keep the blood flowing in hospitals, nursing homes and retirement villages all over the world. We’re all headed to the grave or the crematorium, depending on your feelings about worms, but before that, we’re all headed to magical game-show land, five nights a week. There will always be game shows. Unlike the original Brooklyn wind turbine, game shows are here to stay. And so is their wrinkly, jazz-loving core audience. Sure, the elderly want to see the grandchildren grow up, but what really gets them up in the morning is the possibility they might win a brand new washing machine and a fabulous cash prize along the way. Anything to help pay for the health care.

IN BRIEF

COUNTING K'S Wellington environmentalist TIM PARK issues a plea for more birds in the city. “Falcon!” I shouted as a New Zealand falcon aka karearea flapped past my office window. Heads whipped around to see our fastest bird fly across Civic Square with its freshly killed prey hanging underneath. There are few places where you can see a threatened natural predator species out your window – Wellington is rewilding, and we are all in front row seats. Large birds like karearea sit at the top of the food chain and as bird numbers have increased in Wellington, sightings have become more frequent. I know Mt Cookers who spot them out their bedroom window, bird nerds keep an eye on their nests above Melrose, walkers watch as tui chase them off in Otari (see Jon Sullivan’s shots on naturewatch.org.nz/observations/2452029), and zealous photographers who get too close to nests on Te Ahumairangi get dive-bombed.

Karearea aren’t the only birds making a comeback in Wellington. Tui wake us up in the morning, flopping around in flaxes and pohutakawa. Tui is the name pakeha gave the bird – it translates as song/call in te reo – their original name is koko. Wellington is the envy of naturalists from other cities. Tui have had to be reintroduced into Christchurch, however, we almost lost them too. There were only six or so birds hanging around when pest animal control began here in the mid nineties.That work, along with the sanctuary, has created a massive feathered resurgence. I hope one day soon, we will realise the dream of – Pest Free Wellington. It has been proven possible in Crofton Downs – they have shown that we can trap all of the city’s rats and stoats in our own backyards. Then we will be able to open the gates of Zealandia and let the kiwi roam free – and finally bring home the kokako.

THRIVE

CLOSING DOWN SALES

www.thr iveclothi ng.co.nz 8 Kitchener St, Martinborough

Website Closes 13 Jan

ETHICAL NZ MADE SLOW FASHION

Shop Closes 6 March

IN BRIEF

ON THE EDGE OF HA R MON Y WRITTEN BY CRAIG BEARDSWORTH What do you get when you mix the repertoire of smoky-voiced British soul-pop diva Dusty Springfield and three New Zealand women vocalists? A Kiwi/soul mash-up. Wellingtonian Bella Kalolo is one of the trio behind Dust to Dusky, celebrating Springfield’s oeuvre from her folk beginnings to the soulful 60’s and on to collaborations with quintessential 90’s Brit band The Pet Shop Boys. Gigging and travelling is part and parcel of being a musician and Kalolo is used to it. “I’m made to travel and it’s just as well – I’m pretty much away every second weekend.” Having cut her teeth as a backing vocalist for the likes of Dave Dobbyn, Holly Smith and Fat Freddy’s Drop, she is now on the circuit as a soloist and making a living from singing. Kalolo also teaches, mentors and runs workshops. Versatility is the key – the

varied work keeps her fresh, she says. For Dust to Dusky, Kalolo is joined by Tami Neilson and Anna Coddington. Together they will re-imagine Springfield’s hits. Kalolo describes this: “Harmonically it’s the same and the basic melody is there but I like riding on the edge of harmony.” Her inspiration is wide, from Prince to Janet Jackson, Annie Lennox to Tracey Chapman, Chaka Kahn to Billie Holiday. “If I’m completely moved by the artist then I’ll sprinkle it in to my music and make it my own.” Explaining the process of incorporating influences into her own style stumps her for a while – “It’s like going into a shop and finding a jacket that fits well and then ripping off the sleeves so it feels and looks right”. Dust to Dusky: 2–5 March, Spiegeltent, Festival Garden, Auckland

100% Pure plant essential therapy Paraben & sulfate free Certified organic Argan & essential oils No artificial fragrances or animal related materials 100% colour safe home care

WE USE AND RECOMMEND

Ammonia free professional colour

N E W L O O K . N E W L O C AT I O N . N E W Y O U

Spark Central|ground floor|42 Willis St

472 5540

5 9contact@gfhair.co.nz

gfhair.co.nz

gfhair

gf-hair

FASH ION

FUSHION CHUPS

Shanghai

Fish and chips on the beach, sand in your toes and wind in your hair â&#x20AC;&#x201C; accessorise to the season with these Summer favourites.

Restaurant Est:1972

WELLINGTONS FIRST CHINESE RESTAURANT We bring you authentic Sichuan, Shanghai, Cantonese foods and fresh seafood Lunch: Mon-Fri 11am-2.30pm Dinner: 5pm till late 7 days, including Christmas Day and New Year Day

121 Manners St, Te Aro, Wellington Ph: 04-3828825 / www.shanghairestaurant.co.nz

FASH ION

Photography by Ashley Church Styled by Shalee Fitzsimmons & Rhett Hornblow

EDIBLES

S A LVA D O R’ S SUCCULENCE Recipes from Salvador Dalí’s cookbook Les Diners De Gala (Party Dinners) will feature at a special dinner at St Johns Bar & Restaurant on 9 March. The dining experience will coincide with La Verita, the Dalí-themed event at the New Zealand Festival. The cookbook is a rare and erotic piece of art, featuring recipes such as ”Conger Eel of the Rising Sun.” We aren’t sure whether this particular dish will be served but in Salvador’s own words you are warned. “Beginning with the very first recipes, Les Diners De Gala, with its precepts and its illustrations, is uniquely devoted to the pleasures of Taste... If you are a disciple of one of those calorie-counters who turn the joys of eating into a form of punishment, close this book at once; it is too lively, too aggressive, and far too impertinent for you.” Bookings can be made with Candace on 04 801 8017.

PANAMANIA FOR COFFEE

DIRECT FROM THE RIVIERA

COFFEE NEWS

Mr Alois Hartmann moved to Panama in 1911 from Czechoslovakia and began a coffee plantation. The Hartmann Estate is now owned by the third generation of his descendants. L’affare has its special black winey blend in house for December and are using it in its espresso, as well as selling it by the bag. Proceeds from both are going to Life Flight Trust. More than 70 bags had been sold by the middle of the month said Cory Hodges of L'affare.

Gelato producer Carello del Gelato has opened a store on Oriental Parade. Wellington’s most decorated gelato producer will stock 16 different flavours in store. Nathan Meyer first established his gelato cart in 2004 after finding out that his great-greatgrandfather emigrated here from Sicily. Recently his gelato and sorbet won 11 awards at the New Zealand Ice Cream awards, including the prestigious “best in berries.”

A well-known Kent Terrace coffee spot, the Deluxe café, is for sale. Part owner Matt Wilson is moving to a new project, the Seashore Cabaret, in the rowing club on the Petone foreshore. Matt, and number-cruncher Bronwyn Kelly and chef Kate Wilkinson, share ownership of Deluxe, and Lyall Bay’s Maranui, and Queen Sally’s. Bronwyn says she and Kate feel that three cafes are too many for the two of them to manage easily, hence the sale of Deluxe.

It’s the ingredients that make it taste so good. Find it all at labocaloca.co.nz

Gourmet Mexican Supplies 62

EDIBLES

LITTLE DOUGH C O. BRO When you eat a really good doughnut, you just wish it hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ended, says Xander Dixon. The former head baker at Prefab has now turned his talents to creating small batches of special doughnuts for Wellingtonians. Xander and his partner have started the Little Dough Co. Some of the flavours available include hokey pokey and rosecream, and Hakanoa ginger cream crunch. However they are constantly being turned over to keep things fresh. You can find them at the Customs Brew bar on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, as well as Vic Books in Kelburn on Friday and Saturday. Office deliveries for a box of 12 have also just begun, email info@littledoughco.com for more information.

CALLING ALL BEANS

PACIFIC PART Y

CHANGE OF PACE

Ever wondered exactly where the cacao bean in your chocolate bar comes from? So does Luke Smith, who has set up a new shop called The Chocolate Bar. He focuses on the entire bean-to-bar process, and stocks a variety of chocolates from all over the world. You can find him online at www.thechocolatebar.co.nz or at the underground Frank Kitts market, and at the Shelly Bay artisan market.

No plans for Wellington Anniversary Day? The Wellington Pasifika Festival at Waitangi Park (25 January) hosts the first-ever Pacific Cuisine Cook-Off, with the proprietors of food stalls from Vanuatu, Fiji, Tonga, Niue, the Cook Islands and Samoa presenting their signature dishes for judging. The free festival is headlined by Che Fu, with performances by Pacific artists, weaving and lei-making workshops, a dance class, short Pacific films screening inside a bus, and a giant Pasifika sign for the kids to paint.

Chief executive of Hospitality New Zealand Bruce Robertson stepped down and left HNZ at the end of 2015. He insists this isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t retirement, but is looking forward to a more relaxed lifestyle in the Wairarapa. HNZ has begun a recruitment process to replace Bruce.

