Junction December 2022

HOLIDAY OR HOME, THIS ELEVATED POSITION IS HARD TO BEAT

1 Jackson Crescent, Martins Bay

Set in an enclave of properties often proudly held for generations, Jackson Crescent boasts beautiful views over Martins Bay and out to Kawau Island. The elevated home on 817sqm soaks up the north facing views from nearly every room with spacious decks encouraging entertaining and relaxing evenings under the stars. Three bedrooms on the main level connect well to the open plan living spaces with the updated kitchen centrally positioned to be the place the family all come together. The floor below offers a great solution to any guest overflow with a separate large area developed into four generously partitioned rooms and an updated bathroom/ laundry. Tucked away from it all is a private spa pool where you can escape with a wine and relax in peace.

The property offers a layout that would work exceptionally well for extended or multiple families with the two levels providing so many break away areas for privacy and large open plan areas to come together and enjoy. If the fish are biting or the jet skis calling, the ipads simply won’t be needed here!

Martins Bay is a lovely sandy beach with great boat launching and safe swimming; there is plenty of room to park the boat and tractor so summer holidays will be as busy or relaxing as you want them to be.

Auction (unless sold prior)

2pm, Wed 14 December 2022

30 Gaunt St, Bayleys Auction Rooms

Dahnie Burton 021 628 327 Carla Pederson 021 417 139 www.bayleys.co.nz/1655809

FORM & FUNCTION - MATAKANA

241 Whitmore Road, Matakana

Compact, stylish, with smartly designed spaces and a thoughtful living plan, this modern home designed by Dorrington Atcheson Architects sits on one hectare and delivers the functionality and charm of a tiny house on steroids. Located minutes from Buckleton Beach and moments from Matakana Village, the location offers sweeping countryside and water views. Visually striking, in cedar shiplap weatherboards and concrete block, its features include concrete floors, white vaulted ceilings and exposed timber trusses; the added volume and sense of space giving a ‘light industrial’ feel to this contemporary New Zealand ‘small house’ north of Auckland. Comprising an open plan living pavilion that adjoins a covered outdoor room with fireplace, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, dedicated office, plus a loft above the garage that is favoured more as a guest room than for storage and overflow. Internal access garage, plus carport and secure bike/toy shed. A ‘not too much’ but ‘not too little’ property for holiday or home in an outstanding location.

Price by Negotiation

Kellie Bissett 027 530 6843 www.bayleys.co.nz/1223051

A MASTERCLASS IN LIFESTYLE LIVING!

70 Spindler Road, Wellsford

Undeniably elegant, this magnificent 580sqm (approximately) family home is set amongst an idyllic 6.5ha of pasture, vineyard and established grounds, with great attention to maximising the beautiful rural views and providing a home suitable for both family living and entertaining. This grand home continues to deliver with four large bedrooms, a master ensuite and spa room, a separate lounge for a grand piano, and an open plan family room, kitchen, a large conservatory (with built-in BBQ and open fire), and expansive decks. A hobby room, along with the extensive three-car garaging and two-car carport will undoubtedly appeal to those looking for housing and workshop areas for their cars, boats and toys. Plus, upstairs there’s room for your games room, home office, with a fifth bedroom and bathroom for guests or family.

Take a virtual tour: vimeo.com/766682024 (turn on your sound to hear the commentary)

Tender (unless sold prior)

4pm, Thurs 8 December 2022

41 Queen Street, Warkworth

John Barnett 021 790 393 www.bayleys.co.nz/1203239

HEARTSTONE LODGE

5 Hall Lane, Kaipara Flats

The pinnacle in lifestyle living, Heartstone Lodge is big, bold and beautiful – presiding over 33.3Ha with breath-taking vistas. A superior 422sqm footprint with 6m high stud and vaulted ceilings flowing effortlessly to a central courtyard. The chef-inspired gourmet kitchen – including state-of-the-art-Viking ovens and indoor woodfired pizza oven, easily accommodates intimate dinners or ‘Black Tie’ events. The large theatre room doubles as a library, lined by an amazing collection of favourites rarely seen in a private residence. The bedrooms are luxurious, each paired with a designer bathroom. A helipad, wine cellar, solar power, reinforced security room and incredible construction are among the legion of features that complete this property and bring it to an international standing. This private and serene forest park with has beautiful secrets to discover, including rambling brook, secondary barn accommodation, glow worms and an eternal tribute of love evidenced overhead from a stand of trees planted in the shape of a heart. Such high calibre properties rarely come to market. Take this opportunity and contact Dianna today.

