Junction August 2023

MATAKANA INVESTMENT, GOING-CONCERN OR VACANT POSSESSION OPPORTUNITY

987 Matakana Road, Matakana

987 Matakana Road is currently operating as the Matakana Village Preschool, a boutique childcare business which is now on the market. Measuring 990 sqm (more or less) and including an approximately 150 sqm dwelling, the property has been repurposed and consented for childcare. The site is underpinned by Business –Local centre zoning allowing a variety of commercial activities including retail, food & beverage and professional services. The property is for sale with three options: Freehold land & buildings with a leaseback to Matakana Village Preschool, Vacant Possession or Freehold going-concern. Matakana Village Preschool accommodates 23 children, with a resource consent permitting up to 40 children. Centrally located in the popular suburb of Matakana, just a 50-minute drive from Auckland’s CBD, the area benefits from consistent population growth due to expanding housing development in Warkworth and Matakana. With its close proximity to Matakana Village and Matakana Primary School, the property enjoys high visibility, convenience and easy accessibility for families in the area. For further details, please contact our sales team.

Deadline Private Treaty (unless sold prior)

12pm, Wednesday 23 August 2023

41 Queen Street, Warkworth

Chris Blair | 021 314 412 | chris.blair@bayleys.co.nz

Henry Napier | 021 024 64785 | henry.napier@bayleys.co.nz

www.bayleys.co.nz/1270748

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Bianca Howlett bianca@JunctionMag.co.nz

ART DIRECTOR + DESIGN

Susannah Marshall design@JunctionMag.co.nz

DEPUTY EDITOR

Emily Pattullo editorial@JunctionMag.co.nz

CONTENT & MARKETING MANAGER

Nikita Oliver Metcalfe marketing@JunctionMag.co.nz

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

Angela Collins +64 21 481 056 ads@JunctionMag.co.nz

GENERAL & DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIES hi@JunctionMag.co.nz

CONTRIBUTORS:

Luke Williamson

Kelley Eady

Tanja Dove Photography

Alex Stone

Grant Birley

Geoff Ledbrook

Tracey Stevens

FRONT COVER:

Photographer: Kelley Eady Ceramics, Wabi-Sabi Bottle and Ramekinswww.GloriousMud.nz

*All details are correct at the time of print. Check event details direct with the event organiser.

PUBLISHED BY JUNCTION MEDIA LTD All content

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This publication has been printed by Webstar, a Toitū enviromark diamond certified company and a winner of a Green Ribbon Award “Minimising our Waste”. www.toitu.co.nz

NEIL TAYLOR CABINETMAKER & DESIGN

Specialising in kitchens, bathrooms, cabinetry & customised furniture - Design to installation we have you coveredCONTACT NEIL 09 425 7017 or 021 070 0643 sales@cabinetmakers.co.nz | www.cabinetmakers.co.nz

CLIFF TAYLOR TORI THOMAS

Eye on the prize

It had always been a dream of Natalia's to run her own Eyelash Extension salon and to make women feel beautiful and empowered, so when the opportunity presented itself she did not hesitate. Lashes By Natalia is making its mark on the community of Wellsford. You will find her new salon located right in the heart of Wellsford township. Owner Natalia says it has been an exciting part of her journey getting the salon ready for opening and she's thrilled to be able to share it with you all. She says her business wouldn't be where it is today if it wasn't for all of her wonderful clients and an incredibly supportive community. She can't wait to welcome some new and familiar faces through the salon doors.

021 022 96492

142/3 Rodney St, Wellsford

Bursting into bloom

Artbloom creates unique New Zealandinspired canvas artworks to brighten up your living space.

Each Artbloom is created by artist Shann Whitaker and is inspired by local areas using a collage of hundreds of natural elements found in and around New Zealand.

Look through the portfolio of designs to find the Artbloom that resonates with you, or try the ‘Design Your Own’ service and create your very own personalised Artbloom. www.Artbloom.co.nz | www.facebook.com/ArtbloomPrints

Small but perfectly formed

Meet Tammi Guy – she moved to Matakana in 2002 at the age of 10 and grew up surrounded by the amazing cafés and restaurants that flourished in the area. She had a passion for great coffee and customer service. Having lived in Australia and worked in the corporate world for 10 years, she has returned to her hometown and bought The Little Kiwi Coffee Cart. Serving the delicious Rush Coffee, locally roasted in Te Arai, The Little Kiwi Coffee Cart can be found at the old Warehouse carpark, 250 Mahurangi East Road, Snells Beach, and also at local sporting events on weekends. Corporate and private events can also be arranged. Open 6am-1pm, Monday to Friday. 021 0858 7676 | TheLittleKiwiCoffeeCart@gmail.com

Taking the reins

Dimity Boutique is filled with beautiful, high-quality designer pieces; it’s a store with charisma and charm like no other. Lyndal, original founder of Dimity Boutique, has recently passed the reins onto Dawn who has been part of the Dimity team for many years and has watched the business blossom. She is now excited to continue on this next chapter, an adventure filled with growth, style and heaps of fun! All the things you love about Dimity will never change. Pop in and say hello to Dawn, or support local and browse the Dimity website.

www.Dimity.co.nz | 09 431 3114

Assembly time assistance

Few people have time to assemble flatpack items. It always looks good in the showroom, but the gloss usually wears off after a couple of hours trying to decipher instructions that make no sense, then realising you can’t find the one tool they provided to assemble everything.

Kaipara Kitset Assembly fills this gap for the Kaipara region.

Based in Mangawhai, Kaipara Kitset Assembly will put your flat-packed items together for you, and so save you time and effort. Contact them for more details.

021 324490 | mangawhaiww@gmail.com

New Pilates studio

AG Studio is a recently-opened Pilates studio in Snells Beach, offering mat group classes with Pilates walls, as well as one-onone reformer sessions.

The director, Abbi Guppta, is a trained Pilates instructor with experience working with clients of all ages and abilities, including Olympic athletes.

Helping rehabilitate injuries, preand post-natal, and those looking to improve general movement in daily life, classes start from only $20 per session. Contact Abbi today to book a session.

agtsuionz@gmail.com

021 024 51807

Keeping it in-house

Hospitality NZ selected

The Tahi Bar + Kitchen in Warkworth was one of five finalists for the ‘NZ's Best Live Entertainment Venue’ award. This achievement is remarkable, but something unusual sets The Tahi Bar apart, and that is that they have a house-band called 'The Tahi Brothers', which is led by Gareth Hedges, one of the bar's co-owners.

House bands are rare these days, but in the past, they were a popular feature at bars and clubs like the Cotton Club, Birdland and Blue Note Jazz Club.

Neville St, Warkworth www.TheTahiBar.co.nz

1

Boat care the family way

Robertson's Boatyard has been a staple in the Warkworth marine industry since 1932. Writer and avid sailor Alex Stone, along with his wife Lesley, make their regular and much-anticipated ritual with their sailing catamaran, Skyborne, during its annual maintenance haul-out at Robertson's Boatyard.

Now this may sound odd, but for the week or two that we spend at Robertson’s Boatyard, and its attendant challenges of working with difficult materials, it’s also the opportunity to further steep ourselves in the finest traditions of kiwi boatbuilding, and to learn from the masters of the game who work at the yard. So, for us, it's a holiday with a difference.

It starts with a deep foray up the Mahurangi Creek, usually after anchoring for the night down at Mathesons Bay or Scotts Landing to

prepare for the best timing of the incoming tide, for Robertson prefers to lift the boat out at or around high water.

It’s a wee adventure in itself, and after a few miles heading inland, the boat’s chartplotter gets a tad confused: Hey! We’re heading through the paddocks here! But the channel is well marked, though some turns appear scarily close to the shore. Trust them –they’re following the deeper water on the outside of t he curve.

Getting closer to Robertson’s, the starboard side of the channel is mostly native bush, all the way to Warkworth, dominated by some large tōtara. At low tide, the mud banks are alive with crabs. And symbiotically, lots of happy kingfishers.