THE FOREST CANTINA

SUMMER POWER UNNA BURCH Summer is my favourite season for produce. Everything is bright and colourful and I love eating lots of fresh, raw salads. Once you have mastered saladmaking basics, you can take them along to BBQs, and lunches; or, for a fast week-night dinner, serve them with a free-range rotisserie chicken. When building a salad, think about a base: lentils, beans (I used black beans in this recipe), pasta, rice, couscous, even nice big wedges of iceberg lettuce – think of it as a foundation. Then add seasonal vegetables – and consider different ways of slicing them for no other reason than aesthetics. I used a mix of my spiraliser, my mandolin, and dicing. Then you need to have texture, something crunchy. Croutons are good, but I

add roasted seeds or nuts to almost every salad I make. I buy them in bulk, and roast trays at a time then store them in the cupboard for an easy go-to. To roast nuts or seeds, put them in a large tray (with sides) and roast for 5–8 minutes at 180°C until toasted. Roasting in the oven rather than dry frying in a pan makes the toasted nutty flavour go right through the seeds or nuts. In this recipe I have used taco shells for an extra crispy element. Then I think something creamy is a good thing – feta or avocado are always winners. And to finish any salad, a dressing. My most frequently made dressing is simple olive oil and lemon juice; below is a recipe for a herby chilli yoghurt dressing.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD Preheat the oven to 180°C

Dressing 2 cups thick Greek natural yoghurt 1–2 chipotle chillies (I use canned chipotle in adobo sauce) 1 large bunch of basil (or coriander) 1 teaspoon honey 1 clove garlic, crushed 2–3 tablespoons lime juice salt & pepper

To make the dressing Put all of the ingredients into a food processor and whizz until combined. Taste to see if more lime juice or salt and pepper is needed. The dressing will keep for up to three days in the fridge. Set aside. Put the taco shells onto a tray and bake for 5–6 minutes or until golden. Once they are cool, break up into chips and set aside. The reason I love taco shells is that if they are baked to order (unlike corn chips) they are much crisper and don't have artificial flavouring on them, so the corn flavour really comes through.

Salad 1 x can black beans, drained and rinsed 2 large carrots; I used my spiraliser but you can grate if you don't have one 4 radishes, thinly sliced 2 red capsicums, diced 1/2 red onion, finely sliced 1 avocado, sliced 20g feta cheese 2 tablespoons roasted pumpkin seeds 2 tablespoons roasted sunflower seeds Baby basil leaves (or fresh herbs) to garnish

For the salad, arrange the beans and cut vegetables in bowls, or one larger bowl for sharing. Crumble over the feta. Sprinkle over the seeds and the baby basil. Season with a little salt and pepper, and put a wedge of lime on the side. Serve the chips and dressing separately so people can dress their own salads.

To serve Fresh lime wedges 1 x 12 box of taco shells Optional: you could also use fresh corn (grilled on the BBQ first and then cut from the cob would be delicious) or cherry tomatoes in place of some of the other ingredients.

SECTION HEADER

GREEN MACHINE WRITTEN BY BETH ROSE | PHOTOGRAPHED BY RHETT GOODLEY-HORNBLOW

Up with the lark, Scott Dunkerly cuts the greens at Karori Golf Club every morning to keep them looking just as they should throughout summer. A typical day on the 18-hole course begins at 7.30am, and after the greens are trimmed there are the fairways, the tees and the rough to attend to. “I’m out early to get things done before the golfers arrive,” says Scott, who worked as an apprentice with the club for three-and-a-half years and this year won Graduate of the Year from the New Zealand Golf Course Superintendents Association. “It’s a two-year competition, so this was the 2014/15 Award,” explains Scott. “I had the third best marks in the written exam, and the top five go on to compete in the practical tests in Auckland. “We had to calibrate a spray tank, working out the ratio

of fertiliser to water for a given ground cover; service a mower that had been taken apart; and then perform a job interview. My points in the written exam went towards my final mark.” Scott’s success in the competition has earned him a week’s trip to San Diego in February and tickets to the US Golf Industry Show. “The California Coast has some of the best golf courses in the world. I’ve added another nine days on to my trip so that I can visit Pebble Beach, Cyprus Point and Torrey Pines.” Scott was already a keen golfer when he left school at eighteen and started working part-time at the Karori club. Now, at twenty-three and with a handicap of a mere two, it is fitting that this national champ has become the Club’s Head Greenkeeper.

s y a d 7 n e p o m 11. 30am o

G TH ET A E PA 5% SS D W ISC (fr om OR O 01 .1 D UN 2. 15 “C T til l3 AP WI 1. 03 ITA TH .1 6) L”

Discover over 60 different cheeses directly imported from Europe and a large range of fine French food at the deli.

CAFE DELI TRADE Enjoy authentic and traditional French food for your breakfast and lunch at the Café and Bistro.

havanabar.co.nz

Level 1, The Woolstore Design Building 262 Thorndon Quay, Wellington www.lemarche.co.nz | cheese@lemarche.co.nz Deli: 04 499 1832 Cafe: 04 499 1834 | infos@lemarchebistro.nz

THE WORKING BREWERY IN THE HEART OF WELLINGTON OPEN FOR TASTINGS

BLACKDOGBREWERY.CO.NZ 19 Blair St, Wellington

LIQUID THOUGHTS

LION LIGHTENS UP Lower-alcohol wines are on a roll. Wither Hills Wines in Marlborough has just launched a new lower-alcohol wine brand, Early Light. Its range includes a Sauvignon Blanc and a Pinot Gris, both winners of bronze medals at the 2015 New Zealand International Wine Show in Auckland in November last year. The wines cost $17.99. Wither Hills was founded by winemaker Brent Marris (owner of The Ned and Marisco), who sold the winery to Lion NZ, which is on a loweralcohol drive with many of its wines. The drinks giant released two new loweralcohol Lindauers for the Christmas season: Moscato Rose, the new white Lindauer, is a sparkling Sauvignon Blanc. Both cruise in at 8% ABV, which means they contain one standard drink per 150ml glass; they each cost $12.99.

A FO OT IN THE BAR

THE G SPOT

A new business initiated by Karen Aitken, a relative newcomer to the world of craft beer, aims to reduce the carbon footprint of keg distribution. Karen and partners Michele Spring and Amanda and Michael Sharpe have set up Red Kegs, to lease kegs, ship beer and track and consolidate pallets of empty kegs to return them to the depots closest to the breweries. Karen’s first serious involvement with craft beer was setting up the Greater Wellington Brewday in Martinborough in 2013. “It’s a great industry,” she says.

Gimblett Gravels in Hawke’s Bay won three of the five golds awarded to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and blends at the 2015 Air New Zealand Wine Awards late last year. The Gimblett Gravels sub-region occupies approximately 800 hectares of warm, stony, well drained ground along State Highway 50. It is home to 30 vineyards and with various grape varieties, mostly red. The gravels land was once dismissed as unusable by sheep farmers, but in the 1980s a group of winemakers trialled its free-draining gravel soils for growing grapes.

00 Y. TE .. AM

NO ENT N H U W RIE LY R OP S 2 R EN

Satu rd ay, 27 Feb r u ar y 2016

All WomenÊs Great Vineyard Estate Race. Get the girls together, grab your walking or running shoes and take on The YealandsÊ YAK.

WHERE: Yealands Estate, Seaview Rd, Seddon, Marlborough

THE YAK: A 6-hour all women team trail event around one of New Zealand’s largest vineyards – Yealands Estate on the stunning Marlborough Coast. Teams of 2-8 women walk, jog or run in pairs around vineyard trails of 2-8km. The team that collectively covers ers the most distance in 6 hours wins! And when you’re not hittingg the trails, it’s the perfect time to take a break, catch up, enjoy the company and have a good yak.

Embrace the organic Summer with Seresin Fine wines | Olive oil Certified organic Phone 03 572 9408 or visit www.seresin.co.nz

LIQUID THOUGHTS

WELLINGTON W I N E C O U N T RY WRITTEN BY JOELLE THOMSON

ip Goodwin is buzzing. She is the new CEO of Palliser Estate, the largest winery in the tiny wine region of Martinborough. Goodwin thrives on change, as long as it comes with a challenge. This is the story of her working life, moving from business and accounting consultant to viticulture and winemaking, and now, back to the business side of wine. Her new role was announced last September. The top job had been a long time coming. She began at Palliser on the cellar floor, literally. For the past 10 years she has worked as a winemaker alongside long-term Palliser Estate senior winemaker Allan Johnson, one of her mentors. She began her working life as an accountant and management consultant in 2003, working in New Zealand, London and Australia before leaving it all behind for study at a small polytechnic in the Hawke’s Bay and the hope of a career in wine. She has now landed the job that she always dreamt of: com-

bining her passion for wine with her business background. The wine flame was first sparked in Wellington, post-university. “I was flatting with a person in the Wellington wine trade and we used to do a lot of wine tastings. I loved it.” She loved it so much so that, when living in London in the mid 1990s, Goodwin visited Burgundy. This was the beginning of the end of her corporate life. “The product and the romance of the industry in Burgundy lured me into thinking seriously that I wanted to get into the wine industry one day.” It didn’t take long. She returned home to New Zealand in 1997 to work as a management consultant, learning, she says, what makes businesses tick – and what doesn’t. But despite successful jobs in Sydney, Auckland and Wellington, this work was not ticking the boxes she wanted it to. The tipping point came when a close friend was studying wine at 70

