Focus magazine issue 8

focus

Lifestyle and business magazine. About women. By women.

Bay of Plenty and surrounding areas

focusmagazine.co.nz

ISSUE 8 | DECEMBER 2017- JANUARY 2018

Celebra ng three unsung heroines Jo Wills, Ann Kerewaro and Jan Ozanne

Jet Set

focus friends take to the skies

Focus on Women Expo

try, learn, experiment … Take Ac on!

Fabulous prizes to be won! - See page 75

M TA – I E H KE 'M OM FR E EE

2018

Focus on Women Expo

– It's new and it's coming to the Bay of Plenty Featuring: exhibitors, workshops, seminars Like our magazine, the Focus on Women Expo will inspire, empower, educate, connect and entertain women in our region.

Step up, get moving, live your best life! Whether you're exhibi ng or visi ng, at the Focus on Women Expo you can: Get networking! Meet, greet and chat with visitors and other exhibitors.

Get mo vated! Learn new things and ideas at expo seminars, led by successful women in our region.

Get interac ve! Step out of your comfort zone and try something new – you might just discover a new passion.

Get shopping! Visit a range of exhibitors and find out more about their products and services.

Get pampered! Pull up a chair and take a break – we'll have some relaxa on delights in store for you.

Business owners – don't miss this opportunity to promote your fabulous business to women in the region.

For bookings and further informa on – call Dee today.

ASB Arena | 5-6 May, 2018 Book your stand today.

Contact Dee Collins for further informa on: dee@focusmagazine.co.nz Mobile: 021 535 770 | www.focusmagazine.co.nz

focus

Publisher Align Publishing (an n-Gon Group facet)

Editor Dee Collins dee@focusmagazine.co.nz Feature Writers Millie Freeman Jade Kent Liz French Kerri Jones Gillian Cook Rebecca Jenkins Rebecca Tereu Mary Parker Laura Weaser Creative Director Cath Hartley Savant Creative Printing Sanyati Print Proofreading Val Gyde Cover Image Nikki South Photography Sales advertising@focusmagazine.co.nz Contact Details 62 10th Avenue Tauranga 3110 (n-Gon Group Head Ofce) P O Box 14004, Tauranga, 3143 Tel: (07) 578 6838 Mobile: 021 535 770 advertising@focusmagazine.co.nz www.focusmagazine.co.nz www.facebook.com/focusmagazinenz Distribution 5,000 free copies are delivered bi-monthly to high trafc areas such as high-end cafés and restaurants, hairdressers, fashion boutiques, waiting rooms and professional ofces across BOP and surrounding areas.

Digital focus is available to view online www.focusmagazine.co.nz 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 (a facet of the n-Gon Group). 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 ofcers 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”.

Ed or's Welcome focus ends 2017 with a celebratory bang as we feature the fantastic work of three women, Ann Kerewaro, Jan Ozanne and Jo Wills – volunteers who are going above and beyond in the region.

I have to say I am always inspired by the amazing women we meet every day. There are so many women in the Bay who have fantastic stories to share and you’ll nd this edition jam packed with inspirational and motivational stories from women such as Rotorua designer Adrienne Whitewood, who showcased her rst solo show at the recent New Zealand Fashion Week, and Hellen Faulkner who started beauty company HZP+Co. Liz French writes about Jane Kale, St John Ambulance Paramedic and Shift Manager, and we chat with a dynamic group in Waihi Beach who are intent on decreasing the use of plastic by making Boomerang Bags.

It’s not often I put myself out there but in this edition you’ll nd an article on why I’m organising the Focus on Women Expo in May. If you haven’t already heard, the Focus on Women Expo is all about women getting out there and trying something new. Read more on page 10.

Kerri Jones also puts herself out there with an article on reection as she turns 40 and Jade Kent gives us an insight to travelling with a toddler.

We’ve so enjoyed putting together focus this year and look forward to bringing you more fabulous stories in 2018!

From the focus team, we wish you all a very happy and safe Christmas and New Year.

Till then!

Dee Editor & Founder

dee@focusmagazine.co.nz

FREE copies of focus are available at our ofce. n-Gon Group, 62 Tenth Ave, Tauranga (while stocks last)

* Our ofces will be closed from 20 December-11 January focusmagazine

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What’s On?

6

Out and About

10

Focus on Women Expo

12

Horse riding therapy in demand

15

Celebra ng three unsung heroines

23

Boomerang bags are helping to save the planet

24

Jet set − focus friends take to the skies

28

I'm almost 40 and I s ll don't know what I'm going to be when I grow up

30

Crea ng a more stress-free Christmas

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Toys for your boys!

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Looking a er your body this fes ve season

37

Herbal teas for health

39

Having fun with summer sport

41

Pumpkin seeds − the Cinderella of superfoods

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Raw food workshop

45

Product reviews

46

Style pages

49

Crea vity in the Bay of Plenty

52

Adrienne Whitewood

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Zeb's search − an interview with Jill Ba y

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Have toddler will travel

63

All in a day's work − Jane Kale, paramedic

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Hellen Faulkner − making a difference

70

Building your engagement on social media pla orms

73

How to 'eat an elephant' and stay produc ve

75

Compe

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The Last Page

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contents

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Follow this link

to see behind the scenes of our photoshoot www.focusmagazine.co.nz/photoshoot-focus-dec17

Find us at: focusmagazine.co.nz facebook.com/focusmagazinenz @focusmagazinenz #focusmagazinenz

Cover Photo

Image: Nikki South, Nikki South Photography Hair: Jadine Benne and Hillary Pound, Ivy Hair Makeup: Lillybeth Melmoth, Lillybeth Makeup Flowers: Flowers by Tami Clothes: Magazine Clothing

What's happening on Insta? #focusmagazinenz

@alexspodyneko

@couragemyloveclothing

@honorbodyscrubs

@kendraeden

@nurturedforwellness

@talulah_abstract_pain ng

focus @thelawshop

@thenourishingbaker

@flowwithangelenadavies focusmagazine

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What's on?

DECEMBER / JANUARY

9 December Tauranga's Christmas in the Park Blake Park, Mount Maunganui 1-8pm

An annual community focused fundraising event. Expect a day lled with fun, food and laughter. There’ll be live music, performances, arts, crafts and many delicious food vendors and activities for the whole family to enjoy. It’s the Christmas event you won’t want to miss!

Photo: Little Miss Rose

Tickets: Gold coin entry www.littlebigevents.co.nz

10 December Raw Food Christmas Workshop Bethlehem, Tauranga 1-4pm Worried about gaining all those calories over Christmas?

Learn to make healthier Christmas treats including Christmas cake, fruit mince tarts and other festive party snacks. All dishes are raw, free of our/gluten, dairy, eggs and rened sugar.

Cost: $80 www.nurturedforwellness.com

12 December Nanogirl Live! Engineering Magic Baycourt Theatre 5pm and 7pm Following last year’s sell-out tour, join Nanogirl, Dr Michelle Dickinson MNZM, and Boris (her trusty lab assistant) for science and engineering as you’ve never seen them before.

All new experiments and explosions (lots of explosions) giant sparks, reballs, and even a real life bed of nails – bring science and engineering to life in the coolest ways possible, right before your eyes.

16 December A Night Before Christmas Bethlehem College Sports Field Gates open 5pm Bethlehem’s biggest Christmas party is totally free to enter and with entertainment galore, it appeals to everyone. This popular event proles the nostalgia and traditions of the festive season, is a non-alcoholic event, has food vendors, giveaways, Carols

by Candlelight and stunning reworks - and the huge 40sqm screen ensures everyone has a great experience. www.anightbeforechristmas.co.nz 4

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Tickets: A Reserve $40; B Reserve $28 www.baycourt.co.nz

Session One: 10am-3pm (all ages) Session Two: 4-9pm (R18) Tickets: $17.75 per session or $26 for both www.littlebigevents.co.nz

Photo: Brydie Thompson

Gates open 5pm; concerts start at 6pm.

Tickets: $25pp or season ticket to attend all 3 for just $60. Kids under 15 free with an adult. www.katikaticoncerts.co.nz

4 January Beast of a Feast Soper Reserve, Mount Maunganui A rockstar lineup of some of New Zealand's best breweries and street food vendors provides the perfect setting for you to acclimatise to a new year! The main stage will be varied, playing host to a broad selection of music genres including brass section bands playing anything from ragtime to Dixie coupled with a mix of acts known for other jazz fusions, rainbow pop and dance with a bit of comedy thrown in for good measure!

6, 27 January & 10 February Katikati Twilight Concerts Haiku Reserve, Katikati 2018 marks the 20th anniversary of the Katikati Twilight Concerts. Get out the beach chairs and picnic rugs, pack a hamper and enjoy an exceptional series of concerts with top class performers and outstanding musical talent.

Proceeds from the concerts go back to the community in the form of tertiary study grants and contributions to the Arts within the community.

12-13 January New Zealand Super Saloon Championship ASB Stadium at Baypark Gates open 5pm; show starts 6pm The best Super Saloon drivers from all over the country will be competing. Last season the title went to a South Island driver, this season our local drivers will be out for revenge.

Tickets: Adults $25; Seniors $10; Family pass $60, Children (5-15) $10; Children under 5 free.

For tickets and further information www.bayparkspeedway.co.nz

13 January Katikati Avocado, Food and Wine Festival Uretara Domain, Katikati 11am Spend a summer’s afternoon enjoying live music and savouring all sorts of delicious meals, snacks, excellent wines, beer and soft drinks.

Tickets: Early Bird tickets (available until 22 December) $20; gate sales $25 per person; under-18 free if accompanied by an adult. Tickets available from www.iTicket.co.nz or the Katikati Information Centre. www.avofest.co.nz focusmagazine

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Out & about

Paul Cousins (Stratus Blue) and Mark Collins (n-Gon Group)

QMS, the largest outdoor media company in New Zealand, hosted a BA5 func on at The Tauranga Club.

The evening was spent enjoying delicious food and wine, networking and learning more about how people move and are tracked around Tauranga.

Stacie Taylor (NZME), Gemma Bond and Lore a Crawford (both from Toi Ohomai Ins tute of Technology)

Lyn Trail (Surveying Services) and Paul Sla n (Freedom Lifestyle Villages)

Trixie Allen (Tauranga Farmers and Producers Market Inc Society), Joanne Buxton (Harcourts Advantage Realty) and Glen McCullough (Tauranga Farmers and Producers Market Inc Society) Sharon Gible (Jigsaw Solu ons Group), Tami Hadfield (Flowers by Tami) and Amanda Barker (Pillar Consul ng)

Pauline Wrigley (EWP Services (NZ) and Michaela James (Design Juice) Rachel Ackerley (Kiwibank Business Banking) and Bridget Cummins (Craigs Investment Partners)

Helen Schafer (Living Business), Brooke Courtney (Sharp Tudhope Lawyers) and Chantelle Laurent (Formula One Results)

Karen Brock (Staples Rodway) and Margaret Cannon (Cooney Lees Morgan) 6

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Ladies at a Business Women's Network func on enjoyed a light lunch and listened to Jo Bond (Fes val Director Tauranga Arts Fes val) and Megan Peacock Coyle (Manager - Baycourt Community & Arts Centre) talk about their vision to put Tauranga on the map as an events and performance des na on and the economic benefits events have for the city.

Jo Bond (Tauranga Arts Fes val), Jo Tricker (Jo Tricker Glass) and Megan Peacock Coyle (Baycourt Community & Arts Centre)

The rain stayed away for the annual Hot Pink Walk and everyone got a chance to dress up, celebrate and remember those women in their lives who have had breast cancer. Thanks to Alana Dresner from Alana Dresner Photography for capturing these fabulous images.

The crowd enjoys some Zumba Time

Alex Magill, Owen Fisher, Megan Howells, Robert Reid, David Butler

Robyn Curd and Chloe Billington

Boobops Rowers and supporters

Robyn McLeod and Suzanne Gladding

Lyn Lawson and Tania Hadley

Crossing the finish line focusmagazine

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Mayor Greg Brownless and partner LiJong Liao with Beryl and Denis Smith from 16th Ave Theatre

New Zealand's most popular playwright, Roger Hall, was in Tauranga with his show Last Legs. A VIP preshow func on was held at Baycourt prior to the start of the show. Guests included Margaret Reece, the focus winner of ckets to the show.

Photographs by Brydie Photography

Hazel Dunlop and Catherine Stewart (friends of Baycourt)

Compe on winner Margaret Reece with Roger Hall

Mayor Greg Brownless, Baycourt Manager Megan Peacock Coyle and Roger Hall

Gillian Houser (ASB Venues) and daughter Leaine Stanshall Zealong Tea Estate and Good George Brewing, two award-winning Hamilton-based beverage producers, have pooled their talent, exper se and innova on to bring a novel tea-infused beer to the market called “High Tea on Tap”.

“The roasted char flavour pairs nicely with the sweet rich malt profile of the brown ale and gives the brew a mild tea sweetness,” said Zealong's marke ng manager, Sen Kong.

Nicole Wang, Amy Reason (Zealong Tea Estate), Brian Watson, Daniel McGregor, Ash Lal and Brent Edwards (Good George Brewing)

Stu Smith, Camille Guzzwell (The Breeze) and Julie Rowlands (MediaWorks) 8

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Calum Hughes (Nexus Magazine), Caitlan Johnston, Bronwyn Laundry (Nexus Magazine), Annalese Webber (Zealong Tea Estate)

David and Anne e Taylor (Number 8 Network)

Members of Venus Bay of Plenty enjoyed A er 5 drinks and nibbles at Shine Hair Co on Hairini Street. Guests were also shown demos of the upcoming season looks in beauty and hair.

The Shine Hair team: Michelle Stowe, Kristy Ross, Natalie Ravenhill, Sam Crapp, Kate Murphy and Millie Dawkins

Michelle Stowe (Shine Hair Co), Linda Crosbie (Venus Regional Manager) and Carolyn Banks (Venus CEO)

Kylie Kelly (The Kellys), Margi Hart (Hart Works Insurance) and Stacie Taylor (NZME/Bay of Plenty News)

Mary Parker (The Fast Track Coach) and Sam Crapp (Shine Hair Co)

Kristen Zaloumis (Build 7), Serina Gardner (Natural Family Health Clinic) and Keryn Jarvis (Staples Rodway Accountants)

Lorraine Nowland (Melaleuca – The Wellness Company) and Tani Hansen (Everest Group)

Donna Colbert (Laser Way) and Julie Williams (Harcourts)

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Expo '18, Tauranga Focus on Women Expo – try, learn, experiment … Take Action!