Up beyond the best swimming hole in the world, there’s one more bank-hugging turn to get to Robertson’s Boatyard. It’s a surprise to see a massive 85-tonne Travelift, capable of lifting a boat of 8.5m beam – and a lot more cost effective than the haul-outs

Words Alex Stone

in Auckland. We’ve seen some surprisingly big boats up on the hard there, Fullers Ferries, ocean tugboats, and commercial fi shing boats.

Drew Robertson is the young face of the yard. He’s there waiting in the elevated Travelift cockpit, ready to lift the boat, while his trusty crew stand by on ground level, adjusting the slings and guiding the boat in with long, soft-tipped poles.

“It goes back about four generations,” says Drew of the yard. “My grandfather’s uncles (Roy, Fred, and Mike Lidgard) started a boatbuilding business called Lidgard Bros in 1932. My grandfather, Chris Robertson, did his boatbuilding apprenticeship for them. In 1960 he started his own business, which was based in Target Road on the North Shore. In 1981 the business moved to the site it occupies in Warkworth. The site was an old limestone quarry which took a bit of tidying up, and the shed had collapsed, which they rebuilt and used for the construction of boats (same shed that is there now).

“In 1995, my father Conrad bought the business and has owned and operated it since. He designed and built the Travelift and dock, and developed the hardstand area which went into service in 2000.I would

be the fourth generation in t he business.”

Conrad was also an Olympian rower, winning gold for New Zealand in Los Angeles, 1984, in the coxless four. The recreational rowing boats you’ll often encounter on the river (some equipped with groovy rear-view mirrors) are a result of his influence – a nd output.

Working on a boat at Roberston’s has other advantages; from the yard, it’s only five more minutes up, at five knots, to Warkworth town. Past a kayak-launching floating jetty, a slipway, and there’s the town dock, with the Jane Gifford tied alongside. A hop and a skip, and you’re at a nice café or sushi place for lunch.

And at the end of a hard day’s work on the hard, five minutes downstream behind the crumbling old cement factory ruins, there’s a superb swimming hole. It was once the limestone quarry for the works, but it eventually filled with sparkling fresh water – a far cry from the muddy creek just behind you – and a leafy green surround has grown around it. The nice folk at Warkworth council have placed picnic tables on a lawn. It’s a cool family hangout.

www.RobertsonBoats.com info@RobertsonBoats.com

The Apple Basket is a textile store that sells 100% cotton and linen fabrics, yarn (wool, alpaca, possum, linen and cotton yarns), embroidery threads and haberdashery. I run classes quilting/ patchwork, hand embroidery, dress making, textile gift card making, bag making, knitting, Pfaff sewing machine classes on site and we have a website with most items in the online store.

Cultivating a word garden – Cliff Taylor

After a long and distinguished career in journalism, including working as a senior producer for the BBC World Service, Cliff Taylor has committed himself to a new path as a novelist. His fourth novel, The Spanish Garden, has just been published, and a fifth is on the way.

Travel has always been an important element in Cliff’s novels. “I travelled extensively for 15 years,” he says. “When you’re young, you tend to write about yourself and what you’re experiencing. However, by my third novel, I started to get away from that and I think I have succeeded with this latest book at creating autonomous characters who are not based on myself or anyone I know. They’re experiencing things I haven’t. As you get older, you have more experiences to draw on, and a better understanding of people and relationships. That makes you a better writer.”

The Spanish Garden is set in presentday and historical Kaipara, and the 1930s Spanish civil war. Having visited Spain often and lived in Barcelona for some time, Cliff had a strong interest in the country’s history. “I knew I wanted to write about it at some point, but the key was trying to connect it to New Zealand,” he explains. “The idea of a young man growing up in rural Kaipara, going away overseas and becoming involved in world-changing events was very personal to me.”

Words Luke Williamson | Photos Tracey Stevens

Retro Furniture is the sole importer/supplier of genuine 1950’s and 60’s Diner Furniture sourced from the

Cliff says the main theme of the book is the inter-generational legacy of war and how the traumas of war are passed down. The story involves digging up the past, including literally as bones are being disinterred in Spain and consideration is given to the burial of the dead from Māori wars around the Kaipara region.

Cliff spent lockdown 2020 writing the novel in a friend’s backyard caravan just outside Matakana. “I had a very strong idea in my mind of what I was going to write. I’d done a lot of research and had all the characters worked out, and it was based around Leigh, but I just couldn’t get going.”

Out of sheer frustration, Cliff started on a new story, the bare bones of which had been sitting in a journal for probably 10 years. His eyes light up as he says, “Out came the first 1000 words, and that was it, I was away and never looked back. The rest of the story flowed almost effortlessly. The characters started taking on lives of their own and I just followed along. I’ve never experienced anything quite like that before and it was wonderful. That’s why I knew it was going to be a good story.”

When not writing, Cliff works as a gardener. “I love it. Gardening allows plenty of time to think and I’ve included gardening in this

novel. The natural environment is a huge part of my writing. The ebb and flow of the tide in the Kaipara harbour is an integral part of this story.”

The great outdoors also resonates for Cliff because he is a keen runner. “I process my stories when I’m running and I think of ways to describe what I’m seeing – the light on the water, the way trees look in the sun, that sort of thing. Without running, it would be more difficult. It’s my therapy.”

The first draft of Cliff’s new novel is complete and all he’s willing to divulge at this stage is it’s about a doctor and set on the east coast. “I’m desperate to get back to it,” he says, “but I’m focussing on promoting The Spanish Garden right now.”

The Spanish Garden is available in all good bookstores, including Matakana Village Books, or at Nationwide Books.

www.MatakanaVillageBooks.co.nz

www.NationwideBooks.co.nz

Mud, glorious mud

Potty about ceramics, Kelley Eady loves to create with clay, and says it’s her happy place.

Photos Kelley Eady

If you've ever met Kelley Eady, you will know how passionate she is about all things design. She has always been fond of ceramics; in her teens saving her coins to collect a handmade dinner set, one setting at a time! She then moved on to collecting Crown Lynn and as time went by settled on the Japanese minimalist aesthetic, which has stuck to this day. Her appreciation for all things Japanese has long inspired her work, drawing upon its influence in many of her creative projects.

A few years ago, Kelley decided to pursue her passion for ceramics more seriously. She jumped in, as she does, boots 'n' all, doing courses at The Clay Centre in Auckland, which she has subsequently become a member of. "It's a bit like a gym membership but even more addictive,” she jokes. “Being a creative person, a photographer for the majority of my life, then moving into digital design, creating with clay is something I could see myself continue doing through the years. I love how tangible and mindful it is, with a real calmness that I greatly appreciate. Definitely my happy place."

Kelley's mother says Kelley is a perfectionist, whilst her good friend talks about how much fun she is – there is a striking mix of both in her glorious creations. Her works are all oneoffs, each carefully curated; the Japanese

influence of wabi-sabi shines through, bringing a sense of originality to whatever she does. Kelley is highly practical, believing her pieces have a real sense of purpose and longevity. Even the vessels she makes for her candles have a new life, long after the candle has burned.

"The Glorious Mud website was created out of my friends' encouragement and their desire to purchase my pieces. I thought, ok, this could work – not only helping with my ongoing clay spend but, more importantly, decluttering the family home and returning it to its minimal aesthetic, as it was fast becoming overwhelmed with my creations,” laughs Kelley.

Kelley's creative pursuits have moved to Mangawhai, where the family recently designed and built their forever home, complete with a designated pottery studio, and she is excited about where this journey will take her. Constantly challenging her boundaries, experimenting with different designs, clays, textures, colours and glazes, she will also be extending her range and works towards one day creating her own candle fragrances.

www.GloriousMud.nz

www.instagram.com/GloriousMud.nz

ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK

BLACK FERN MATAKANA

Black Fern Lodge overlooks Ascension Vineyard and is perfect for bridal accommodations and celebrating special occasions. Featuring up to five bedrooms (four ensuites), large gourmet kitchen and entertaining areas, heated pool, covered BBQ area with a kitchen and fireplace, Sky TV and wifi. Accommodates 2-10 people in private luxury. Small events are welcome.