LIQUID THOUGHTS

the Eastern Institute of Technology in Hawke’s Bay and suggested that she try it. While working Pip began the EIT course and found it so interesting that she pursued it as a career. At the end of the course Goodwin resigned from her corporate role, and booked flights to Gisborne, Martinborough and, later, to California. They took her to work three vintages at three very different wineries in three different climates. The first was GisVin, a large contract winemaking facility in Gisborne. By contrast, the next vintage was at one of this country’s smallest wineries, Nga Waka, founded by winemaker Roger Parkinson in Martinborough. And then she flew to California to do a stint at Saintsbury in Carneros. “I got three very different experiences and loved them all, so in 2004, I went to Lincoln University in Canterbury to study the post-graduate Diploma in Viticulture and Oenology.” And then her real winemaking career began, with a year-long winemaking gig at Palliser Estate with winemaker Allan Johnson, who she describes as “an amazing mentor,” and former Palliser CEO Richard Riddiford. Her working relationships with both Johnson and Riddiford have seen her work in all aspects of the winemaking business over the past decade. She has swept the floor, plunged the fermenting tanks of grapes, dug out Pinot Noir skins from the tank, and looked at the business side of the winery. She has been involved in everything from environmental management, marketing and winemaking to cost analysis. “It’s the way it goes in a small business; you’ve got to be across everything,” Goodwin says. When she took over Riddiford’s role as chief executive officer of Palliser Estate Winery, Goodwin says she was humbled and excited by the challenge – “Although I will miss some of the physical aspects of winemaking, and I do still long to climb into those Pinot Noir tanks during vintage – and plan to, whenever it’s possible to fit it in,” she says. Her approach to business often echoes her approach to winemaking; “Subtlety sometimes works more effectively than an overpowering push.” She suggests that Chardonnay is a strong and under-

exploited variety to Palliser Estate’s offering. “We are using more wild ferments (which can add rich savoury flavours) to make our Chardonnay and we are not intentionally doing malolactic (which can push creamy flavours to new heights), unless it is a year that asks for it such as 2012 when it was so cold that we needed to create a wine with less malic acid. We are working hard to give Chardonnay drinkers the big flavours that they want, but in a style that has more complexity and can also age well.” How to make high-quality Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir is one thing; how to sell it is a bigger challenge in today’s crowded global wine market. “We are in an education business and the more we can promote what we do differently, then the more people will want to try our wines because there is an aspect of the unknown to explore.” Goodwin is talking not only about Palliser Estate wines, but those from the Wairarapa in general. It’s a region she knows well; Goodwin was born and bred near Masterton and has now planted her own roots firmly back in the region with her own young family. She has two children, six and eight years old “I am from a rural background and I’ve got a business background; I wanted to weave the two together, so this new role is the ultimate for me,” she says. Not that it’s all smooth sailing. The perception that Palliser Estate is a large winery can be detrimental to the way its wines are viewed, she says. The reality is that, like all wineries in the Wairarapa (which accounts for less than 2% of New Zealand’s total wine production), Palliser remains a relatively small producer. “I feel very honoured to take Palliser forward; when we first started, we were one of the first wineries in the region, and the world has changed hugely since then, so it’s an exciting new era at Palliser. We are about to do a rebranding of our label for the Chardonnay and last year we made our first rose. My crusade is to lift the profile of Palliser wines. It is world class wine.”

Simply Stunning Meats Order Online......delivered to the bach

www.prestonsmasterbutchers.co.nz

F E AT U R E

CIDER INSIDER PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE STANILAND WRITTEN BY BETH ROSE

Cider is the ancient but new craft drink. Not surprising when you consider the hundreds of tonnes of first-class fruit we export each year. It may be less talked about in Wellington than its hipster-hoppy craft beer cousin, but New Zealand cider has a cool character all of its own. Its flirty, fruity nature makes cider a popular summer drink. And its freedom from gluten makes it a very fashionable drink now. After a sunny morning out training in the harbour, we asked the women rowers of Victoria University to quench their thirst at our blind taste test and tell us which ones floated their boat. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s their light-hearted look at New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ciders.

C I D E R TA S T I N G

THE TEAM Name: Anna Thomson

Name: Sam Beveridge

Name: Emma Ross

Name: Sarah Jackson

Rowing profile: 10 years rowing, typically in a bow seat. Anna is a Wellingtonian and this is her first season back after a four-year break in Texas.

Rowing profile: Another international team member, Sam’s from Melbourne and back in the boat after a 10-year break. She sits stroke-side, and this is her first season with Victoria.

Rowing profile: Emma recently tried rowing at a corporate event and liked it so much she joined the VUW team. Her new commitment sees her up at dawn six times a week for training.

Rowing profile: This is Sarah’s first season with VUW and she has already found her seat in the bow, but she’s flexible about this position.

Cider palate: Anna is gluten intolerant, which makes cider a winning drink for her.

Cider palate: It’s New Zealand v Australia in the cider stakes.

Name: Charlotte “The-brainsof-the-boat” Waghorne

Names: Valerie Chan and Vanessa McCormack

Rowing profile: Three years rowing in York. This is her first year rowing and studying (a PhD in Chemistry) at VUW, and she’s about to take on the role of cox for the team.

Rowing profile: Valerie and Vanessa are new to the team and this is their first time rowing. They are yet to find their positions and strengths.

Cider palate: Originally from Essex, Charlotte judges New Zealand’s ciders against the traditional English varieties of home.

Cider palate: Prefers French fruit ciders. Name: Adelaide Brown Rowing profile: Adelaide’s first season with VUW suffered a setback when she tore a ligament in her knee and broke her pelvis. She’s now easing back into her stroke-side seat. Adelaide is a Wellingtonian.

Cider palate: Like their seats in the boat, they have no fixed preference. (However, Valerie wouldn’t mind seeing feijoa in the line up).

Cider palate: Likes classic ciders (“Devon Red”) and mulled fruit ciders.

Cider palate: Tends to drink craft beer over cider.

Name: Meg “Power-house” McGlone Rowing profile: Meg injured her ankle playing netball and began rowing with Victoria while recovering. Now, four months into her first season, her teammates are hoping this 6ft “power-house” will stay. Cider palate: Likes “perry.”

VIVA o n M O L E S WO RT H

Unique Fashion Imports 100 Molesworth St, by National Library, Phone + 64 4 499 3440

celebrate summer with a cocktail... or two.

Portlander Bar & Grill. More than just great steak.

portlander.co.nz | 04 498 3762 | Cnr Featherston & Whitmore Street

C I D E R TA S T I N G

APPLE CIDERS

Moutere Cider Peckham’s Traditional

Edgebrook Village Cider

Three Wise Birds BachLife

Paynter’s Hawkes Bay 2013

Adelaide and Sarah fought their corners on this one. Adelaide found it too tart and strong-smelling, but its appley-ness went down well with Sarah who thought it made a good lunchtime drink.

Not sweet and spritzy enough for summer, according to Meg. Good for winter though.

Sam thought this was a polite and effervescent cider. A floral offering – good for a toast at a summer occasion.

Fresh, slightly sweet and transparent. Charlotte imagined enjoying this on the beanbags by the water outside St John’s. Meg could see herself drinking this cider while chilling with Six60.

Old Mout Hard Cider

Billy Cider Apple Red

Boundary Road Honesty Box Apple Cider

Saxton Apple Cider

Not as hard as the name suggests. A traditional flavour without the “bits”. Classic, oldfashioned and reliable – a bit like the Wellington Cable Car.

Meg thought it tasted like sherbet. Adelaide picked up apricots and honey. All agreed that if this cider were a person, it’d be Colin Mathura Jeffree – “overbearing but still strangely popular”.

Sweet and complex, this had the WOW factor. According to Valerie, it is the Dame Suzie Moncrieff of ciders, and the team agreed unanimously.

Charlotte picked up notes of pineapple, and Emma thought it would go well with Thai food. Vanessa compared its obvious, upfront flavour to Wellington’s bold Meridian Energy building nearby on the wharf.

Tutu Fuji Apple Cider

Good George Squealer Drop-Hop Cider

Jones Road Apple Cider

Somersby European Apple Cider

Has the appearance of sparkling wine. Anna picked up a minty aftertaste and chemistry expert Charlotte felt it had a solvent flavour. All agreed this was a “gateway” cider, luring you in to other, stronger flavours – a Trippy-Tree of ciders.

Sam thought passionfruit, Meg thought miso and Charlotte thought cough medicine. Valerie picked up an earthiness that made her think of walking through Otari-Wilton’s Bush. A complex drink by all accounts.

This cider introduced itself with the pop of its cork. In contrast to its champagne sound, it is dark in colour and dry. Sam felt this was the Grandpa of the ciders.

“Christmas in a cup” according to Adelaide. Sarah recommended it as a mulled, winter cider. The spices were popular, and Meg thought its “all-over-the-place flavour” meandered like Wellington’s zigzag Devon Street.

C I D E R TA S T I N G

FRUIT CIDERS

Saxton Pear Cider

Good George Brewing Squealer Doris Cider

Moutere Cider Peckham’s Traditional with Elderflower

Moutere Cider Peckham’s Traditional with Feijoa

The strong pear notes came through immediately for Emma. Good with cheese and fruit, this is a warming cider, and the ladies felt it would be the drink of choice for sculptor Max Patte’s waterfront bronze Solace in the Wind.

Bright pink, this cider was met with excitement from all. Adelaide imagined drinking it at a summer concert in the Botanic Garden’s Sound Shell.

Adelaide picked up the elderflower immediately. Sarah thought it had a mixed aroma of an orchard, which gave it a late-in-the-season feel. According to the ladies, if this were a person, it would be John Key – in the autumn of his career.

