focus magazine New Zealand | About women, for women by focus Magazine

focus LIFESTYLE AND BUSINESS MAGAZINE. INSPIRE. EMPOWER. MOTIVATE.

ISSUE 25 | DECEMBER - JANUARY 2020/21

Krista Davis LIVE FOR MORE SURF THERAPY

BEING BUSY BEING PRODUCTIVE WHAT IT’S LIKE TO RUN A SEASONAL BUSINESS

NORTH ISLAND HIKES

IC FANTAST YS GIVEAWA E ID S IN

Take me h ome I’M FREE

focus | CONTENTS

24 CONTENTS

DECEMBER-JANUARY2020/21 COVER STORY

LIFE

Live For More surf therapy founder

How to deal with hormonal fluctuations at this age

KRISTA DAVIS

REGULARS

WOW SAILING

WHAT’S ON? Best events over the next two months

FOCUS ON BOOKS Beach must-reads

ASK THE EXPERTS

Things to know about sunscreens and neck pain

BEAUTY Summer beauty

FITNESS

Women on Water

BE PERIOD-SMART Eco-friendly alternatives to period products

10 UNDER 10 Best short hikes in the North Island

RECIPES Vegan junk food to share

BUSINESS 46

SUMMER SQUAD

Best free YouTube workouts

What does running a seasonal business look like?

STYLE Black is back!

BEING BUSY VS BEING PRODUCTIVE

HOME Beach bach vibes

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BIG 4-0

THE LAST PAGE Cake baker Ari Schou

focus PUBLISHER Align Publishing EDITOR Dee Collins dee@focusmagazine.co.nz CREATIVE DIRECTOR Alex Spodyneiko ONLINE EDITOR Kseniia Spodyneiko kseniia@focusmagazine.co.nz SALES advertising@focusmagazine.co.nz COVER IMAGE Vanessa Laval-Glad Laval Photo & Video FEATURE WRITERS Millie Freeman Kinsa Hays PRINTING Print People CONTACT DETAILS 62 10th Avenue Tauranga 3110 (n-Gon Group Head Office) P O Box 14004, Tauranga, 3143 Tel: (07) 578 6838 Mobile: 021 535 770 focusmagazine.co.nz facebook.com/focusmagazinenz DISTRIBUTION 5,000 free copies are delivered bi-monthly to high traffic areas such as high-end cafés and restaurants, hairdressers, fashion boutiques, waiting rooms and professional offices across BOP, Hamilton, Cambridge and surrounding areas. DIGITAL focus is available to view online and is supported by social media sites including Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. focus is a free magazine (subscriptions are available) and is published six times a year by Align Publishing. focus is subject to copyright in its entirety. All rights are reserved and reproduction in whole or in part, without the written consent of The Publisher (Align Publishing), is prohibited. Align Publishing and all its related companies and officers hereby disclaim, to the full extent permitted by law, all liability, damages, costs and expenses whatsoever arising from or in connection with information or other material in this magazine, any negligence of The Publisher, or any person’s actions in reliance thereon. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and correctness of the information contained within this magazine and inclusion of any copy must not be taken as an endorsement by The Publisher. Views expressed by contributors are personal views and they are not necessarily endorsed by The Publisher. Any dispute or complaint regarding placed advertisements must be made within seven days of publication. All material sent to focus (whether solicited or not) will not be returned unless otherwise agreed beforehand, and all rights, including copyright in such material will be assigned to Align Publishing upon receipt. The Publishers presume all letters and other material submitted to focus and related social media sites are intended for publication unless clearly labelled “not for publication”.

Editor’s Welcome

Image by Vanessa Laval-Glad Hair and makeup by Sharyn Butters

ell, here we are rapidly approaching the end of another year – a year that’s been persistently challenging for all of us as our resilience and hope for the future has been tested again and again. Thankfully, in spite of the setbacks and now with eyes firmly reset on the future, we readily take the steps towards 2021 … albeit with fingers crossed! This year we have again met and interviewed so many outstanding women whose narratives have kept us motivated and inspired, and our final edition for 2020 is no different. In our cover story the incredible Krista Davis tells us how her Tauranga-based charity Live For More is using surf therapy to steer young men away from a life of addictions, violence and crime and onto a more positive pathway. Staying on the water theme, we hear from women who’ve taken up sailing as part of the WOW – Women on Water – summer sailing and racing series, and we get you ready for an active holiday break with ideas for 10 awesome hikes under 10km. We’re looking forward to a brighter year ahead and hope you are too. From the focus team, thank you all so much for your continued support. We wish you a very happy and safe Christmas and New Year. See you in 2021.

With gratitude,

focus

Dee

LIFESTY LE AND BUSINE INSPIRE. SS MAGAZ EMPOW INE. ER. MO TIVATE .

ISSUE

Editor & Founder dee@focusmagazine.co.nz

25 | DECE

MBER -

JANUARY

2020/21

Krista D avis LIVE FO R MORE SURF

BEING BU SY BEING PR ODUCTIV E

THERAP Y

WHAT IT’ A SEASONS LIKE TO RU AL BUSIN N ESS NORTH ISLAND HIKES

10 lable at focus are avai FREE copies of fice. our of Tauranga 62 Tenth Ave, n-Gon Group, stocks last) le (whi

FANTASTIC GIVEAWAYS INSIDE

Take me I’M FR home EE

focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | DIGITAL

ONLINE IN DECEMBER/JANUARY YOUTUBE.COM/FOCUSMAGAZINENZ

FOCUSMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

WATCH KRISTA DAVIS BRAVELY CONQUERING THE FREEZING OCTOBER WAVES AND OUR PHOTOGRAPHER VANESSA LAVAL-GLAD CLIMBING THE ROCKY HILLS OF LEISURE ISLAND BAREFOOT IN OUR LATEST BEHIND THE SCENES VIDEO. THINGS WE DO FOR THE PERFECT COVER SHOT!

THE MOST EXPECTED BOOK RELEASES OF 2021

focusmagazine.co.nz/subscribe Purchase your annual subscription to focus magazine for only $38.

Tips to create the perfect Christmas mood at home

The first five new or renewing subscribers will receive a copy of Fearless Footsteps: True Stories That Capture the Spirit of Adventure. Fearless Footsteps is an inspirational collection of true travel stories covering every continent from Africa to Antarctica. Read about a woman braving the Middle East, a death-defying hike on an Indonesian volcano, a traveller’s feeling of anxious freedom while alone on the other side of the world, and many other stories.

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25 EXCITING ACTIVITIES TO TRY THIS SUMMER

JOIN OUR FOCUS COMMUNITY! Forget Messenger, log out of WhatsUp. Time to go offline! Make 2021 a year of new friendships and successful business connections, and be part of something big, something fun, something special. Join our friendly focus community at one (or many) of our face-to-face workshops and events in the coming year – meet the friends of the magazine, expand your horizons and have loads of fun along the way.

FEBRUARY

What if your life was different? What if you had the power to change things? Learn how to create the life you want with this interactive seminar.

MAY

A full day of workshops with successful women from various industries. Tips and insights on running a business in the XXI century.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER AND BE THE FIRST ONE TO HEAR ABOUT THESE UPCOMING EVENTS! focusmagazine.co.nz/newsletter

JULY

Live discussion on women’s health, hormones and healthy living at any age with nutritionists, fitness experts and influencers.

focus | OUT & ABOUT

focus 4TH BIRTHDAY PARTY What better way to celebrate our fourth birthday than bringing together advertisers, supporters, writers, photographers and friends of our magazine. Guests enjoyed a great evening checking out the latest cars at Coombes Johnstone BMW Tauranga, sipping wine and mouthwatering Seedlip non-alcoholic cocktails, eating delicious food from Kex Kitchen and heavenly cupcakes from Pretty Baked. Fabulous prizes were on offer too, including the opportunity to win a BMW for a weekend! 1. Vanessa Laval-Glad, Margaret Stoddart, Dee Collins & Kathryn Clout 2. Nicola Davis 3. Mila Arena, Kseniia Spodyneiko, Hayat Berkaoui & Megan Hattingh 4. Anuya Deshpande & Dee Collins 5. Megan Tomalin, Liz French, Rose Gilmour, Simone Kleyn & Sharon Orlowski 6. Ari Schou 7. Angela Fleet & Sylvie Williams 8. Sita Engling & Ashleigh Cripps 9. Jo Tricker & Angela Miccio-Harris 10. Holly Harwood & Hiria Rolleston 11. Sharon Manssen 12. Sylvie Williams & Ashlea Pead

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OUT & ABOUT | focus

Coombes Johnston BMW Tauranga, 113 Hewletts Rd, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga. (07) 575 5280 www.coombesjohnstonbmwtauranga.co.nz

focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | WHAT'S ON?

WHAT'S ON? DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020/21 INGRID BOOT ‘ALLA MODA’ EXHIBITION 1-17 December The Art Lounge NZ, Tauranga theartloungenz.com Ingrid Boot is a figurative artist from the UK with a love of beauty and the female form. Her elegant paintings are inspired by the movie icons of the past and the history of fashion.

SYNTHONY 2020 12 December Claudelands Arena, Hamilton synthony.com With a unique mix of Auckland Symphony Orchestra tunes, electronic dance music anthems and epic backdrop visuals, Synthony is not your average concert. Guest appearances at the show include Jason Kerrison, Ria Hall, Cherie Mathieson, Nate Dousand and Lewis McCallum.

MASSIV.AOTEAROA STARSHIP FOUNDATION FUNDRAISER 5 December Totara St, Mt Maunganui totarastreet.co.nz Musicians, artists and bands are donating their time and money to support Starship Foundation’s National Air Ambulance charity that provides Kiwi kids and their families with help in difficult times. All ticket sales will go directly to the foundation.

LAST LEGS 2-5 December 16th Avenue Theatre, Tauranga 16avetheatre.co.nz An hilarious black comedy about sex, politics and popculture trends from the perspective of retirement village residents, including a long-suffering wife of a dodgy real estate agent, a former university professor, a woman of illrepute and others.