454 Matakana Rd, Warkworth 021 189 4242

blackfernmatakana@gmail.com

www.blackfernmatakana.com

Eye on the Pouakai

It will have been hard not to notice the sculpture of the giant ‘eagle’ that stands resplendent on the roundabout of the new motorway, but what kind of bird is it exactly, and what does it symbolise? Metal artist and creator of the beast in question, Nathan Hull, has the answers.

Words Emily Pattullo

Five years ago, Nathan Hull was approached by Wyvern Rosieur (Ngāti Manuhiri) to sculpture a “bald eagle” for the new Puhoi to Warkworth motorway. It wasn’t until 2021, however, when Wyvern came back to Nathan and gave him the go-ahead to make what, in actual fact, would be a Pouākai. Literally translated, Pouākai means ‘old glutton’, and was considered to be a gigantic bird with a three-metre wingspan that often preyed on men, women and children. Also referred to as Haast’s Eagle, it was a formidable creature that became extinct 500-600 years ago.

This particular pouākai, however, is a tribute to Reipae. It is said that Reipae and Reitū (her sister) travelled on the back of a large pouākai and rested in the area the bird stands, on their way to Whangarei. Dome Valley (Tohitohi o Reipae) takes its name from the Tainui ancestress, Reipae.

Made from stainless steal and copper, the bird, which has a six-metre wingspan, took a total of 600 hours to complete, over a period of five months, and required Nathan to hire additional help.

Nathan lives in Taranaki and has been a metal artist since he was 22. Having started as a welder at 15, he had a good understanding of the art and construct of metal; “My first creation was an ornament,

a motorbike, and my passion just grew from there.” He entered competitions and won several, was featured in newspapers and then exhibited in galleries. At 24 he was able to focus on being a metal artist fulltime, and aside from a brief period when he took a hiatus for personal reasons, he has been doing it ever since. Married with five kids, Nathan’s eldest is following in his footsteps, creating his own pieces whilst studying engineering.

With a passion for collaboration and inspiring other artists, Nathan and his wife, who is also a metal artist, have created an online community to help other metal artists. “I enjoy teaching and getting others involved,” says Nathan. “I want to run metal art courses in the future, and we’re big on recycling so I teach artists how to cut things like water cylinders, old shower trays, and stainless steal bench tops and use those in their art work.”

Eventually hoping to open a small sculpture park/gallery on their property, there are already 13 sculptures ready to display. From various animals, to an abstract octopus, and even a fairy in a tree, it will be a truly magical and inspiring exhibition of what Nathan and his metal artist community can do.

www.facebook.com/NathanHullSculpture www.NathanHullSculpture.com

Matakana Coast based Interior Renovation Designer Liz Kerby has 25+ years renovation design experience and industry contacts.

• kitchen & laundry design

• bathroom design

• fittings & finishes schemes

• window furnishings

• 2D & 3D detailed plans

• full specifications details

• project coordination

Liz will expertly guide and path the way to your homes transformation, creating spaces you will enjoy for years.

www.lizziekandco.co.nz | office 027 218 5608

A taste of Sculptureum Event

Saturday 19th August 5.30pm

Embark on an extraordinary journey at our “Taste of Sculptureum” event. Join Anthony Grant, the owner and creator, as he shares the captivating story of Sculptureum’s evolution. Explore awe-inspiring galleries, savour a wine tasting led by vineyard manager Tina Hutchinson, and delight in delectable snacks from Executive Chef Josh Hazel, that perfectly complement our full range of Sculptureum Wines.

Tickets are $89 per person

Head to www.sculptureum.nz/whatson to book now

The Furniture Makers, where we make custom furniture to fit your lifestyle.

Our experienced team of craftsmen and designers create beautiful, quality furniture that is tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re looking for a single piece or an entire collection, we’ll work with you to create furniture that fits your style and budget.

Our unique pieces are made using premium materials and the latest technology, ensuring that your furniture is built with the utmost attention to detail. We offer a range of options from traditional to contemporary, so you can always find the perfect piece for your home. thefurnituremakersnz@gmail.com | www.furnituremaker.co.nz

Painting with the seasons

Isabella Rose Young is a multidisciplinary artist living slowly and seasonally in Aotearoa New Zealand, where her practise explores a collaborative process with natural phenomena.

Isabella’s art desk contains an array of paintings that depict flowers, toadstools and colour abstractions that directly reflect what can be found in her garden outside the studio. The colours of the paintings are the same as the vibrant blooms growing outside, and inside is an array of jars of petals, seeds, a flower press, and strings of flora hanging upside down from the ceiling as they dry. Conscious of the environmental condition, Isabella works with foraged pigments, organic, biodegradable materials, and is inspired by the innate strength, tranquillity and regenerative qualities of Mother Earth. Marigold yellow, pink petunias, and violet pansies are some of the colours that Isabella grows in her abundant garden. Alchemistic processes are utilised to create her paint,

which involves foraging, drying, grinding and binding the pigments. She uses a mix of store-bought and handmade card, in which she will often embed seeds so that the paper can be planted and the seeds grow.

Before becoming a mother, Isabella completed her master of fine arts with first class honours. She is recognised for her earlier work of immersive weather paintings, large-scale murals, site-specific installations, and commissioned design work. Isabella’s art has been exhibited internationally and is held by public, private and corporate collections within Aotearoa and abroad. And she has worked with contemporary clients such as Adidas x Parley, Garage Project, MOTAT, and Auckland Libraries.

“My recent work embraces the changing seasons and the sense of harmony that’s found when we align with the rhythms and cycles of nature rather than trying to resist them,” says Isabella. “A lively colour palette has been used, with paints made from foraged plants growing in winter; delicate violets, candyfloss pansies, midnight petunias and gol den marigolds.”

Isabella’s first collection of small original paintings sold out online, and she has just released a second collection of abstracted works which can be viewed on her website and on instagram.

IsabellaRoseCreative.myshopify.com

www.instagram.com/IsabellaRoseCreative

Artwork to complement the space

After working 15 years in the interior design industry, Tori Thomas’ lifelong dream of becoming a freelance artist has now become a full-time gig.

Tori grew up in an artistic household. Her Dad working as a full-time portrait and landscape artist gave Tori the creative inspiration to also paint, create and draw whenever she could. Torn between her love for painting and interiors, she graduated with a Bachelor of Interior Design and has worked in the Interior Design industry for the last 15 years. However during this time, Tori did not hang up her paint brushes, and she kept painting when she could, part time. Over the years she has exhibited in several joint exhibitions around NZ, worked as an artist in residence, and fitted out office spaces, cafés

and apartments with her art and wall murals.

Tori’s close connection and love for art and interior spaces is where she draws her main inspiration for her works. “Art is an integral part to a space and the people that inhabit it. The connection between interior spaces and art is crucial, art can be a conversation starter and it evokes emotions within a space. Art can be that final element that brings together the carefully selected pieces within the space.”

Tori regularly takes on commission works from her clients. She always takes the

intended space into consideration when she is creating the piece, considering the colours, textures, and overall feel of the space to create a bespoke piece that complements all these elements.

Working from her studio in Mangawhai, Tori also draws inspiration from her natural surroundings and her art-making process. “To me art is a language of self-expression, it is my visual diary of things I find difficult to express verbally.” Tori paints in search of expressiveness, giving her the freedom to get lost in her work, and her art reflects her thoughts, emotions, and ideas.