A strong hit of feijoa, picked up by all. Cloudy, floral and full in the mouth. Good in moderation.

Orchard Thieves Cider Peach and Passionfruit

Wild Side Feijoa and Passionfruit Cider

Wild Side Wild Berry Cider

Rochdale Three Berry Cider (McCashin Family)

A sweet, sticky drink – thirst quenching but filling, too. A dessert cider. A summery beverage with an obvious stone fruit hit. Good in moderation.

“The pina colada of ciders,” according to Meg. Emma thought it was ice-cream in a glass. Valerie pictures herself drinking this whilst watching the sunset, on holiday at a bach.

“Like berry picking on a tramp in the Wairarapa,” according to Valerie. Three of the team guessed that this was a Wild Side cider and its strawberry sweetness was popular with the ladies.

An Olympic medal-winning drink; “the Mahē Drysdale of ciders,” according to the team. The berries went down unanimously well and Emma went so far as to say it’s “Wellington on a good day,” an unbeatable fruit cider.

Rochdale Lemon & Honey Cider

Rekorderlig Cider Premium Lemon-Lime

Sprig & Fern Berry Cider

Crowd-pleasers

Citrusy and light; Adelaide thought “Asian fusion” and imagined drinking this while eating at Dragonfly. Valerie enjoyed the honey notes, but there were mixed feelings among the team.

A clear, sweet sparkling cider with a citrus bite. More like cordial than cider – the alcohol was barely noticeable and the sugar buzzed like the crowd in the Westpac Cake Tin.

Valerie thought “bitter”, Adelaide “sophisticated.” Sam thought it was an evening cider and Emma pictured it as “a ballgown”. The “Red Peak” of ciders – it was colourfully debated. Either that or the afternoon’s tasting was taking its toll!

Scrummiest apple cider Favourite fruit cider

P E R I O D I C A L LY S P E A K I N G

SOLAR: ARE WE THERE YET? WRITTEN BY JOHN KERR

Summer is here and the sun is shining, but are we really making most of it?

he amount of energy that falls upon the earth as sunlight every hour could meet the energy needs of the entire human race for a whole year. It is astounding then that we haven’t done more to harness the power of the sun through solar power generation. The main reason is cost; historically, investing in solar panels just wasn’t economic compared to buying electricity generated by other means. Putting solar panels on your roof used to be an expensive way of making an environmental statement (and, in New Zealand, a misguided one at that, since most of our electricity comes from renewable sources anyway). However, plummeting costs of production and technological developments mean that installing solar panels equals real savings for some New Zealanders – regardless of their environmental leanings. Once they are paid for, the electricity generated from sunshine by the solar panels on your roof is basically free for the life of the solar panels – around 25 to 30 years. Excess electricity fed back into the grid earns a small payment from power companies, but you still pay retail rates for electricity when the sun don’t shine (home battery technology, which would allow households to store electricity, is a tantalising possibility but not yet considered cost-effective). So just how economical solar power is depends on where you live and how you use electricity throughout the day. In sunnier regions, such as Nelson and the Bay of Plenty, getting on the solar bandwagon can be a sensible financial decision for people who use a lot of power during the day, such as retirees and some owners of daytime businesses'. The number of households making this decision is growing as the price of solar technology continues to fall. Wellington’s temperamental weather means that solar is not financially attractive here yet. But with dropping prices could we be seeing more solar panels on the roofs of homes in the capital soon?

“Absolutely” says Dr Justin Hodgkiss, deputy director at the Wellington-based MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology. He should know, having spent the better part of the last decade delving into the intricacies of solar power cells – or photovoltaics, as the scientists insist on calling them. “Now the technology is getting into the realm of consumers. If you look at the price, it is only going one way – down.” Just a few years ago a standard residential solar power system could be expected to cost $40,000. Now the cost, including installation, is under $10,000. Statistics collected by the Electricity Authority, which keeps tabs on this sort of thing, show that the market for solar is taking off. Around 1,000 photovoltaic set-ups were connected to the grid nationwide in 2013, and now there are almost 8,000 – but only 120 of them are in Wellington. Although standard silicon solar panels are now much cheaper, new developments could drop the costs of solar technology even more. Justin’s research at the MacDiarmid Institute focuses on developing newer polymer photovoltaics that can be rapidly printed in strips, creating long translucent purple ribbons that can be rolled up and bent every which-way. These polymer cells are much cheaper to manufacture than the familiar glassy blue silicon solar panels currently available. Installation and replacement would also be simple, says Justin, envisaging that in the future “you could just buy a roll of photovoltaic material from Bunnings and roll it out onto your roof.” The polymer cells are not quite as efficient as silicon panels yet, but Justin says the technology will catch up with silicon panels in the next ten years. Whatever shape solar technology takes he is certain it will work out in favour of the consumer: “The price is always going down, if the numbers – in terms of the cost-benefit – don’t add up now it is only a matter of time until they will.”

this summer Shop for unique, handmade quilts, cushions and rugs from around the world.

86-96 Victoria Street www.tradeaid.org.nz

04 499 1839

Summer entertaining with Trade Aid

The stuff that sweet dreams are made of. Beautiful pure linen bedlinen. Who said sophistication couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be fun?

Plenty of serving ideas and exotic flavours www.tradeaid.org.nz | 88 Victoria St, Wellington 499 1839 | 125 Jackson St, Petone| 586 7626

cnr Blair & Wakefield Streets,Wellington www.smallacorns.co.nz/0800 22 67 67

www.cubadupa.co.nz

BY THE BOOK

3 OUT OF 4 A I N ’ T BA D Wellingtonians have nabbed three of four New Zealand spots on the International Board on Books for Young People International Honour List: a biennial selection of the leading children’s literature from 75 member countries. Kapiti Coast young-adult author Mandy Hager was honoured for Singing Home the Whale (which earlier won the 2015 Margaret Mahy Book of the Year). Gecko Press publisher Julia Marshall was recognised for translating Detective Gordon: The First Case (by Swedish writer Ulf Nilsson) into English, while Huia Press’s Kawata Teepa was acknowledged for translating Sacha Cotter’s Keys from English into te reo title Ngā Kī.

ONLINE LIBRARIES

HISTORIC HAVEN

You’ll recognise the places – and maybe some of the people – in new coffee-table book, Wandering Wellington’s Waterfront (Steele Roberts, $40). Former orthopaedic surgeon Alastair Grant can often be spotted walking along the Wellington waterfront, stopping to snap photos that capture his favourite spots – or that capture a moment. His evocative photos tell the story, and they’re nicely complemented by essays from Gregory O’Brien and Ian Wedde, plus a few poems.

In line with a year-long trial by its UK branch, Penguin Random House Australia and New Zealand is making its catalogue of 4000 e-books available for libraries to buy. This means readers can choose whether to borrow a physical copy or download a digital version through the library’s website or app. By far New Zealand’s biggest publisher, Penguin Random House has already run a successful pilot programme in the US.

Stephanie Johnson has been awarded the 2016 CNZ Randell Cottage Writers Fellowship. The Auckland-based novelist, who lived in Wellington as a teenager, will move into the historic Thorndon cottage in July. For six months she’ll work mainly on a non-fiction book about 20th-century New Zealanders living in Australia. Since 2002, the Randell Cottage has hosted one writer from New Zealand and another from France. Nicolas Fargues has just arrived from France.

creative 7287

BESIDE THE SEASIDE

www.emersons.co.nz

BY THE BOOK

R E -V E R SE INTRODUCED BY CLAIRE ORCHARD

LOW R E S

L et’s Not Let’s not talk about the thing that makes you sad, He said. As if it were some very grey creature. Some pet or other that had escaped in the time it took me to wrap my legs around his legs. By Ish Doney, in Sweet Mammalian (Issue one), edited by Hannah Mettner, Magnolia Wilson and Morgan Bach.

BREAKDOWN Bio Ish Doney is a New Zealand poet and photographer living in Edinburgh. Despite growing increasingly homesick she refuses to move back until she’s seen a badger. Her first collection is being released next year.

life & work

www.unitybooks.co.nz

In brief Each time I read this poem I’m struck by the emotional punch it packs into a mere seven lines, a scant forty words. And yet it still manages to feel so effortless, as if it formed itself upon the page. Doney has achieved here what all poets strive for, a goal described by Peter Bland in his poem “The selfish poet”: “I want you to feel what I feel. / I want you to be me….to slip inside my skin / and know the little I know.” In this snapshot of an intimate moment, Doney exposes the freight of complexities such moments can carry. Her characterisation of this “thing / that makes you sad” as a “very grey creature” helps convey a sense of the speaker’s feelings (interesting, how colours carry associations) and, even as I arrive at the distraction of those intertwining legs, I’m still captured by the image of this creature, expanded in the preceding lines into “Some pet or other / that had escaped”. How can the “He” be so dismissive? An escaped pet surely demands some kind of action? But perhaps this disappearing act has been performed before. Perhaps he considers all possible options exhausted, that there’s nothing left to be said or done. Vanished pets, grey creatures, the things that make us sad, often have their own agendas. Sometimes they take flight only to show up again when it suits them. My sense is this “very grey creature” will be back. 82

TAMAGO

We are Wellington’s electric bike specialists. We sell, custom build and service electric bikes THE TAMAGO PLANTER HANDMADE IN WELLINGTON, NZ FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @TAMAGOCERAMICS

WWW.TAMAGOCERAMICS.COM

6 month interest free finance WWW.WELLINGTONELECTRICBIKES.CO

380 Jackson Street (Entrance on Cuba St), Petone, Call Cliff on 021 811 505

fidel’s Re-open 5 January. Book now for Valentines Day!