Tender (unless sold prior)

4pm, Mon 12 December 2022

41 Queen Street, Warkworth

Dianna Coman 021 790 307 www.bayleys.co.nz/1203269

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Bianca Howlett bianca@JunctionMag.co.nz

ART DIRECTOR + DESIGN Susannah Marshall design@JunctionMag.co.nz

CONTENT & MARKETING MANAGER

Shannen Frear editorial@JunctionMag.co.nz

SUB-EDITOR + WRITER Milly Nolan words@JunctionMag.co.nz

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

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

DISTRIBUTION distribution@JunctionMag.co.nz

GENERAL ENQUIRIES hi@JunctionMag.co.nz

CONTRIBUTORS:

Luke Williamson, Nikita Oliver Metcalfe, Christina Schmidt, Geoff Ledbrook, Kate Moore, Emily Pattullo, Kate Rose, Amy Jenkins, Alex Stone, Dan Kerins, Brook Sabin, Deft Photography, Jesus Renedo

FRONT COVER: Photographer: Christina Schmidtwww.instagram.com/WildSpiritWedding Styling: Shannen Frear Location: Bennetts of Mangawhaiwww.BoM.com Wild Flowers - www.PipiGallery.co.nz Wooden Platter - www.TaylorandCoEvents.co.nz

*All details are correct at the time of print. Check event details for updates due to Covid restrictions.

PUBLISHED BY JUNCTION MEDIA LTD All content featured in Junction Magazine is subject to copyright in its entirety and may not be reproduced in any form without permission from the Publisher. Views expressed in Junction Magazine are not necessarily those of the Publisher. Any material supplied for publication is at the owner’s risk. All information is believed to be true by the Publisher at the time of printing.

PRINTED BY GREAT DAYS LTD + WEBSTAR www.greatdays.co.nz

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

Harbour Hospice

The Harbour Hospice Shop in Warkworth, Tickled Pink, has extended. A pop-up container space dubbed The Bach has been set up across from the popular retro goods shop to display retro furniture, rugs and homeware. The Bach brings the total number of hospice shop options at the 58 Queen Street location to three. The main Warkworth Harbour Hospice Shop continues to be a mecca of great fashion finds, whi le lovers of all things retro are spoiled for choice at Tickled Pink and The Bach. All proceeds from sales go directly into Harbour Hospice patient care. www.facebook.com/HarbourHospiceShopsWarkworthWellsford www.HarbourHospice.org.nz/shop-locations

Mangawhai cabinet making

Jake started his family cabinet making business, Prime Design Furniture & Cabinetry, four years ago, but this year felt like it was the right time for a fresh name change. Jake already has a lot of very satisfied customers in Mangawhai with the market there growing very fast. So what better name than Mangawhai Kitchens Ltd! Jake offers an extremely professional and friendly kitchen and cabinet making service to the Mangawhai and Kaipara area. Mangawhai Kitchens can't wait to turn your kitchen dreams into a reality. They always offer a free measure and quote, and are currently taking bookings for 2023. info@MangawhaiKitchens.co.nz www.instagram.com/MangawhaiKitchens

Kiwiana Monarch

Local business, Flutter DesignOutdoor Life & Style, is an official supporter for the registered Moths and Butterflies of New Zealand Trust. The Auckland based Trust works tirelessly to research, educate and protect the natural habitats of over 2000 species of New Zealand moths and butterflies. Flutter Design is on board raising funds from sales of these fabulous New Zealand handmade outdoor Kiwiana Monarch house butterflies. 100% of sales will go directly to the Trust.

The hand-painted plywood Monarch butterflies come in three sizes including screws for attaching to your home, beach house or garden shed. www.FlutterDesign.co.nz/Kiwiana-Monach-Butterflies www.instagram.com/FlutterButterflyChairs_nzmade

Summit Chiropractors

Auckland based Chiropractor, Dr Barry Rushton, has opened a satellite chiropractic office at 15 Takatu Road, Matakana. Living full time in the region - which they call 'paradise' - within the next year, is the goal of Dr Barry and Karen Rushton. They regard it as the greatest privilege - to be able to exercise on the beach, breathe the fresh ocean air, to enjoy the local organic produce, to have clean water and to keep the nervous system free of interference, while satisfying the best components for health and wellbeing for all.

www.SummitChiro.co.nz | 027 419 2256

The Apple Basket is your local textile store. We have 100% cotton and linen fabrics, yarn, embroidery threads, haberdashery and Pfaff sewing machines. Check out our website and join up to our newsletter to keep up to date or come and visit us, we’d love to see you. 09 431 2443

www.applebasketquilts.co.nz

Mind easing matters

With the growing pressures of day-to-day life, self care is a must. Who doesn’t feel more relaxed and grounded after a warm bath containing their favourite essential oils?