Tori is currently painting abstract florals which are formed from gestural expression, colour exploration and refinement of the subject matter. Her process is loose to intentional; layers upon layers of gestural brushstrokes. And not just using brushes as her only way to apply paint, Tori will search for anything else within reach to apply her mark-making. Her colour palettes are always inspired by certain styles of interiors in mind, and colour helps to form the emotion of her work. She works mainly with oil paint, pastels, spray paint and the recent addition of powdered pigments.

Tori’s new collection ‘Unite’ will be released at the end of November and her next commission bookings will open back up at the end of September.

www.ToriThomas.nz

www.instagram.com/Tori.Thomas.Creative

PUTTING THE DREAM WITHIN EASY REACH town and country

Warkworth Ridge is a master-planned community by Templeton Group featuring resilient infrastructure and thoughtfully positioned sections to create a community where people come first. With sections ranging in size from 400m2 to 1000m2 and starting at just $495,000 now is the time to secure your future. warkworthridge.co.nz

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Text WWA to 875

VISIT OUR DISPLAY SUITE

2 Clayden Road, Warkworth Open 11 am to 2 pm Wed-Sun

FOR A CONVERSATION

Anthony Shaw | 021 234 9797 anthony.shaw@bayleys.co.nz

Joneen Smith | 021 464 557 joneen.smith@bayleys.co.nz

Dianna Coman | 021 790 307 dianna.coman@bayleys.co.nz

Local art makers

Artist Shann Whitaker

Shann is a local Mangawhai artist creating large, heavily textured, abstract artworks that represent life experiences and colourful mood swings. He has exhibited both here and abroad and continues to create bespoke artworks for both commercial and private homes. If you are looking for something unique and contemporary for your living space, check out his latest work.

www.ShannWhitaker.com

www.instagram.com/ShannWhitaker.Art.nz

Mr Soft Top

Mr Soft Top is the go-to label for luxury NZ made clothing and accessories for precious pooches. From soft merino tees, cosy wool coats and raincoats to keep your pup warm and dry, to luxurious faux fur beds that will have your pup sleeping deeply, there is something for dogs of all shapes and sizes.

www.MrSoftTop.com

021 419 888

Caroline Jane Art

Caroline is an encaustic and ceramic artist who has her studio in the Whangaripo Valley, north of Matakana. She describes how she likes to paint in encaustic wax for the way it creates dynamic and luminous surfaces “by concealing and revealing, I like to merge colours, shapes and gestures together to form complex textural paintings”. With her organicallyinpsired ceramic pieces, she demonstrates her interest for the tactile with the use of specialty glazes and slips.

www.CarolineJaneArt.com | www.facebook.com/CarolineJaneBellArt

Love From Maeve

Discover ‘Maeve’, a small business offering hand-crafted stoneware clay pieces by Leigh-based ceramic artist, Annie-Maeve. With a wide offering from vases to crockery and the ability to customise pieces to suit your personal needs, each piece is unique to you and will bring an artisanal flare to your space.

www.LoveFromMaeve.com

www.instagram.com/LoveFrom.Maeve

The TruckKnitting

The Knitting Truck is home of woolly goodness and inspiration. Yarns, patterns, classes, knitting and crochet supplies.

They are happy to assist you on your crafting journey online or in store at 17 Sharp Road, Matakana.

Open Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm. www.TheKnittingTruck.com

021 194 5631

Givash

Experience all-day freshness with Givash ORIGINAL Natural Deodorant. Its gentle formula, enriched with 10 antibacterial agents, moisturises with coconut oil, cocoa butter, jojoba oil, and shea butter, while naturally controlling odour. Free from aluminium, parabens, synthetic fragrances, and phthalates, it's the perfect natural finishing touch to your clean routine. www.Givash.com | info@Givash.com

Gumtree Gully Yarn

Discover the luxury of Gumtree Gully Yarn. Handdyed with care and passion, their luxurious hand-dyed yarns will ignite your creativity and elevate your projects. Vibrant colourways on the softest yarns, their collection invites you to create something truly unique. They warmly invite you to explore their local on-farm store, and are always happy to help with your next beautiful creation.

www.GumtreeGully.co.nz | 021 5777 89

Photography by Andy Bruce

Andy is a local photographer who loves nothing more than capturing the beauty of Mangawhai, Langs, Waipu and Omaha in the quest for the perfect image.

Whether it’s a panoramic drone landscape, orca in the estuary, or a stunning sunrise, his quality framed prints will bring something special to your home or bach. Commission Andy to take a unique image that can be printed up several metres long.

andy@ElevatedMedia.nz | 021 481 232

Local makers and creators that will enhance your environment with their designs and ideas.

Celebrating young creativity

Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated Matakana Junior Artisans' Market, where young talent takes centre stage. Join them on Sunday 13 August, from 10am to 3pm at the Matakana Hall for a celebration of creativity and community.

Managed by locals, Izzy Wagstaff and Lucy Howlett, this vibrant market showcases a diverse range of handmade treasures and tasty treats. Indulge in homemade chocolate, nutty chilli oil, and scrumptious baked goods. Explore crochet crafts, handmade jewellery, macramé pot hangers, and framed artwork. Don't forget to browse through the pre-loved books, toys, and recycled clothing for hidden gems. Nature lovers will find an abundance of plants, succulents, and flowers to beautify their homes a nd gardens.

But it's not just about shopping – it's about supporting local causes too. Proceeds are going to the Country Retreat Animal Sanctuary, and they will be there on the day with some adorable puppies looking for their forever home.

This extraordinary showcase of youthful talent promises a day filled with inspiration, community spirit, and joy. Immerse yourself in the creativity of our young entrepreneurs and experience a day that celebrates art, craft, and delicious delights. Go along to support the young, and be inspired by the incredible talents of the local kids.

Entry to the markets is a gold coin donation as koha for the Country Retreat Animal Sanctuary. This is a cash-only event no EFTPOS will be available. Follow the event page (Matakana Junior Artisans' Market) on Facebook for updates and fu rther information.

Sunday 13 August, 10am-3pm

Matakana Village Hall

JuniorArtisansMarket@gmail.com

17 shops between Devonport & Te Hana harbourhospice.org.nz/shoplocations

This month, support the local children as they sell their wares and support local causes at the first Junior Artisans’ Market.

Wooden Creation by Moss Matson

Artwork by Tyler Holloway

Beadyboo By Malia Railey

Art trail

1. WRW & CO

661 Matakana Rd, Matakana 027 526 0802

2. MAHURANGI ARTIST NETWORK

www.MahurangiArtistNetwork.com

3. ARTFORM GALLERY Matakana Village, 2 Matakana Valley Rd 09 422 9125

4. NEW ZEALAND ARTISTS AT OBV GALLERY 169 Takatu Rd, Matakana 09 423 0022

5. U NITY COLLECTION Matakana Village, 2 Matakana Valley Rd 021 333 377

6. SCULPTUREUM 40 Omaha Flats Rd, Matakana 09 422 7375

7. BRICK BAY SCULPTURE TRAIL 17 Arabella Ln, Snells Beach 09 425 4690

WRW & Co

The Piper table collection is made from solid-timber and a powder-coated steel tube base. Choose a colour of your choice. This unique and sustainably-minded feature allows for lower-impact deliveries and installation in even small, challenging spaces. Designed with longevity in mind in their beautiful Matakana Showroom and made next door in the workshop by the team of talented cabinet makers.

www.WRW.co.nz | will@WRW.co.nz

Artform Gallery

Presenting a carefully selected collection of objects and sculptures, wall art and jewellery, Artform displays an overwhelming richness of textures, colours and styles worked in a variety of techniques, with each artist's interpretation of what New Zealand means to them.

www.ArtformGallery.co.nz

WARKWORTH

are happy to open their studios to you by appointment. So, call ahead and make a time to visit for your own self-guided art trail.

www.MahurangiArtistNetwork.com/YearRoundArtTrail MahurangiArtistNetwork@gmail.com

New Zealand Artists at OBV Gallery

The traditional intimacy of the underground wine cave is brought to contemporary life by the stunning creations of modern New Zealand artists.