The Focus on Women Expo will be the place to push a few boundaries, she says.

“What I want to do is show women what’s possible; what’s out there for us to try. We are multi-dimensional, complex individuals with interests, passions and goals.

We’re looking for different opportunities, and in many cases we’re prepared to spend some money and time to pursue them.

“There’s so much going on in our wonderful region that many women don’t know about – activities, learning, recreation, extreme experiences – how often have we pushed aside our aspirations and dreams because of other priorities?

“I want to bring these opportunities to women so they can have a taste of what’s out there. Who knows – they just might discover a hidden passion or learn something new!”

Great day out for women!

Grab your coffee and listen up

– a new women’s expo is coming to town. So slip into some comfy clothes and slap on your ‘can do’ attitude because this expo is all about breaking out and trying something new.

Sure, you can still expect lots of great shopping, free samples and a fun day out with friends, but organiser Dee Collins says she wants to give women a whole lot of new experiences so they can extend their interests and challenge themselves.

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The Focus on Women Expo takes place 5-6 May 2018 at ASB Arena. Its emphasis will be on inspiring, encouraging, informing, connecting and entertaining – the same guiding principles Dee applies to her successful women’s business and lifestyle magazine, focus.

Dee launched focus in October 2016 and has now published eight editions of the glossy bi-monthly. While publishing is a relatively new enterprise, Dee’s experience in event management goes back to the 1980s when she ran Functions Unlimited, an exhibition and event management business in her home country, Zimbabwe.

Newly independent in 1980, Zimbabwe was ourishing, and buyers, operators and vendors were looking for opportunities to promote their products and services.

Dee put on events for both the commercial and public sector, from home shows, bridal, health and beauty, arts and crafts to marketing and tourism expos. In one year she was organising so many shows and events, she didn’t have a single weekend off for nine months.

“I loved it, because it was busy and exciting and the shows were always a great day out for people.”

On Australia’s Sunshine Coast she later ran a successful wedding expo for 6 years, expanding the business to include a wedding directory and wedding guide as well as professional development and networking events for the wedding industry.

Now settled and loving life in the Bay of Plenty, she aims to put on an awesome day out for women to enjoy with friends or family. She wants women to be inspired by what’s happening in our region, informed by interesting speakers, nourished and pampered.

After 70 years in the jewellery business we know a thing or two about diamonds.

“I want to raise the bar and challenge the ‘norm’ and am working hard to bring innovative ideas and provide something a little bit different to what expo visitors have seen before.

“I just think we need to go out and make the most of our lives; to give everything a go and try things. I really admire women who do that. This expo is something I’m passionate about which is the main reason I'm doing it, and that's what I encourage other women to do – try something new!

Response so far has been very positive, so check out more details when the Focus on Women Expo website goes up in mid-January. There’ll also be a special expo magazine available a month before the event with details of exhibitors, products to try and ways to get active on the day. n

16 Grey Street Tauranga | Phone 07 578 8591 www.hammonjeweller.co.nz

What you need to know:

2018

“By supporting each other, we can help each other grow.”

Trusted name. Exquisite jewellery.

Focus on Women Expo 5-6 May, 2018 ASB Baypark Expo enquiries: Dee Collins dee@focusmagazine.co.nz 021 535 770 www.focusmagazine.co.nz

It's new and it's coming to the Bay of Plenty

2018

Focus on Women Expo

Enquiries: dee@focusmagazine.co.nz

5-6 May, 2018 - ASB Baypark focusmagazine

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Riders Zack Taylor and Ale Jones enjoy their time out with horses Scotty and Zena and volunteers Alise and Melanie

Horse riding therapy in demand Tauranga Riding for The Disabled (RDA) offers equine therapy to anyone with disabilities and social challenges. The organisation is growing, with increasing demands on its services.

Elisha Olds, manager of Riding for the Disabled 12

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The RDA Equestrian Therapy Centre runs a six-day-a-week operation, catering for 135 riders each week.

There are 80 volunteers supporting riders and the Centre is looking for more people to assist in meeting growing demand.

“Volunteers are at the heart of the organisation,” says manager Elisha Olds. “Those interested need have no previous experience as full training is provided,” she says. “We urge people to visit and see if Tauranga RDA is somewhere they feel they can invest their time – which could be as little or as much as they can t into their lifestyle.

“Those who commit will be involved in an organisation that is passionate and committed to the cause of offering equine therapy to better lives.”

Established in 1975 by a committed group of people, headed by the late Betty Blundell, the RDA Centre has remained on its six-hectare Welcome Bay site ever since, and volunteers have continued to play a signicant role in its operation. In the beginning, volunteers would take the horses to Kata Street Special School, now

known as Tauranga Special School. A lot has changed since those days, Elisha says.

Today, therapy riding and sport and recreational programmes cater for children and adults who are challenged with physical, mental and cognitive difculties, including disabilities ranging from Multiple Sclerosis to Autism. Even though large numbers of people are having equine therapy each week, the Centre has an ever-increasing waiting list.

“Clients don't have to wait long to get onto a programme, however we have riders on rotational sessions throughout the year, and our waiting list just keeps growing,” Elisha says.

Tauranga RDA has 17 therapy horses of various sizes to cater for the client range, including two mini ponies used for outreach programmes.

Elisha says being able to sit tall on a horse is a highlight for some – they get the pleasure, along with the physical and mental benets.

“Horse riding is an exciting, challenging and motivating activity, based on rhythm and symmetry and can provide excellent therapy for the rehabilitation of physically and intellectually impaired people.”

The therapy horse is a warm, exible and responsive animal, and is friendly and undemanding. Its walking action is three-dimensional, with movement up and down, side to side and backwards and forwards – a pattern that corresponds to the physiology of the human walk. The horse at an average walk moves a rider 2,250 times in thirty minutes. “Physiotherapists say there is no other way this movement can be produced in a clinical situation,” Elisha says.

Adjustments by a rider's body to the rhythms of a horse while striving to maintain balance, alternately activates and relaxes the muscles, particularly those of the trunk, spine, hips and pelvis.

Beyond that, most clients form a connection with their horses that improves their mental state. The RDA team recognizes that development of a relationship with a horse offers the opportunity for acceptance, nurturing, and physical affection as well as development of a sense of achievement and empowerment.

Developing a relationship with an animal that's about 500kg builds condence, self-esteem and effective communication skills, such as patience and clarity, Elisha says.

As well as providing therapy, Tauranga's RDA Centre provides self-esteem programmes for at risk children

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and youth. These develop and nurture condence, well-being, independence and compassion through therapeutic horse riding, horse care and equestrian skills. They play a valuable role in addressing social issues, providing rehabilitation, countering youth crime and in working with families, Elisha says.

RDA programmes are continually evolving to meet needs and to offer more services. The latest addition is Equine Assisted Growth and Learning (EAGALA). It is a non-ridden therapy that promotes emotional growth and learning.

This programme can cater for almost any groups or individuals looking for growth.

Tauranga RDA offers many things to many people, says Elisha. “It's a place of challenges, a place of achievement, a place of belonging and a place of community for riders, families, volunteers and staff.” n

Rosemary Saunders rides Honey and volunteers Ange, Louise and Melanie lend a hand

If you are interested in supporting Tauranga RDA through volunteering, nancially, or otherwise, please make contact. Tauranga RDA receives no government funding and operates through the generous support of the community via grants, donations and sponsorship. www.taurangarda.co.nz | info@taurangarda.co.nz | T: 07 5441899

FOR PEACE OF MIND AND NATURALLY HEALTHY PETS Our AWARD WINNING approach combines all the advantages of conven onal veterinary medicine and surgery with complementary therapies to achieve excellent results for our pa ents.

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ü Surgery ü Digital X-Rays ü In House Blood Tes ng ü 24 Hour Emergency Care ü Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy ü Home Visits ü Acupuncture ü Osteopathy ü Herbs & Homeopathy We offer long distance consulta on by phone

56 Fraser Street, Tauranga Phone: 07 578 7054

Visit www.holis cvets.co.nz for a comprehensive list of services, informa on and tes monials.

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Celebrating three unsung heroines Words Millie Freeman | Images Nikki South, Nikki South Photography

Cover photoshoot: Nikki South Photography | Ivy Hair | Lillybeth Makeup | Flowers by Tami | Magazine Clothing focusmagazine

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focus put a call out to readers to nominate unsung heroines who work tirelessly behind the scenes to improve our community. Three of these women – Jo Wills, Jan Ozanne and Ann Kerewaro – grace our cover in this edition. Our heroines were treated to a hair makeover package at Ivy Hair prior to the photoshoot and, on the day of the shoot, enjoyed another pampering session at the Mount Maunganui salon.

Lillybeth Melmoth worked her makeup magic and Magazine Clothing provided the outts.

Photographer Nikki South captured all the moments on the day.

Jo Wills

Advocating and influencing at the grass roots

Being laid up with ill health for several weeks during May meant Jo Wills had lots of time to think. Among other things, she thought about the spare time she had available and how she could use this time more productively.

Already juggling a more than full-time job in the not-for-prot sector, numerous committee roles, and voluntary positions with Trade Aid (governance and retail shop), Jo gured she still had time available to offer more. So she signed up with Volunteer Bay of Plenty as a volunteer journalist and enrolled in an ESOL course to help immigrants, particularly women, develop their conversational English skills.

Throw in evening meetings, an online writing course and morning running training and she has plenty going on.

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“Some days I don't know whether I'm coming or going, or what role I'm in when I answer the phone. But I make time for everything and if I need to train I just get up earlier.

“I'm involved in lots of meetings so that's why I love the volunteering, and working in the Trade Aid shop is a really different environment. I meet so many cool people and I know that if I sell this product it's literally impacting someone's life. It's a simple and logical model which I love.”

'Massive'

community need

Jo doesn't have children and appreciates that this lifestyle choice frees her up to put time and energy into the community. In her paid job, as project manager with social enterprise Sustainability Options, she develops or co-ordinates new initiatives, such as Trade Bank, to help people live in warmer, drier, healthier homes.

“For a variety of reasons, small jobs like leaks or ventilation issues get left unattended and that can lead to dampness and cold, draughty homes.

We nd willing tradies to volunteer their time, and materials get covered by landlords, homeowners, or third party funders. There's a massive need for it and we'd love more tradies to get onboard.”

Jo works with Sustainability Options founders Phil and Nik Gregg and says if they see a need in the community they gure out how they can address that need. As well as Trade Bank, Curtain Bank, Blanket Bank and Heater Bank – initiatives they've established to meet a growing need for warmer homes – they also help home owners with free housing performance assessments, advise organisations around sustainability

planning and manage sustainability projects.

Housing, she says, is a major indicator of people's wellbeing and wellness but it's not the only focus of Sustainability Options. She works with Council on the region's transport issues, particularly around electric vehicles (EVs) – the EV charge station on The Strand was a project in which Sustainability Options had a major role.

“I really enjoy working with good people who want to inuence change,” she says. “We wanted to get the ball rolling [on EVs] and put a stake in the ground to say we're going to move towards this.”

As well, she chairs the Environment and Sustainability Forum for the

Western Bay of Plenty's SmartGrowth initiative, for future planning in the region. Transport is a big focus for the forum and it's working with local councils and community groups on public transport alternatives and the Cycle Action Plan.

More than just profit Jo's move into the not-for-prot sector happened in her late-20s when she was making good money in a corporate sales job. But something didn't sit right with her values and after doing a short course in The Natural Step – a scientic framework for sustainable strategy development – she went to work for the Sustainable Business Network in Tauranga, where she could understand and learn about a different model of operation.

To say thanks for all the work they have done in the community, we presented the women with dinner gift vouchers from Amphora on The Strand, beauty products from HZP+Co and Honor Body Scrubs, as well as gorgeous bouquets from Flowers by Tami.

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“I just don't see the point of working for prot. Sure, there's a need to earn money and put food on the table, but I knew there was something more than just prot on its own. We have this bizarre concept of growth being good and are conditioned to keep earning more and more. But when is enough, enough? When can people start saying 'I have more than I need so I can start giving to other people now'?

“At rst I got involved at the political level, particularly in housing, and then realised I preferred to be on the outside pushing and advocating and inuencing. I wanted to give my time where I knew, on the ground, there was change happening. It's small drops in the ocean but every time we go into homes we're genuinely helping people change something.”

Jo's heart is ultimately with the environment, and her lifestyle choices – values-based work, cycling wherever possible, eating vegan food, not having children and living in a small home – are driven by decisions around how she will continue to contribute to people and the planet.

And if she ever questions her choices and wonders if she can t more voluntary work into her life, she reminds herself of those Five Pillars of Wellbeing pinned to her wall – Connect, Give, Take Notice of the World Around You, Keep Learning, Be Active.

“When you give to others and when you're part of something bigger than yourself, that's when your wellbeing increases, because you feel you've contributed and something is happening around you that you're a part of.”

www.sustainabilityoptions.org.nz

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Ann Kerewaro

Plenty of reward for voluntary time

Ann Kerewaro is not the kind of person to put her feet up and relax. She's a 'doer', so when she retired from paid work last year, aged 80, her new-found freedom was put to good use – as president of Multicultural Tauranga.

Currently run entirely by volunteers, it is one of 20 regional multicultural councils throughout the country whose aim is to promote cultural diversity and harmony in the community. Events and activities help immigrants make connections in their communities and feel a sense of belonging so they can settle quickly.

Ann began with the organisation in 2004 when a work colleague roped her in to help with the annual Multicultural Festival. Since then she's taken on most committee roles as well as assisting with event co-ordination,

fundraising and the urry of other tasks needed to run a voluntary organisation. In 2015 she was awarded Trustee of the Year at the Volunteer WBOP Volunteer Excellence Awards.