Mind at Ease is all about small batch handcrafted and personalised bath bombs. These are made-to-order as amenities for accommodation, or as gifts for groups or retreats. Scents, colours and labelling can be tailored to suit customer preferences. Ingredients are natural and skin friendly. When not crafting bath bombs, the owner and operator, Emma, can be found providing mobile massages and group exercise classes at local properties and accommodation sites within the Warkworth and Matakana region. www.instagram.com/MindatEaseNz www.MindatEaseNz.com

Family films

As a mother of two, Amy Hamblett knows that memories of childhood can be so fleeting and documenting these precious moments for families brings her a lot of joy. Capturing real connections, real feelings and creating the kind of nostalgia that comes from your favourite song or photograph, all in a beautifully cinematic style film to relive for a lifetime.

Amy believes the power of film to tell your family story is irreplaceable. Capturing your everyday and the season you are in, be it maternity, birth or motherhood, is priceless. www.instagram.com/Amy.Hamblett AmyHamblettNz@gmail.com

Bicycle repairs

There’s a new bicycle mechanic located in Matakana. Bechanic can be found in the red shed near the miniature horses in Matakana Country Park. Bea set up her business after encouragement from locals while doing mobile jobs. Having worked in bike shops for two years and a thirty year passion for riding, she has plenty of experience. Her shop has the basic tools and parts needed for bike maintenance. She offers anything from changing a tyre tube, to a full service at affordable prices. The vibe is a chill workshop where people are welcome to visit, ask questions or get advice on their ride. You can save yourself a trip to the city and get your bike in mint condition for summer.

www.instagram.com/The_Bechanic | 027 696

NEW & NOTED

Bigger and better

From every day necessities to gourmet delights, Four Square in Matakana is getting bigger and better. There is a full-blown renovation due next year, but in the meantime, they have extended with extra space meaning more of your everyday essentials and fresh favourites are available, with great value in every aisle. The addition of three selfcheckouts to help move customers during busy times means you can be in-and-out quickly to enjoy the long summer days and nights. 21 Matakana Valley Rd, Matakana | 09 422 7213

& Modern Windows & Doors for YOUR New Home or Alteration P 09 425 7510

sales@compositejoinery.co.nz 7 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth

Children's champion

known as the ‘tattooed, skateboarding Principal’, Hamish Brewer is a force to be reckoned with. His high energy is infectious, and his positivity leaves you wanting to be more and do more.

Words Milly Nolan

To hear Hamish Brewer speak so passionately about education, life and the possibilities of our children’s future is nothing short of inspiring. He is filled to the brim with real life experience, great thoughts and ideas. Having grown up in a home disrupted by poverty, addiction and family dysfunction, it is this experience that drives Hamish to work relentlessly to empower and encourage disadvantaged youths to excel, not only in school, but in life. He’s fighting for these kids, because not enough people fought for him when he needed it the most.

Failing school certificate as a teenager, Hamish had to work hard to be let into teaching college, but the qualification, as he sees it, set him free. Hamish started his teaching career at Auckland’s Owairaka District School in Mt Albert before setting off to travel the world like most young kiwis do. Not long after arriving in America, he met Virginian native, Ashley, and never left. The couple have been married for nearly seventeen years and have four children together. “I realised very quickly that she was a ‘keeper’ and within six months we were engaged and married within a year,” says Hamish. “She is our rock

and the glue that holds us all together. I am so thankful and blessed to be married to such an amazing, powerful woman.”

Last year, driven by both Covid and the desire to be with Hamish’s mother who was recovering from cancer treatment, the Brewer’s decided to come home to New Zealand for a “holiday” to visit their kiwi family. That holiday has now turned into a permanent move, with the family of six settling in Matakana earlier this year, having fallen in love with the beautiful surrounds and community. Ashley is a teacher at Matakana School and Hamish now spends his time working between New Zealand and the States; consulting and speaking.