Strategic lighting unites the timeless elegance of the setting with the vigour and energy of some of the country’s most creative talent. All pieces are for sale. Enjoy wine tasting, and an antipasto platter in the stunning courtyard with spectacular ocean views.

Open Friday to Sunday, 11am-4pm. Closed from 1 July to 5 October. www.OmahaBay.co.nz | 09 423 0022

SNELLS BEACH

Unity Collection

Winner of the Junction 2023 Retail Award in the South region.

Unity Collection is an authentic Māori Contemporary Gallery sit uated in the heart of Matakana Village.

Curating high-quality Design (Whakaahua), Fashion (Kākahu, Taon ga) and Art (Mahi Toi) from leading Māori creatives including Sofia Minson, Jimmy James Kouratoras, Māori Mermaid, Hikurangi Edwards, Ra Gossage, Toroa and Rangi Kipa.

Founder, Tania Rupapera (Ngāti Kahu, Ngāruahine) curates a beautiful collection to share their story, while aligning with Unity's vision and values, inspiring entrepreneurship and connectivity. Embracing her culture, supporting startups and established brands, she weaves her passions to bring this Kaupapa to life.

Unity is a small gallery with a big purpose.

Shop 5b Matakana Village, Matakana | www.UnityCollection.co.nz

Sculptureum

A unique destination with more than 800 works of art from all around the world. The galleries include works by Picasso, Chagall, Cezanne, Warhol, Matisse, Lichtenstein, Rodin and Chihuly. The seasonal gardens feature prehistoric rocks, sculptures, and reflective quotes. Visitors can enjoy a seasonal meal at Rothko restaurant, sample Sculptureum wines, and interact with resident animals. With something new to discover every visit, Sculptureum offers a delightful experience that amuses, inspires, and delights art enthusiasts. 40 Omaha Flats Rd, Matakana www.Sculptureum.nz

Brick Bay Sculpture Trail

An open-air exhibition of over 60 contemporary sculptures by New Zealand's leading artists, situated within the natural beauty of the Brick Bay landscape. The trail is a relaxing 2km walk suitable for most ages and abilities but it’s best to wear good walking shoes. Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome to walk the trail too. All artwork is for sale with proceeds going towards supporting New Zealand artists.

Open daily: Monday to Friday 10am-4pm; Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm.

Last trail entry one hour before closing. Adults $12, children $8.

Don’t forget to book a table for lunch!

17 Arabella Lane, Snells Beach | www.BrickBay.co.nz

Where art meets Allpress coffee

The Warkworth hospitality scene is humming in every form, as newcomer ‘elemento’ has landed with alternative concepts to the conventional coffee shop.

Andrew of elemento, who recently moved into the area in 2022 with his family, and expecting a new arrival, set out to establish his brand in the community, which began i n 2018.

The brief was to connect with the community and visitors through coffee shops which complement people in their element.

The idea of an art gallery with a coffee shop in it came about when Andrew came across 3 Alnwick Street in October 2022. “Having

done some research on the history of the building and had a look inside, it instantly became apparent that the space, with its exposed trusses and architectural aspects and interior, had the bones that were perfect for an art gallery,” says Andrew. elemento had been conceived with art at the heart of the business. A collaboration with international street artist Handbrake had been instrumental in forming both the concept and identity for the business, which

has had locations in central Auckland and Mt. Ruapehu over the last five years. With art being the cornerstone of the business, and Andrew’s grandfather being a career artist in the Philippines while raising 10 children, it was only right that a space where artists could exhibit their work would be part of the journey of elemento.

“Fast forward to June 2023 and the calendar was filling up with local New Zealand contemporary artists. The coffee machine and fit-out was coming together, and Allpress coffee was ready to complement the space.”

Mandy Rodger is the first artist to exhibit her artwork through August in the elemento Coffee x Gallery. Mandy's paintings are characterised by spontaneous, sweeping energy flows. She explores colour, space and the materiality of the paint itself, creating dynamic gestures immersing the viewer in the motion of the bo ld brushstrokes.

The gallery will host a new artist each month, showcasing their talent, hard work and passion for their art and craft.

www.instagram.com/Elemento.CoffeeGallery www.MandyRodger.co.nz Mead Honey wine

Andrew with artwork by Handbrake on the wall

Gardening calendar

Wet soils take a little longer to respond to the increasing warmth and sunlight of spring. Pick the sunniest and best drained parts of your garden to get your spring garden up and running. Fresh spring produce is just around the corner.

Crop rotation

A crop rotation is a useful tool for a home gardener. Essentially it places some, but not all, of your vegetable crops into groups which are planted in sequence. This will give you two benefits: First up it reduces the chances of disease build-up in your garden soil. Secondly a crop rotation helps build soil fertility and make sure each crop has the correct fertility levels it requires for good growth. Some crops, like carrots, do not need much nitrogen to grow. Carrots will grow better in a less nitrogen-rich soil. Beans and peas are similar and have the added ability to add nitrogen back into the soil. Brassicas, on the other hand, love nitrogen, and benefit from higher fertility levels to grow well.

Crop rotation can be used strictly or loosely, maybe in reflection of your gardening style. For those who like structure, a system based on four beds growing four main groups of plants can be used (works well with raised beds). This method groups certain vegetables together and requires you to plant them sequentially in separate beds in your garden.

Bed 1 – brassicas and greens (cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, leafy greens, salad greens)

Bed 2 – fruiting vegetables (tomatoes, potatoes, cucumber, courgettes, pumpkins, sweetcorn)

Bed 3 – root crops (carrots, beetroot, parsnip, onions, leeks, garlic)

Bed 4 – nitrogen-fixing legumes (beans, peas)

For those who garden a little more freely, think of crop rotation as a golden rule. Be aware that if you plant the same crop in the same place many times the risk of soil-borne disease increases. Don’t grow solanum crops (tomatoes, eggplants, potatoes) in the same soil year after year or you will get diseases building up in the soil that affect their health. When you add manures and composts do it before planting the hungry crops like broccoli and not carrots.

Celery

• Fennel

• Greens (spinach, silver beet, rocket, kale)

• Herbs (parsley, coriander, dill, chives)

• Lettuces

• Onions and spring onions

• Peas and snow peas

• Radishes

• Strawberries (day neutral varieties)

Sow

• Brassicas (kale, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower)

• Beetroot

• Celery

• Carrots

• Courgettes

• Herbs (parsley, chives, coriander, dill, sage, thyme)

• Lettuces and radicchio

• Radishes

• Fennel

• Onions, shallots, spring onions, and leeks

• Peas and snow peas

Words Geoff Ledbrook

Built with love from the ground up

Caitlin and Zac Anderson, a young couple from Mangawhai, worked with Kyle Kake from Mason Street Architectural Drafting to design their first home. The brief was simple; they had a tight budget and wanted to create a functional first home, filled with natural light and indoor-outdoor flow, while also showcasing their personal style.

family

Photos Spasic Studio

Zac is a seasoned chippy and spearheaded the build, adding his own rustic style where he could. Caitlin is a busy stay-at-home Mum to the couple’s two girls under two, and also owns and operates a small online business called Adore Store, which specialises in pregnancy, postpartum and paren thood products.

They wanted to create a warm and welcoming space where their friends and family could relax and know there was always a coffee or cold beer on offer.

The house was built with love from the ground up. Both Zac and Caitlin’s families live locally and helped with the build where they could – from standing the frames on the day that level-three lockdown ended, to painting soffits nearer to the finish line, everything helped and enabled Zac to put his fine building skills to work and create a beautiful abode for the Anderson family.

The concrete fireplace was a labour of love and is now the heart of the home. Zac called in his in-situ expert friends from Te Arai Constru ction to help with the pour of the fireplace. Close friends, Sam and Louis Smith, milled locally-grown poplar, which lined the formwork resulting in a circularsawn finish, beautifully engrained on the face of the concrete.