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WHAT'S ON? | focus

THE ARTS VILLAGE SUMMER FESTIVAL 2020 5 December The Arts Village, Rotorua artsvillage.org.nz Live local music, delicious food, artisan stalls, free face painting and art making for all ages. Welcome summer at this friendly, inspiring all-day event!

WAIKATO CHRISTMAS MARKET 12 December Claudelands Park, Hamilton waikatochristmasmarket.nz It’s never too early for Christmas! Find a gorgeous selection of quality artisan goods and beautifully handcrafted gifts from local artists and creators at this cosy and charming event.

BATTLE OF THE BBQS 30-31 January Central Tauranga battleofthebbqs.co.nz Over 20 teams of amateur cooks from all over New Zealand will compete in a two-day BBQ cook off, showcasing everything from chicken and beef to pork ribs and lamb. There will also be a classic car and hot rod show and an opportunity to explore and purchase all sorts of BBQ equipment.

ROTORUA A & P SHOW 30 January Agrodome, Rotorua rotoruashow.co.nz 111 years and the show is still going strong! Bring the whole family along for a fun day of games, races, dancing and car shows, and meet cute alpacas, sheep and miniature horses. focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | BOOKS

BEACH HITS Words DEE COLLINS

A YEAR OF SIMPLE FAMILY FOOD, JULIA BUSUTTIL NISHIMURA Cook, author and teacher Julia Busuttil Nishimura has created a gorgeous recipe book with a mix of quick recipes and those that require more time to bubble away on the stove. Using seasonal products, the recipes include a mix of Italian and Asian-inspired delights. For summer, think spaghetti with fennel and prawns; autumn, a miso-roasted chicken, or silverbeet and ricotta malfatti with brown butter sauce for spring.

THE ABSTAINER, IAN MCGUIRE It’s 1867 in Manchester, England and James O’Conner, exiled from Dublin for too many alcoholic benders, is employed to assist the Manchester police with quelling the Fenian (a secret society intent on ending British rule in Ireland) uprisings against the British. Stephen Doyle arrives from New York to help the Fenian cause in Manchester and seek vengeance for three recent hangings. O’Conner and Doyle’s fates become intertwined as they seek revenge and honour. Moving from the filthy streets of Manchester to the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, this is a story that has the most unexpected and gut-wrenching ending that will catch readers by surprise.

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JOY AT WORK, MARIE KONDO KonMari method pioneer Marie Kondo and organisational psychologist Scott Sonenshein come together to help you refocus your mind on what’s important at work. They give advice on how to organise your desk, get through all those emails and how to identify your most joyful way to work. They maintain that once you’ve found order in your work life, you’ll feel more empowered and confident, and energised and motivated to create the career you really want.

GUIDING LIGHTS – THE EXTRAORDINARY LIVES OF LIGHTHOUSE WOMEN, SHONA RIDDELL Imagine crossing icy walkways, scaling dangerous heights to clean the outside lantern glass, rescuing sailors and fishermen, filling lantern baths with mercury, keeping detailed logs of weather conditions and, in some cases, burning your retinas from the hot glare of the lighthouse lamp. Or, when there was thick fog, ringing a loud bell or sounding a horn every few minutes until the fog lifted. These were just some of the things that a lighthouse keeper had to do. Initially, it was only men who were employed yet their wives were an integral part of running the stations and had to cook, clean and bring up the children. With satellite navigation now available, most lighthouses are now automated, however there are still a few in France, Italy and Canada that are staffed, and there are a number of lobbyists who are keen to preserve the remaining lighthouses and keep them open for tourists. In some cases, people eagerly sign up to look after a few remote lighthouses for 6-12 months at a time, mostly for doing research on an isolated island.

CSIRO LOW-CARB DIABETES DIET & LIFESTYLE SOLUTION, PROFESSOR GRANT BRINKWORTH AND DR PENNIE TAYLOR Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has brought out this great book featuring 80 recipes, twelve weeks of meal plans and exercises and loads of information specifically for managing preventable and lifestyle-related metabolic diseases, controlling blood glucose levels, obesity and type-2 diabetes prevention and management. The diet lowers the proportion of carbohydrate relative to protein and unsaturated ‘healthy’ fat and encourages readers to follow a regular exercise routine. The recipes are fairly simple but not bland.

BOOKS | focus

THE TOLSTOY ESTATE, STEVEN CONTE In the doomed World War II German invasion of Russia, surgeon Paul Bauer helps establish a field hospital at Yasnaya Polyana – the former estate, and now museum, of Count Leo Tolstoy, the author of War and Peace. Bauer, who learned Russian as a teenager while reading War and Peace, is enthralled to be in Tolstoy’s former home and soon forms a tentative friendship with the hostile caretaker, Katerina Trubetzkaya, who also has a love of literature. The compelling story unfolds over six weeks, during the onset of a brutally cold winter that sees the tide turning against Germany. The surgeons are faced with horrifying casualties, inadequate resources, exhaustion, and a

commanding officer who fuels himself with a cocktail of amphetamines and becomes unhinged and erratic as everything starts to unravel. Half-way through the book, chapters are interspersed with letters written between Bauer and Katerina and the reader is offered a glimpse of what happened to the main characters after the six weeks at Tolstoy’s home. The overall story is absorbing and touches on the brutality of war and the ensuing emotional, physical and moral limits people must face. It’s also a bittersweet love story with an unexpected ending.

THINK LIKE A MONK: TRAIN YOUR MIND FOR PEACE AND PURPOSE EVERY DAY, JAY SHETTY If you want to train your mind to find peace, calm and purpose, monks are the experts. They have learned to withstand temptations, refrain from criticising, deal with pain and anxiety, quieten the ego and build lives that brim with meaning. Shetty grew up in a family where you could become one of three things – a doctor, a lawyer, or a failure. Instead, he headed to India to become a monk. After three years one of his teachers recommended that he return to the real world to share his experience and wisdom with others, and he soon started coaching his friends on wellbeing, mindfulness and purpose. Since then he has become one of the world’s most popular influencers and his podcast, On Purpose, consistently ranks as the world’s #1 Health and Wellness podcast. In this empowering non-sectarian book, Shetty reveals how to overcome negative thoughts, use your fear, learn from everyone you meet and access the calm that each of us has. We can all apply his lessons and advice to reduce stress, improve relationships and use the gifts we have been given.

FINDING FREEDOM: HARRY AND MEGHAN AND THE MAKING OF A MODERN ROYAL FAMILY, OMID SCOBIE AND CAROLYN DURAND Over the years, royal correspondents Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand often covered Meghan and Harry’s private and public events, and while the Sussexes have denied reports they gave interviews for this book, it is rumoured they cooperated with the journos to get their side of the story out. The book is an up-close portrait of an influential and confident couple who haven’t been afraid to break with tradition. It has a number of eye-openers about the family feud that ultimately led to Megxit. With the couple’s engagement, Harry felt that the staff, family and even his brother were ‘condescending’ and suspicious towards her. Whether you are keen on the couple or not it’s an interesting read, and the suggestion that Meghan and Harry discussed leaving the Royal Family even before they got married and had made firm decisions nine months out from telling the family in January 2020 was not surprising. focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | ASK THE EXPERTS

ASK THE EXPERTS

DR ANUYA DESHPANDE cosmeticandveins.nz

HOW IMPORTANT IS SUNSCREEN? Sunlight is made up of UVA, UVB and UVC radiation, which can damage the skin and cause pigmentation, wrinkles, reddening and premature aging. UVB contains more energy and can damage the skin’s DNA, causing various skin cancers, including melanomas. Sunburn is essentially a radiation burn, and radiation exposure causes cancer. Because many of these problems develop over the long term, it pays to establish good habits around slopping on sunscreen, slipping on shirts and slapping on hats. A sunscreen’s SPF, the amount used and how thoroughly it’s applied all affect protection. Get into a habit of regular sunscreen use, applying at least 3ml twice a day on exposed skin if you’re out in the sun. Use waterproof sunscreens if you’re likely to sweat or swim. Studies show “normal usage of sunscreen by adults” does not limit the body’s ability to produce sufficient amounts of vitamin D. If you’re worried about not getting enough vitamin D from sunlight, eat more fatty fish, egg yolks and spinach, or take vitamin D as a supplement. While some pigmentation and wrinkles can be treated, some sun damage is irreversible, and the best treatment is prevention. Get your skin screened regularly, especially suspicious spots or lesions. I spend a lot of time with clients repairing their sundamaged skin. Prevention is definitely better than the cure.

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NOEL SMITH bodymechanix.co.nz

HOW IS EVERYTHING IN THE BODY LINKED? How can problems in the upper neck cause such wide ranging effects? Pain is the most obvious sign that things are not right but there can also be other symptoms, such as disturbed sleep, ‘foggy’ head, poor concentration, vertigo, headaches, tinnitus and sinusitis. Most of these are often viewed from other causes and not related to the mechanical problems in your neck. Similarly, problems in your mid-back thoracic joints can cause chest pain or issues such as fatigue, lethargy, sleep problems, blood sugar and blood pressure fluctuations, fibromyalgia, muscle weakness, etc. Further down the spine the lower thoracic/upper lumbar nerves can give rise to abdominal pain and bloating and interfere with digestion, whilst the lower lumbar can relate to bowel and bladder dysfunction such as constipation, or in extreme cases, loss of control. How does a simple ‘pinched’ nerve or joint malalignment cause all this? Imagine your spine is like the box housing from which the nerves exit. These are like the electrical wires that transmit impulses to control the body’s functions. Compression or inflammation of the nerves will interfere with the electrical signal to the particular body part, which in turn affects its normal function or sets up a pain/inflammatory response. If any of these sound familiar to you, call in and see me.

'KEYHOLE' IMPLANT SURGERY Do you have missing teeth but can’t make up your mind to get implants? Is the thought of the invasive procedure holding you back? You may be unaware of advances in implantology, which has changed significantly with the introduction of guided implant surgery. We have the equipment and are trained in using guided implant surgery. This advanced, high-tech procedure involves computer scanning to create a digital model of the jaw. A custom-made, 3D-printed drilling guide is then used to place the implant. Compared with traditional freehand implantology, this type of surgery allows a much higher level of accuracy right from the planning stage and ensures a more precise and safer placement of the artificial root. Just like keyhole surgery it is also far less invasive. Instead of surgically opening the gum to drill into the bone, all that is needed is a small punch biopsy to remove a tiny piece of gum tissue. Through this opening we can drill into the bone with utmost precision at exactly the right angle and depth. Guided implant surgery has significant benefits compared to the old technology: lower likelihood of infection, less swelling, less bleeding, as well as minimal to no discomfort and a quicker recovery time. If you have a missing tooth, talk to us to find out whether an implant might be the right option for you.