All up, she puts in at least 30-40 hours per week with Multicultural Tauranga, including evening meetings; on her 'free' days she cares for her grandchildren while her daughter works.

It may not be everyone's idea of a relaxing retirement, but in Ann's book, you're never too old to volunteer and there's always people to meet and so much to be gained in exchange for a few hours of your time.

“I'm always meeting and making friends with new people from different nationalities and I really love that,” she says. “I also enjoy being able to return my time to the community. In Tauranga we have a lot of immigrants but for many it's not easy coming to a new place. Multicultural Tauranga

provides a social contact for them, where they can meet people and feel safe.”

A new home Ann was an immigrant herself when she travelled by boat from the UK to New Zealand in 1961, aged 25. But despite leaving her family to travel half-way around the world, she had a much easier start in her new home than many. She had a job already organised with the State Services Commission (updating, via typewriter, the database of all public servants in New Zealand and the Pacic Islands), temporary accommodation arranged, and, apart from some Kiwi colloquialisms, there was no language barrier.

Before long she had a at in central Wellington and a busy social life. The

intention was to enjoy her two-year OE and then return home, so when the time came she booked her return fare … but she never went. During the next 12 years in Wellington she met her Kiwi husband Keni and raised three children. In 1973 they moved to Tauranga and bought their Greerton home, where they still live today.

It took Ann 33 years before she travelled back to the UK and she has since had another two trips, each time slotting “straight back in” as if she had never been away. But home was always in New Zealand with family, friends and work – both paid and voluntary.

When she was asked to help out with the 2004 festival she was already working two part-time jobs – one with the Ministry of Education producing

teaching and learning resources for special needs therapists and the other as ofce administrator for the Wesley Church. That left Wednesdays, and evenings, to work on her newly acquired secretarial role for Multicultural Tauranga.

Ann continued to juggle her different roles until 2014 when she resigned from the Ministry, and then two years later, relinquished her second job.

“I didn't really think about it, I just did [the jobs]. I do like to keep busy, rather than sitting at home. I see myself as a backroom doer.

“I will have to stop sometime [at Multicultural Tauranga] and I know I will miss it because of the people – particularly the different people you meet and make friends with. It's very

Time to relax at The Mount Social Club 19

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easy to stick to your own culture, but we are so lucky to have so many other ethnic groups living here that we can learn from.”

Fulfilling a community need As well as offering English language classes and an interpreting service for 32 languages, Multicultural Tauranga organises regular social events for immigrants and the local community, including a weekly Newcomers Network drop-in coffee morning, and monthly Living in Harmony evenings, both of which are open to everyone – newcomers and local Kiwis.

Ann and her team also arrange regular outings, the Ethkick annual soccer tournament, and of course, the popular Multicultural Festival which attracts around 4,000 people to the Historic Village venue each March.

“There are always things to do here and we're always on the look-out for volunteers to help with ofce admin and organising and running the festival.

“I nd it very rewarding helping people, especially immigrants because they sometimes feel a new country or new environment can be quite hostile. When you help someone to feel they belong, it makes it all worthwhile.”

Multicultural Tauranga is located at the Historic Village, 17th Avenue (Complex 1, upstairs, Main Street), or contact them at enquiries@trmc.co.nz or www.trmc.co.nz

Jan Ozanne

Her place of greatest service

She may have a quiet ofce to retreat to, but the last place Jan Ozanne wants to be is behind a closed door working at her desk.

On the contrary, the bubbly family pastor from Otumoetai Baptist Church is a people person and gets her greatest enjoyment from connecting with, and supporting others.

Her part-time paid role is to manage the Children's Ministry and lead teams of volunteers to run church events. In addition she mentors other Baptist children's pastors from around the region. What this translates to week by week is the constant seless giving of her time, over and above her designated hours, to help make people's lives that little bit easier.

Whether it's organising workshops, resourcing parents, teaching children, leading small groups, co-ordinating

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dinner rosters for mums with new babies or helping at mainly music community music sessions, Jan is at the centre of it all, connecting, communicating and quietly building a sense of belonging within her church community.

Colleagues and church parents speak highly of her ability to quickly come alongside people to offer help, and her tireless work to serve others. One parent commented that she had always felt supported by Jan “because of the way she goes above and beyond time and time again to equip, support and encourage us as parents”.

For Jan, it's where she can be of greatest service and her faith is a huge motivator in her daily life. “I share the church's vision to resource, strengthen and encourage families,” she says. “My motivation is to see healthy, happy families in our community, because when we can get that right it ows into every part of our culture and community.

“I'm not there to tell people what to do; I'm walking with them through life and supporting them in all of those milestones and stages and concerns.

If people come to this church and feel well supported then that is massive – that excites me.”

Teaching and giving Jan and her husband Phil Ozanne (the name originated from Guernsey) moved from Wellington to Tauranga with their four young children 10 years ago. She has a Postgraduate Diploma in English Literature and trained and worked as a secondary English and

Classical Studies teacher. Working with young people and making a difference in their lives was her calling. As well, she's an awesome organiser.

So when the family pastor role came up at the church, Jan was encouraged to apply. For the past eight years she has led a team of 25 volunteers who work with the children, and has a ve-member thinktank who meet each term to evaluate programmes and plan ahead. The church community has 32 families with young children, with whom she and her team have direct contact.

“I appreciate all the volunteers hugely because if I didn't have these amazing people I couldn't do anything. My role is really to keep the vision and create structure and organisation around that to make [the vision] happen. We believe it really does take a village to raise a child and want to provide a really great environment for the kids here so they feel this is their space” Raising great kids, she says, comes back to supporting families. If a parent is navigating through a challenging issue with their children, chances are others will be facing a similar problem. Jan might suggest a

…and that's a wrap!

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Keen to become a volunteer?

“I nd it hugely satisfying when I see parents with their kids having fun together and enjoying each other's company, having conversations and being connected. It keeps me motivated because I can see that what we're doing is making a difference in the day-to-day lives of our families.”

Life-long learning

discussion evening for parents so they can air their concerns, share ideas and hopefully come away with a bunch of new positive strategies.

“Being a parent is my most important job and I believe it's worth investing the time and energy on doing parenting well. But there is so much time pressure these days, and women especially put unrealistic expectations on themselves of what they need to do; they're exhausted and feel they're not connecting with their kids.”

As well as parenting workshops and social get-togethers for families, church families are matched up so that older families can support and check in with younger families. “In the busyness of life, just to know there is someone caring for you and on your side is really important,” she says.

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Jan also has a passion for learning and has managed to t online study into her busy schedule. She recently completed the nal paper for her Graduate Diploma in Applied Theology and says the learning has kept her up-to-date with current thinking and open to fresh ideas for teaching and resourcing in her ministry.

And between driving her four children to various after-school activities, Jan and her family manage to t in extra time to help others in their community.

Once a fortnight they volunteer for the Good Neighbour Food Rescue, collecting unused but edible food from cafés around the region to be redistributed to local charities.

“It's good for the children to see the value of giving back to their community. Even though they are young they can still be out there making a difference in people's lives.”

www.obc.org.nz

While volunteers help others, studies show volunteering is good for the volunteer too.

Volunteering Bay of Plenty (Volunteering BOP) is based in Tauranga and services the entire Bay of Plenty. The centre works in close partnership with the other volunteer centres throughout the country and liaises with Volunteering New Zealand on a regular basis.

Their main aim is to be recognised by all sections of the community as a one-stop volunteering shop, attracting a wide range of volunteers and providing professional information on volunteering issues. They work on increasing the quality and quantity of volunteering in the area by providing information support and guidance to potential and existing volunteers, and to notfor-prot organisations.

Volunteering offers many benets for both mental and physical health and can provide a healthy boost in selfcondence, self-esteem and life satisfaction. By helping and doing good work for others and the community, you’ll gain a natural sense of accomplishment.

For more information on volunteering visit www.volbop.org.nz Call 07 571 3714 or email admin@volbop.org.nz

Boomerang Bags are helping to save the planet

Words Dee Collins Images Cassandra Walker, Cassabella Photography

Our ar cle on plas c-free living in the last edi on of focus (October-November 2017) prompted Boomerang Bags Waihi Beach to get in touch.

Boomerang Bags is a community-driven ini a ve tackling plas c pollu on at the grassroots. It kicked off in Australia in 2013 and has spread to communi es throughout the world.

The idea behind it is to reduce the use of plas c bags by using recycled materials instead, and engaging local communi es to get involved in making bags that are free, fun and sustainable.

“It's stopping the use of plas c bags but also recycling unwanted material, clothing and linen and turning an item of no excitement into something beau ful and crea ve for all to see and use,” said Megan Troup, one of the women driving the Waihi Beach ini a ve.

Once made, the bags go to local shops to use on a borrow and bring back basis as an alterna ve to plas c bags.

The venture relies on dona ons of suitable fabrics and thread and, of course, volunteers to donate their me and sewing machines.

“People just pitch up at our tennis club on Monday mornings and cut, sew, iron and create these reusable shopping bags. Currently 90% of our retailers are on board.

“I cut up my husband’s old jeans last week to use on the bags. There were a few rips, holes and bu ons missing but the majority of the actual material was s ll in great shape so I cut them up J and now they will s ll travel many miles … just with a different set of legs.”

The new recyclable bags are created and placed in the community at different spots or, ideally, in all stores. A customer comes along, makes their purchase, and uses a bag to take their goods home, then returns it for the next person to use. Like a boomerang, the bag goes out and comes back.

Much of what we eat, drink or use comes packaged in plas c – a material made from petroleum which will last forever – and is usually only used once before being thrown into landfill. Shopping bags, disposable cups (even paper ones are lined with polyethylene plas c) and lids, drinking straws and water bo les are the big four singleuse plas cs.

The Waihi Beach community is looking for sewing volunteers or people to donate fabric and items suitable for the bags.

www.facebook.com/boomerangbagswaihibeach/ Visit h p://boomerangbags.org/ to find a community near you or for details on how to set up a new one. focusmagazine

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Jet Set

– focus friends take to the skies Words Millie Freeman

As a teenager, Sharon Giblett dreamed of joining the airforce and becoming a jet ghter pilot. Sadly, the occupation was considered unsuitable for women at the time, and Sharon, not interested in any other military role, pushed aside her dream to focus on a different career.

In October, that dream sprung to life once again when Sharon joined 11 other focus friends and colleagues for a VIP event hosted at Tauranga's only dedicated virtual reality (VR) ying encounter – The Aviator Experience.

In between refreshments, we got the chance to nd out just what piloting a plane feels like – while strapped into the cockpit of a ight simulator – and understand why customers, including many women, are returning again and again to take the controls and soar to the skies. As newcomers, we started off mid-ight inside an L39 Albatros.

experience her dream, the night and the ight took Sharon on quite an emotional rollercoaster.

“I cried all the way home that night and had the biggest grin on my face the next day. It's hard to explain that feeling when you get to try something you have only ever dreamed about for so long. It was just so peaceful and beautiful ying around on my own.

“I may have missed my opportunity to become a real ghter pilot but this experience has just conrmed for me that I still really want to learn to y. Now I just need to work out how to make that happen.”

“It was so amazing! Just like being in a real cockpit, with all the controls, the engine noise and even the vibration,” said Sharon. “I never thought I would ever get the chance to experience this and here I was doing horizontal and vertical rolls and ying down low over the trees – it was such an incredible feeling.”

Sharon had a second go later in the evening, this time in control of a ghter jet, which she also landed. As well as throttles and joystick, there's a lot more controls to operate, but being able to land smoothly without crashing was a real thrill, she said. Having waited so many years to 24

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Sharon Giblett at the controls.

Flying the warbirds The Aviator's Craig Saunders says Sharon's response is not unusual and believes many people who've always had a passion for ying, will want to realise their dream once they've experienced his VR ight simulator.

“We've had people in their 80s who get in here and don't want to get off. They love it because it's so realistic. Some people hold the bottom of the seat when they do a loop, scared they're going to fall out. Others get a fright if we eject them before a crash landing, and then suddenly they're in the parachute oating down – it's all part of the experience.”

Angela Fleet

Forget about jumbo jets! Craig has set up The Aviator in military style so customers can experience ying some of the most iconic aircraft in the world – from the Spitre and Mirage ghter jet to the P51 Mustang and Iroquois helicopters. Currently he has two simulator 'cockpits' and 13 different simulations to choose from, with more expected prior to Christmas.

link the simulators together so two people can have a dogght, or you can shoot at targets on the ground while ying a ghter jet.”

“The experience is 95% real in terms of ight dynamics and characteristics, so initially you have to learn how to y and use the controls. At rst people start in the air already ying, so they can just y around and experience what it's like. When they want to come back, there's a whole lot of new stuff they can try, and we've got lots more planned to keep it evolving.

And if this all sounds like toys for the boys, think again. All 12 women at the VIP event were eager to have a go, and, apart from one woman – who found it “amazing” but a little dizzying – reluctantly parachuted to the end of their turn, with happy grins and expressions of glee, fascination and a measure of overwhelm while they negotiated walking on solid ground again.

“Flying on your own is fun but ying with another person is really cool, so people often come back with a friend because they want to shoot them down. It's great. We can

“That would make an awesome hens' night party,” said Caro Richards, who jumped back in line to try out a ghter jet later. “It was an amazing experience, so much better than I imagined. You forget you have goggles on; you just look out and see everything around you.”

Closest you get to the real thing Craig's idea for The Aviator Experience grew from a desire to have a ight simulator set up at home. He had been an avionics technician in the Royal New Zealand Airforce and later gained his private pilot's licence. When friends realised how “crazy cool” the simulator was, they encouraged him to turn it into a commercial venture so that others could also experience the wonders of ight at a fraction of the cost of the real thing and without the risk.

The simulators use commercially available parts along with their own custom design rigs. Craig is proud to say the simulators are constructed here in Tauranga and chooses to use local companies as much as possible. They are located at Tauranga Airport in a real hangar surrounded by Caro Richards

Keryn Jarvis focusmagazine

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Comments: Sharon Giblett: “I never thought I would ever get the chance to experience this – it was such an incredible feeling.”

Caro Richards: “That would make an awesome hens' night party. It was an amazing experience, so much better than I imagined.”