While Hamish has many strings to his bow, what he became most recognised for over the last decade in America, was for being the award-winning school principal who turned around troubled, impoverished and failing schools into winners. Working with marginalised kids who came from a lot of poverty, he was nothing short of their champion. "It was an addiction for me," says Hamish. “People don’t necessarily always

want to take on at-risk schools or students, but this was my passion. If I could make an impact on those kids and their lives, then that was an amazing opportunity worth tak ing seriously.”

With a hi-octane, larger-than-life personality, Hamish was not the type of principal that shied away in his office. He would be there greeting the students as they arrived in the morning, often seen skating down the hallways high-fiving the kids, and was constantly visiting the classrooms of his pupils, filling their cups with his positive attitude and reminding them that they were loved, worthy and capable of success. This ‘in-your-face’ kind of motivation is all part of his strive for excellence. The word ‘relentless’ has become his catchphrase. “It’s more than a motto to me,” he says. “It’s a mission of total passion and purpose. It’s the only way to win at work and life.”

Something Hamish feels passionately about is making “kids feel loved and that they hear the word ‘love’ in schools each and every day. We have to prepare kids for a very different world in which our generation was educated,” he says. “If we continue to educate kids the

way we did years ago, we're going to fail our students. Times have changed. Kids have changed and we’ve got to move with that. I want to help kids grow to be the best version of themselves so that they can live their most passionate and purposeful life.”

Whilst being a standout principal would be enough for most people, Hamish has also in recent years completed his Masters and is currently working on his Doctorate. His book ‘Relentless – Disrupting The Educational Norm’, has gone on to become a bestseller, while the Freethink docuseries made about him, ‘Relentless’, has become a viral sensation with millions of views to date. Soon to be released is a documentary, ‘Humanity Stoked’, which Hamish features in alongside famous musicians, artists, skateboarders, philanthropists and business people who along with a love of skateboarding also want to make a difference in the world. He’s currently working on his own skateboard label and a charity called Skate for Hope, focusing on kid’s mental health and wellness and how to combat bullying.

He has also become a highly sought-after international keynote and conference speaker - motivating and inspiring audiences around the world, including being recognised as a TEDx speaker. He consults with businesses and organisations around the world on leadership, culture, organisational performance change and improvement. As a

Beachheads advisor to New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, he assists New Zealand businesses with their growth and advises them on strategic development in the North American marketplace.

If you haven’t heard the name Hamish Brewer before, you can rest assured that now that he is living back on home turf, he will soon be a household name - a force of nature indeed - advocating for our children’s future and helping amplify their very important voices, so that they can be the very best version o f themselves.

www.HamishBrewer.com

Hamish’s parenting take-aways

• Engage your children in a literacy-rich environment. Read to your kids every day, from poems to the newspaper t o books.

• When your child asks you a question about something, be intentional with your answer and engage with them.

• Have your children participate in their community; from surf lifesaving clubs to girl guides, to being outdoors i n nature.

• Make the most of the diverse, rich and amazing country that New Zealand is. Show your children their country and celebrate how much it has to offer.

• Help inspire and lift our kids up to be great. Kids need to feel heard, feel loved, feel seen and know that they are advocated for each and every day.

• It’s not about getting straight A's. It's about going to school every day and giving your best effort.

Sail city

One of New Zealand’s most significant sail lofts is coming to Matakana. Actually two of them. They’re to become the centre of a Marine Hub being established in the old Homefresh Hydroponic lettuce farm buildings there.

Alex Stone

Rodney Keenan established Evolution Sails in 2009. The company now operates in 20 locations around the world; and in fact 85% of the New Zealand lofts’ orders are exported.

As expected, Rodney’s life is one of constant travel to yachting locations. Most recently he was jetting off to Hawaii, to fit new sails to a superyacht. He and Evolution Sails have also been involved lately with outfitting yachts with great rags (to use the sailors’ term) in the Great Lakes of North America.

Based in Sandspit, Rodney wanted to bring the business – previously based in Henderson in West Auckland – closer to home. His staff are relishing the move to this beautiful part of the world and are finding new homes here and experienced folk have also been found locally: “staffwise, we’re pretty good,” he says. He looked all around the Auckland region for the new premises for Evolution Sails and Matakana won for obvious reasons.

Rodney has set up two lofts. One loft is based on the more traditional techniques of sail-making – lofting, cutting, and sewing sails with powerful industrial sewing machines, set flush into the wooden floor of the loft so no lifting of sailcloth is required when running long seams.