Open 7 days Brunch, Lunch, Dinner and Dessert, 25 Kent Terrace, Wellington (04) 385 2551

CAPITAL M ADE

I N

W E L L I NG TON

SUBSCRIBE $77 for 11 issues of Capital, delivered to your door. L O C A L TA L E S , OR I G I NA L C ON T E N T & B E AU T I F U L DE SIG N

• visit capitalmag.co.nz/subscribe • email accounts@capitalmag.co.nz with Subscribe in the subject line • or post your contact details & payment to PO Box 9202, Marion Square, Wellington, 6141

Offer is valid for NZ postal addresses only.

w w w. c apit a lma g.c o.nz

BUSINESS

A CHAIN REACTION PHOTOGRAPHED BY BENJAMIN & ELISE

Coffee snob SARAH LANG discovers that chain-store coffee can taste good – and do good for others.

’m not big on coffee chains. After all, why buy your flat white from a chain when you can support small local businesses that make great coffee? That ethos is why I’ve only been into a Mojo once, desperate for a caffeine fix. I’d seen lots of Mojos pop up in Auckland and Wellington, so didn’t realise it was a local business. “We’re a chain, but we’re Wellington’s chain,” says Steve Gianoutsos, Mojo’s straight-talking founder and managing director. He’s pushing back against the perception that chains are bad. “Just because you’re big doesn’t mean you’re crap.” Certainly the coffee is good. And unlike Starbucks, each Mojo has its own look and feel, designed by world-class architectural designer Allistar Cox to suit the building it’s in.

The customers clearly like what they’re seeing and tasting. Mojo now sells 60,000 coffees – and counting – a week. Between early December and mid-January, rather than relaxing, Steve will open one new café in Wellington and two in Auckland. That makes 22 Mojos in Wellington and 11 in Auckland. Always scouting for possible locations in Auckland, Steve also gets phonecalls from Wellington landlords wanting him to set up a café. Occasionally a shop doesn’t work out and Mojo pulls out, but that’s rare. “We’ll keep growing the business in Wellington and Auckland, but now the big focus is international.” The first of three Tokyo Mojos opened in 2012, and, in September 2015, the first Mojo opened in Xi’an, China.

BUSINESS

There are expansion plans for Asia, and plans to enter other international markets. Next goal, world domination? “Actually, nine years ago we wrote 10 goals for the company and the only one we haven’t ticked off is world domination.” Hey, nine out of 10 ain’t bad, especially when you’re working on number 10. It all happens from Mojo HQ/Roastery in the long brick Shed 13 on Customhouse Quay, just across from the Mojo Waterfront café, and open to the public. At each end of the former shipping warehouse, stairs lead up to two cubic “pods” that resemble giant glass elevators: one is the office, the other is the meeting room. As the 20 staff work here, they can look down on the roastery below, where Lambros Gianoutsos is pouring a sack of beans into the cast-iron drum of a Probat roaster. “Dad’s 75 and won’t take a holiday because he’s afraid we’ll replace him,” Steve quips. “But I think I can get another 10 years out of him.” As master roaster, Lambros changes the variables (type of beans, temperature, moisture levels, airflow, length) to create coffee blends with names like Dr Mojo’s Feelgood and Dr Mojo’s Medicine. Mojo delivers espresso blends, plunger blends and whole beans to their own and other cafes (and to offices and individuals through its e-store). Until 2013, each café had an owner-operator who got 50 percent of the profit. Why? “Because the hardest thing about hospitality is losing good people.” That business model was very capital intensive, so now each partner looks after two or three cafes under a partnership model that gives them shares. “A tiny shareholding in the whole group is worth much more than half of one shop’s profits,” Steve says. Other senior staff are also shareholder partners. “This business model motivates the staff, plus there’s a [potential] career path from barista right through to management.” Consequently Mojo, which employs 250 people, has low staff turnover. Steve always tells new partners and senior staff that Mojo isn’t a nine-to-five job. “We’ve given you this opportunity, now you need to work your arse off.”

Known for his work ethic and his charisma, Steve talks a lot about “the Mojo vibe,” “sharing the magic” and “the Mojo family.” He prides himself on knowing every staff member’s name, and pops into the cafes as often as possible, working from his laptop. “The only problem is they all bring me a coffee.” (He usually sticks to two a day: long blacks or short blacks.) “If it’s super busy, I’ll jump behind the counter, because I miss making coffee and bantering with customers.” He started young. While at primary school, Steve helped out after school and during holidays at his family’s establishments on the “Hellenic mile” of Greek milk bars and cafes: Rose Milk Bar on Lambton Quay, Tasty Sandwich bar on Vivian Street, and the Yucatan Coffee Lounge (later called Rozo) on Cuba Street. Steve left school at 16 to join the army, briefly serving in Fiji in 1986. After travelling and a forgettable stint in real estate, he realised hospitality was in his DNA – and that he wanted to be his own boss. In 2001, he and wife Julie opened Espresso Republic on Featherston St. But Steve was tired of the variable quality of coffee, and keen to roast his own. In 2003, borrowing the funds, the couple opened the first Mojo on Wakefield St, two days before their first child was born. Steve taught himself to use the fivekilogram roaster and sold coffees on the side, as Julie balanced the baby with the bookkeeping. One day they decided that, rather than just supplying other cafes, they’d open more Mojos. “We thought “we’ll just do this shop, then this one, and it snowballed,” Steve says. “Opening shops is a bit of an addiction.” With three babies in three years, those were busy days. Julie’s focus was and is the family, and she now teaches yoga therapy in schools – but she’s still involved in Mojo’s direction. Mojo does a lot more than roast coffee and run cafes. With two full-time trainers, Mojo is the only New Zealand roastery accredited to offer the three-day City & Guilds Award in Barista Skills qualification. The public can take the beginners’ course Intro to Espresso and

BUSINESS

the follow-up course Latte Art, while espressomaking and coffee-tasting sessions are tailored to corporate groups. Mojo also runs roastery tours for high-school students, hospitality students, tour companies, and groups of Americans from cruise ships. They also hire out the cafes occasionally – and the roastery regularly – for private events, usually in the evenings. “Recently there was a wedding here, and a yoga class lying on the coffee sacks.” Mojo also sells espresso machines and grinders for the home or office, cups, gift vouchers, and coffee subscriptions (delivered to your door). And you may have spied Mojo’s mobile coffee cart or caravan at events. “Our offshoots have to be close to our core business. Making our own chocolate was a fail because I didn’t have enough time.” However, he’s made time for a special project. In 2014, World Vision invited him to visit Vanuatu’s Tanna Island (population 29,000) where coffee beans are the number-one export. He went, buying an 18-tonne container of green beans. Shortly afterwards, in March 2015, Cyclone Pam hit Tanna Island, ruining the crops and infrastructure, and Steve realised his beans were among the last they’d sold. “I thought ‘I’ve got to help these people. What if we roast and sell this coffee and give them the proceeds?” He approached World Vision and in the charity’s first co-branding partnership with a private company, Mojo would raise funds and World Vision administer them to get Tanna Island’s 400 smallholder coffee farmers back on their feet.

When you buy a 250-gram bag of Mojo/World Vision Vanuatu Single Origin coffee from a Mojo cafe or its e-store, $8 of your $12.50 goes to the project. If you buy a one-kilo bag from the e-store, $30 of your $45 goes to the project. That’s more than the profit. So far Mojo has sold a third of the coffee and, if it’s all sold before it spoils, it will raise $400,000 for the project. That’s a great start, but the project needs more funding to begin. So, with input from Mojo, World Vision has submitted a funding application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a commercially sound project to not just rebuild but grow Tanna Island’s coffee industry. A decision was expected in mid-December, and the project should start on the ground in mid 2016. “This isn’t about aid – it’s about building a longterm sustainable business,” Steve says. Having been to Tanna Island twice, he’ll return when the project begins. “We’ll bring in farmers and agronomists to help teach best farming practices.” For instance, the islanders could grow three times as many plants per hectare as they used to, and could introduce new varieties and use new tools. Since coffee plants take three to five years to fruit, Steve expects it to be a five- to ten-year project for Mojo. It will be a bridge between Tanna Island and the global coffee market, with Steve taking the islanders’ beans to the international trade shows he attends. The project is a big financial commitment. “But everything Mojo’s done hasn’t been dollar driven. It’s been because we can.”

Has your rental been appraised for the current market? ü ü

We’ll find you the best property manager to care for your property Contact our team for a free, no obligation appraisal

Oxygen is a part of Professionals, Redcoats Limited

We are your local experts operating throughout Wellington, The Hutt Valley and Hawkes Bay

Talk to Andrew, he’ll shout you a coffee and discuss your property management needs.

oxygen.co.nz

Andrew Noyce New Business Manager

M 027 801 4247 E andrew.noyce@oxygen.co.nz

Letting | Property Management | Body Corporate 88

Summer racing is here New Zealand’s largest selection of fascinators and race day hats, over 200 to choose from and match with a fabulous special occasion bag from an astounding range of styles and colours

All at our exciting new location

26 February – 24 April 2016 Victoria University of Wellington Gate 3, Kelburn Parade www.adamartgallery.org.nz

160 Lambton Quay | Phone 4710 444.

“Specialising in Tax Law and Immigration Law” With 16 years’ experience as a senior tax lawyer

5 years’ experience as an immigration consultant

Ismail Rasheed

Principal Solicitor |Director www.facebook.com/irlegal.lawyer

IR Legal Limited, 51 Queens Dr, Lower Hutt P: 566 1155 | E: ir@irlegal.lawyer

INTERIORS

1 3

5 6

7 8

TOUCH WO OD

Rustic, raw and humble, it's about displaying rather than putting-awaying. Combine well-designed pieces with sentimental finds to complete the look.