The home is clad in a combination of Ironsand Colorsteel and Abodo, Vulcan Sioo:x timber. The Abodo has silvered off to a beautiful, low-maintenance finish. They wanted something different from cedar, and the Abodo timber has a special coating that not only protects the wood but allows it to weather evenly, no matter if it’s in full sun or shade – the perfect choice for a house beside the ocean.

The home is adorned with beautiful décor and embodies a sun-filled, relaxed aesthetic. Caitlin loves to spend her spare time sourcing beautiful, high-quality, ‘forever’ furnishings. The solid kauri dining table was a Facebook Marketplace find, while the feather-filled linen couch was found brand new on Trade Me for a fraction of the price.

The warm, white, tongue-and-groove interior walls give a nod to the coastal setting. Beautiful artwork by New Zealand artists Karl Maughan and Simon Lewis Wards were gifts at their wedding and now line the walls of their daughters' room. A beautiful Slim Aarons takes pride of place at the entrance and reminds the couple of their travels and the nine months they spent in Lake Tahoe.

Although now busy with their two young girls, Zac and Caitlin’s minimalist style is slowly being taken over by colourful toys scattered through the home. The once calm and quiet walls are now filled with laughter and joy, and the beautiful house they built is now truly starting to feel like a home.

www.instagram.com/ LumbercraftConstruction www.SpasicStudio.com

Available from Mangawhai Meats, Matakana Butchery, Tuck In, Warkworth Butchery and Pet Naturals.

Natural petfood with no additives. With the peace of mind knowing your pet is only eating the best.

Do

CRAFTED LEGAL ADVICE FOR PEACE OF MIND. The protection of assets that we have all worked so hard to acquire is an important consideration for most people.

If you have a will, but not assigned anyone to act as your Enduring Power of Attorney, you could inadvertently be putting your assets at risk.

An Enduring Power of Attorney will look after both your property and personal care and welfare should you become incapacitated to make your own decisions while you’re still alive.

If you have not put in place an Enduring Power of Attorney, contact Tammy McLeod or one of the Trust Team for specialist advice.

YUVA

YUVA is a specialist importer of quality vintage Turkish Goods.

Specialising in handmade Kilims and flatweave rugs, runners, cushions and more, YUVA have a huge range of stock to view online and even more at their Auckland-based showroom, by appointment.

www.Yuva.co.nz

022 163 5300

Industry Vintage Waipu

Specialising in buying and selling quality mid-century furniture, vintage and retro clothing, art glass, records, surfboards, Kiwiana and Pacifica artefacts. All treasures are individually sourced, cleaned and restored, and displayed. The focus is on items that have stood the test of time. Fresh stock arriving regularly.

13 The Centre, Waipu 09 432 1478 | 021 830 076

Merchants of Leigh

Situated beside the iconic Leigh Sawmill Café, Merchants of Leigh is an essential weekend retail destination. They offer a comprehensive selection of original 20th and mid-century design pieces, perfectly complemented by reclaimed solid wood furniture, handcrafted by Ed Guinness.

The extensive collection ranges from clothes, records and surfboards to Crown Lynn, NZ studio ceramics, art glass and beautifully restored mid-century furniture. New inventory arrives weekly, with regular updates on Instagram and Facebook.

142 Pakiri Rd, Leigh | 021 243 3551

www.instagram.com/MerchantsOfLeigh

Matakana Old School Inc

Matakana Old School Inc is a unique experience with an eclectic range of vintage/industrial furniture and homewares sourced both internationally and locally.

A warm atmosphere and passion for unique one-off pieces makes ‘Old School’ a must destination.

Opening hours are Thursday-Sunday, 10am-4pm.

www.instagram.com/MatakanaOldSchool

www.facebook.com/OldSchoolMatakana

INTRODUCING BARRY

An adorable 2-3-year-old boy seeking a loving family.

Barry is an affectionate and neutered companion, fully vaccinated and microchipped for his safety. While a gentle soul, Barry is deaf, so a home without small children would be ideal. Don’t worry, though, because he’s a quick learner and has already made remarkable progress with sign language. He gets along splendidly with other dogs, but a watchful eye is needed to help him understand their cues. Barry’s playful spirit shines, but he needs your guidance to avoid any playful misunderstandings. Let’s get Barry the home he deserves!

To apply to adopt Barry please contact countryretreatanimalsanctuary@gmail.com

SANDSPIT | 17 KANUKA ROAD

Award Winning Coastal Haven

Discover the epitome of luxury living in this award-winning home of the year 2015! Mesmerising sea views over Sandspit Harbour and expansive rural vistas surround this grand 418sqm residence. Boasting 4 generous bedrooms an office plus a games room, this home provides ample space for your family and work needs. The designer kitchen and scullery, equipped with high-spec appliances, cater to your culinary desires. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor flow, perfect for entertaining in the covered outdoor area. Embrace the harmony of nature and sophistication in this exquisite property, where every detail has been carefully crafted for your utmost comfort and pleasure. Your dream home awaits!

premium.co.nz/90122

MATAKANA

201 TAKATU ROAD

Rural Magic, World-Class Views

This architectural contemporary home has to be one of Takatu Ridge’s best kept secrets. Enviably positioned on Matakana’s “Golden Mile”. Wonderfully deceptive on approach, a first peep of green space and water views teases the senses as you arrive. A gentle camber leads you up the garden path where your eye is immediately drawn to a generously proportioned grassed expanse, an orchard with all manner of citrus deliciousness. Light-filled and airy, the thoughtful layout is evident with open plan family living plus a separate TV den and each bedroom has its own well-appointed bathroom.

premium.co.nz/90099

VIEW | BY APPOINTMENT

PRICE | BY NEGOTIATION

LINDA SMITH 021 470 175

ROB MATULICH 021 634 059 | MATAKANA 422 9280

LindaSmith@premium.co.nz MATAKANA 422 9280

ROB

The leader in selling fine New Zealand homes since 1984. Our Matakana Village office covers Omaha, the Matakana Coast, Warkworth and Mahurangi region

Mangawhai and the Aurora of the Sea

Grant Birley is an amateur astro-photographer, and whilst the rest of the country are tucked up in bed, he is out chasing and capturing bioluminescence. Born in South Africa but calling New Zealand home for the last 18 years, his nightly adventures take him up and down the upper north island where he says the best spots can be found. Here he recounts some of his adventures.

Under the cloak of darkness, on certain nights of the year, if you cast your eyes out to sea you may bear witness to true magic. When and how often is the million dollar question –which I don’t believe anyone knows for sure. Back in May 2020, my son and I came across a scene in Mangawhai that I truly believe ranks up there as a once-in-a-lifetime experience – we managed to capture a bioluminescent bloom of epic proportions. The waves were huge, the surf and breaks were clean, which made for almost perfect conditions for a bioluminescent show.

I am no expert and am learning as I go along, with regards to when and why it occurs. I have my theories which I combine with research and try, in combination, to predict when some may be around. My success rate is sadly only about 10 percent at best, but, when I do get it right I get to experience scenes like these. Conditions were clearly very favourable over the summer of 2020 as we had several sightings and decent shows. I was able to capture it along most of our coastline, from Auckland’s west and east coast beaches, all the way up to Cape Reinga.

The evening out at Mangawhai was and still is the best showing of bioluminescence I have ever seen. The beauty of the images, the prevalence of social media and the uniqueness of capturing bioluminescence caught the attention of a few bigger media and news outlets including The New York Times and many of our local and national news broadcasters, who all wanted in on this pretty (figuratively and literally) special phenomena. The New York Times reached out and interviewed me and two of my mates, who by that stage had made chasing and capturing bioluminescence a big part of our photography journey. My son joins me on the odd photographic mission at night and I will be forever grateful he was with me on this night.