YOUR DENTISTS WITH A DIFFERENCE pyespadentists.nz 07 577 1478

101 Summer beauty focus | BEAUTY

AGE RENEW RETINOL* BOOSTER OIL, GLOW LAB $35 The latest addition to the extensive Glow Lab family harnesses the power of Bakuchiol - a natural ingredient that mimics Retinol and is safe to use in summer. The oil reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation, and increases hyaluronic acid levels.

MEGA VOLUME WATERPROOF MASCARA, WET N WILD $6.99 Is it even summer if your mascara is not waterproof? This pink beauty from Wet n Wild is fortified with Vitamin E. Its deep, intensely black pigment is waterproof, sweatproof and smudgeresistant.

MEGAGLOW HIGHLIGHTING POWDER, WET N WILD $12.99

TINTED FACIAL MOISTURISER SPF15, GLOW LAB $20

Your go-to for a shimmering, ultra-pearly makeup finish that will turn heads wherever you go this summer. Easy-to-blend formula is silky smooth, highly pigmented and available in a range of shades.

New Zealand’s first natural tinted moisturiser available in supermarkets is a true multitasker. Its universal shade suits a variety of skin tones, luminous pigment gives a natural looking glow, plant-based oils provide long-lasting hydration and broad spectrum SPF15 protects from sun damage.

CHUCK IN YOUR BEACH BAG PROTECTION 50 SPORT, DERMALOGICA $69 Certified crueltyfree, gluten-free and vegan cream neutralises skin damage without the greasy feel. Oleosome microspheres in its lightweight formula enhance SPF performance and prevent moisture loss during the whole day out in the sun. Waterresistant for 80 minutes.

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PROTECT & LIGHT FEEL EVERYDAY SUNSCREEN LOTION SPF30, NIVEA $16.29 100% compliant with Hawaii Reef Bill, this lotion is environmentally-friendly and suitable even for the most sensitive skin. Its Aloe Vera and Chamomile extracts are soothing and calming, while Vitamin E protects and repairs the skin.

HYDRA UV PROTECT SPF50+, BONDI SANDS $24.99 In time for beach fun, Bondi Sands launches a new range of sunscreens. Ethically-sourced algae in Hydra boosts hydration and makes your skin smoother. Hydra is reef-friendly, cruelty-free and paraben-free.

THE BEST FROM AUSTRALASIA AND JAPAN

Natural ingredients from Australia and New Zealand meet cutting-edge Japanese technology to produce an innovative product for sensitive and damaged skin. Each KOIKKI ampoule contains a precisely measured, highly concentrated essence that is fresh, active and free from any chemicals. 21 ampoules for daily use and offering an intensive facial treatment designed to moisturise, repair and strengthen the skin,

boost anti-ageing skin regeneration and reduce the appearance of fine lines, dark spots and pigmentation. Founder Takaragi Keiko and her team took three years of research and tried 76 different recipes to perfect the formula. KOIKKI is a sustainable brand, conscious about its impact on the environment. koikki.com

focus | FITNESS

SWEAT Image by Instagram.com/ blogilates

READY SET

INSTEAD OF LOCKING YOURSELF UP IN A GYM, TAKE YOUR WORKOUTS WITH YOU EVERYWHERE YOU GO THIS SUMMER. WE’VE BEEN FOLLOWING THESE FREE YOUTUBE FITNESS CHANNELS FOR YEARS AND THEY NEVER GET OLD. ALL YOU’LL NEED IS WI-FI!

FITNESS BLENDER

BLOGILATES

MAD FIT

Probably the most diverse fitness channel on YouTube. Husband and wife duo Daniel and Kelli publish all sorts of videos: from 5 minutes to an hour long, from exercises using your own bodyweight to the ones that require all sorts of equipment, from warmingup yoga to physically draining HIIT. You’ll definitely find something that suits your needs. Their videos are quite minimalistic – no music and only a plain white background. But we definitely love the calorie burn bar on the right side of the screen and the friendly banter of the couple!

If you think Pilates is easy or boring, you’ve never worked out with Casey Ho of Blogilates! This lithe, little woman looks innocent but she’s a beast on the yoga mat and will have you sweating and panting in no time. Some of her workouts last only 12 minutes but, trust us, those would be the most intense 12 minutes of your life. Blogilates videos are very pretty and feminine, with upbeat music and funny jokes. And don’t forget an active community of over 5 million followers! That’s a safe and welcoming space for women who love fitness.

Dance with Maddie Lymburner! She creates exercise routines to popular songs by Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, Billie Eilish and others. We love her apartment-friendly workouts – you can do them at home or in the hotel when you’re traveling. There is no jumping, no loud noises and they don’t require a lot of space. Maddie is also one of the quieter instructors and doesn’t waste time venturing into the stories of her childhood adventures while demonstrating the exercise, so if you struggle staying focused while working out, she’s definitely the one to follow! 

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STYLE | focus

BLACK THE COLOUR BLACK HAS A BAD REPUTATION WHEN IT COMES TO SUMMER, WHAT WITH ITS ABILITY TO ATTRACT TOO MUCH SUN AND MAKE YOU HOT AND SWEATY. BUT WE ALL KNOW THERE’S NOTHING QUITE AS CLASSY AS A BLACK OUTFIT. TIME TO REINTRODUCE BLACK INTO YOUR SUMMER WARDROBE.

Double Button Blouse GLASSONS $39.99

Longline Pintuck Shorts GLASSONS $39.99

Allaire Necklace OLIVE & TIGER $29.99 Giselle Earrings BELA SONDER $29.99 Follow Slide CHAOS&HARMONY $289.00

Cloud Tee KETZ-KE $115.00

Paige Floral Frill Dress OLIVIA $249.00

Freya Felt Panama RUBI SHOES $44.99

All Star CONVERSE $120.00 Tree Of Life Bracelet SWAROVSKI $30.00

Parade Skirt KETZ-KE $135.00

Logo Print Swimsuit DIESEL $140.00

focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | CHRISTMAS The First Kiwi Christmas SONSHINE.CO.NZ $15.95

YOUR BRIGHTEST GLOW YET HOLIDAY PACK, DERMALOGICA $208 BioLumin-C serum and eye serum are this brand’s legendary high performers that brighten and firm the skin and dramatically reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Christmas gift guide DISCOVER THE BEST PRESENTS FOR EVERYONE YOU LOVE, NO MATTER YOUR BUDGET.

Intensive Repair Ampoule Essence KOIKKI.COM $89.00

BABY LONG SLEEVE ONESIE, BOODY $46.95 This Australian sustainable clothing brand is the perfect choice when it comes to the tiniest members of the family. Soft and super comfy, this onesie is made from organicallygrown bamboo. bethlehemhealth.co.nz

COLLAGEN BEAUTY GUMMIES, RADIANCE $34.90 The next generation beauty supplement in the form of a delicious, 99.9% sugar-free gummie! Who wouldn’t be excited for a sweet treat that also creates a smoother, more youthful complexion and combats the appearance of cellulite.

Nativity Set 11 Pieces SONSHINE.CO.NZ $199.99

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CHRISTMAS | focus

Sugar Crush Collect-tin SOAP&GLORY $23.00 Available at Mecca Maxima

EGG AND SPOON, ALEXANDRA TYLEE $39.99 Illustrated cookbook for children and adults that celebrates imagination, confidence and the fun of cooking. Whose coffee table will be lucky to host this one?

Hall Of Fame URBAN DECAY $110.00 Available at Mecca Maxima

Pure Silk Pillowcase ADAIRS $89.99

DAILY PLANNER FOR WORK, LIFESTYLE AND WELLBEING, FOCUSMAGAZINE.CO.NZ $10 New Year resolutions will be easy to keep with our daily planner that covers all aspects of life – from business meetings to meal plans. Order it from focusmagazine.co.nz and get it delivered directly to your loved ones! focusmagazine.co.nz

Coastal bach focus | HOME

Image by wirestock / Freepik

UPDATE YOUR INTERIOR DESIGN AND EMBRACE THE LAID-BACK FEEL OF SPENDING SUMMER BY THE BEACH. START WITH STATEMENT PIECES IN SOOTHING TONES OF PALE BLUE, MUTED GREEN OR LIGHT PINK AND BRING THE OUTDOORS INSIDE BY ADDING SPLASHES OF BRIGHT COLOUR, INSPIRED BY THE OCEAN, FLOWERS AND BIRDS.

Throw Pillows ARKANDA LIVING & INTERIORS

French Muslin LINEN & STONE $225.00

Cushions KOWHAI INTERIORS $75.00-$85.00 Runaway Candle KAREN WALKER $69.00

Bean Bag CITTÀ $149.00

Antigua Linen Waffle Throw COAST NEW ZEALAND $259.00

Herbs In Burlap NEST WRAPS $49.00

Orokawa Art Print by Alex Spodyneiko SUNDAY HOME STORE $399.00

Ludo Desk Lamp LIGHTSUP $170.36

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LIFE 24

KRISTA DAVIS

SURF THERAPY FOR DISENGAGED YOUNG MEN

BE PERIOD-SMART A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH TO MENSTRUATION

10 UNDER 10

BEST SHORT HIKES IN THE NORTH ISLAND

Plus JUNK FOOD RECIPES, HORMONES AFTER 40, WOMEN ON WATER

focus | HEALTH

WELCOME TO THE

BIG 4-0 hormonal surprise party

LIKE ANY BIG MILESTONE BIRTHDAY, HITTING 40 CAN TAKE SOME GETTING USED TO. IF YOU’RE AROUND THAT AGE YOU’RE POSSIBLY JUGGLING WORK AND FAMILY COMMITMENTS WHILE TRYING TO EXERCISE, EAT WELL, SOCIALISE, ORGANISE YOUR KIDS – AND WHATEVER ELSE DEMANDS YOUR ATTENTION – ALL AT THE SAME TIME. THERE’S A LOT GOING ON.