1. Dark grey teapot - $39.99 - Trade Aid 2. Kitchen canister - $14 - Let Liv 3. Tamago planter - $65.00 - Tamago Ceramics 4. Wooden pot scrub - $9.90 - Iko Iko 5. Round chopping board - $49.99 - Trade Aid 6. Eclectic round fruit basket - $42.90 - Iko Iko 7. Spoonless container in ash - $99 - Let Liv 8. Small stone mortar and pestle - $18.99 - Trade Aid 9. Round copper & stainless steel tray - $59.99 - Trade Aid 10. Holscher Salt Box - $25 - Let Liv

INTERIORS

4 6

5 7 8

COMIC YO U T H

Full of nostalgia, mix and match the old with the new for a Pinterest-worthy child's space. Use a classic palette for the base and add modern touches to help see you through the years.

1. Eclectic school clock - $89.90 - Iko Iko 2. Raccoon puppet - $22.99 - Trade Aid 3. Love You To The Moon flag - $29.99 - Small Acorns 4. Jail Bird linen cushion - $99 - Let Liv 5.Toodles Noodles can candle - $49.90 - Iko Iko 6. Criss Cross Swanky Blanky - $69 - Let Liv 7. Misery Guts ABC wall chart - $75 - Iko Iko 8. Fox money box $26.99 - Trade Aid 9. Porcelain owl lamp - $62.90 - Iko Iko 10. Nest with three eggs - $5.90 - Iko Iko

INTERIORS

3 2 4 4

6 5

10 9

W I L D, WILD REST

Bold graphic pattern, loads of texture & natural materials will have you dreaming of cowboys and wigwams. Don't forget the obligatory cactus plant.

1. Castle grey velvet pillowcase - $95 - Small Acorns 2. Amulet cushion cover $59.90 - Iko Iko 3. Windchime - $38.99 - Trade Aid 4. Vinter concrete soy candle - $59 - Let Liv 5. Ayo embroidered cushion $74.90 - Iko Iko 6. Pigeonhole cactus pot - $29.90 - Iko Iko 7. Moroccan leather pouf - $179.90 - Let Liv 8. Queen quilt with triangle design - $239.99 - Trade Aid 9. Assorted cactus candles - $4.90 - Iko Iko 10. Orange patterned floor rug - $109.99 - Trade Aid

SHORT TERM & LONG TERM ACCOMMODATION

LIVE - WORK - STUDY 363 Willis Street, Wellington 0800 227 4825 / 0800 CAPITAL www.capitalaccommodation.co.nz

124 Willis Street, Wellington 0800 784 367 / 0800 ST GEORGE www.hotelstgeorge.co.nz

INTERIORS

2 3

6 5

7 10

8 9

MISH MASH

Pops of neon, homely quirk and plenty of colour. Turn chaos into charming commotion with layering, patterns and plenty of art on the wall. Perfect for those who gravitate towards clutter.

1. Piccolo table lamp - $119 - Let Liv 2. Eclectic house candle holder - $20.93 - Iko Iko 3. Bonnie & Neil botanical green cushion - $195 - Small Acorns 4. The Charlie blanket - $219 - Let Liv 5. Eclectic washpaper bag - $64.90 - Iko Iko 6. Storage boxes - $29-58 - BoConcept 7. Blabla pillow Apple - $95 - Small Acorns 8. Tutti Frutti Castle pillowcase - $95 - Small Acorns 9. Candlesticks - $29-37 - BoConcept 10. I'm Glad You Exist poster - $14.90 - Iko Iko

ABROAD

FIND THE GAP DRIVING A SCOOTER IN INDIA There is a method to the madness of driving a scooter in India. AIDEN RASMUSSEN who’s studying yoga in Mysore finds it’s the best way to see a city. Part two of our two part series Travelling with a child through India. There’s a pop and the back wheel feels as if it has sunk into the road, except we’re still moving, kind of – wobbling from side to side. My heart feels as if it’s going to fly out my mouth as I grip the armrest behind me like my life depends on it. For a moment I think we’re about to topple over and go skidding down the road – images of shredded skin, grazed knees and bloodied hands flicker through my mind – but Raghu straightens the scooter. It makes a thupping sound as he heads for the kerb. Raghu tries to hide it, but I can tell he’s embarrassed and upset. He apologises and I try to reassure him, but he’s taking it hard and already on the phone to the scooter owner. I feel for him. I don’t know how much it’s going to cost to fix the tyre, but people like us are crucial to Raghu’s livelihood and this unexpected turn of events could set him back a fair bit. We look down at the mangled tyre; it’s come completely away from the rim. “The man who gave me the scooter told me to check the air,” Raghu says apologetically. It’s not Raghu’s fault, but indirectly it might be ours. He’d been speeding across town to get to us to bring me back on the scooter he was riding, which would be ours for a month, so he could guide me back to our home on his own

motorcycle. Raghu’s the kind of guy that always delivers. He found us accommodation, set us up with Indian sim cards and home delivery of 20-litre water bottles. He’s our go-to guy here and we trust him. Blowing a tyre on the way to pay for the scooter isn’t going to change that. I have to come clean – in New Zealand I don’t drive a scooter. I only do so when I’m overseas, for some reason in countries where road rules receive only token acknowledgement: Rarotonga in 2005 and Thailand in 2011. Originally we’d decided not to drive in India, a decision we felt had been vindicated after some near misses while riding in rickshaws; and even though I’d seen whole families on scooters, I wasn’t sure I wanted to put our daughter on the back. But after four weeks carrying her, my wife suggested that we rent one. After the tyre is changed, I’ve bought a helmet and Raghu’s driven me back to where he had parked his motorcycle, I’m handed the keys and left with the scary prospect of riding across town to our house. I’m grateful for this baptism of fire – there’s no backing out; I have to get the scooter home. At first my driving is tentative as I trail behind Raghu. I putter past everything from bicycles to horse-drawn carts and pedestrians who

ABROAD

walk across the busy roads as if the traffic isn’t even there. My nerves are slowly replaced by a sense of freedom and excitement. The city opens up and it’s as if I’m seeing, smelling and hearing it for the very first time: the splash of colours from roadside fruit stalls, garlands of flowers and rugs hanging from rope strung between trees, a thousand street foods giving off a mouth-watering medley of scent, a long queue of rickshaws at a service station waiting to be filled, exhaust fumes in my face. It is a cliché – but I feel alive. I can’t wait to get home so I can take my family back out with me. Although it was my wife’s idea, once on the pillion, she’s not so sure it was a good one. She’s a more nervous passenger than I was initially a driver. It’s the same feeling I had when we were riding in rickshaws – of powerlessness, that disaster is imminent. My daughter, on the other hand, is hooked from the very first ride and her previous love of riding in a rickshaw is quickly forgotten. Before long she’s giving me instructions on how to drive, demanding to sit at the front instead of sandwiched between her parents, and asking why I keep beeping my horn at everybody. You see the horn isn’t used to vent frustration here; it’s used to warn traffic and pedestrians you’re coming or about to pass, which seems much more civilized. One of the best tips we were given was to always keep moving no matter how busy the traffic or from how many directions it came at us. The only time she’d ever had an accident, said our advisor, was when she stopped. There’s logic in

this approach to driving in Mysore. Traffic lights, like helmets, seem to be more for decoration than function, but there is an order, or pattern, to driving here. The trick is to be in perpetual motion. When you are stationary all those tiny gaps and opportunities for over- or under-taking disappear, and the road becomes clogged thanks to the apprehensive foreigner. Throw your homecountry road code away – it won’t help here. Where I once saw chaos and imminent disaster as a passenger in a rickshaw, now I see – and am part of – a vehicular version of synchronised swimming. The timing may be a bit off and it may look ugly, but it’s as equally balletic, and even fun. Having said that, you do need to watch out for potholes, judder bars, people driving on the wrong side of the road and rickshaw drivers who seem to be in a hurry to die. This being India, there’s one other thing you need to be aware of, and definitely not hit, when you’re driving – cows. They’re not exactly everywhere, but you will encounter them on the roads every day. Despite being the most placid of creatures, it still pays to give them a wide berth because you never know when one might get spooked and they always have the right of way. Then again everyone does in India, which isn’t as confusing as it sounds. You just have to fit yourself into the pattern, find your gap and drive for it. It takes a little getting used to, but it’s the way to freedom and the best way to see a city.