Words

Image by: Jesus Renedo

The other loft is more cutting-edge as Evolution is one of the pioneers of a new form of sail-layup, building one-piece sails from a contiguous laminate of fibres and resin membranes. This new-method loft required a hard floor; concrete covered with a super-hard 2cm layer - the whole expanse of which is laser-levelled and cannot be more than 2mm off absolutely flat. Once the fibres and resins are laid down, they’re vacuum-bagged and run over by a heavy grooming machine that bonds the laminates with 45,000 volts of UV radiation, then left for three weeks to cure. Evolution will bring two of these huge machines to the loft,

his own Beneteau 47 Laissez Faire.

The high-tech floor has been laid, the machines have moved in, and Evolution Sails has been operating in Matakana since mid-November. www.EvolutionSails.com www.facebook.com/EvolutionSailsNZ

BEAUTIFUL HARDWOOD FLOORING DESIGNED FOR LIVING

LivingWood is a modern flooring system made from ethically sourced European oak. Superior structural stability and precision engineering provides a smooth seamless finish and a long lasting surface that gains character with age. Pre-finished in a range of natural Italian oil coatings, installation is simple with no additional sanding or coating required.

Order before Christmas and receive 10% off your hardwood flooring. Phone us today on 0800 628 483 or email info@livingwood.nz.

livingwood.nz

Summer soirée

Photos Christina Schmidt | Styling Shannen Frear Location Bennetts of Mangawhai

As always we are running our Little Ray of Giving appeal for the kids at Ronald McDonald House. Please help us give them a Merry Christmas by dropping off a gift to go under our tree here at 897 Matakana Road, Matakana.

Wishing you all a very merry Christmas from the team at Ray White Omaha, Matakana and Point Wells.

Black Group Realty Limited

Wellsford Santa Parade

10.30am, Saturday 26 November

Get excited for this year’s Wellsford Santa Parade, especially the appearance of the jolly man in red himself. Local floats will help guide Santa through Wellsford leaving the Wellsford District Community Centre to the Old Wellsford Railway Station and back again. This wonderful event will also include face painting, sausage sizzle, home baked goodies, lollies and more, from 9am.

Treemendous Christmas Tree Display

28 November - 4 December

Old Masonic Hall, Warkworth

The Lions Club of Kowhai Coast is delighted to announce they are going to be hosting the Treemendous Christmas Tree Display once again. Entry $3 adults and $1 children. Santa will be in attendance and there will be about 40-50 decorated Xmas trees to delight you. All proceeds will be going right back into our community, so come along and help the Lions Club help others.

Local festivities

Point Wells Christmas Letterboxes

Point Wells

During the month of December, the coastal village of Point Wells celebrates Christmas with a community letterbox competition. Prize giving this year will be at 5pm, Thursday 22 December at the Point Wells Club.

Proudly sponsored by Jodi Sterling, Bayleys Matakana Coast.

Horizon School –Arts Festival

5pm – late, Friday 2 December

Horizon School, lower carpark and amphitheatre

Come along to celebrate an amazing culmination of student artwork and crafts whilst enjoying great food and live music. Finish off your Christmas shopping with the local market stalls for gifts, baked goods, Christmas decorations and so much more. Live music and art exhibitions. Horizon School invites the wider community to attend this exciting, family friendly event. Please invite your families, friends and neighbours to come along and help us support the school and kids!

Highfield Donkeys –Donkey Day

11am, Saturday 3 December

Highfield Garden Reserve

The annual Donkey Day at the Highfield Garden Reserve is back with a fun program of traditional games such as sack, threelegged and egg-and-spoon races, tug of war, lolly scramble and of course, pin the tail on the donkey. Free entertainment including donkey rides, a sausage sizzle and a visit from Santa! A community day not to be missed.

Mangawhai Christmas Market

10am-4pm, Sunday 4 December

Mangawhai Museum

Christmas shopping will be no problem this year. Pop along to the Mangawhai Museum and get all your shopping done in one day! Local entrepreneurs will have stalls, and there will also be Christmas cakes for sale, along with other delicous baking. All this, while also supporting the Museum.

Warkworth

Santa Parade

11am, Sunday 4 December

After two years, the popular Warkworth Santa Parade is back! Welcome Santa and all his friends as the parade makes its way down the main streets of Warkworth. There will be floats, child-friendly entertainment, and loads of festive fun!