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HEALTH | focus

We typically experience a drop in progesterone in our late 30s, because, biologically, progesterone is just not needed anymore as its role in maintaining a pregnancy is complete. But because progesterone is one of the body’s main regulating hormones, a lot of other hormones, such as oestrogen, DHEA and testosterone, are affected when it tapers off. It’s this hormone imbalance with oestrogen dominating that leads to the wild fluctuations of mood and, sometimes, the torrid physical symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats and sleeplessness. “Loss of confidence and anxiety with work are other symptoms we often see around this time,” says Felicity, “triggered by the lack of sleep and low self-esteem women are dealing with, on top of the constant pressure to do more and be that super woman.” And, as if there’s not already enough of a hormonal party underway, reducing levels of the hormone DHEA – which works alongside cortisol to help us bear the brunt of stress – is also wreaking havoc with our moods and ability to cope with daily life. Not prepared to put up with the raging chaos, many women seek help from their doctor and will often be prescribed anti-depressants. Yet while these may help to treat some of the feelings associated with anxiety, depression and foggy thinking, they will do nothing to address the underlying cause of hormone imbalance and related symptoms, Felicity says.

BALANCING HORMONES NATURALLY

ut this is not the time you’d expect the hormonal wheels to start falling off – surely that’s at least another 10 years away when women head into menopause and often experience a flurry of emotional highs and lows. Surely? Not necessarily! Hormonal fluctuations around the 39-42 age bracket are normal, says Felicity Sinden from Tauranga’s Patient Advocates. As a result, she says many women begin to notice they’re not coping quite as well as they used to and, one by one, the balls they so deftly kept balanced are starting to come crashing down around them.

FROM MOUSE TO MONSTER Normal maybe, but why tolerate hormonal imbalance when it’s easily treatable? Felicity says she regularly treats women around this age who are experiencing a maelstrom of debilitating symptoms, ranging from fatigue, weight gain, irritability, depression, low self-esteem, acne, migraines, bloating, and heavy and painful periods. “There’s a cocktail of physical changes happening that can affect us mentally and emotionally, and spiral us from mouse to monster in under a minute,” she says. “But by rebalancing the hormones, we can help women regain their energy and vitality – they don’t have to put up with feeling crappy all the time.” Felicity explains that around the 40-year mark hormonal fluctuations trigger the start of pre- or peri-menopause – the ten years, or so, leading up to menopause. That’s right, there’s a lot going on before we even get to menopause!

Patient Advocates helps women to regain their quality of life and get their energy back by looking at the root of the problem – hormones. Treatment requires an individual balancing of hormones in response to each woman’s symptoms, as well as medical history and test results. In most cases, the first hormone to be monitored is progesterone. Felicity and her consultants Pip and Frances determine hormone levels through saliva samples, which are tested by a lab in Melbourne. Patients Advocates, established by Felicity in 1998, uses only natural creams and supplements to balance hormones. They are known as bio-identical hormones because they are biologically identical to the molecule produced by the body; quite different from what we know as synthetic HRT, or hormone replacement therapy, which uses synthetic formulations (progestins) that have been linked to increased rates of breast and uterine cancer. “So many women think they’re the only ones going through this but they’re not,” says Felicity. “We’ve helped thousands of women to regain hormonal equilibrium – their mood and sleep improves and they get their confidence and energy back to cope with daily life, regardless of the curve balls thrown at them.” Patient Advocates also treats men for hormonal imbalance, as DHEA, for example, is just as important for men as it is for women. Men get tested for testosterone levels as well, in order to determine the correct partnering of hormones required for each individual. For more information on Patient Advocates and natural hormone therapy, please visit naturalhormonetherapy.co.nz  focusmagazine.co.nz

Image by Jane Alice, Sea Her

focus | COVER STORY

Krista Davis

steering disengaged young men back to positivity and health TAURANGA-BASED CHARITY LIVE FOR MORE RUNS SURF THERAPY PROGRAMMES TO HELP DISENGAGED YOUNG MEN FIND PURPOSE IN THEIR LIVES AND BECOME CARING, RESPECTFUL AND CONTRIBUTING PARTNERS AND FATHERS. THE RUSH OF CATCHING WAVES IS NOT ONLY A POSITIVE ADDICTION, IT’S ALSO PROVING A POWERFUL WAY TO BUILD RELATIONSHIPS AND BREAK DOWN BARRIERS. FOCUS TALKS TO FOUNDER KRISTA DAVIS ABOUT HOW SHE’S HELPING STEER HER CLIENTS AWAY FROM A LIFE BUILT ON DRUGS, VIOLENCE AND CRIME. WORDS: MILLIE FREEMAN IMAGES: VANESSA LAVAL-GLAD / SUPPLIED HAIR AND MAKEUP: SOPHIE GARTH

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COVER STORY | focus

“

What these guys need to grow and thrive is our unconditional love. They may have made some poor choices but that doesn’t define who they are.

A Live For More graduate put it like this: “If you don’t keep catching those waves, if you don’t keep paddling out then you won’t catch anything. It’s sort of like that in life, if you don’t keep trying you’re not gonna go anywhere.” As well as learning to surf, this young man took away a much deeper life lesson: with effort, determination and resilience, getting the life you want is within your grasp. Who knew learning to surf could offer such a strong metaphor for our own journey through life? We learn, push through the barriers, ride the highs and lows, fall down, get back on our feet … rinse and repeat. It’s a metaphor not lost on Krista Davis, who established Live For More in 2015 when she could see the potential of marrying her two passions – surfing and helping disengaged youth find a way out of addictions and a life of crime. Her own passion for surfing began as a teenager living in California. She loved the natural high it gave her and since then has seen the same thing happen when she’s out on the waves with the guys – predominantly young Māori men.

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focus | COVER STORY

An epic party wave with heaps of stoke on a Tai Wātea surf therapy programme day, February 2020. Image by Lorna Davis

“It’s a feeling of freedom and a massive adrenalin rush, which is why it’s so good for the guys,” she says. “It’s a challenge they have to overcome and a real sense of achievement – catching the wave, popping up, falling off and going again – your brain is releasing heaps of endorphins.” After studying psychology at university – including a six-month exchange to New Zealand – Krista, now 33, moved here permanently in 2009 and worked in Auckland at a residential drug and alcohol rehab for youth before shifting to Tauranga in 2011, where she worked as a registered drug and alcohol clinician. She loved her work, but wanted to do more for disengaged youth. “We’d get these young guys referred to us from probation but they didn’t want to be there, so it took ages to build rapport. I knew surfing could help change that; I just wanted to get them out of the four walls of the office.”

BREAKING DOWN THE BARRIERS

Image by Tash Gojak

Tai Wātea #11 graduation, October 2019. Image by Charl Louw

Around this time she organised a surfing day with at-risk youth. Their joy and engagement made her realise the ocean was a powerful tool staring her in the face. She figured, “These kids would rather go surfing than smoke drugs, so why don’t we turn this negative addiction into a positive one?” She proposed a 4-week pilot involving surfing and clinical sessions for young men. It was a huge success with the four guys turning up for every session, and developing a natural rapport with Krista that made clinical work in the office so much easier. “Understandably the guys are guarded and hesitant to trust anyone because of the trauma they’ve been through. They’ve always been told to harden up, but by building a relationship with them on the ocean, the barriers start to come down. All of this hurt, pain and shame they’ve carried for so long starts to come out.”

SWITCHING FOR GOOD Jared Dixon had already spent six years in prison before he joined Live For More’s Tai Wātea programme, aged 23. He’d first met Krista Davis at 20 and wanted to do her programme when he got out after three years for aggravated robbery. Instead, he hooked up again with the gangs, drugs, violence and crime. He went back inside for another three years, but Krista never gave up trying to reach him. “She wrote to me throughout my

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term which was real positive for me,” says Jared. “She was planting those seeds. I could tell she really cared.” Jared was still caught up in a bad scene when he did Tai Wātea, but enjoyed the chance to try surfing for the first time and be around a group of positive people. “Just getting out on the ocean was real cleansing. It felt like I was washing off the bad wairua; all the bad stuff happening on the land. At the time I

was getting into trouble and smoking drugs; there was always some drama going on, but out on the sea, you can’t hear anything, just the waves. It was so quiet and peaceful.” Jared graduated and began employment as a builder, but the drugs and negative influences threw him off track. “I was taking meth, I lost my job and hit rock bottom. I knew I was either going to get shot, kill someone or end

COVER STORY | focus

WAVES OF FREEDOM

they wear, what drugs they use, what crimes they’ve committed or how many years they’ve been in prison – the ocean doesn’t judge them.” When they’re not anxious about the future or drawing on the past, their brain is present in the moment, which is a healthy place to sow the seeds of change, she says.

Spurred on by the pilot’s success, Krista developed and refined the programme and eventually took the plunge, quitting her job in 2015 to establish the charitable trust. In the last five years she’s seen more than 70 young men graduate from the eight-week flagship programme Tai Wātea, which means waves of freedom, and has provided support and mentoring to around 50 others – 125 young men with stunning potential but who, from an early age, were steered onto a trajectory of drug and alcohol addictions, gang involvements, violence, crime and, for many, jail time. “These guys have never been given a fair chance in life. Of the 10 main categories for adverse childhood experience, including abuse, neglect and household challenges, most of these guys have had all 10. In order to grow and learn we need to be in calm, safe situations and they’ve never had that; they’ve constantly been in survival mode.” Each week focuses on a different theme – freedom, connections, potential, purpose, empowerment, perseverance and so on. Tuesday mornings are spent

That was in early 2019 and since then Jared’s been drug and alcohol free and has cut all ties to gangs and negative influences. He’s also kept up the surfing. In September he got a fulltime role with Live For More as a youth mentor and he’s loving it.

“I work with the boys after they graduate to help them into jobs and reach their goals. I can tell my story and walk with them because I’ve been there before. That’s what these young fellas need – to be surrounded by positive people who care about them.”