Liz French: “I might start breathing again soon! It felt ridiculously real – I had to keep reminding myself I was in VR.”

operational aircraft. He has been operating since May this year. With advances in VR technology, they've been able to put together an experience that has even left real pilots “blown away” by the sense of presence and the realistic perception of height and depth.

“The technology is cool now, but it's only getting better with higher denition and hand recognition coming in the future,” Craig says. “Most people expect it just to be screens in front of them, but with headsets and full VR visuals, you're ying a plane as if you were a pilot. You go from being in this hangar to being inside the plane with full control with all the systems, bombs and guns. It's the closest you can get to the real thing.” n

Carol Garden: “It was surprisingly easy, but the most unnerving thing was going upside down. My husband would love it!”

Keryn Jarvis: “Wow! That felt so real, incredible – it was so much more life-like than I was expecting.”

Janet Keys: “I was nervous to start with but gained condence being up there; I learnt how to tip and bank. The 360° views were amazing.”

Angela Fleet: “The detail was incredible, unbelievable. I don't really like ying and felt a bit of motion sickness but would probably try it again.”

Char Niles: “Absolutely brilliant. It's so great for women to have a go doing something they wouldn't usually try. I would absolutely recommend it.”

Megan Peacock Coyle: “I used to y in a glider with my father so this brought back some lovely memories. It was so much fun doing rolls and I want to learn how to take off and land next. My husband would be in heaven!”

The Aviator Experience is open Monday to Saturday, or for groups by appointment. Phone to book on 021 648 699, or visit www.theaviator.co.nz for information on prices*, vouchers (30 and 60 minute options) and concession passes. For a range of corporate function ideas at the hangar, please call Craig, 021 648 699. *If you mention focus you will get a 20% VIP discount on a ight experience or purchase of a gift voucher.

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Monique Edlinger: “Exhilarating and very realistic. I'll denitely recommend this to friends!”

Millie Freeman: “I thought I would be the one holding the bottom of my seat doing a loop but it's so incredibly calming and peaceful up there. You really feel like you're up there soaring. Can't wait to try a ghter jet next time.”

Dee Collins: “I can absolutely see how people would block out everything and get hooked into the VR experience.

Loved the jet, shooting tanks and the whole experience.”

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I'm almost 40 and I still don't know what I'm going to be when I grow up Words Kerri Jones

When we ask our fouryear-old daughter what she's going to be when she grows up, without fail her immediate and assured reply is: “I'm going to be a mum, a doctor and a hairdresser.”

I have to admit that when she rst said this my instant reaction was a sense of pride that my daughter was making good career choices at a young age AND that she was determined to juggle such reputable vocations with being a mother as well.

Yes - my pre-schooler was already paving her path to greatness, and I was already planning what I'd wear to her graduation from medical school.

But then I really thought about it. I thought about what, as her mother, I hoped for my daughter's future and I soon realised that I didn't actually care whether she was going to be a doctor, or a mum, or a trapeze artist for that matter. All I did care about was that she continued to be healthy and happy, and that we remained connected for the rest of our lives.

So why is it that from a young age we are loaded with this pressure of what we are going to “become” when we are older? Not only is it unnecessary, it's dangerous.

For a start, it makes us stop living in and enjoying the present moment and start thinking (and worrying) about what happiness will look like in 10, 20 or 30 years' time.

Isn't the best part about being a kid that all you care 28

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Kerri Jones with her daughter.

about is literally the moment you're in? Without realising it we're teaching our kids that the future is where happiness lives, not right now.

What's just as concerning to me is that we're teaching our kids that becoming something – as in a teacher, a doctor, a singer, an All Black – whatever it is – is going to be the key to our happiness. We attach a job to our joy, rather than nding joy from within.

Which brings me to my current predicament. In 14 months' time, I'm going to be 40. And while I am fortunate enough to be working right now, it still feels like I've yet to ascertain what exactly it is that I'm going to be when I grow up – that is, one occupation I can hang my hat on and proudly proclaim myself to be. The problem is that I've been asking myself the same question for the past 20 years, and suddenly almost half of my life is behind me, and I'm still yet to gure out the answer.

I can't help but think that my dilemma is linked to the same question we used to ask our daughter. That I've taken this notion of becoming something when I grow up so seriously that somewhere along the way I became more consumed with the becoming that I forgot to just be.

One of my rst memories as a young girl was telling people that I was going to marry Prince William when I was older. Believe me, I wasn't joking. I honestly thought my life would propel me so many privileges that I would end up a princess.

TH

X REST E PERIENC EA E

G THERE IS X REST E PERIENC EA E

Scramble to: theaviator.co.nz

Tauranga Airport | bookings@theaviator.co.nz

Are you on the Hormonal Rollercoaster?

We have helped ladies from 11-89 years of age

So, when I say that I'm almost 40 and I still don't know what I'm going to be when I grow up, perhaps what I'm really saying is this: I'm almost 40 and while I've always thought that by now I would be feeling content and satised, I'm not.

What am I doing about it? Well, I've started asking myself the same thing I now ask my daughter. Not “what are you going to be?” but “what makes you happy?” And we're both doing more of that. n Kerri Jones grew up in Tauranga and after almost 20 years of studying and working in various cities around the country and the world, returned home to the Bay of Plenty last year with her husband and two young children. She also has two teenage step-daughters who live on the Kapiti Coast and visit whenever possible. Kerri commenced her career in journalism but veered off into advertising and PR, so is enjoying getting back into the groove of writing again.

TH

TO

IN FLY

G THERE IS

Some years on and as someone who is married with children, has a job, is doing ok nancially, and owns a nice house – I can unequivocally say that I don't place myself at the top of the success chart, at all. Nor do I equate these things with happiness. Comfort, yes.

Happiness, no.

EN

IN FLY

I also think I have grown up in a generation where we were very much told, inadvertently or not - by our families, by our teachers, by the media – that happiness stems from success. This success was based on who we marry, what we study at university, what job we have, how much money we make, how many kids we have, and what kind of house we own.

The moment you put on our VR headsets you’ll be transported into a virtual 3D environment and you’ll begin to experience what it's like to be in the cockpit of a true warbird.

TO

I know, it seems ridiculous now, but this is the result of growing up thinking that becoming something – in this case, a wife/princess - will make us happy. Walt Disney has a lot to answer for.

Here at The Aviator Experience we've created something quite special. With our simulators we take you into the world of virtual reality, pu ng you in control of the most iconic aircra ever built.

EN

Obviously, things between Wills and I didn't work out, but looking back I think such a sentiment represented my genuine belief that I would nd my knight in shining armour, and that would be it. My life's purpose, my happiness, my fullment would come from the love of somebody else - someone who was going to treat me like a queen for the rest of my life.

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260 Oropi Road PO Box 15032 Tauranga 3144 Ph: 07 543 4999 www.naturalhormonetherapy.co.nz focusmagazine

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Creating a more stress-free Christmas Words Mary Parker, The Fast Track Coach

What does Christmas mean to you – the pleasure of spending time with family, the gifts you give and receive, the traditions you look forward to? Getting together with friends and family is, for the most part, why many of us love the holidays. But the festive season can also be a cause for stress – stress around who's hosting, or what you will serve, or how to avoid challenging topics like politics and fruitcake.

So what is stress? It's that gap STRESS = between your expectations and reality – the bigger the gap the Someone bigger the stress. Perhaps a rst Trying to step to reducing stress this Repair Christmas is to re-evaluate what some of those expectatons are.

Every Are you expecting everything to Situation be perfect? If so you may be Solo setting yourself up for more stress because there will always Dave Willis be something that doesn't turn out quite as you planned. When we shift our focus to go more with the ow, our stress levels will drop because we are choosing not to put the 'have tos' and 'must dos' on ourselves. Perhaps a good saying to adopt this Christmas is, what you think of me is none of my business.

Here are some solutions for creating a more stress-free Christmas:

The Perfect Day

Does it need to be perfect, or do you want the day to be welcoming and fun? Imperfections are what we laugh about and create good memories around. Christmas is about connecting and sharing, so if every decoration isn't up and every dish hasn't come out quite as planned, people generally accept what is – if they don't, it's their problem, not yours. We can't make other people happy – only they have the power to do that. So focus on making yourself happy and you will create a happier environment for others.

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The Delegation

When organising the meal or other Christmas tasks, instead of trying to do everything yourself, ask for help (delegation is not a dirty word). You will have less to cope with and get done, can stop being the hero who does it all, and leave others feeling important with a sense of responsibility. When asking for help, word it in such a way that others feel they have a choice, for example, "Would you be able to bring your famous dessert?", rather than “You're bringing pavlova.” You are more likely to receive a 'yes' when there is choice.

The 'Rescue Remedy'

Today

I refuse to stress myself out about things I cannot control or change.

If you are worried about those challenging relatives, here is a simple and effective way to keep yourself in a positive place when the conversation is starting to get Unknown a little heated. I call it the blessing (you may want to use another word, like kindness, love or caring). When you notice yourself feeling frustrated, hurt, upset or angry with someone, send them a blessing, e.g. “I bless you (name),” or, “I am sending you love”.

This takes you to a more positive place where it's difcult to hold onto the negative thoughts, and allows you to see the bigger picture. Sending them something positive will also have a benecial effect on them. Initially it may need some persistence and repetition, however, as one friend said, “it's like a rescue remedy”.

The Gift

Another stressor is the list of Christmas gifts you need to get before the big day. Christmas is a time to spend with family, and to enjoy catching up, so here are some thoughts with this in mind. Buy one Christmas gift for all those in the family you want to spend extra time with.

For example, if you live near a theme park you could buy tickets for everyone and all take off for the day, or create a voucher for a picnic at the beach that you organise

and cater. While it means work for you on the day it saves you a lot of pre-Christmas stress. For the younger ones/teenagers, a movie voucher for a group is a good way for them to go and spend time together.

The Fun

Stressed

Plan some fun things in advance, spelled like making home-made pizza all backwards is together or creating a family tree desserts – this can be a lot of fun as unknown stories about Aunt Maude, Great Uncle Ezra or Grandpa Joe emerge. If you have young children read a Christmas classic to them.

Have a family quiz or home movie night – no Christmas would be complete without a great movie, especially a comedy. Laughter is one of the best cures for stress because it restores normality, hope and a sense of sharing, so nd moments to create a little nonsense.

The Break

I WILL

When the stress does get to BREATHE you, it's important to nd some I will think of space. Be imaginative and solutions. create exit strategies, such as I will not let my leaving the room to call a worry control me. friend, picking some herbs I will not let my from the garden, or 'checking stress level break on a neighbour'. With a couple me.

I will simply of escape routes planned, breathe and it will you'll already feel less be okay because stressed. Breathe deeply – this I don't quit. produces benecial changes in the brain by activating the Shayne McClendon hypothalamus and triggering a relaxation response in the body. It helps you cope with stressful situations in a healthier way.

behaviour, but we can control our attitude and response. Making a conscious decision to allow people the benet of the doubt, give up a parking space, and offer smiles as well as kind words and gestures to other people, puts you in a better mood, and may brighten someone else's day as well.

Stress

is not what happens to us.

It's our response to what happens, a response we can change at any moment.

Unknown

Trying to cram in every single Christmas tradition – going out to look at lights, baking the Christmas biscuits, putting up a real Christmas tree and having the house all decorated – can be a major stressor. If you run out of time for one (or a few) of these traditions, remember … there's always next year!

Here's to having a happy, more stress-free Christmas!

The Boundary

Say 'yes' when you mean yes and 'no' when you mean no – and stick to it. Saying 'no' can be difcult, however it's easier when you choose not to justify. By justifying you provide hooks for others to hang their arguments on, and eventually you either end up saying 'yes' or feel guilty for saying 'no'. Just saying “I can't manage that now” is sufcient – no explanation needed.

The Attitude

Braving the shopping centers can be daunting. People cut you off in the parking lot, push in line, and want special treatment from retailers. Nothing dispels Christmas cheer and creates stressful situations more than grumpy shoppers. We can't change other people's

Mary Parker, The Fast Track Coach … Coaching to Clarity

mary@thefasttrackcoach.co.nz | 07 577 1200 www.thefasttrackcoach.co.nz

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TOYS FOR YOUR BOYS! focus went in search of different Christmas gift ideas for those men in our lives. Of course, in many cases, the gifts can be shared with the giver! Isn't that the whole idea?

THE AVIATOR EXPERIENCE Purchase a gift voucher to New Zealand's most exciting flight simulator that takes you into the world of virtual reality and puts you in control of the most iconic aircraft ever built. From the moment you're strapped into a replica ejection seat and put on a VR headset you'll be transported into a virtual 3D environment.

30 minute session 60 minute session

$65 $95

bookings@theaviator.co.nz Call: 021 648 699 www.theaviator.co.nz

*If you mention focus you will get a 20% VIP discount on a flight experience or purchase of a gift voucher.

The Aviator Experience is also giving away two one hour sessions. See page 75 for entry details. Competition closes 10 January, 2018

Concession and group session rates are available at discounted rates. That means you get to have a turn too!

PRO4K ULTRA: 2.0" SCREEN, VOICE CONTROL, BUILT-IN GYRO, GPS EXTERNAL, WITH 2.4G REMOTE CONTROL The next generation PRO-4K ULTRA brings features you would expect in cameras more than twice the price!

With awesome 4K power, a 2" touch screen interface, waterproof casing, voice control, Gyro Stabilisation and Optional GPS module for sending data back to a remote device…this is an Actioncam with attitude!

WHO WOULDN'T LOVE A THAI MASSAGE?

Step off the footpath in downtown The Mount, and sink luxuriously, into sensory paradise. Thai Touch in Prince Ave (there's also another branch in Ninth Ave) is a truly sensory experience.

This little beast is capable of taking 20 megapixel photo stills so it's time to throw away the old DSLR…things have just got serious. Oh, and it's waterproof to 30 meters!

This isn't available elsewhere so watch out for imitations! Stock is limited so be in quick! Capture your Life! www.actioncam.nz See the Actioncam advert on page 41 to take advantage of a very special Christmas Offer.

Actioncam is also giving away a Beginner 4K Actioncam – see page 75 for details.