P 09 425 7510

sales@compositejoinery.co.nz

COMPOSITEJOINERY.CO.NZ

So what is bioluminescence? Scientifically it is known as Noctiluca Scintillans and can be quite common in warm,

Words + Photos Grant Birley

calm waters, and if a large quantity is present it can appear as a red slick on top of the water during the day – often referred to as Red Tide. However, come night-time, that same red slick is transformed into this vibrantly electric blue glow. This blue glow is, in part, a result of its biological reaction to being disturbed –a defence mechanism to protect itself. This blue glow is referred to as bioluminescence and can only be seen at night.

For whatever reason it seems to like NZ waters. Mangawhai and the entire eastern coastline is renowned for great night skies as it is pretty dark and the Milky Way core rises out east for the first half of the Milky Way core season. The combination of darkness and perfect alignment make Mangawhai one of the best locations for astro-photography. Throw in a little blue goo (as I like to call it) and you have a holy grail of nightscape photography – in my opinion of course.

www.instagram.com/Chasing_Horizonz_/

Grown out of love

Nora first met Adrian at one of his band’s late night shows in their Upper Queen Street loft, and stumbled upon Adrian’s surprisingly-placed bonsai collection. “It was here, in this small pocket of green in the depths of Auckland CBD, I knew I had met a kindred spirit,” says Nora.

From there, the couple’s shared love of nature and its aesthetics led them to open a specialty plant store, Bioattic, on Ponsonby Road. “After six fond years we were ready to leave the city and expand on our ideas and start a family, searching for space and a blank canvas,” says Nora. It is in Hakaru, between Kaiwaka and Mangawhai, that their long-term

dream of having an off-grid abode and bonsai garden began.

Within the evolving bonsai garden, Nora has set up Asami Holistic Studio, a sanctuary offering a meditative space for holisticallytailored beauty rituals and custom blended skincare. Nora is the founder and formulator of NZ skincare and perfume brand, Petalhead, having an extensive knowledge of the natural skincare industry, including 20 years of experience in renowned spas.

Adrian has been growing bonsai trees for nearly 30 years. From an early age, growing up within the family's varied horticultural businesses, Adrian developed a deep

its aesthetics brought them together and inspired a bonsai garden and holistic studio.

Chris Penk MP for Kaipara ki Mahurangi

understanding of nature and its aesthetic beauty. After graduating from art school and working as a designer for 10 years (whilst also pursuing bonsai), and opening Bioattic, Adrian now works as a full-time bonsai professional, maintaining a growing number of bonsai collections throughout N ew Zealand.

After travelling the world in pursuit of the best bonsai gardens, Adrian is utilising elements and inspiration from his favourite international gardens to design the bonsai garden named ‘Hakaru-en’ (Hakaru is the name of the local river and also means measuring time in Japanese, while ‘en’ means garden). “My personal tree design tends towards the more sculptural, abstract forms, to show age and beauty through adversity. The garden will showcase a display of both traditional Japanese bonsai trees, and New Zealand natives,” says Adrian.

In the near future the garden will be opening for viewing, alongside workshops including bonsai, perfume-making, and skincare. Asami Holistic Studio currently takes bookings a few days a week.

Hakaru-en garden and Asami Holistic Studio is a creative journey and evolving story that both Nora and Adrian are looking forward to sharing with the community.

www.AsamiHolisticStudio.nz

vUrbs Planning offers creative solutions to clients across a range of resource management issues drawing on our pacific values.

We specialise in:

• Property due diligence and site selection

• Resource consents for land use and subdivisions

• Plan changes to rezone land

• Engagement with stakeholders, community and iwi groups

• Represent landowners for notified resource consents and district plan reviews, and

• Expert witness in hearings.

www.vurbs.co.nz admin@vurbs.co.nz | 027 886 4181

TreeContracts provide a full arboriculture service.

Require removal, pruning or annual trimming?

Faced with large, dangerous or unhealthy trees?

Locally owned, operating since 2008 and based in Matakana our team of professionals will find the best solution for your trees. We are helping clients from private to commercial, along with public parks, reserves and estates.

Qualified – Experienced – Insured 021 849 040 | treecontracts.co.nz

dress

Connecting the whole self

The business was founded in 2021 by Jessebel Chan who decided that she wanted to make an impact on people’s health and well-being by opening up a private studio that encompasses a gym and treatment room. Jess provides the knowledge of best care for the unique needs of the human body. She knows that individuals need support and she loves creating a community space where this can happen.

After five years in tertiary education, she completed her Masters in Science, specialising in Clinical Exercise Physiology, and has continued her professional development in respiratory physiology, preand post-natal fitness and functional mobility. Working with women at all stages of life, she is also a certified Being Way Life Coach,

Healing Birth Practitioner and Reiki healer.

“With all the information and resources available online, I recognised how overwhelming it can be to start your own well-being journey, or where to even start,” says Jess. So she started her business with the intention to bridge the gap for others by educating clients about their own bodies and what they’re capable of. “I wanted to provide a safe space for individuals to be guided and supported holistically, whether that be physically, emotionally, or both.”

Jess’ passion lies in caring for and nurturing others around her, which translates into her love for gardening, cooking and all things self-care. Respecting personal values, showing compassion, tailoring to the individual, and making offerings accessible

is what sets Collective Care apart from other businesses. She offers one-to-one sessions in personal training, life coaching, birth trauma support, and reiki healing, and group exercise classes like Mum & Bubs, Low Impact and Early Risers.

Witnessing the progressive changes and impact on her clients’ lives – more connection and understanding of their own bodies, connection within the community or improved quality of life – is why Jess loves what she does and continues to do.

Collective Care is based five minutes out of Warkworth and Jess looks forward to supporting you whatever your needs are.

www.CollectiveCare.co.nz

www.instagram.com/CollectiveCare_

Collective Care is a health and well-being business created to map out a journey for you to improve your quality of life.

17 Elizabeth St Warkworth info@thehouseconcept.co.nz thehouseconceptnz

Catwalk Arts

Saturday 26 August, 2pm and 7pm

Mahurangi College Auditorium, Warkworth

There’s plenty of wow factor at Harbour Hospice’s annual wearable arts show, Catwalk Arts. In fact, World of Wearable Arts (WOW) winners have competed on the runway.

Catwalk Arts Supreme Winner 2022, Carolyn Gibson, who impressed the judges and audience with her creation, Rock Me Amadeus, has won three WOW awards on top of her Catwalk Arts supreme award, and says she loves being around the innovation she sees at both shows. She’ll be returning for this year’s show and says she can’t wait to see the other entries.

Her 2022 winning Rock Me Amadeus design was inspired by the 1984 movie Amadeus, and took seven months to create, with Carolyn working on it an average of 20 hours a week. Crafted from vinyl and upholstery fabric, she utilised her skills as a trained milliner (hat maker), starting with the head piece then formulating the rest of the costume. Carolyn has also run her own bridalwear business and been a hairdresser – adding to her repertoire of skills in the design and textiles space.

She says the key to creating a winning entry is to go for a subject that inspires you and think about the whole picture; “The music, for example, is important because it helps tell t he story.”

She was first inspired to enter WOW and Catwalk Arts after attending a WOW exhibition at Auckland Museum and being “blown away” by the entries on display.

One of the things she loves most about being part of a show like Catwalk Arts is the camaraderie that happens backstage. “Last year my shoes were too big for my model so another entrant gave her her nipple pads to pad out the shoes. I’ve still got those nipple pads because they remind me of the fun w e had!”

To buy tickets, visit the website. All proceeds go to Harbour Hospice to provide compassionate palliative care, free of charge, to local families.

www.HarbourHospice.org.nz/event/Catwalk-Arts

A novel idea

Writer and Junction contributor, Alex Stone, has written his first novel, and it’s a book like no other; it is written in first-person elephant.

In his debut novel, Alex Stone invites readers into a captivating world where the voices of elephants echo with profound wisdom and where the boundaries of imagination are pushed to new horizons. This groundbreaking novel not only defies literary conventions but also offers a unique perspective by narrating the story through the eyes of elephants.