Pre-surf karakia. Image by Lorna Davis

Her observations are echoed by surf therapy programmes around the world – many of which run programmes to help youth struggling with depression and anxiety. Research shows when young people are unplugged in the water they’re ‘in the moment’ and more aware of their surroundings; negative thoughts take a backseat while they’re focused on the learning; there’s no failure out on the water, instead a sense of achievement with every milestone reached, and the dopamine surge promotes a sense of wellbeing. Many of the guys have also told Krista they feel like the water is washing away the negativity in their lives. “They come alive in the water,” she says. “It doesn’t matter what gang patch

up back in jail. Then one day I had a big fight with my mum and dad and just broke; I knew there had to be more to life than this. “I called Krista and she picked me up and I just poured my heart out. She invited me into her church and I talked to the pastor. Now my faith has switched my whole mindset. I feel more free and peaceful. I know where I’m going, but I couldn’t see that before, because of what I was surrounded by.”

focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | COVER STORY

surfing, followed by lunch, a cultural session to learn their pepeha and a haka, and clinical group work. On other days they come in for one-on-one clinical work with Krista, and a session with the youth navigator to start putting change into action, such as preparing a cv and finding employment. Along with Krista, the team comprises three other full-time staff, an administrator, fundraising contractor, volunteer surfing instructors, and a Board of Trustees. The charity is funded 100% through community grants and private donors. Two more programmes are now also offered: Tai Tautoko (waves of support), which, alongside surfing, provides ongoing support to the young men once they’ve finished Tai Wātea; and Tai Ora (waves of change), which introduces new referrals to the more intensive programme. “All the guys I’ve worked with are desperate to change but they don’t know how because no-one has ever shown them, so this is the place where they can learn. Yes it’s hard work, but it’s definitely possible.”

“

It doesn’t matter what gang patch they wear, what drugs they use, what crimes they’ve committed or how many years they’ve been in prison – the ocean doesn’t judge them.

GIVING UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

graduating from the programme doesn’t guarantee immediate success. Some reconnect with their old crowd and take a backward step, some go back to jail, but Krista and her team continue to offer support and re-engage with them whenever they’re ready. “What these guys need to grow and thrive is our unconditional love. They may have made some poor choices but that doesn’t define who they are. We tell them, ‘if you get stuck in the mud we’re going to get stuck in the mud with you and help you get out’. “Are they perfect? Oh my gosh no, but all have good within them. They’ve been judged and labelled all their lives, but here they’re not judged, and if we can draw out their true identity and the mana within them, they begin to believe in themselves and leave here with hope for the future. “When they can learn to love themselves, and start seeing themselves from the lens we see them from – as a beautiful human being with so much potential and purpose in life – that’s when they can go on to becoming loving, respectful partners and awesome fathers to their kids.” 

Many have been able to turn their lives around and are working, drug-free and out of gangs, but

To find out how you can donate, support or volunteer with Live For More, please visit liveformore.org.nz

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focus | PEOPLE

WoW Sailing Women on Water in Tauranga Harbour WOMEN SAILING BOATS THAT BLOKES LEND THEM. KEELERS, THAT IS. YACHTS THIRTY-FOOT PLUS. Words KINSA HAYS

Crew relaxing after working on the boat

The Crew

he concept is to take complete beginners from all walks of life out sailing on Tauranga Harbour. During the season, each WoW night attracts over one hundred women to sessions organised by Tauranga Yacht and Power Boat Club (TYPBC). I’m sitting on the steps of the slipway at Sulphur Point chatting to five women. Rascal Tom, a Young 88 design, is up on a cradle, white paintwork polished and gleaming. The keel has been scraped down for a coat of antifouling. Gun Caundle has been putting bog on spots that need

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it. The all-women crew, who’ve helped prepare the yacht for the coming racing season, are relaxing with a beer. Gun joins us. “I’ve never had a working bee like this,” he says. “With men, it just doesn’t happen.” “It’s good to learn other aspects of owning a boat,” a woman comments. “We know we need to help with the upkeep.” I ask Gun, “How did you start lending your boat for racing?” “It’s what you do. If someone needs a boat and you’ve got confidence in them, why not? It’s what I grew up with – you lend your boat.”

He’d been racing his boat with a male crew, and when his daughter Robyn came back to Tauranga in 2018, she began to crew for him, and then with WoW. Every second Thursday during summer WoW women register, pay a fee and are assigned a boat for that race. Fifteen to twenty boats are available for sailing, but only three or four for racing. The remainder go in a training division. Race courses are organised by the club; boats matched with a WoW crew. “I saw WoW advertised on Facebook,” says Lyndsay Hayward. “I

PEOPLE | focus

grew up sailing, knew I wanted to race, so I joined that division.” “I met Lyndsay for the 2018 WoW season,” adds Robyn. “Now we’re part of the set crew for the season on Dad’s boat.” Petite Anita is a doctor by day. “To have a different skipper each week is a hard but good way to learn. Skippers want to teach people about their yachts and sailing. I moved here from the South Island in 2016 and always wanted to sail, so I joined WoW. I crewed with Elly’s Dad on his boat, then got talked into crewing on Rascal Tom.” “I grew up sailing from age six,” says Elly, “dinghy sailing with the family. I graduated from sailing school and knew I wanted to sail keel boats. Even though I wasn’t eighteen, the minimum age for joining WoW, I managed to wangle my way in, going between boats. Dad crewed with Gun for a long time. I jumped at it when Robyn offered me a spot. It makes such a difference as a team, learning to work together, learning your role, making friends, joining in the discussion instead of only one of us making the decision.” “The more you sail, the more you want to,” Robyn says, “and the more you ask. I asked Gun if we could put together an all-women’s crew. He agreed without hesitation. We’re competent with manoeuvring the boat safely. Gun taught us how to handle it.” The TYPBC WoW Series runs a Mark Foy start. Boats set off at different times according to length, but finish together. Robin explains, “Essentially we race ourselves around the course, go the best we can and learn by doing.” Last summer for a greater challenge, supported by Gun, they entered the Wednesday Night Series. Gun had to sack himself and his male crew, who agreed it was for a good cause. It’s a first, the only boat helmed by a female in the male-dominated event, fitting for the centenary year of the TYPBC. With the Mount Maunganui Yacht Club (MMYC), Robyn and Lyndsay thoroughly enjoyed the 2020 2-Handed Winter Series, came second in their division and won Best and Fairest Trophy. In summer the MMYC hosts a Blue Water series; the most exciting event being the Legends Regatta to Great Mercury Island over Labour Weekend. “In 2019 we started a day late as a gale was blowing. After ten boisterous hours of sailing we made it to Coralie Bay on dusk.” Robyn is grinning. “Gun leaped on board before we’d even parked the boat, he was so pleased to see us. We heard ‘Well done, girls’ a lot as the bubbly popped.” Kate, a science teacher at Tauranga Girls College, was asked by student Elly to be their ‘sailing tutor’ for a school course. She went on a Learn to Sail course herself to ‘learn the language’, and had a year crewing on different boats. She says, “I was in the right place at the right time when the Rascal Tom crew was selected.” These women love sailing and the social side, but always hold a debrief on the race before a celebratory drink. They enjoy the range of people they meet, and the freedom of the ocean.” “You need to cruise more,” Gun tells them. “Take the boat out for a weekend. It’s a different sailing experience to racing.” 

Kinsa Hays meets interesting people and interviews them, writes children’s stories, advocates for birds and the environment, and has had her poetry and fiction published. She also paints. Find her at kinsahays.com

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focus | HEALTH

PERIOD-SMART SINGLEHANDEDLY EXTINGUISHING AMAZON WILDFIRES OR SAVING THE ENTIRE POPULATION OF ENDANGERED SUMATRAN RHINOS MIGHT BE OUT OF ONE PERSON’S LEAGUE BUT SWITCHING TO SUSTAINABLE PERIOD PRODUCTS IS TOTALLY DOABLE AND THE EARTH WILL BE GRATEFUL NO LESS. Words KSENIIA SPODYNEIKO

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The majority of period products contain plastic. But while we’ve easily left plastic shopping bags behind, swapped singleuse coffee cups for fancy glass reusables and banned anything but sustainable and ethical skincare from our bathrooms, period products somehow still fly under the radar of eco-warriors. Which is surprising, since on average, each woman menstruates about 450 times in a lifetime, contributing 10,000 12,000 pads or tampons to landfill. That’s 120kg of waste that takes 500 to 800 years to break down.

HEALTH | focus

In case having to suffer through bleeding, pain and awkward situations every month for the most part of our life wasn’t bad enough in itself, we can now add guilt for involuntarily creating piles of non-biodegradable, non-compostable and often toxic waste to the list. Oh, the joy of being a woman! However, the said waste can be easily avoided thanks to all the progressive feminine hygiene solutions appearing these days.

ECO-FRIENDLY TAMPONS AND PADS There is nothing wrong with being a creature of habit. We’ve been using pads and tampons since our early teens, so it’s no wonder anything other than that – no matter how great it is for the environment – can freak some of us out. Enter eco-friendly period products. Same same, but different. UK women, for example, are lucky to have Planera – flushable pads that dissolve in water like toilet paper. The company’s co-founder, Dr Olivia Ahn, felt it shouldn’t be up to us to figure out how to dispose of the products properly, and came up with an easy sustainable solution to the problem of 700,000 panty liners and 2.5 million tampons being flushed down UK toilets on a daily basis (but, honestly, ladies, DAILY?!). Across the globe, Bamboo Babe pads were developed in Tasmania. The brand prides itself on being 100% certified organic with ethically sourced ingredients, and everything from the packaging to the pad itself is compostable and biodegradable. These pads break down in just 180 days. Bamboo uses less water than cotton to grow, which is also great for the environment. The best part, though? The brand is available in New Zealand. Another big news story in the world of sanitary products is reusable pads. None of those faces, please! We’re talking about washable cloth pads made from OCS100 certified organic cotton for the top sheet down to the core layers, like The Brand hannah. Originating in South Korea, it took the Southern Hemisphere by storm in 2015. Hannahpads last 2-3 years, don’t contain bleach, dioxin, formaldehyde and other chemicals often found in mainstream products, and are cost-effective in the long run. The ‘Fresh Starter Kit’ that includes three pads is only $78!