Competition closes 10 January.

People seek Thai massage the world over for relaxing and restoring mind, body, spirit and soul.

Thai Touch offers massages from 30-120 minutes. Upgrade the whole experience to a hot stone massage. Bliss! www.thaitouch.co.nz

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Actioncam nz PRO4k ULTRA Action cam without waterproof case

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SEIKO PRESAGE - $1,250 (available exclusively at Hammon Jewellers, Tauranga) Seiko believes that the wristwatch is an intimate accessory. The best watches live in harmony and interact with the wearer, and their functions offer a reassuring and emotionally satisfying bond.

The fabulous Seiko Presage has an automatic movement, a power reserve indicator, exhibition caseback and calendar. www.hammonjeweller.co.nz

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Words Dr Nicole Atkinson, Be Balanced Chiroprac c Tauranga

T: 07 2811590 | M: 027 388 3880 | 180 Eleventh Ave, Tauranga bebalancedchiro.co.nz | nicole@bebalancedchiro.co.nz focusmagazine

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Herbal teas for health

Words and Images Nigel Banks, Thai Touch

Lemongrass

A year ago, Orasa and I were in Bangkok, trying new treats to bring home to Tauranga. We were at the beginning of a fascinating journey of discovering some remarkable teas from Thailand. We invested in quarantine clearance so we could bring some home. Since then, we have fallen in love with many of them.

One of my favourite nds has been the tea made from dried slices of Bael fruit. It is delicious – a rich full taste, naturally slightly sweet and soft on the palate. You'll see that many online sources credit Bael fruit with an amazing array of health benets.

Each day, we serve one type of Thai herbal tea to clients at Thai Touch as they relax after a massage. These teas are all naturally caffeine free, making them the perfect drink after massage. They wash out long-held toxins in the tissues that the massage releases from muscles and tendons.

You might have heard of some of the teas before: Jasmine owers, Bael fruit, Buttery pea ower tea (bright blue!), Pandanus and Rose bud. All make great rehydration drinks.

Buttery Pea Flower Tea

Like many of the teas, you'll see the fruit is rich in antioxidants. That means it can protect the body against the damaging effects of free radicals or 'reactive oxygen species'.

Like many of the teas, you'll see it has anti-inammatory and analgesic properties. But Bael fruit doesn't stop there. You'll learn that it: l deals to peptic and duodenal ulcers l stabilises gut ora, reducing severity of diarrhea and overcoming constipation l has anti-cancer, anti-microbial and antiviral activity l can reduce blood cholesterol and blood glucose levels.

Bael Fruit

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Did you know that the hair bulb on a hair follicle can be used as a biomarker for sensi vity?

The hair bulb is a living structure that forms part of the pilosebaceous unit deep in the dermis; the rest of the hair that rises above the hair sha is dead and just made of kera n and melanin.

The hair bulb is a sensory structure capable of responding to environmental changes and stores homeodynamic informa on from a constantly changing environment. Cell Wellbeing is a company that has developed a test for your hair bulb that analyses various biomarkers and is able to present you with an Op mize Report that gives sugges ons to make with your diet, nutri on and lifestyle.

The data is presented in charts and tables and categorised to make it easy to understand and implement.

Book in now for your Cell Wellbeing Hair Analysis consulta on Special Offer $70 *only available un l Christmas

With our knowledge of natural and holis c remedies we'll help you find the answers to be er health for your whole family, including your pets.

Gate Pa Complete Health Shop, Gate Pa Shopping Centre T: 07 579 6262 | W: gatepacompletehealth.com www.facebook.com/gatepacompletehealth

OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK focusmagazine

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Jasmine owers

The fruit has these effects because of a diverse array of phyto-chemicals (plant chemicals) in its tissues. Studies have shown you can safely consume the tea regularly.

We have a collection of traditional favourites and fruit and ower teas at our Mt Maunganui and Tauranga branches. With a little online research, you can nd out the impact of some of these teas on a health issue you'd like to tackle. You'll immediately be able to enjoy a relaxing, rehydrating, caffeine-free drink just before bed time. A great way to take the strain off your kidneys and throw in your chosen health benets as well. n

Book in today for a traditional Thai therapeutic massage at either the Mount Maunganui branch or Prince Avenue in Tauranga. Original Thai massage involves deep tissue dry massage as well as stretching of muscles – a bit like yoga while you're lying down and with someone else doing all the work for you! Enjoy a detoxing Lemon Grass, or other herbal tea, after your massage.

17 Ninth Ave, Tauranga 07 571 1923 12 Prince Ave, Mt Maunganui 07 575 0987 www.thaitouch.co.nz

Having fun with summer sport Words Laura Weaser | Images Supplied

Summer – 'Tis the season of reinvention.

Every year we're told it's a time to start thinking about your new 'beach bod', to create grand plans for the New Year or to kick those nasty habits of 2017 (New Year, New You!)

But what if summer was the season of experimentation and trying new things, of discovering new hobbies and places, and nding a skill or activity that could turn into a lifelong love?

The great thing about living in the Bay of Plenty is there is no shortage of options when it comes to sport and recreation – particularly in our parks, reserves and forests.

And with this being the big holiday period for many of us, there's never been a better time to try that sport, activity or class you've looked at, bookmarked but never taken the next step with.

Sport Bay of Plenty Recreation Team Leader Sonia Lynds says while it can be daunting to take that rst step, don't be afraid to simply give it a go, no strings attached, and have fun doing so. There's no harm in doing a free week's trial with a local class, showing up to a 'Have a Go' day or joining your friend on one of their adventures to nd that one thing that clicks.

“We often tell people raising children not to compare them. It's the same with adults,” says Sonia. “Who cares what colour your togs are as long as you like them?

Who cares what size your shoes are as long as they t?

Everyone's lives and interests are different.

“Challenge yourself this summer to 'nd your thing' – something that gets you out there and active, while

tting in with the life you live. This will be the key to sustaining your activity levels long term.

“Just remember that often the barriers are the ones we make up in our heads – the biggest challenge is to get out the door. Even walking a small way is better than not walking at all.”

Social sports are a great way to meet people and try a new sport without the commitment of signing up long term. Hockey, netball, volleyball and other sports all have summer leagues focused on fun, and these can be a great way to have a go without the competition and pressure.

“Participating in sporting activities gives us that feeling of satisfaction,” says Sport Bay of Plenty Sport Manager Megan Cleverley.

“Even though our bodies will not appreciate it at rst, as we start to feel those body aches and pains in areas that we didn't even know could feel that way, it doesn't take long for body and mind to feel better for it!”

After a busy year, summer is a great time to look forward to – to unwind, relax with family and do something for you.

The weather and long daylight hours provide us with the best opportunity to get out and try the many new, modied sports and activities that are around in our community – just get out there and have some fun!

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For a list of sport and recreation options this summer, check out Sport Bay of Plenty's Get Involved Activity Directory at www.sportbop.co.nz. You can also visit the Sport Bay of Plenty Facebook page (www.facebook.com/sportbayofplenty/) for events and information regarding sport clubs, and the Play in the Bay Facebook page (www.facebook.com/playinthebay/) for low-cost and free recreational activities.

We asked a few members of the Sport BOP team what they'd like to do these holidays and their advice to getting active over summer: Heidi Lichtwark (CEO) New places or activities you want to try? I would like to go to Splash Planet in Hawke's Bay, Blue Lake in Rotorua for swimming and running under the trees and Whangamata for the best beach running. Cycling on some of the off-road trails – been meaning to go for ages but the rain has kept me away! I'm doing the New York Marathon next year, so starting to build base tness for that.

Number-one piece of advice for someone who wants to get active over summer? Start small and build up your activity over time – that way it's much more achievable and the body adapts to the changes without too much discomfort.

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Jen Riley (Keep on Your Feet Project Team Leader) New places or activities you want to try? Some sort of bike packing mission, but not sure where yet – there are too many options! Previously we've done a ve-day bike packing mission from National Park to Hamilton all via off-road trails.

Number-one piece of advice for someone who wants to get active over summer? Find something you enjoy and then it won't be a chore. Find a friend to be active with, then you are more likely to commit. And sign up for an event to keep motivated.

Valda Money (Accounts and Contracts Manager) New places or activities you want to try? Biking in the Redwoods.

Number-one piece of advice for someone who wants to get active over summer? Do something every day, even if it's a short walk.

Lisa Dangen (Operations Team Leader) New places or activities you want to try? I've always wanted to visit Mayor Island or Great Barrier. I love islands and the sea.

Number-one piece of advice for someone who wants to get active over summer? Get out with friends and try something new. It will make you feel good in the great weather.

PRO4K ULTRA + FREE SD

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I like to sprinkle them on top of savoury and sweet mufns, for a crunchy texture.

Coriander Pumpkin Seed Pesto

The two recipes here use pumpkin seeds in different ways. They are an excellent base for pesto, and are much cheaper than pine nuts.

Toasted and tossed in a salad is another great way to enjoy them.

½ cup pumpkin seeds 1 cup spinach leaves 1 cup coriander leaves (1 pot of living herbs is about a cup) 75mls extra virgin olive oil 50ml lime juice ½ tsp crushed or fresh, deseeded chilli Salt and pepper

A TABLESPOON OF PUMPKIN SEEDS CONTAINS: l l l l

l l

l

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Fibre: 1.7 grams Carbs: 5 grams Protein: 7 grams Fat: 13 grams (6 of which are Omega-6s) Vitamin K: 18% of the RDI Phosphorous: 33% of the RDI Manganese: 42% of the RDI Magnesium: 37% of the RDI Iron: 23% of the RDI Zinc: 14% of the RDI Copper: 19% of the RDI

They also contain lots of antioxidants and a decent amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids, potassium, vitamin B2 (riboavin) and folate.

Heat oven to 1800C. Place seeds on a tray with sides, and toast pumpkin seeds until just turning golden – about 8-10 minutes.

Put the toasted pumpkin seeds and all other ingredients in a food processor, and pulse till they are a coarse puree. (Or till smooth, if you prefer it.)

This pesto is great stirred through pasta, or served with a Mexican platter.

Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables with Pumpkin Seeds 2 courgettes 2 eggplants 800g pumpkin 2 cups kale leaves, chopped Grated zest of 2 lemons 1 tsp salt 4 cloves garlic, crushed 1 tsp chilli akes 75mls pomegranate molasses 125ml olive oil 60g feta, diced ½ cup pumpkin seeds ½ cup walnuts Coriander leaves for garnish Preheat oven to 1800C. Put pumpkin seeds and walnuts on a small tray and bake for 8-10 minutes. Set aside. Dice eggplants, courgettes and pumpkin and heap on a large baking tray with sides.

Grate the lemon skin on the small holes on your grater. In a small jug, combine lemon zest, molasses, garlic and chilli akes. Mix well and drizzle over the vegetables, making sure they are all coated. Spread them out to be a single layer and sprinkle with salt.

Roast for 35 minutes, turn them over and roast a further 10 minutes, or until soft and slightly caramelised.

Carol Garden is a writer who likes to explore healthy, interesting food ideas.

She has worked as a caterer, vegan chef, journalist and public relations consultant. To contact Carol email: wordgardenwriters@gmail.com focusmagazine

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Once cooked, mix gently with the kale leaves, walnuts and pumpkin seeds.

Arrange on a serving platter and add the feta cubes, garnish with the coriander leaves. (Serves 4-6) (Note: Pomegranate molasses is available in most supermarkets, but if you can't nd it, try maple syrup and swap the chilli akes for smoked paprika.)

Words Dee Collins

A few years ago, while still living in Australia, I immersed myself in the raw food movement and subjected my husband to an endless supply of delicious meals. Well, I thought they were delicious! My hubbie was certainly a good sport about it all but still hankered for his carnivorous diet. Time passed, diets reverted to the 'old ways', we moved back to New Zealand and life carried on.

Recently, my interest was piqued when I met the delightful Cecilia Strachan from Nurtured for Wellness. Not only does this powerhouse of a woman run raw food workshops but she also happens to be a naturopath, medical herbalist and nutritionist! There was no question that I would have to attend her workshop.

At the workshop Cecilia reminded us that, with our busy lives, we often look for easy-to-prepare meals and turn to ready-made, processed or takeaway foods. These foods, of course, provide little nourishment and, in the long run, what started out as cheap and easy, becomes expensive as we succumb to ailments and illnesses resulting from our poor food choices.

Raw food isn't just about eating salads, it means eating uncooked foods and involves mainly unprocessed, whole, plant-based, and preferably organic, foods that have not been heated above 46°C. The recipes that are out there for both savoury and sweet meals is astounding.

Cecilia runs a variety of workshops – from Raw Mediterranean through to Cakes and Slices and Raw Asian. I attended the My Raw Breakfast workshop and Cecilia demonstrated a good variety of items including a Feijoa, Nut and Cinnamon Porridge, Fruit Muesli, Fruit and Cauliower Porridge (who would have thought!) a Raw Spicy Hot Chocolate, Turmeric Latte, Oat Bread, Strawberry Date Jam and Turmeric Butter. Cecilia also showed us how to open a coconut without chopping off our ngers!

When Cecilia isn't teaching workshops or seeing clients in her clinic you'll nd her at the Tauranga Farmers Market.

Cecilia's next workshop is Raw Christmas and takes place on 10 December - you'll learn to make Christmas cake, fruit mince tarts, strawberry zz and a tri-coloured terrine.

Places are limited so you'll need to get in quick. n info@nurturedforwellness.com | 021 0244 5887 www.nurturedforwellness.com

Product Reviews Clean Living Treatment Butter

The Clean Living Skin Care range was created by a PhD. qualied research chemist with a passion for non-toxic, sustainable living. The Treatment Butter contains botanical oils and waxes for long lasting, intense hydration and high concentrations of natural Vitamin E and rosehip oil.

50g $42 www.cleanliving.co.nz focus review: Abi: “I'm hooked. I can't rave about it enough!”

Dee: “A lovely, earthy fragrance that's perfect for use on hands, elbows and heels. I've denitely seen a marked improvement in my skin.”

Nourishe Skincare Face Cream

We give you our honest feedback on different products to try. We only feature those that we have enjoyed and believe you will like.