The narrative follows the intertwining paths of Pulmulla, Biligiri, Tant-Meisie, and Hannibal Solo, four Indian elephants who find themselves displaced in the vast wilderness of Africa. Each character carries their own worries, desires, and encounters with extraordinary individuals, including the enigmatic Captain Tristram Charles Sawyer Speedy, also known as Basha Felika.

Elizabeth Smither, Poet Laureate of New Zealand, says Alex is, "A writer of striking originality with qualities of daring and humour that are rare. Like Lloyd Jones, Alex has the

ability to create a landscape so vivid the reader feels he is walking down a dusty road or in the hold of a ship."

Alex, a Waiheke Island artist, inventor, poet, sailor, writer, has previously been winner, runner-up or short-listed in nine NZ literary awards, and one international memoirs award. He has lived exactly half his life in South Africa and the other half in Aotearoa New Zealand. His first language is isi Bhaca; his sixth language is te reo Māori.

“In researching animal-narrated stories, I found most authors give their animals a sort of pidgin language, and names to match (Long-Tooth, White Fang etc.). Because of the known intelligence of elephants, I have resolved to give my elephant narrators voices that are as complex and nuanced as human speech. The reflective ‘Hgmmmnn’ which sometimes comes at the end of a passage, is a written illustration of the deep, low

rumbling sound of pleasure that elephants make (similar to the purring of a cat),” says Alex. “I am indebted to other writers on elephants, their natural history, their psychic, social and creative lives, and their relationships w ith humans.”

Available now through various retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Booktopia, and directly from Peg asus publishers.

www.PegasusPublishers.com/Books/AlexStone/Taken www.AlexStoneThinkingStrings.com

2023 Junction Awards Ceremony

It was a night to remember thanks to all the local business owners in attendance. A huge congratulations to all that came away with prizes, we can’t wait to celebrate with everyone again next year!

Photos Tanja Dove Photography | Event Management + Styling Event Junkies MC Wendy Douglas | Music JB Goddard, Studio 11 Productions | Location The Stables Matakana

HAPPENINGS

Art in August

3-6 August, Warkworth Hotel

Experience the vibrant creativity of local artists and Mahurangi College Art Students at the exciting Art in August exhibition and sale. The event showcases a diverse range of artwork, including stunning watercolour images by Y9 students, inspired by their favourite birds; exquisite clay pieces crafted by Y10 students in collaboration with Clay Friends; and impressive works by senior students as part of their NCEA projects.

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of art. Pop along to the Warkworth Hotel and explore the exhibition upstairs. Be sure to mark your calendars for the business association evening on Thursday 3 August, and the opening evening on Friday 4 August from 4pm-7pm. The exhibition will be open to the public on Friday and Saturday from 10am-4.30pm, and on Sunday from 10am-2pm.

Go along and celebrate the incredible talent and creativity of some local and emerging young artists from Mahurangi College. It's an event not to be missed for art enthusiasts and anyone seeking a captivating cultural experience.

Snells Beach Kindergarten Comedy night

Saturday 2 September, 7.30pm

Salty Dog Inn, Snells Beach

The Snells Beach Kindergarten Comedy night is back! Proudly sponsored by Mason Contractors, this comedy night is now in its sixth year and has quickly become the most anticipated night of chuckles in the Snells Beach social calendar.

MC Steven Lyons and five up-and-coming Auckland comics provide the entertainment, while a slew of local businesses have provided the prizes. There will be a raffle, a silent auction and spot prizes. Limited seats available, so get your tickets now as they sell out fast.

021 078 7991

SnellsBeach.KindyParents@yahoo.com

The Ghost Train

11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19 August, 7pm 13, 19 August, 2pm

Warkworth Theatre

Experience spine-tingling suspense with ‘The Ghost Train’ by Arnold Ridley, who is known for his role as Private Godfrey in Dad's Army. Set in a haunted railway station in Cornwall, UK, this 1923 tale follows six stranded passengers who are regaled with a local ghost story. As a disturbed woman seeks refuge, the impending arrival of the Ghost Train adds to the mounting tension. Catch the evening or matinee shows. Purchase tickets online or via door sales (cash only), cash bar available. www.WwTheatre.co.nz

Also, thank you to the following businesses for generously donating ‘Player of the Day’ vouchers:

• Pete and Mary’s Café

• Charlies Gelato

• The Bridgehouse Lodge

• Savans Bakery

• ECM Barber Shop

The season is in full flow, the kids are having fun and all our teams are competing well. If any sponsors would like to contribute to this growing club then please do get in touch at admin@warkworthfc.org

Introduce a friend, receive some hand-painted colour highlights with any colour work booked. Add a touch of summer, let’s brighten up your colour. Using O&M - all the nasty chemicals removed.

By appointment with Mel

021 641 683

Warkworth Football Club would like to say thank you to these major sponsors for their support.

LOCAL GIG GUIDE

For event cancellations and changes, please confirm dates and details direct from event organisers. To list your event for free on the Junction Gig Guide email event details to: hi@JunctionMag.co.nz

Thu 3-6 Aug

Sat

Sun

Wed

Thu 10 Aug

Thu 10 Aug 9.30-11.30am Dunk it for Plunket Wellsford Community Centre facebook.com/WellsfordPlus

Thu 10 Aug 5pm Live in the Lobby Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Fri 11 Aug 5-8pm Fiji Friday Smiths Matakana SmithsMatakana.co.nz

Fri 11-12 Aug 7-9.30pm The Ghost Train by Warkworth Theatre Warkworth Town Hall

Sat 12 Aug 5pm Mixed Messages Smiths Matakana SmithsMatakana.co.nz

Sat 12 Aug 5pm Hotel Swing Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Sun 13 Aug 10am-3pm Matakana Junior Artisans Market Matakana Hall JuniorArtisansMarket@gmail. com

Sun 13 Aug 12pm Sunday Service Smiths Matakana SmithsMatakana.co.nz

Sun 13 Aug 5.30-7.30pm Grand Piano Sessions Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Wed 16-19 Aug 7-9.30pm The Ghost Train by Warkworth Theatre Warkworth Town Hall WWTheatre.co.nz

Sat 19 Aug 8pm 80sX - Neon Nights New Wave Party Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

Thu 24 Aug 11am Last Night of The Proms Warkworth Town Hall Operatunity.co.nz

Sat 26 Aug 2-9pm Catwalk Arts 2023 Mahurangi College HarbourHospice.org.nz

Sat 26 Aug 3-7pm The Last Saturday Club Brooke Lane Vineyard BrookelaneVineyard.com

Sat 26 Aug 4pm Akarana Piano Quartet Warkworth Town Hall WarkworthMusic.org.nz

Sun 27 Aug 8am Plant Propagation & Compositing Workshop Rainbow Valley Farm TrishAllenNZ@gmail.com

Mon 28 Aug Whangateau Folk Club Whangateau Hall Whangateau.co.nz

Sat 2 Sep 9am & 1pm Get Out & Ride Wharf Rd, Matakana

Sat 2 Sep 1-3.30pm Garden Circle Spring Flower Show Mahurangi East Community Centre 0272941780

Sat 2 Sep 7.30pm Snells Beach Kindergarten Comedy Night Salty Dog Inn 021 078 7991

Fri 15 Sep 10-11am Tea & Talk: Stories of the Mahurangi River Warkworth Museum WarkworthMuseum.co.nz

Fri 22-25 Sep Girls Empowerment Retreat Mangawhai NurtureAotearoa.com

Sat 23 Sep 8pm ABBA Heaven Wellsford Community Centre ABBATribute.co.nz

Sat 23 Sep 8pm Battle of the Bands Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

Sun 24 Sep 9am Deep Ecology & Inner Resilience Interactive Worksop Rainbow Valley Farm TrishAllenNZ@gmail.com