PERIOD UNDERWEAR Wearing panties specifically designed for these days is surprisingly freeing. Most of the modern designs look and feel similar – if not better – to casual underwear, and there are no

SOS-changes – often performed in the most inappropriate places – required. In other words, it’s just life as normal! Pioneering the industry of period underwear is Australian brand Modibodi. Their range is probably one of the widest on the market. They even have period-friendly swimwear and activewear! The breathable, super-slim lining on Modibodi panties is capable of holding up to four tampons worth of fluid. The pair will last from six months to two years and will cost you $28-$40. You can also purchase a ‘Give A Pair’ certificate to support Modibodi’s initiative to donate period underwear to women living in shelters in Australia and around the world. Over 20,000 pairs have already been donated.

MENSTRUAL CUPS Menstrual cups take a little bit of getting used to but are hands down the best solution for basically all period-related problems. Made from medical silicon, which is safer than the bleached cotton of tampons, they are non-drying and non-irritating, and only need to be emptied 2-3 times a day. Not to mention zero waste and literally zero expenses – most of the menstrual cups last a few years and cost under $50, while we spend around $84 each year on tampons. Switching to menstrual cups is like entering this amazing secret society, where everyone is cheerful, happy and enlightened. Seriously, this community is awesome and does so much to break the stigma around periods. Take Lunette, for example. The brand’s moto is ‘Nobody should be ashamed of them; nobody should miss a chance because of them.’ Heck, yeah! “Lunette is all about liberation. You don’t need anyone to ‘empower’ you, because you already have the power within to liberate yourself from external expectations, limitations and period care products that are bad for your body and the environment,” says Lunette founder, Heli Kurjanen. The brand was born in Finland but thanks to three amazing sisters – registered nurse and midwife Elizabeth Chapman, physiotherapist Carol Morris and clinical dietitian Susan Johns – quickly expanded to Australia and New Zealand. Our very own Wā Cups is another example of how amazing the creators of menstrual cups are. Not only have they already diverted over 2.3 million disposable period products from landfills, they’ve also partnered with schools and universities across the country to donate one cup for each cup sold. Wā Cups founders discovered that 1 of 3 local students had skipped class due to not having access to menstrual products, while others had to sometimes choose between buying food or pads. 

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One of two The Brand hannah NZ Period Kits (3x hannahpads, drying strap, wet bag, sample soap) One of two Lunette Cup Kits (menstrual cup, cup cleanser and 10 cup wipes)

One of two Bamboo Babe Monthly Packs (3x liners, 2x normal, 2x super, 2x night packs) focusmagazine.co.nz

10 10 focus | TRAVEL

UNDER

EXOTIC DESTINATIONS MIGHT BE OUT OF THE QUESTION THIS SUMMER BUT OUR OWN BACKYARD HAS SO MUCH TO OFFER! WE’VE COLLECTED 10 JAW-DROPPING NORTH ISLAND HIKES UNDER 10 KM. Words KSENIIA SPODYNEIKO Images ALEX SPODYNEIKO

WINDOWS WALK

Where: Karangahake Gorge, Bay of Plenty Distance: 2.5 km Intensity: easy

OROKAWA BAY WALK

Where: Waihi Beach, Bay of Plenty Distance: 1.3 km Intensity: easy

This iconic local walk is only 45 minutes one way and can easily be done at any age. It takes you along the gorgeous coastline of Waihi Beach to one of the most scenic beaches. Swimming in Orokawa Bay is not recommended due to the steep grade of the seafloor but a long and relaxing lunch under the shade of the giant pōhutukawa trees on a hot sunny day is nevertheless a very enjoyable experience.

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150 years ago, this place used to produce 60% of the gold in New Zealand. Now it’s the coolest location to explore with kids – they’ll love walking through the old gold mining tunnels with their torches and climbing all around the abandoned buildings and machinery of the Talisman battery. Look down through the windows of the tunnels and enjoy the views of the picturesque gorge!

TRAVEL | focus

MAHINEPUA PENINSULA TRACK

Where: Kerikeri, Northland Distance: 3 km Intensity: medium

The track begins from the carpark at the gorgeous Mahinepua beach and takes you up the hills of the scenic reserve with million-dollar views of the Cavalli Islands and all the luxurious houses and accommodations. There is a secluded beach right out of some action movie on the way, a couple of scary looking rocks far below and even a set of stairs clinging for dear life to the narrow ridges of the hills. A great adventure for the entire family!

TE WAIHOU WALKWAY

Where: Putaruru, Waikato Distance: 3.7 km Intensity: easy

Though the entire Te Waihou Walkway is 10 km both ways, if you park at Leslie Road and complete only the Blue Spring loop, it’s a shorter stroll along the well maintained walkway and covers the main highlights of the track. It’s very exciting to see the source of around 70% of all New Zealand bottled water so up close and personal! The water is crystal clear and full of life. focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | TRAVEL

WAIRERE FALLS

Where: Matamata, Waikato Distance: 5 km Intensity: easy to advanced

The tallest waterfall in the North Island is hiding deep inside the forest that might’ve been an inspiration for every enchanted forest in each and every kid’s book, what with its huge moss-covered stones, humpback bridges over ice-cold streams, and mysterious rivulets oozing through the rocks here and there. The first part of the track bringing you to the lower viewing platform is very easy but that’s also the place where most visitors turn back, since the climb to the viewing platform at the top of the 153m waterfall can be very challenging even for the fittest of us.

BELL ROCK LOOP TRACK

Where: Napier, Hawke’s Bay Distance: 5.3 km Intensity: medium

The name speaks for itself – the focal point of this track is an enormous rock shaped as a bell. Perched atop the high cliff, it’s exposed to crazy winds but boasts breathtaking views of Mahia Peninsula and the Kaweka mountain range. It takes about an hour and a half to get to the Bell Rock and, apart from a short part right by the carpark that winds through native bush, you’ll be surrounded by picturesque views all the time. Walking up and down the endless hills is nothing outside the average person’s fitness level, though this walk is definitely a touch more demanding, so make sure you have enough water.

TE MATA PEAK

Where: Hastings, Hawke’s Bay Distance: 5.5 km Intensity: medium

Ok, ok, we know you can drive all the way up to Te Mata Peak but where’s the fun in that? Pick one of the five tracks that will take you to the summit and enjoy the 360 degree views of the region at your own pace instead. Our favourite track is the blue Rangokako Loop that takes you from the carpark to the summit via the famous Goat Track, then descends through the steep hills all the way to the gorgeous Redwoods Forest.

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TRAVEL | focus

TE HENGA WALKWAY Where: Auckland Distance: 8 km Intensity: medium

Have a look at the famous Muriwai and Bethells beaches from a different perspective! Instead of driving right to the beach, take Te Henga Walkway – the walkway known for its solitude and unsurpassed rugged beauty. Though there are several entry points to this track, starting from Bethells Beach might be the smartest decision since you’ll get the steepest climb of the track out of your way while you’re still full of energy.

THE CATHEDRAL COVE WALKWAY Where: Hahei, The Coromandel Distance: 6 km Intensity: easy

Half a million visitors per year can’t be wrong – Cathedral Cove is a place to be visited! There is a shorter walk from the carpark on Grange Road but if you’re staying in Hahei, we recommend you chuck in an extra 20 minutes one way and start right from the local beach. You’ll be rewarded with very pleasant coastal views. After all, scenic beaches are what this peninsula is famous for! Bring your lunch and towels and have a swim at one of the Chronicles of Narnia filming locations.

POUAKAI TARNS TRACK

Where: New Plymouth, Taranaki Distance: 10 km Intensity: advanced

The hike starts from Mangorei carpark and takes you to the famous Pouakai Tarns, or ‘Mirror Lakes’, named for their reflections of the picture-perfect Mt Taranaki. Be prepared to conquer loads and loads of steps. Basically, the entire track until you reach the Pouakai Hut is one long set of stairs through the bush. From there, it’s another 15 minutes of flat and easy walking to the lakes, on a sunny day accompanied by unobscured views of our very own Mt Fuji doppelgänger in its full glory. Honestly, this track offers probably the best and the closest views of Mt Taranaki and is so worth the effort!

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focus | FOOD

CARE TO SH AR E? SUMMER IS FOR BBQS AND PARTIES. SURPRISE YOUR FRIENDS WITH UNUSUAL VEGAN JUNK FOOD PLATTERS THEY WON’T BE ABLE TO RESIST. Recipes extracted from Vegan Junk Food by Zacchary Bird, published by Smith Street Books, RRP $45.00. Photography © Pete Dillon, Food Stylist © Bridget Wald smithstreetbooks.com/books/vegan-junk-food/

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FOOD | focus

KOREAN SPICY FRIED ‘CHICKEN’ INGREDIENTS: • 700g seitan or vegan chicken, cut into 5 cm x 2.5 cm irregular chunks • 2 tsp minced ginger • 2 tsp soy sauce • canola oil, for deep-frying • sea salt • thinly sliced spring onion (scallion), to serve • toasted sesame seeds, for sprinkling Coating • 60g potato starch • 40g plain flour • 35g cornflour • 1 tsp baking powder • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper • 1 tsp sea salt Sauce • 6 garlic cloves, minced • 95g gochujang, plus extra to taste • 55 ml tomato ketchup • 3 tsp vegan honey or rice malt syrup • 4 tsp white vinegar

METHOD: 1. Combine the seitan chunks, ginger and soy sauce in a large bowl. 2. In a separate bowl, combine the coating ingredients. Add the

seitan, toss to coat and set aside for 10 minutes. 3. Meanwhile, heat the canola oil in a large saucepan or deep-fryer to 180°C. 4. Toss the seitan pieces in remaining coating mixture to achieve a dry exterior. Place into the hot oil and fry for 3–4 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towel to drain and sprinkle with salt. 5. Fry the garlic in a small saucepan with 1 tsp of the hot frying oil over medium heat for 2 minutes. Add the remaining sauce ingredients and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce starts to follow the spoon about, adding a splash of water if you want to make it runnier. Taste and add an extra squeeze of gochujang if needed. 6. Dump the seitan into a bowl and pour the sauce over the top, tossing until fully coated. 7. Serve with thinly sliced spring onion and toasted sesame seeds scattered over the top.

BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER DIP INGREDIENTS: • 1 small–medium cauliflower, broken into small florets • 1 small onion, thinly sliced • 2 Tbsp olive oil • 180g vegan cream cheese • 1½ tsp dried dill • 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice • ½ tsp garlic powder • 135g vegan mayonnaise • 185g shredded dairy-free cheese • 250 ml wing sauce, such as Frank’s RedHot • 50g dairy-free blue cheese (optional) • celery batons and crackers, to serve

METHOD: 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Line a baking tray with baking paper. 2. Combine the cauliflower, onion and olive oil in a bowl and spread out in a single layer on the tray. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the edges of the cauliflower begin to char. Remove from the oven and reduce the temperature to 175°C. 3. In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, mayonnaise, two-thirds of the shredded cheese, three-quarters of the wing sauce, the charred cauliflower and onion. Stir well and transfer to a baking dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the top and sprinkle over the remaining shredded cheese. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling. 4. Break the blue cheese into small blobs and position them over the top of the cheesy cauliflower. 5. Serve with celery batons or crackers for dipping. focusmagazine.co.nz

focus | FOOD

THE KOGO INGREDIENTS: • 800g frozen crinkle-cut fries • 6 vegan hot dogs • plain flour, for dusting • canola oil, for deep-frying • sea salt • hot sauce and/or tomato ketchup, to serve Batter • 150g plain flour • 2 Tbsp aquafaba • 2 Tbsp granulated sugar • 2 tsp baking powder • 1 tsp sea salt • 250ml soy milk Honey–mustard sauce • 65g vegan mayonnaise • 2½ Tbsp Dijon or American mustard • 1½ Tbsp vegan honey or rice malt syrup • dash of vinegar, sea salt and chilli powder, to taste

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METHOD: 1. Defrost the chips to fridge temperature. Ensure the hot dogs are room temperature. Slide the hot dogs onto bamboo skewers and dust them in flour. 2. Cut the chips into 2 cm long chunks. 3. Heat the canola oil in a large saucepan. 4. Mix the batter ingredients except the soy milk in a tall glass. Slowly whisk in the milk, stopping when you reach a thick batter. 5. Dip each skewered dog into the batter and swirl to completely coat. Transfer to the bowl with the chips and use your hands to press the chips into the batter. 6. Using the skewers as handles, place the hot dogs into the hot oil. Fry the hot dogs for 5–6 minutes, until golden on all sides. 7. Combine the honey–mustard sauce ingredients. 8. Place the hot dogs on a plate lined with paper towel to drain and season with salt. Cover in a Tbsp of honey–mustard sauce and squeeze over hot sauce and/ or ketchup.

FOOD | focus

BEER BATTERED CHOCOLATE BARS INGREDIENTS: • 4 vegan chocolate bars (about 50g each) • canola oil, for deep-frying • 75g self-raising flour • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper • 125ml chilled beer Suggested toppings • sea salt flakes • vegan chocolate sauce • vegan chocolate cookies, broken into chunks • soy or rice whip • pretzels

METHOD: 1. Place the chocolate bars in the freezer for 2–3 hours to firm up. 2. Heat the canola oil in a large saucepan. 3. Place the flour in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Toss the frozen chocolate bars in the flour to lightly coat, then remove and set aside. 4. Pour the beer into the flour, stirring constantly, to create a batter. The batter should be runny but still cling to the chocolate. 5. Dip each chocolate bar into the batter. Scoop the bars out with as much batter as you can keep clinging. Drop the battered bars into the oil. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until golden brown and crisp. 6. Remove the chocolate bars and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with a sprinkling of sea salt flakes, chocolate sauce, chocolate cookies, soy or rice whip and a few pretzels.

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BUSINESS 46

SUMMER SQUAD

CHALLENGES AND PERKS OF RUNNING A SEASONAL BUSINESS

BEING BUSY VS BEING PRODUCTIVE

ARI SCHOU

Image by Vanessa Laval-Glad

TAURANGA CAKE BAKER

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and have family here. At the time, in 2013, downtown Tauranga was in an ongoing state of development and I didn’t think it was the right place for an SBA branch. I looked at a few options and SBA Tauranga – Megan Tomalin Level 1, 602 Cameron Road stood out. It HOW DID I BECOME AN ACCOUNTANT? wasn’t the usual type of SBA premises, I was on my O.E. in Scotland, not but it had great exposure, caught the doing anything very exciting, when I sun all day and was located on one of was accepted into a two-year Higher the busiest roads in Tauranga – I didn’t National Diploma in Accounting hesitate to secure it! with Fife College of Technology in Kirkcaldy, Scotland. I followed this with WHAT IS SBA? a postgraduate 18-month accounting SBA as a franchise started in 1997. It was course at Napier University in Edinburgh. set up to provide business owners with I’d been away from New Zealand for a access to accounting advice and support long time and home was calling. On my and to get their annual accounts and return I worked in a number of corporate tax returns completed without having roles, including Carter Holt Harvey, to incur the costs of a large Chartered Auckland Museum and several export Accounting firm. companies. My last corporate role was as The SBA franchisor is ex-black cap the Finance Manager for Kiwi Property cricketer, Adam Parore. Ltd. SBA is the largest accounting I’ve always enjoyed working with service provider in New Zealand with numbers and being able to assist 70 branches nationwide and specialises business people in understanding the in providing affordable, approachable insights of their business performance. accounting solutions. WHY SBA? One day after leaving Kiwi Property Ltd I was waiting at the bank and picked up a copy of the Franchise New Zealand magazine and saw a feature on SBA. This business opportunity combined my goals of being able to start my own business as well as continue working in the accounting industry. I talked with the SBA franchisor and was thrilled that Tauranga was one of the cities the franchise was looking to expand into. I’ve always loved the Bay of Plenty (being a Waikato girl originally)

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CLOUD ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE SBA uses the latest cloud accounting software packages. These solutions are scalable to suit all businesses no matter how big or small. Because they’re scalable, you're not paying for functionality that you’re not using. WHY USE ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE? Accounting software provides you and your business with a simple yet powerful way to manage all your finances. You can access your business data in real time from anywhere, from basic

bookkeeping right through to invoicing and customised reporting. With live bank feeds and detailed financial reporting right at your fingertips, this allows you to make informed business decisions with up-to-date business results. Because it's cloud based, there is no software to install and no version issues or computer compatibility problems. The software is constantly upgrading and improving in the background so you’re always using the latest version, which allows you to meet your various business, compliance and industry needs. SBA, YOUR CLOUD ACCOUNTING PARTNER SBA is the largest user of cloud accounting software in New Zealand, and we have access to a wide range of business solutions only accessible to accountants. These options are great for businesses just starting out and are a very affordable option. For example: Non-GST Cashbook – ideal for businesses that don’t need invoicing functionality; clients who own rental properties and small, cash-based businesses are ideal. GST Cashbook – ideal for businesses that are GST registered but don’t need all the extra functionality and cost of an integrated software package. WHY USE SBA? We ensure your accounting software is set up correctly so you can take advantage of all the time-saving functionality and features, and that you’re registered correctly with the IRD and your tax and entity set up is spot on. We can also make sure you’re claiming all of the deductible expenses available, including vehicle expenses and depreciation, and even home office expenses, such as phone, internet, power and water, and that all your compliance obligations are met efficiently and affordably. SBA Tauranga Level 1, 602 Cameron Road, Tauranga 07 578 8959 sba.co.nz

focus | BUSINESS

Cille Fabert

Monica and Paul Julian

Helene Judge and Jeanine van Kradenburg

Summer squad

9 TO 5, 261 DAYS PER YEAR IS NOT THE ONLY POSSIBLE WORK SCHEDULE. WE CHATTED TO CILLE FABERT (DOLPHIN SEAFARIS), HELENE JUDGE AND JEANINE VAN KRADENBURG (KĀPITI FOOD FAIR, TAKING PLACE ON 5 DECEMBER 2020) AND MONICA AND PAUL JULIAN (JULIANS BERRY FARM) ABOUT THE BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES OF RUNNING A SEASONAL BUSINESS. Words KSENIIA SPODYNEIKO

HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN A SUMMER PERSON? Cille: I am fairly active and definitely a summer person. I became a diving instructor in my early 30s, which allowed me to travel and teach in warm climates like the Caribbean and Indian Ocean. I have always had an interest in marine life but made the decision in my 20s to get a degree in Business and Marketing. Helene: We’re what you can call ‘quintessential Kiwis’ – love camping trips with no power and internet, swimming, lazing around, reading, walking, talking, relaxing with good friends, family and food, and a wine or two. Monica: Paul’s family has always been very active. As a kid, he used to participate in all kinds of outdoor sports.

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Nowadays we spend summer days cycling and exploring New Zealand cycle trails. HOW WAS THE IDEA OF YOUR BUSINESS BORN? Cille: I bought Dolphin Seafaris in October 2019 after managing the company for a season. I loved the operation and environment and saw that there was room for improvements and expansion. Helene: Kāpiti Food Fair was created by Jeanine van Kradenburg and Tony Ghan in 2008 and I joined the team in 2010. Nowadays it’s one of the biggest community events in the Wellington region attracting 250 vendors and over 22,000 visitors. It’s a full-day event with a licenced bar, two

BUSINESS | focus

WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES OF HAVING A SEASONAL BUSINESS? Cille: The dolphin charters are pretty much run, skippered and managed by one person, which can be quite full-on for those six months of the high season. And a break is needed to avoid burn-out! Our business is also very weather dependant and rainy or windy days make it difficult or impossible to operate. Helene: It gets very intense 3-4 months before the fair. Jeanine and I are active owners and are involved in pretty much everything – planning, sponsorships, contracts, working with volunteers, finding trusts for our donations and improving the sustainability of the event. Monica: Finding staff every summer is probably the main challenge. We employ over 100 people at peak. Most

of them are school kids or backpackers, so we have to train them first. We enjoy working with backpackers, though. They’re usually older and have great work ethic, so they’re amazing role models for our kids, who love making friends from all over the world and listening to their stories while they work. HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR WINTERS? Cille: The company normally operated from November to May, as there are generally fewer tourists in the Bay in winter and the previous owner used to spend these months in Canada. After the lockdown this year, though, I decided to run what we called ‘Bubble Tours’ with limited numbers of passengers. Surprisingly, the pods of dolphins we encountered were even larger in number and much more

Image by Nathan Pettigrew

stages, a kids’ zone, buskers and much more. Monica: It’s a family business, founded by Paul’s parents, Joan and David Julian, in 1975. It used to be a small berry farm on a side road. Paul and David often discussed how wonderful it would be to move to the main road. One day the land in a perfect location came on sale and Paul jumped at the opportunity. Originally, we were only planning to copy what his parents had been doing all these years. But four weeks after the re-opening, we introduced an ice cream machine. Visitors went nuts! So, another month later we had to buy a second one. Then a coffee machine. Then a bigger one. Then came muffins. Followed by sandwiches. Followed by a full-on café. 18 years later and here we are, still growing and improving!