HoneyBliss Roses & Honey Light Moisturiser

A boutique range of skincare and healing balms featuring active manuka honey, aromatherapy and beautiful botanical ingredients, many of which are locally grown. The products are designed to protect, restore and encourage skin health.

50ml $49 www.honeybliss.co.nz focus review: Dee: “I LOVE this! For even more hydration I used this over the Roses & Honey Hydrating Serum.”

Robyn: “Super-impressed. I love the smell and it’s denitely improved my skin.”

Akari Revitalising Shampoo and Nourishing Conditioner

Natural skincare that provides healing, nourishing and effective results with medicinal herbs that have been used successfully for centuries. These products are handcrafted in small batches using all natural ingredients including medicinal herbs and essential oils to ensure your skin is soothed, moisturised and beautied. Free of all nasty chemicals, articial fragrances, colourings, mineral oils, petrol chemicals, silicons, sulfates and parabens and not tested on animals.

60ml $42.90 www.nourisheskincare.co.nz focus review: Megan: “My skin just absorbed this. I’m prone to breakouts so I was pleased that it wasn’t too heavy. Loved the smell and easy application and, of course, the fact that the products aren’t tested on animals. My mum used the Hydrating Face Oil under the Face Cream which gave her the nourishment and hydration she was after.”

HZP+Co Splashwater

Created by two friends with a mutual desire to provide affordable, natural skincare whilst, at the same time, honouring their love of the Pacic.

The products are paraben and sulfate free, vegan friendly and gentle on your skin.

250ml $26 (set) www.akari.co.nz focus review: Millie: “I loved using this shampoo and conditioner and not just because of the gorgeous fragrance! My hair felt light, soft and easily manageable for several days afterwards, which is always a plus. The products include nourishing essential oils for cleaning and protecting hair and scalp and Pro Vitamin B5 for shine.”

Most of us would love a helping hand or ‘tool’ to assist with our little ones’ (and big ones’!) emotions when they’re out of whack. Whether they’re happy, sad, nervous or excited, kids can help manage these feelings themselves in a natural and fun way. Uniquely blended, naturally fragranced and perfect to keep in the school bag, car, handbag and bedroom. Fine for all skin types and safe to spray on anything…just keep it out of their eyes.

There are three different sprays - Calm Me Down, Wake Me Up and Freshen Me Up. 100ml $18.50 www.hzp.co.nz focus review: Robyn: “My kids loved this and so did I. My favourite was Calm Me Down – I sprayed it on my pillow at night.”

Judy: “I’m quite sensitive to fragrances and was pleasantly surprised with the citrusy scent.

I used the Wake Me Up mist which, I felt, gave me a bit of a pep up in the mornings.”

e a v a h u o y o D t you a h t t c u d o r p s would like u to review?

Contact info@focusmagazine.co.nz and we’ll get in touch.

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e l y st

Isobel Top Denim Bloom $129 kilt.co.nz

Studio S Belted 50's Dress magazineclothing.co.nz

Chaos & Harmony Geta Platform Sandal $269 wendysboutique.co.nz

Cali Top Black Squares $139 kilt.co.nz

Staple + Cloth Marianne Dress $275 wendysboutique.co.nz

Chaos & Harmony Harmony Kyoto Embossed Leather Heel $299 wendysboutique.co.nz

Chocolat Medusa Top and Megan Salmon Linen Wide Leg Black Pant magazineclothing.co.nz

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Talia Dress Ink Daisy $159 kilt.co.nz

Staple + Cloth Raven Slip Cabana $179 wendysboutique.co.nz

Silique Floral Top magazineclothing.co.nz

Chaos & Harmony Nature Leather Sandal $269 wendysboutique.co.nz

Ridley Dress Garden $159 kilt.co.nz

Lindsay Dress Powder Blue $149 kilt.co.nz

Zephyr Claire Top and Zephyr Tube Skirt magazineclothing.co.nz

Staple + Cloth Relax Dress $199 wendysboutique.co.nz

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Be Sun Smart every day Words Sue Dewes, Tranquillo Beauty Clinic

A lot of people ask me about using sunscreen on the face and I tell them, yes, you do need to use SPF every day!

Choose one with an SPF of at least 15. One study has shown that even using a daily SPF of 10 can lower your LIFETIME amount of sun exposure by 50 per cent, which translates to less wrinkles and healthier skin as you age.

Sue Dewes, Tranquillo Beauty Clinic

When considering the purchase of your next sunscreen make sure it is 'Broad Spectrum' and contains at least 5% Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide. Broad spectrum means it is both a physical sunscreen as well as a chemical sunscreen; it therefore reects and absorbs harmful UV rays. The role of the Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide is to reect these dangerous UV rays off the skin.

Make a habit of including sunscreen as part of your morning routine – regardless of what the weather's like outside or your day's activities – and keep antioxidants as a staple in your supplements and diet.

Mineral makeup Did you know not all mineral makeup is pure mineral?

Many brands have jumped on board the growing trend towards mineral makeup and say they are mineral because their makeup contains some minerals. Many of these brands still include llers, talc and a range of preservatives that may not be ideal for the health of your skin.

Pure mineral makeup is non comedogenic (doesn't block pores), cannot attract bacteria and, in many cases, is referred to as skincare rather than make-up. It also offers sun protection in some cases. n

76A Grey Street, Tauranga | 07 578 1111 info@tranquillobeauty.co.nz | www.tranquillobeauty.co.nz 48

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Creativity

IN THE BAY OF PLENTY

Jo Tricker Working in an industrial building on the edge of the Waikareao walkway, Jo spends her day amongst sheets of coloured glass, bags of plaster and silica our, pots of powder, chunks of wax, three kilns, a gas torch and lots of multicoloured glass rods!

Soul Flower Necklace

Jo is a glassmaker – but not a glassblower – and is keen to enlighten people on the different glass genres.

"Most people know what glass blowing is, but when I say I do ameworking and kilnforming, they look blank!” says Jo.

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“I use plaster silica moulds to cast glass into ornaments and sculptural items. I use ceramic moulds to slump and fuse glass to make platters, vases, bowls and plates. And I melt glass on a gas torch to make jewellery."

Part of Jo's business involves glassmaking demonstrations, which she absolutely loves, because when people watch ameworking, they get drawn into the magic of how glass changes from a solid to a liquid and back to a solid again.

All of these glass genres require a kiln, and Jo says every time you lift the lid of the kiln it's like Christmas!

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“There is anticipation and excitement – you are never quite sure how your creation is going to turn out! With casting and fusing, most of the work is done when the glass is cold, then the heat and gravity inside the kiln shapes and nishes your piece. Because you can't see this process happening, it's always a buzz when you open the kiln for the 'revealing'! " Woven in Light Glamdals

Glassmaking is a real mix of science and art, and a variance of ve degrees in heat can be the difference between a masterpiece and a asco. A huge amount of testing and research goes into each piece before it is ready for market.

Confetti Bowl

Jaffa Lollies

Lotus Flower

Jo's work can be viewed at her online gallery and shop at www.jotrickerglass.com, at any of her stockists, or in person at her studio/showroom at 5 Oak Lane, Judea, Tauranga.

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Adrienne

Wh ewood

focus had the opportunity to pose some questions for Adrienne. focus: Where did you do your training?

I trained at AUT in Auckland then came home to Rotorua and did more fashion papers at Toi Ohomai. focus: Where does your artistic inuence come from and when did you start making clothing?

My artistic inuence denitely comes from living in Rotorua and I started sewing at the age of eight so ever since then it has been a passion of mine. focus: Everyone has to start somewhere. What was your rst job?

It was merchandising at Countdown in Rotorua. We had to 'face' every single product and that really helped me appreciate the art of merchandising and how to make a store look good. focus: How do you describe your designs and style?

I would describe this as Maoriana – it's a twist on nostalgic Kiwiana but with strong cultural references.

Rotorua designer Adrienne Whitewood showcased her rst solo show – inspired by Maori art and culture – at the recent New Zealand Fashion Week.

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This multi-talented, creative woman, who merges fashion with indigenousinspired elements, is proud to call Rotorua home and, with her aim to keep things local, opened ahu boutique on Eruera Street in 2013.

Adrienne's ethos is all about creating wearable clothing for women who want an emotional connection to their clothes.

focus: Tell us about your rst show at NZ Fashion Week. How many outts did you have to get ready?

What were the challenges and stresses? What were the highs?

My rst show at NZFW was both exciting and daunting, wondering 'is it all going to come together?' 'who will be interested?' all that kind of thing. It was a success and I really think Fashion Week is one of those things where, what you put in is what you get out. I showed 28 looks and the challenges were many, including just getting there on the day, dealing with media, staff, the production crew, the models. The whole thing was smooth but still stressful! The highs were getting great media coverage and great brand awareness plus a few investment and sponsorship opportunities as well as working with the NZFW team.

Photo: Erica Sinclair

focus: How do you handle stress and pressure?

As a leader for a big team I feel I need to set the tone so I make sure if I am stressed that I just hold it in – there's nothing worse than going to or being involved in an event and you see the head person stressing out. It only brings the team down and just doesn't look professional. At Fashion Week we were complimented on how well organised the show was and that's always something I nd really appealing – a slick, smooth-running event. focus: What have been the positive outcomes from NZ Fashion Week?

A few really cool investment opportunities, a sponsorship proposal and a trip to China! So a lot of cool stuff came out of it; I'm super stoked! focus: You currently have ahu boutique in Rotorua. Any plans for more retail outlets?

Not as yet but I would love to get into stocking (having her label stocked by other stores nationwide) and open up a new market for myself. focus: What's your favourite part about being a Fashion Designer?

Finding ideas! When you nd a great idea for a dress or top or print it's like nding a golden nugget – you feel rich!

People don't realise how hard designing clothing is; it's pretty much like engineering. You need to understand a whole bunch of fundamentals of construction alongside the principles of design, then include forecasting and getting your numbers right to push those units. It's very difcult.

focus: What trends do you currently see in the fashion industry?

Designers collaborating with foodies – that's a huge trend right now. My sister is a great cook and an MKR (My Kitchen Rules) contestant so I can denitely see myself collaborating with her! focus: What skills are important for a successful career in fashion design?

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focus: Who are two of your favourite designers?

It always changes but my top NZ designers are Karen Walker (obviously) and I Love Ugly. I sat near I Love Ugly at models' castings and I was wearing their bag! I was having a fan moment – I wanted to go up and say hello but was too nervous. I hope I see them next year! focus: Who would your dream client be?

Someone like Beyoncé or Rihanna.

Imagine the stories you could tell – wow!

focus: What advice do you have for other aspiring fashion designers?

Be consistent and enjoy what you do because there will be a lot of tough times in the industry. And also, don't limit yourself. focus: What's your go-to clothing item(s)?

At the moment, it's my black aroha sweater. I wear it with everything and with the whole sportswear trend at the moment, I've even found ways to dress it up for dinner out; it's so versatile! n Photos: Erica Sinclair

focus: How do you stay up to date with fashion?

I stay up to date with design, not necessarily fashion. I do walk around malls and look through Facebook and Insta. Looking at what people are wearing on the street gives me great ideas. I often take photos of strangers' clothing and my best friend will tell me off, saying, “You can't take photos of people!” I never take photos of their faces but I do have a lot of strangers' outts on my phone! focus: What are your plans for the future? Where do you see yourself taking your styling career?

I plan to expand my label, open up a new market for myself and push my online store.

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Zeb's Search – An interview with Jill Batty Words Gillian Cook

Getting a morning x of reading was traditional for Jill Batty as she grew up. Should there be no book to hand, the breakfast cereal box sufced.

“I could recite the label in full,” she laughs. “I was shocked later to learn that some people thought it was bad manners to read at the dining table. Needless to say, meal times with my family were quiet.”

Jill, in herself, is a quiet person, too. So much so she believes that publication of Zeb's Search, her rst book, could come as a shock to family and friends “who had no idea I write,” even though there's hardly been one day when she hasn't written.

Her writing activity spans the genres from children's ction to Regency romance, and it all began when she was a child. It was early encouragement that set a path for Jill's writing. “I wrote a story about a seagull and the teacher said it was wonderful.”

First-time author Jill Batty breaks the mould of secret-writer while Zeb breaks the rule of having no name.

Photo: Sally Garner.

Though story matters most, enhanced by illustration for young readers, Jill says she saw underlying opportunities for exploring language through different name styles.

“We're told we should read to our children, with books from our own backyard, or from all around the world.

Reading is the basic skill, don't you agree?”

Tucked away, still untold but promised soon, are stories about Edward Mouse adventurer, Lucifer the Cat, Maisie the Pig, and the list goes on. Zeb, like others, arrived in a dream, with details duly noted on the pad beside Jill's bed.

And New Zealand is a reader's market, but it has its own challenges. In publishing Zeb's Search, Jill has had to disturb the quiet reader and writer within to go public.

She is also learning the skills of publishing, distribution and promotion.

“He pushed in and wouldn't let me ignore him. He's a zebra in search of identity. All the males in his herd are called Zeb and the females are called Zed. Zeb's the rule-breaker, the one who goes off to nd something he wants, a name that's all his own.”

“Approaching a publisher was never a consideration.

There are so few children's ction publishers in New Zealand and they don't, as a rule, take on rst-time authors. There was little choice except to self-publish.”

His search takes him to many different communities of animals where the rules that govern naming all differ. Jill says, “At least they have individual names. In his herd, they don't. I believe even as children, we're developing our own identity. Some follow others, which isn't always the way to go.”

Starting the process, Zeb's Search was presented as part of A Lunch-time Literary Line-up of Tauranga Writers' publications during New Zealand Book Week on October 27. The book can now be sourced by visiting www.paperairplanepublishing.co.nz or purchased at Tauranga's BOOKS A PLENTY and PaperPlus Papamoa and Te Puke. focusmagazine

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Zeb has a friendly personality that will connect well with children, says illustrator Gordon Miller.

Experienced local illustrator, Gordon Miller, says from the four different styles of character he presented to Jill, she chose the cheeky mischievous one. “It's a good choice as Zeb is friendly and will connect well with children.”