Love to shop at the

THE

Old Bank Arcade EXPERIENCE Let the NZSO experience take you on an extraordinary journey. Become a 2016 suBscriBer

de sPA ChoColAtIer wAllACe Cotton

hIGher tAste restAUrAnt MoJo sMIth the GroCer stArbUCks

GeorGIe love hAIr stUdIo l’oCCItAne lUsh shAMPoo PlUs sPA exPress

SeaSon 2016 NEW ZE A L A ND SY MPHON Y ORCHESTR A

nzso.co.nz bo o k o n l i n e at

AndreA Moore CloCkwork Gold exChAnGe I love UGly I love PArIs MIssy’s rooM rICoChet rUby shAllA Jewellers tAylor boUtIqUe tory & ko vIGI workshoP

www.oldbank.co.nz Open 7 Days

T R AV E L

SLOUCHING T O WA R D S JERUSALEM WRITTEN BY DAVID COHEN

A high sun splayed its rays over the azure water among green fields. Fern-fringed banks that came into luminous focus as we drove down, down, down into a mysterious valley, which for sheer natural beauty would stand comparison with any in the world.

inally, after a half-century of waiting, I was on my way to Jerusalem. When I turned 50, I said, I wanted to visit a geographic milestone worthy of the chronological milestone. But finding the right celebratory balance, at a point where we long ago ceased to be young but remain far from venerable, can be a challenge. Victor Hugo said the 40s are the old age of youth, and the 50s the youth of old age. His words are probably supposed to reassure us. They don’t. But they underscore my need to find a memorable destination. I chose Jerusalem. Like many Wellingtonians, I’m more familiar with its Middle Eastern namesake, which I’ve visited a number of times and love and hate in more or less equal measure. “In the din and tumult of the age,” somebody once said, the “still small voice” of this other Jerusalem “remains our only music.” Which is nonsense. The other Jerusalem is a very noisy place. As Julian Barnes says, Israel is a screaming place “with no small talk, only argument, where western manners are treated as effete and evasive, where you are constantly reminded that you are witnessing History Now.” But one of the pleasures of becoming stricken in years is the urge to enjoy a bit of History Then as well. Our Jerusalem is soft-focussed and quiet, like the church spire that would soon become visible in the distance. It can be accessed by jet boat, too, or even helicopter if one is a guest at the nearby Bridge to Nowhere Lodge; but we were just there for a day trip to look at the church. Our car grumbled along the gravelly River Road past other little settlements with

names romantically redolent of elsewhere: Koriniti (Corinth), Ātene (Athens) and Rānana (London). The spire in the distance belongs to St Joseph’s Catholic church, which was designed by Thomas Turnbull and built in 1893, which recently had its Historic Places status upgraded to Category 1. The building stands as a legacy of the original mission builder, Father Jean Lampila, who worked alongside the local Ngāti Hau, a hapu of the great Whanganui River confederation. For somewhere fairly close to our city, getting to Jerusalem takes a bit of effort. North of Whanganui, one takes the fork in the State Highway 4 at the scraggly Mount of Olives and heads carefully—very carefully around some of the curvy bits—towards the hamlet on the hill. If getting to it by car requires effort, it’s nothing like it must have been when paddleboats and waka were the only access to the area, until the road was opened in 1934. In the late 1800s Jerusalem first became a destination for orphans and abandoned kids. This was thanks to the work of Mother Suzanne Aubert in establishing the Jerusalem Foundling Home. By many accounts an impressively resourceful woman—there are moves afoot for her to be canonised—her legacy nonetheless remains mixed: the remoteness of the home she helped establish also made the area attractive to sexual predators, most infamously the Wellington serial offender Vince Calcinai, who died while awaiting trial for related offences.

100

T R AV E L

Calcinai was among the estimated 1,000 out-of-towners who flocked to the settlement during the four years it served as the headquarters of the James K Baxter crowd—Nga Hippi, they were sometimes sneeringly called—from 1969. In his terrific little book, The Double Rainbow, the academic (and sometime Wellington musician) John Newton recounts how there were just 11 people living in the hamlet when Baxter arrived after completing a two-year poetry fellowship at the University of Otago at the distinctly mid-life age of 42. Newton writes that in ways “both material and symbolic, Jerusalem and the idea of a Jerusalem community appeared capable of harmonising aspects of Baxter’s life and resolving tensions endemic to his thought.” In Wellington, Baxter had been a charismatic drunk and a poet with a knack for spouting sub-Blakean verse, excellent qualifications for the cult status he would later enjoy. It was in Jerusalem that he reinvented himself, as one awed biographer, W H Oliver, put it, as a “nondescript, saintly commune leader of uncertain appetites.” Given the era, drugs also featured on the agenda, but here the Christ-figure, as Baxter was explicitly styling himself, had some reservations, cautioning his followers that “druginduced despair is not something I groove on.” Fighting, too, was “not okay” under any circumstances. In death, perhaps even more so than in life, Baxter has been venerated. Who knows what the local Maori really made of his disciples? As I parked beside the church, I considered the wider history of the settlement’s name. Jerusalem’s appellation harks back to the English missionary Samuel Marsden, who declared in 1819 that the Maori had, in fact, evolved from one of the lost tribes of Israel. Influenced by the era's stereotypes of Jewish identity, his widely published study of the two groups notes several intersecting points, among them trading skills, a similarity of roles between Maori elders and rabbis, and a common conception of God. Other missionaries drew up a list of 38 near-identical religious attitudes between Old Testament Jew and Maori, ranging from customs of burial and menstruation to conduct in warfare. According to Anne and Laurie Gluckman, a team of contemporary Jewish historians, the views of Marsden found

favour among both groups. By the mid-1800s, it was not un likely for a Maori tribesman to declare himself a true "Israelite". A warrior-priest of the 1830s, Te Atua Wera, for instance, founded a movement based on the notion of Maori as one of Israel's lost tribes, specifically chosen by God. His followers, mostly already converted to Christianity, recharacterised themselves as "Jews," believing that the settlers' religion had rendered them strangers in their own land. The same was true of Te Kooti Rikirangi. He founded a religion known as Ringatu, meaning "the upraised hand," in the sense of a Jewish priestly blessing. All of his followers were expected to memorise lengthy passages from the Old Testament. The verses had to be recited exactly, as a Torah scroll must be perfectly written. Services of worship were held on the 12th of each month, perhaps a nod in the direction of the 12 tribes. Like Judaism, the Ringatu Church still awaits the messiah, a similarity that inspired author Maurice Shadbolt's best-selling novel, The Season of the Jew, loosely based on the church's history. Other traces of this belief remain. There are hamlets still known as Judea, Canaan and Babylon. Also on the map—with a post office that enjoys brisk business every year around Christmas—we have the tiny town of Bethlehem. Last, but certainly not least, we have Jerusalem, still picture-perfect but now inhabited mainly by the historical ghosts that float around the Sisters of Compassion convent next to the church. The building remains the main port of call for visitors, unless they are invited to the nearby marae or stay overnight at the convent. Today the church stands amid tranquil gardens, bathed in exquisite sunlight. Inside, the sunlight streaming through the windows and the open doors plays on cream walls outlined in white. The carpet is pohutukawa-red, and a kowhaiwhai border with patterned white carvings runs along the top of the walls and in the vertical panels near the altar,. The altar features another carving, this one illuminated by milky blue paua. It had been a long and stiff journey to get here—345 kilometres, and 50 years in the making—with another looming if we were to make the return by nightfall. Looking forward to the miles and years ahead might be no bowl of blueberries, but surely both will be improved for having come here.

101

102

T O R Q U E TA L K

REAL STONK WRITTEN BY BY JONATHAN PAAPE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RHETT GOODLEY-HORNBLOW

Over my 40 or so years driving, racing, and building cars, it’s been very rare for me to own a car that lacked grunt and eyeball appeal. I really only want to drive a car that’s thrilling, has real stonk, and which I feel compelled to look back at once I’m parked up, kind of like a love-sick teenager. My cars need to be visually appealing.

y wife and I had just parked up at Bloom, the restaurant at Murdoch James’ vineyard in Martinborough.We were heading in for lunch on a 200km test drive loop. As we walked away from Holden’s hot hatch, the Astra hi-performance VXR, I couldn’t resist looking back – twice in fact, because this is one hunkered-down, high-waisted, low-roofed, aggressive, terrificlooking little missile. Even Mrs. Paape looked back, a rarely paid compliment to a car I can tell you. Now any self-respecting Top Gear viewer knows the Holden Astra range is a rebadge of a German Opel or an English Vauxhall. Typically Clarkson rubbishes anything Vauxhall, but he raved about the Astra VXR. I’ve always had an interest in the Opel brand as my father drove an Opel in the 1940s. The most memorable thing about his Opel was that it ran on charcoal. It had a fire box on the back which they called a gas producer. The carbon monoxide and methane gas produced was fed into the motor, and away you’d go. I can imagine the Greens embracing it at full moon deep in a kauri forest; however maybe OSH might not like it. Anyone can see that the Astra looks great, but what we really want to know is how does it drive in the country and around town? First, it’s got a very nice place to sit, with sporty heated leather seats, a full range of instruments, and a standard of trim that reflects its European roots. Once you’re rolling it’s really easy on the road. There’s copious pulling power down low from the turbocharged engine, which means you can stick it into fourth gear around town and leave it there. Velvet glove, slowspeed driving is pleasant, but how about when you want to flex that 200 kw (270 bhp) motor you paid a premium for? It’s got huge mid-range punch, it’s impressively fast, and it’s all delivered in a way that won’t scare your passengers. This is an adult’s car, not some boy racer special. Thankfully Opel’s done a great job of taming the result of the automotive equivalent of putting leopard’s legs on a lizard – that is, trying to put an awful lot of power through just two

wheels. Most high-performance front wheel drive cars with all that grunt sap your confidence when launched under full gas from a stop or out of tight slow-speed corners, and try and twist themselves over into the gutter. By some Teutonic miracle, the VXR tracks dead straight. Only the most sensitive driver will detect that it’s front wheel drive. It points into corners in a way that inspires confidence, and twisty bits can be attacked with gusto. With its six-speed gearbox and massive Brembo brakes, it’s more than a badge and tail spoiler, it’s the real deal. Taking jaunts in the back seats of hot hatchbacks are often only for double amputees, as there is generally no rear legroom. The VXR has head and legroom for two adults or sports bags, shopping bags, and even designer dogs. I’ve been a Middle Aged Man In Lycra since long before MAMIL was a popular term. It goes without saying that any car that won’t fit a bike inside is useless. No problem here, as the VXR swallowed up my beloved Italian Pinarello in one easy gulp. I see three alternatives for this car. I run a hot Subaru as a daily driver so I know the Subaru Impreza WRX is good, but its looks are so disagreeable even its mother would disown it. The Volkswagen Golf GTI has great build quality like the Holden but is less powerful and more expensive. The styling is so bland, and do we really need more silver or black Golfs on the road? Volkswagen’s great Golf R rocketship at $70,000 is the real VXR equivalent. Then there’s the Renault RS265. Parked side-by-side with the VXR, the RS 265 looks like a clone. But although it’s well respected by motoring journalists, it’s lower in power, and higher in price. The VXR should hold up well, with its limited numbers, honest build and a great dealer network. Would I spend $50,000 on a VXR? It’s a great sporty drive, looks nicely aggressive and swallows up my bike. It’s the complete package and I think it could be my new Mad Keen Cyclist Express.