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focus | BUSINESS

interactive than in summer! We also have whales migrating through the Bay during the winter months which gave an added bonus to our tours. So, I’m actually planning on expanding the schedule of our tours now. Helene: We think, scheme, collaborate and work on the fair. I’m often referred to as a ‘Kāpiti Food Fair lady’, as it’s my responsibility to represent and promote the event all year round. Jeanine had run her own business PartyPerfect Catering alongside organising the fair up until late last year. She sold it to work towards renewing her practicing certificate so she could begin nursing again at Waikanae Health. Monica: From February to April we, and our seven full-time employees, try to spend time away from the farm, to have proper holidays. The rest of the winter is spent planting berries and doing little renovations around the farm. There are always loads of background tasks but we keep our hours flexible, hardly ever working over six hours a day. That balances out the busy seven-day work weeks of summer. WILL THE ABSENCE OF INTERNATIONAL TOURISTS AFFECT YOUR BUSINESS A LOT THIS YEAR? Cille: International tourists usually book their tours months in advance. This time last year, I would have already had plenty of bookings for the upcoming season. This year we are seeing more last-minute bookings. Kiwis are generally looking at the weather to see where and what they will do at the weekend. We will have to be much more flexible and accommodating. We’ll have to try harder, think outside the box and be more proactive to get close to the amount of bookings we had last season. I don’t see this as a negative; it’s a learning curve and makes you look at other avenues to expand into. In a way, COVID-19 made the winter tours a reality and I will continue with them next winter! Helene: We rely mostly on Kiwis, who, after a difficult year, will want to kick-back with their family and friends and enjoy the summer. We know events play an important part in the country’s economic recovery and we look forward to being a part of that! We have applied for the Domestic Events Fund, which was created by the Government to support events that have social, cultural or economic significance and, without the support, would either go under or be significantly scaled back. We are the only Kāpiti event to be recognised by the Fund, so we feel humbled but also under pressure to perform well. An outcome of the Domestic Events Fund is a special entertainment partnership with COASTELLA, a boutique music festival. This year, we’ll have more room for visitors to relax under the sun and enjoy the grooves of performing artists. Monica: It will mostly affect the employment process, as there won’t be many backpackers this year. In previous years we used to have way more applications than positions. We’re a little bit nervous about this season but also hopeful. We’ve been experiencing busier weekends than we used to so there shouldn’t be a big difference in the number of visitors. Take Labour Weekend, for example – the best in the history of the farm! After the lockdown, we predicted 10-30% reduction in profits for this season but it looks like there won’t be any drop at all. Our theory is that international tourists mostly travel to Auckland or Rotorua, while Kiwis prefer to explore smaller local attractions. 

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We let you get on with your business while we get on with your accounts and tax returns.

Megan Tomalin – SBA Tauranga.

SBA Tauranga provides a wide range of accounting and taxation services for individuals, sole traders, partnerships, small companies, trusts, and rental property owners. Our aim is for our fees to be affordable and our services accessible. Whatever your accounting needs

– SBA Tauranga can help.

T: 07 578 8959 | sba.co.nz/tauranga

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focus | BUSINESS

Being B u sy

Being Productive

ARE YOU SO BUSY THAT YOU CAN’T REMEMBER THE LAST TIME YOU FELT YOU WERE ON TOP OF THINGS, ACCOMPLISHING YOUR GOALS AND ENJOYING FREE TIME TO DO THE THINGS YOU REALLY WANT TO DO? OR PERHAPS, YOU FEEL YOUR LIFE IS A NEVER-ENDING HAMSTER WHEEL OF MEETINGS, GRABBING LUNCH ON THE GO, GETTING HOME LATE, WORKING WEEKENDS AND BASICALLY JUST STRUGGLING TO KEEP UP. Words DEE COLLINS

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BUSINESS | focus

he thing is, sometimes we use the ‘I’m so busy’ theme as an excuse to explain why we haven’t reached a deadline, why we’ve let someone down or why we haven’t gone to the gym. It’s also a reason to justify why you don’t do what you don’t really like doing – for example, making five new sales calls a day that will take your business to the next level, or being ‘busy’ focusing on the 75 non-vital items on your to-do list. Being busy is often synonymous with ‘accomplishment and success’ and often has the ‘look-how-amazing-Iam’ tagline where someone works 50 hours a week, volunteers at their child’s school, goes to the gym every day, cleans the house and cooks a fresh meal every evening and still finds time to make their children’s costumes for the school play. It’s the ineffective pursuit of trying to have and do it all that ultimately ends in burnout. There’s also the hope that if you fill your day with work, it will magically lead to something – that those hours on social media and endless coffee catchup meetings will wondrously lead to sales or whatever it is you really need for your business. But, as you’ve probably realised, there’s a huge difference between being busy and being productive. Being busy is often the result of not setting priorities, however if you don’t set priorities, others will set them for you. The most productive people ‘own’ their day and maximise their time, whereas busy people tend to be great at appearing busy. Being productive is about moving towards your goal every single day. Busy people tend to be overthinkers and might spend all their time doing research, understanding the different possibilities, creating long to-do lists, expanding their tasks to fit the amount of time available and trying to make things perfect before they start. A productive person has effective time management skills and will just get on with the task at hand – no wasting time, messing around, etc. Highly productive people are the achievers of our time. They have learned the difference between being busy and being proactive with the things that move them towards their goals. They work smarter, are more focused and, rather than being fairly good at everything, are specialists in a few areas. They understand the ‘less-is-

more’ approach and that accomplishing the really important things first, is what moves them forward. Busy people are often reactive and distracted in their day – they frequently check their emails, stop everything when their phone buzzes, and multitask. Productive people, on the other hand, create a system for dealing with mundane tasks. For example, they reserve a time slot for checking emails so the task doesn’t interfere with their day, and they differentiate between urgent and important messages. Productive people also know when it’s time to take a break from work – they might go for a quick walk, eat a nutritious snack or meditate for 15 minutes. When you have a truckload of work on your plate, sometimes the most important thing to do is to set aside the busyness and find time to work out where you’re going, what your priorities are and where your revenue actually comes from. It’s about identifying the right thing to focus on, being strategic and deploying the right systems and strategies to get the results you’re after. Here are four powerful steps to follow to become more productive:

1. Focus on one thing at a time There are always hundreds of things we could be doing but if you identify the one thing that will deliver the best results, focus on that. Do that first. 2. Monitor your time For a few days, make a note of everything you do, including meetings, bathroom breaks, chatting around the water cooler. Logging your activity for a baseline will give you enormous insight into what you actually do and how much time you spend being productive. 3. Set small goals Keep the bigger goals in the picture but set some small accomplishable goals. We often overestimate what we can achieve in one day but by setting attainable goals we feel encouraged and more confident. By accomplishing a few smaller goals during the day, we feel better about ourselves. 4. Eliminate distractions Distractions and interruptions are the enemy of productivity. Rather than multi-tasking, give your full attention to the task at hand. Learn to focus and be more present and in the zone. So, work on being less busy and more productive and watch those goals being smashed. 

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ARI SCHOU PRETTY BAKED

PRETTY BAKED IS A SMALL LOCAL CAKE BUSINESS SPECIALISING IN BUTTERCREAM CAKE DECORATING AND CUPCAKES.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START PRETTY BAKED? I was a young, single mother and for my daughter’s first birthday I couldn’t afford to buy her a nice cake so I decided to make it myself. When it turned out not too badly, I carried on making cakes for friends and family and just built it up from there. WHAT’S YOUR EARLIEST MEMORY OF BAKING? Definitely with my mum; we used to make and demolish her chocolate cake and afghan biscuits. WHAT DOES A TYPICAL WORK DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? That’s a hard one because every day is so different! But a typical day starts at 4am – I bake all the food for my other business Ivy + Co, which is a food caravan. If I’ve got a lot of cakes ordered that week I try and get back to the kitchen by 10am to spend the day baking and decorating. Otherwise I work in the caravan all day and end up working all evening on cakes so it can get a little full-on sometimes. WE’VE ALL HAD A BAKING FAIL, OR IN OUR CASE, SEVERAL. CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR WORST BAKING DISASTER? Making any recipe vegan seems to fail most first tries so I’ve had some pretty epic fails with that. WHAT’S THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU’VE HAD WITH YOUR BUSINESS? Motivation. Working for yourself has so many pros and cons but self-motivation can be hard some days especially when you’re tired or already so busy. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE TYPE OF CAKE TO MAKE AT THE MOMENT? My cookies and cream cake has been a big hit recently but in terms of decorating, I love wedding cakes. I think they’ll always be a favourite of mine. WHAT’S CURRENTLY TRENDING WITH WEDDING AND BIRTHDAY CAKES? Dried florals are a big hit right now, which is something I want to play around with a lot more, and textured cakes. HOW DO YOU HOPE TO SEE YOUR BUSINESS GROW WITHIN THE NEXT YEAR? My biggest goal is to keep pushing myself and my creativity to new levels, expand my knowledge and just try new things. 

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