Jill says it has taken a huge leap of faith to nancially back herself and her writing. As a self-publisher, she realizes it's the beginning of the road if she and Zeb are to be noticed.

A member of Tauranga Writers for two years, she gives credit to the opportunities provided by the group and most especially to editor and mentor Jenny Argante.

“She encouraged me from the start, and I've learnt so much about publishing by working through the process with Zeb's Search, and through sharing the experience and expertise of others in Tauranga Writers' sub-group, Words and Pictures. I'm also lucky in that my daughter is a graphic designer and has helped me too.”

So, what's next? Overseas travel with her husband John will continue. The couple has been doing that while raising their children for the past forty years.

“Travel denitely broadens the mind, and if I start getting ideas from places we've been, perhaps I can start claiming our journeys as a tax-deductible expense,” she jokes.

Already in the pipeline is a planned sequel to Zeb's Search. “Without giving too much away, it shows the balance between belonging to a herd and being your own person. But there's also Edward Mouse waiting in the wings. He's tapping his foot impatiently.”

Now she's achieved the rst publication, Jill says she is determined to give her other unpublished stories their due. She's already featured in Byline, Tauranga Writers showcase annual, and that's raised her condence too, and her expectations.

“Seeing your work in print is fantastic. I want more of it!

Writing is tough, but I'll stick at it now I've started. Getting this far is a boost that's given me a sense of real achievement.” n 56

focusmagazine

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Have toddler will travel Words + Images Jade Kent

In the past when I decided to travel I could leave as fast as my ngers could book a plane ticket. All I needed was a small bag with essentials, my passport and a credit card. It was easy and unencumbered.

These days the story is very different. It still starts with a woman who wants to travel but now I am the mum of a toddler. This is not a negative but it changes how you travel.

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Packed

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Sandcastles

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Lukes Kitchen

The Long Table 60

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Wave jumping

Rings Beach

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Design your own business future

George II 62

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All in a day's work

– Jane Kale, St John Ambulance Paramedic and Shift Manager Words and Images Liz French

It's 7am on a rainy Saturday morning and Tauranga St John shift manager Jane Kale has been at work for half an hour. She's not sure what the day will bring but that's what she loves about her role for St John.

“I had 'hundreds' of jobs before my career as a paramedic,” she laughs. “Now I can have hundreds of jobs in one day. I thrive on the unpredictability and derive huge satisfaction from the work we do.”

A St John paramedic's day's work may be unpredictable but it is not unplanned for. The rst thing Jane and coworker, Emergency Medical Technician Tim Neve, do is check the ambulance. Today they have to go out in the

pouring rain to get to it. The ambulances are parked at the rear of their temporary premises in Greerton's industrial zone.

Jane Kale

When they move to the new purpose-built depot in Tauranga's Seventeenth Avenue in February the ambulances will occupy a big garage in the building. Much more efcient for access, cleaning and preparing for the next time they are needed, which is inevitable and often. In the Western Bay of Plenty alone there are 14-15,000 transports per year, that's up to 40 per day. “While we will maintain our ambulance depots at Katikati, Bayfair and Te Puke it will be great to have the Tauranga crew and the Western Bay administration all in one place and in a facility

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17 years after she met him in London on her OE 20 years ago and he suggested she “swing by the Gold Coast” to see him on her way home.

which allows us to operate more efciently and effectively for the community,” Jane says.

Jane and Tim go carefully through the contents of the ambulance ensuring that the crew before them have restocked with everything they are likely to need for the next callout. This is a brand-new ambulance, decked out in the new more visible patchwork of orescent yellow and green. St John has, on occasion, been lucky enough to have had an ambulance donated by a grateful former patient or the estate of one.

Finding her Niche Jane is the only female shift manager of the ve on Tauranga's St John staff. She does not see it as a feminist issue. “I often pick up on things the boys don't, while I may miss something they notice, so we complement each other as a team. I certainly don't hold back on airing my opinions!”

It is obvious Jane loves what she does. She has been with St John four years, since the family moved back from Australia where she trained as a paramedic and worked for the Queensland Ambulance Service for ten years. She and her husband Chris lived there for nearly

After various jobs failed to give her a true sense of satisfaction, one of her three brothers, two of whom are ambulance ofcers, suggested she train as a paramedic.

She found her niche.

When the family, including Mitchell now aged 16, Meg 13, and the chocolate lab, decided to return to Tauranga she wondered briey if she would continue this path.

“But Mum, you've always been a paramedic,” was her children's response.

“I think they are quite proud of what I do.” Proud they should be. Jane's manner displays her condence in her ability and her enthusiasm for her role; juggling incoming calls with jobs on the depot and, always, prepared to swing into action when the ambulance is called.

Asked if her professionalism ever wavers, if she gets emotionally involved in the situations she has to attend Jane explains that a senior colleague once told her, “The accident, illness or tragedy you may attend is not yours

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St John Tauranga Building Project Charitable Trust helps raise over $2million for new depot.

St John Depot (photo taken in Sept 2017)

to react to personally.” However, she acknowledges, “Your own life experience can affect your reactions. After my father died, I found jobs involving elderly people brought my emotions into play.”

Making a Difference

The new St John Depot, currently being built on Tauranga's 17th Avenue, is due to open early next year with the St John Tauranga Building Project Charitable Trust helping lead the charge and raising $2,459,000. The Trust was formed in 2014 by businesses in the ANZ Business Centre to help facilitate funding and building plans. It was spearheaded by well-known real estate personality, Richard Cashmore, chairman of the trust and board of directors of Bayleys Success Realty whose company occupies premises within the centre on 247 Cameron Road.

While one would expect the greatest sense of accomplishment would come from acting as rst responder in a critical incident or accident, Jane says some of the smallest jobs give the greatest sense of accomplishment. “By visiting a sick person, giving them some time and setting in place the pathways that will facilitate their monitoring and recovery, you can make someone's day.”

Richard suggested all the businesses in the building join in offering their professional support.

Agreement was unanimous. Matt Tustin from Cooney Lees Morgan joined Mark Robinson of Staples Rodway as Finance Committee members. Albie Mulder from Aurecon and KPMG's Glenn Keaney accepted the challenge as members of the building committee.

“Winter is our busiest season,” she explains. “Not only are there often more accidents but there are more home visits and hospital transfers due to respiratory illnesses, particularly among older people, and more sporting events to attend.”

“St John's high prole and the way it touches everyone's lives made funders keen to support it,” says Matt Tustin.TECT (Tauranga Energy Consumer Trust) generously committed to match the $2,034,000 already held by St John; the NZ Community Trust gave $325,000 and Tauranga Police's CIB Charitable Trust Auction raised another $100,000. Local organisations have funded the balance to make the approx. $4.5 million needed.

The Bay of Plenty has a huge number of events requiring St John ambulances and personnel on site.

Jane co-ordinated their presence in the September Aims Games, attracting over 10,000 participants in 22 different sports and requiring, as well as the rostered ofcers, some 75 St John volunteers. “We could not operate without our volunteers,” she points out. “While we always need more, we are fortunate in that St John is considered very rewarding by volunteers.”

Asked if they need extra staff on to cope with the inux of Christmas holiday visitors and revellers Jane says it's very much business as usual and often no busier than any other time.

Jane and her colleagues work four 12 hour shifts then have a day to sleep and three days off. During those days Jane enjoys more family time, walks up Mauao and catches up on study towards her degree as Bachelor of Community Health. “This reects the much more holistic approach being taken to health and will complement my role with St John.” n

The building committee undertook a long process of gaining consents and nalising the design before work on the building was able to commence. Meanwhile other businesses within the ANZ Building helped source temporary premises for St John and facilitated other necessary aspects of the building's planning.The new premises will replace the original 1980s building which didn't meet earthquake safety requirements or the needs of a rapidly growing city.

Members of the St John Tauranga Building Charitable Trust are ANZ Bank, Aurecon, Bayleys, Cooney Lees Morgan, Staples Rodway, Rothbury, KPMG, Key Research and Elizabeth Café.

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Getting people to understand their body and getting them on track is what drives me. As a chiropractor I am focused on making sure your body is functioning the best it can. In our practice we pride ourselves on being professional yet approachable and offer a relaxed atmosphere where people feel comfortable.

We see a wide range of people, including newborn babies, school aged children, families, desk workers and tradies. Not only do we provide chiropractic care to our clients but we look at the big picture, providing at-home stretches, nutritional supplements and diet advice if needed. You don’t need to be injured or in serious pain to get your spine checked and have it functioning well.

I grew up in the Bay and knew I wanted to be a chiropractor at around 15 years old, after a chiropractor helped me with some health issues. After studying at the New Zealand College of Chiropractic I moved down South and practiced in both Timaru and Mosgiel. After three years my husband and I decided to move back home to the Bay of Plenty and purchased a practice which is now called Be Balanced Chiropractic. My goal as a chiropractor is to help people get the most out of their bodies and provide education on how to live a healthier lifestyle. n

Business Profile

Dr Nicole Atkinson Chiropractor, Be Balanced Chiropractic Tauranga

Dr Nicole Atkinson

What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractors adjust the spine to help your body feel and function better.

Chiropractic is a natural form of health care which can help people with a wide range of health concerns.

Chiropractors adjust the spine to correct misalignments found in the body and restore proper function to the nervous system and body.

T: 072811590 M: 027 388 3880 180 Eleventh Ave, Tauranga bebalancedchiro.co.nz nicole@bebalancedchiro.co.nz

Chiropractic adjustments also realign the spinal segment; this helps to correct the misalignment, allowing normal nervous system function and enabling the body to heal and function at its best.

There are many different techniques chiropractors can use.

Hellen Faulkner

– making a difference Growing up in the Tibetan Plateau, Hellen Faulkner had a happy but very different childhood from the one she is providing for her two sons, Bear, 9, and Harry Fox, 2.

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“My mother raised my brother and I on just $1,500 NZD a year and we all grew up in my grandma's house. It was a sweet and simple childhood,” she says, looking out over the lush, green Katikati kiwifruit orchard she owns with her husband Mark.

Bear and Harry Fox are tearing around in their gumboots with their unruly dachshund Freddy, bounding Labrador Sam and pet lamb Ellie. It's a picture of perfection and one Hellen doesn't take for granted. Not for a second.

“The more I live here, the more I love it,” she says.

“It makes me want to share the Bay of Plenty with everyone and do something that matters.”

She is achieving that through her natural skincare range, HZP+Co, which she has developed using kiwifruit and avocados grown in the Bay of Plenty as 'hero' ingredients, blended with innovative formulations from around the world.

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“There is a lot of wastage in the kiwifruit industry and I wanted to do something with that,” says Hellen.

have a change, plus I wanted to stay home and spend more time with my boys,” says Hellen.

It was this desire, combined with an “obsession” with natural products for children, after the birth of Bear, that fuelled her business venture.

When Bear was one they moved from their Ponsonby home, rst to Waihi and then to Katikati, taking turns at being stay-at-home parents, while juggling their careers.

“All my friends in China were having babies and wanted me to send them products from New Zealand – both for themselves and their children. My business instinct kicked in. I thought this could lead to something for myself and use all the knowledge I have of both China and New Zealand.”

She is drawing on the same business instinct that saw her develop a successful career in the hospitality sector, spanning 14 years.

Up until May last year, Hellen was still managing accommodation establishments full time.

“I really enjoyed the customer service side of the business, but it was time to

Hellen typically spends three to four hours during the day working on HZP+Co but, like many entrepreneurial mums, her most productive work is done after 8.30pm when the children have gone to bed.

She balances out her busy roles as mother and businesswoman with an early morning ritual of sipping a green tea, sent over from friends in China, on their private jetty at the bottom of the garden.

“As women we can be torn in different directions with commitments to our children, husband, family, friends and job. It's important to make time for yourself. When you have a busy life, you can easily forget who you are.

About HZP+Co HZP+Co was created to provide high quality, natural skincare products that harness the natural goodness of the Bay of Plenty.

Even taking just 10-20 minutes each day to yourself can make the world of difference to your wellbeing,” she says.

Helping others is an important part of Hellen's philosophy on life, and underpins her business.

Hellen's Top 5 Business Tips

1

Dream. Think. Action.

2

Do your best to get your work-life balance right.

3

Enjoy the simple things around you in life and work.

4

Find the right people to help you, who appreciate your vison and passion.

Recently the Foster Hope Auckland branch put together over 1,100 of these backpacks and Hellen made sure all of the packs had something special from HZP+Co.

“Our Splashwater hydration mists 5 You must be able to 'let it go'. have been designed to help children deal with Since becoming their emotions. a mother to two healthy and happy Children are so precious and I hope in boys, Hellen is even more aware of some small way my contribution helps what young children need to live a these children transition into their new happy life. A cause close to her homes,” says Hellen. heart which she supports is Foster Hope, a charity supporting foster Hellen has also forged an alliance agencies and puts together with former Black Stick Gemma backpacks of toiletries and other McCaw, who has taken Splashwaters personal items for children when into schools where she hands them they are uplifted from their homes. out to students as prizes for acts of kindness.

“Often they don't have many belongings, so the simple things “Kindness is everything, so I'm really like a soft toy and new pair of pleased that my products are being underwear become really used to foster this quality in young important. These small things can people,” says Hellen. bring comfort at a time when there is so much uncertainty in their “It was kindness that helped me nd lives,” says Hellen. my feet in New Zealand, and it's my desire to give back.” n

'Hero' ingredients used in the products include kiwifruit extract, horopito, kowhai extract, mamaku, blueberry oil, avocado oil, Aquaxyl (a natural derivative of the two plant sugars glucose and xylitol, which increases the skin's ability to retain moisture) and CityStem (also known as White Horehound, it counteracts pollution).

HZP+Co teamed up with New Zealand industry experts, mixologists and chemists to produce a fusion of pure, natural ingredients and innovative formulations from around the world.

It is the rst skincare brand in New Zealand to include the powerful, award-winning, natural active ingredient CityStem, which is in two of its products.

Sederma, the creator of CityStem was awarded the 2017 PCHI Fountain Award for Outstanding Active Ingredient in Asia.

The HZP+Co range includes a facial serum, hydration mist, hand cream, body cream and Splashwater, a water-based, natural fragrance for children.