103

W E L LY A NG E L

WHAT WOULD DEIRDRE D O? STILL SEARCHING My mother was adopted and says she has no interest, nor need, to find out about her biological parents. I would like to know, for my own interest and for my children, for example possible medical/ health issues. She considers it to be her information and became very angry when I mentioned that I had been doing some research. Is it her information? Do we owe it to her to leave the issue alone? Annoyed, Petone I am not sure what your legal rights are, although I would expect that you are entitled to enquire; BUT I also think you should respect what are clearly strong feelings and resistance from your mother. If you raise it purely from the medical history point of view she could feel more able to talk but maybe let this lie for awhile – do you have any concerns on medical grounds that may make her inclined to be more open?

JIGGERY POKERY I saw my cousin out the other night after a work party. It was pretty explicit behaviour with someone other than her partner. It made me feel a bit sick. Do I let her know I saw her, or do I pretend I didn’t notice? Blindsided, Miramar There is nothing you can do. Let it go. Happy New Year.

MANNERS MAKETH THE MAN What is the etiquette after a first encounter? At her invitation I went home with a girl I had met at a party, and left early next morning, to go to work. Now she is mad at me and has been telling all my mates what a jerk I am. Am I supposed to phone her afterwards, even though I don’t want to see her again? Surprised, Te Aro The morning after....I am not sure there is etiquette involved, but there is certainly some sort of respect due in both directions. Your behaviour is your business and this is between you and her so no comment is probably the way to go. One night stands may have less appeal as you mature?

RED RED RED My father-in-law is a hunter. When he visits he always brings us meat parcels. It is very kind of him and I encourage my husband and children to cook it. However I am a vegetarian and don’t eat any of it. Our friends and neighbours love it when I offer them surplus venison and wild pig. However now I learn that he is affronted by my gifts to neighbours and says he won’t be offering us any more meat. What do I do? Meat intolerant, Karori He must know that you are vegetarian? You don't really want the meat. However I can em-

pathise with his feeling that he is making a gift to you and not to your friends. Talk to him and say that less is more and you appreciate his offerings but are struggling to use it all. He will have others he might like to give to and then it is his choice and his gift. Stay friends.

D ON'T COUNT YOUR CHICKENS My son was expected to win a very big prize at his school, with a largish scholarship attached; it was awarded to someone who he and we think wasn’t a worthy recipient. It seems more likely that he had influential connections. Now our son is depressed, and says what is the point of trying etc, it is corrupt, unfair and dishonest. What should we say to him? And even though it will not change anything should we raise it with the school? Sad, Upper Hutt Nothing you can do. Life throws curve balls and this is one of them. Put it down to character building and try not to bad-mouth anyone, especially within earshot of your son. Decisions like this are final, announced and absolute. Suck it up. Your son needs to move on so don't build a mountain out of it. Get on to the next goal. Life is a journey – travel it. If you’ve got a burning question for Deirdre, email angel@capitalmag.co.nz with Capital Angel in the subject line.

昀愀猀栀椀漀渀簀猀椀稀攀猀㄀㐀⬀ 圀圀圀⸀娀䔀䈀刀䄀一伀⸀䌀伀⸀一娀圀攀氀氀椀渀最琀漀渀㨀㐀䨀漀栀渀猀琀漀渀匀琀 ☀ ㄀㈀㜀䘀攀愀琀栀攀爀猀琀漀渀匀琀䰀漀眀攀爀䠀甀琀琀㌀㌀䠀椀最栀匀琀

104

TE P A

TE PAPA

01 ry 2

ua ebr it F 2 y 1 ck vis a d i Fr ba ntil e feed u n ope provid .nz s i o n.c ack and to b o t d g n Fee ports elli e w r t For nec n o w.c ww

B A B Y, B A B Y

SNAP CRACKLE POP BY MELODY THOMAS

t’s amazing the lengths nature will go to to keep us reproducing. You’ve likely heard that a new mother forgets the pain of childbirth soon after the fact. I’ve never looked into the science behind this but for me it’s definitely true – it took about 24 hours for me to erase close to all memory of the Little Dragon’s arduous birth. I think a similar thing happens when you’re pregnant. When people ask about my experience of pregnancy the image that comes to mind is of me, floating around town and down to the beach wearing a flowing summer dress and a warm glow. And I did have it pretty easy – I barely vomited, was somehow full of energy during my second trimester and didn’t feel much in the way of discomfort until the last few weeks. There were even parts of it I loved: wearing figurehugging dresses without a second thought, daily naps, the fact that I was never really alone, and the butterflies, kicks and stomach flips that come with having a little human rolling about in your belly. This is the stuff I remember. I’ve only ever half-believed my husband who insists there was a whole lot more crying, snapping, complaining and hand-wringing. But I’ve recently found myself having to admit that this really may have been the case – because I’m pregnant again and I am anything but glowing. It has definitely been harder. They tell you that, all the parents of more-than-one, when you’re pregnant with your first. They say things like “Enjoy it this time because next time won’t be nearly so easy”. And you think, “Sheesh, someone needs a nap”, and then you go and have a nap yourself because you don’t have any other children and you can. Your nap is beautiful and rejuvenating and you emerge a

new person ready to face the world and you think “Wow this pregnancy thing is a lark!” But you are completely ignorant about how lucky you are until a year or three or five down the track when (presuming you’re a glutton for punishment and that life decides to follow your plan), you’re pregnant again, now with another child to look after (in our case a threenager), and you find yourself speaking those same words to a first-time pregnant mother whom you only just met: “Lap it up while you can…” I could find a lot more things to complain about. The mums who had terrible pregnancies will find it comforting to know I’ve only just begun to recover from months of vomiting, although apparently my body missed the memo because I’m “showing” about a month ahead of where I was last time. I also happened to shave all of my hair off five months ago, so the rounder I get the harder it is to escape the suspicion that I look like a walking bowling pin. But there are a few things I learnt the first time round that are making it all a bit easier – and they’re big enough to count. Worrying doesn’t do anything to help a situation, so why bother. Telling people you’re pregnant before it’s “safe” is ok because then you have extra support if something goes wrong. Stealing a nap in the first aid room at work is better than struggling through. People want to help you and are only waiting for you to ask. And while there is so much that can go wrong, everything will probably be alright – and if not, you’ll cope. Maybe not right away, but in the end. Because when there’s a small person looking to you to love, nurture and fight for them, there’s really no other option.

106

FOCUS ON

Wicked Tattoo

ry Duskies stylish handcrafted eco-eyewear combines traditional craftmanship with exceptional design. Made from wood, every pair of Duskies is a unique work of art made to last.

www.duskies.co.nz Instagram: @duskies_eco_eyewear www.facebook.com/Duskies Ph: 06 650 1771

IKO IKO Do summer in style!

Specialised health, fitness, nutrition and sustainable weight loss for mid-life women. No more gyms, fad diets or feeling invisible. Skype or personal sessions. Initial consultation free Feel fabulous again! www.fitnessforwomen.co.nz

Whether you are glamping, camping, picnicking or in need of a super special wedding gift- this summer Iko Iko has you covered.

11 Henderson Street, Karori, Wellington Phone: 021 2266112 / 04 476 8114 bevshort@xtra.co.nz

info@ikoiko.co.nz 118 Cuba Street, 198 Lambton Quay and 53 Ponsonby Road

EXCITING CHANGES COMING SOON!

Wicked Tattoo Wicked Tattoo is your home grown tattoo studio in Lower Hutt where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel right at ease the moment you come in. Get in touch now. bookings by appointment through website or call/text mobile number. wickedtattoo.co.nz 0210464167 mywickedtattoo@gmail.com

Mediterranean Visit Sue Daslers Pottery Workshop and Gallery on the south coast at Lyall Bay, where you can purchase locally made hand-thrown ceramics, including the tactile South Coast Series, vibrant Tapa range and earthy terracottas. Open Mon- Sat from 11th Jan 2016.

64 Kingsford Smith Street, Lyall Bay www.suedaslerpottery.co.nz

Foods

Coming soon, a new look and brand new

42 Constable Street, Newtown, 0800 33 44 77, www.medifoods.co.nz