“I am very proud to have created something that helps to make a difference in people's lives, especially our little ones!

Splashwater is designed to help children get in touch with their emotions and manage their feelings. It contains no 'nasties' or synthetic ingredients. It makes me really happy when I hear Splashwater has helped a child.” focusmagazine

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Building your engagement on social media platforms Words Rebecca Jenkins

Social media is an effective way of building an audience of people who spend money in your business. But you need to be able to measure your marketing investment.

One way savvy organisations are measuring return on investment (ROI) is through engagement. This catch-all word includes the number of people who visited your pages, 'liked' (for FB), commented, clicked on a link, jumped through to your website and ultimately purchased or contacted your business.

You can get free engagement info, or insights, on many social media platforms – Facebook, for example, has an inbuilt review function; for Instagram this was a bit of an afterthought. Insights tell what engagement you've had for the post, the day, and the week. Simply put, it tells you what worked and what didn't.

That's essential information because your audience is telling you what resonated with them. For Facebook you see engagement dened as post clicks, shares and comments. For Instagram, it's post likes, comments and bio clicks.

Active and passive engagement Active engagement is the number of likes, comments and shares, which tells you how shareable your content is. If people are sharing or liking, their friends see it too, which increases your reach. This is how content goes viral!

Passive engagement is the number of post clicks, link clicks, video views and image clicks, which measures consumption of your content. They may not be sharing your posts but if your aim is to get more people to your website, you've got useful information to act on, e.g. include links in your posts.

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Total engagement is the total monthly measure of action across your page. From one month to the next you can gure out which content was more engaging.

Detailed analysis The other thing to consider is your engagement rate per post. Take the total number of likes, shares, comments and clicks and then divide by the number of people who like your page. A good rate is 1% or greater (on Facebook; much higher on Instagram generally) is good! But there's more!

You can nd out what time of day people are more likely to see your posts, which posts did the best and audience demographics. It pays to look at this information and to market more effectively so you aren't wasting your time with social media.

Tailor your marketing As you get more and more information on your audience and can dene what matters to them, you'll be able to tailor your marketing towards how your audience can benet from your business – always design your content with your customer in mind. For example, we know anything that triggers an emotional reaction is more likely to appeal – meaning they're more likely to follow you!

Connecting benets to your audience will ensure they understand why your products are so good! A good way to create that connection is to show images of people using your product or beneting from them.

Clear, concise messaging will ensure people understand exactly what you do, and when you write your posts specically for your audience and your customers, you can personalise them, creating more trust in your brand.

Call to Action Lastly, you need a call to action (CTA). A CTA will inspire people to act, e.g. 'Click here for a 10% discount available today only'. CTAs create urgency and encourage customers to act, which translates to sales if you do them well.

Top ten posting tips for building engagement 1. # Use hashtags to drive more engagement A hashtag is used to help nd content on a social media platform. By typing #socks in the search bar (in Instagram) it will show you all the posts within the social media platform on socks. Hashtags also help you to nd new audience members through this search ability. You can use up to 30 hashtags (in Instagram) but it will look rather spammy. Don't be spammy! Aim for 5-10 in each post. Check out other brands in the same industry and track your engagement when you use different hashtags. You can also create branded hashtags, making it easier for your peeps to recognise you easily.

2. Use good quality images in the correct size for your social media platform Sounds simple enough and it is. Ensure your photo doesn't get cut off so that your audience misses the point of the image or its quality. Brighter pictures are also more likely to be seen, as are muted colours such as blues, greens and greys. Whatever you decide, make sure it's consistent and part of your brand.

3. Content, content, content Content is a huge reason why people follow you. So, make sure the content is posted in a way that attracts your readers, either with a statement or question, by using various types of content, or by using content that never goes out of fashion. Using other ways to talk, like emoticons, is also a great way to make something a little different.

4. Include a call to action Tell your audience what you want them to do…otherwise they just won't do it! Create urgency to help put your audience in the right frame of mind to get clicking!

5. Post at the right times of the day No point in putting effort into your content if no one is going to see it! Think about when your audience is most likely to be looking at your page! If it's a lifestyle page, they aren't likely to be checking you out during the day. Before work, during lunch or after work will be the best times for you. This is a trial and error process but your insight stats will help.

7. Post consistently This doesn't mean you should barrage your audience with multiple posts each day. In fact, it has been shown, that the less you post in one day the better engagement you get. Whatever you choose, do it consistently.

8. Offer a unique perspective It could be a 'behind-the-scenes' peek, or a picture of you hard at work, or you could tease your audience with bits of information about your latest launch – either way, show them a little more than perfection all the time. They want to get to know you, your brand and your company.

9. Ask questions Ask your audience a question, or create a poll or quiz. People will answer if the topic resonates with them, especially if it's currently trending. The more comments, the more engagement and, the more engagement, the more people will see your page and content.

10. HAVE SOME FUN! This ultimately is the most important point. Life can be far too serious too much of the time. So, have some fun! It doesn't have to be informative or inspiring or salesy all the time. Being creative and original is the best way to get the attention of your audience. Sometimes a funny face is all that's needed J but always join in on whatever conversation is happening on your page! n

Having difculty with your social media?

Contact us!

If you have any questions or topics you would like me to cover, please send to: rebecca@socialmediainc.co.nz and I will answer them in the next article. Join me for our nal article in the February edition of focus.

6. Use video Videos are huge on Facebook, and if you are teaching or showing people how to use something, this is a great way to get your audience watching quickly! focusmagazine

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WHAT TENANTS REALLY WANT IN A

RENTAL PROPERTY

A survey of 1,000 tenants was recently completed in Auckland by a leading property management company.

What do tenants really want?

This is what they found out: PRICE the number one factor for 88% of tenants was price.

LOCATION loca on was very important; 85% of those surveyed wanted to live close to work and schools.

NUMBER OF BEDROOMS 67% of tenants wanted homes with four bedrooms.

EXTRAS the most popular 'extras' which influenced a renter's property choice were extra parking spaces (57%) and extra storage spaces, such as a garden shed and a large garage.

OUTDOORS outdoor space and a fully fenced sec on were popular features for 40% of tenants surveyed.

PETS 40% of tenants wanted proper es that would also take pets.

Interes ngly, insula on and hea ng were further down the list.

The survey also looked at the dura on of tenancies and found 47% of tenants had been in their property for over five years.

The main reasons tenants stayed in a property were the proximity to their children's school and the rent being reasonable.

If you're thinking of inves ng in a property look for: Ask for a fair market rent, offer a long-term tenancy and employ a good property management company.

Connect Realty focuses 100% on property management. We are a local, privately owned Tauranga company run by real estate professionals with many years in the industry. Our personal, local knowledge of Tauranga, Mount Maunganui and Papamoa is second to none.

Give us a call today!

Three to four bedrooms Proximity to a good school Extra parking and storage A fenced sec on Something that is pet friendly Good hea ng and insula on

Landlords: Find out about our three-month money-back guarantee!

267 Cameron Road, Tauranga 3110 0800 333 221 or +64 (7) 213 0826 info@connectrealty.co.nz | www.connectrealty.co.nz Chris Jenkins – 027 443 6152

How to ‘eat an elephant’ and stay productive Words Rebecca Tereu

l

l

l

l

Do you own your own business and struggle at times to stay motivated?

Is procrastination your worst enemy? You’ve tried time and time again to kick it to the kerb – but no such luck?

Have you given up trying to keep up with the ever increasing and impossibly innite to-do list?

Maybe you just don’t know where to start and so retreating to the couch seems like a much more inviting option?

While not the only way to inspire motivation, the Chunk Strategy is a tried and proven way to get good quality results for absolutely anyone.

You heard right – anyone can use it – even the serial couch potatoes amongst us.

This 7-step technique can be used in all facets of life, whether at work or home.

Are you a Teacher? Lawyer? Writer?

Parent? Student? – Take your pick!!

Basically wherever focus is required, the Chunk Strategy can help sharpen you up and produce good solid results.

Try the Chunk Strategy out for yourself today:

1 If you’ve faced any of these challenges, then you’ve come face to face with a big fat elephant.

We all know the old metaphor “How do you eat an elephant?” Certainly not by trying to shove the whole thing in our mouths right?

No, we chop it up into chunks for easier digestion.

The same can be said about time and productivity management. Being productive is easy if you know how to ‘chunk the elephant’.

Prioritise

Prioritise your list of things to do.

Usually it helps if you write those things down in order of priority, so you’re not tempted to jump back and forth between shadow tasks.

Every task is worthy of a mention. List them all so they don’t cosy up in the recesses of your mind!

This is especially important for the serial multitaskers. Multitasking might be a real and enviable skill you possess, but the truth is it doesn’t help in the focus department. When

you put your hand to too many things at once, you can never give that one thing the focus it may need.

And don’t forget to use checkboxes!

Checkboxes aren’t just great for keeping track, they also produce some serious satisfaction endorphins.

2

Organise

Time to get yourself organised!

Grab your tools of trade and freshly lled out To-Do List, nd a workable space (preferably somewhere quiet and distraction-free), and get comfortable. Don’t worry, you won’t be sitting there for long.

Short bursts of work often produce better quality – not to mention motivation to continue – as opposed to marathon efforts where burn out is often the end result.

3

Commit

Now there’s a toe-curling word! But yes, you will need to make a commitment to dedicate a full 20 minutes to your rst task.

You can be a bit old fashioned and get yourself a timer, or keep an eye on a clock. We wouldn’t suggest having your phone running as a stopwatch because let’s face it, our wonderful smartphones can be the hugest distractions! Do yourself and your focusmagazine

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motivation a favour and keep those things well away, or at the very least on silent and out of direct sight.

Be determined not to get distracted for that 20 minute period. It’s not a long period of time – you can totally do it!

4

Get busy

In the words of Rihanna herself “Work work work work work……for 20 minutes until your timer goes off.”

Zone out and use all of your energy focusing on that one task.

If your mind wanders into no-mans land where there is always fty million other things to do, jot it down on a piece of paper and put it aside until your 20 minutes is up, then you can slip it into your priority list somewhere.

Make sure anyone around you knows that you are UNAVAILABLE for the next 20 minutes. Working from home?

The ‘do not disturb’ sign includes your kids and husbands!

5

Productivity can be measured one tick at a time. The evidence that you are getting somewhere is right there in front of you and is oh so satisfying.

Take a bow

Ding Ding Ding! The timer just went off and now you get to put a big fat tick next to your task.

It may not be a ‘completed’ tick but that’s ok because you can assign another 20 minutes to it after your break. Continue the cycle until you cross that nish line. There is no better feeling!

By giving yourself that tick you now have a record of time well spent. Aka – proof of productivity. This can do wonders for your mentality and motivation.

If you want to move on to another task on your priority list, feel free. But why not keep nailing that rst one until you’re nished – might as well while you’re hot on track!

6

Breathe

After your marathon 20 minutes, make sure you take a 5-10 minute break where you are NOT thinking about work.

Go for a walk, grab a cup of coffee, hang the washing out, check your facebook. Whatever helps you switch off for that short moment. Just don’t stay in that chill zone for too long, otherwise you may never make it out again.

Be ruthless and disciplined with your break time, then go back to carving up your elephant.

7

Optimise

Now that you’re getting the hang of it and are on a roll, take a peep into future-planning-land.

You know what you’re doing now and can see results, so it’s time to expand that commitment factor a little bit more and optimise your productivity.

Now set up between 1-3 tasks per day depending on your individual circumstances. No more than 3, however, otherwise you will risk biting off more of that big old elephant than you can chew…yanking you right back to square one.

Creating this timetable will help maximise your entire week, and give you a great overview that will help you stay on the productivity track.

When you are this sorted you won’t need to spend any time worrying about what you should be doing while you’re trying to relax. This is the sweet taste of motivation success. n

Keep doing this until you complete your task and are able to move on to the next one.

Rebecca Tereu is a business advisor, speaker, encourager and author www.lifeandinsights.org | www.facebook.com/LifeandInsights

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The Last Page Name: Josie Evans Organisation: Excelso Coffee Position Held: General Manager; for two years

Excelso Coffee is a family owned and operated business that’s been roasting coffee beans in the Bay of Plenty since the early 1990s – and yes, those were the days when Kiwis were only beginning to let go of tinned coffee in favour of long blacks and at whites!

Excelso’s main focus has always been to provide a consistently fresh, premium product to all coffee lovers and to share their love of “all things coffee” with others.

You can nd the team at the bottom of Third Avenue in Tauranga (down Coffee Lane), most often talking coffee, and advising on coffee blends and coffee making equipment to suit individual tastes and preferred brewing styles.

What book would you reread or what movie would you watch again, and why?

The Never Ending Story, by Michael Ende. I’ve read it countless times and I can’t imagine not wanting to read it again. Aside from being a beautiful, fantastical adventure, it’s a really strong reminder that when you only focus on the things you want, you tend to lose yourself and what you once valued along the way.

What do you love doing in your spare time?

Painting, always painting.

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What do you wish you had more time for?

Hiking, being outdoors, going on adventures. I tend to let work take over and become all consuming so having a little more time to get away from everything would be awesome.

Tell us about a woman, anywhere, who you most admire, and why.

My Mom. 100% my mom. She is the most courageous, kind, strong, giving and absolutely crazy person I know.

She takes everything in her stride and has always made me feel like I can do anything I set my mind to. She empowers, encourages and supports me every single day.

What’s next on your bucket list and when are you planning to do it?

South Australia, cage diving with Great White Sharks! Hopefully if all goes to plan, I will get there this summer.

Tell us about a recent Bay event you’ve attended I really enjoyed the recent Celebrating Sustainability event with the Sustainable Business Network.

‘Sustainability’ is practically my middle name as I’m always exploring new ways for Excelso to minimise our footprint on the planet, so I really enjoyed getting together with great like-minded people and learning from their ideas and experiences.

What tips could you share about your best approach to getting through a challenging day?

Don’t stress! The more you stress about it the more challenging it seems. Figure out what the problem(s) is/are and make a plan or steps to x it or move past it. And then just kill it. A challenge is only ever as big as the emphasis you put on it.

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