Makers Christmas Market

9am-2pm, Saturday 10 December

Matakana Hall

Makers Christmas Market is an indoor event with 30 different stalls. Don't miss out on this unique market with wonderful handmade gifts, pottery, crafts and art for sale - all making the most beautiful Christmas presents! For more information contact PakiriClay@gmail.com

Warkworth Town Hall Christmas Market

10am-2pm, Sunday 11 December

Warkworth Town Hall

The countdown is on for the muchanticipated Warkworth Town Hall Christmas Market!

Join the summer Christmas fun with a special visit from Santa, face painting, food trucks, and all the stalls you could possibly need to fill those Christmas stockings!

Don’t miss out on this very merry, local day.

MAZ Mangawhai Santa Parade

12.30pm, Sunday 11 December

Santa is coming back to Mangawhai with the return of the famous Mangawhai Activity Zone Santa Parade. Come celebrate the festive season by following the parade which starts at 12.30pm from the North Ave Boat Ramp through Wood Street, finishing at Mangawhai Activity Zone.

MAZ Carols in the Park

4pm, Sunday 11 December

Mangawhai Activity Zone

Far from your traditional Christmas event, this evening highlights both professional and amateur performers showcasing their skills from hula hooping to classical singing and everything in between.

Light-hearted and full of laughs, the carols in the park make for a fun and relaxing evening at MAZ.

Waipu Christmas Eve Santa Parade

7pm, Saturday 24 December

The Centre, Waipu

This iconic Christmas Eve Parade is back and will once again travel through the Centre with floats, hot rods, classic cars and of course – the star of the show, Santa. As always there will be cash prizes for the winners in various categories.

Prizegiving held at Caledonia Park from 7.30pm.

Say everything with

Local Christmas gift guide

Classic Boat Charters

Christmas gift voucher, classic sailing experience for 15 people aboard 1930 Alden Schooner 'Arcturus'.

Marsden Cove Marina

• 6hr sailing from 10am-6pm - $1850 self cater

• 2hr sunset sail - $1125

For more information phone or visit the website. 027 477 9023 | www.ClassicBoatCharter.com

'Twas the night before Christmas...

Long fine 18ct gold chain interspersed with precious gemstones; sapphires, amethysts, citrines.

Antique Georgian pearl and diamond ring set in a beautiful handcrafted 18ct gold setting.

Divine Heavy Antique 9ct gold curb link bracelet fastened with a heavy engraved padlock.

Wonderful selection of beautiful diamond rings all available online. www.Bilkey.co.nz | sales@Bilkey.co.nz

Give a little GLOW this Christmas

Gift vouchers for cometic teeth whitening and organic spray tans, as well as a variety of retail products are available to purchase from 67 Tans & Teeth Whitening this Christmas. www.67Tans.co.nz 021 123 1322

Christmas with CaroWithLove

Relax and let your Christmas shopping be done with ease this year at CaroWithLove. You'll find the perfect gifts for your loved ones or a little something to add to your wish-list for Santa!

They have you covered for your home, fashion, lifestyle and babies.

"Merry Christmas!" - from the team at CaroWithLove. 104 Moir St, Mangawhai www.CaroWithLove.com

Bridget Bahlmann Art

Striking paintings, art prints, bikinis, board shorts and towels - designed to lift your spirits and harmonise your home. Purchase via the newly launched website, with 10% of the profits donated to Mental Health Foundation. www.instagram.com/ BridgetBahlmannArt www.BridgetBahlmann.com

The Pipi Pottery & Petals

The Pipi (Pipi Gallery) stocks a wide range of New Zealand made pieces, unique and special.

Pottery, Pounamu, Jewellery, Boutique Gifts. Silk, Dried and Fresh Flowers.

1b Molesworth Dr, Mangawhai | www.PipiGallery.co.nz

Warkworth Menswear

Perfect gifts ideas for your man this Christmas.

Old Skipper nautical rope bracelets. Solid State cologne in a range of inviting scents. No summer is complete without a beautiful BBQ shirt. With lots of fun prints Warkworth Menswear will have your man looking great this Summer.

09 425 8408

www.WarkworthMenswear.co.nz

Gumtree Gully Yarns

Create your own custom yarn Bundle for yourself or a loved one! Choose your colours and quantities, or gift a voucher and a trip to our on-farm shop. Squishy Goodness! www.GumTreeGully.co.nz info@GumTreeGully.co.nz

The Humble Pantry

Tucked away down sleepy Ti Point Road is the hidden gem The Humble Pantry.

With offerings of seasonal flowers, botanical gifts, plants and more, it’s worth a little detour on your travels.

160 Ti Point Rd, Leigh www.TheHumblePantry.co.nz

Gift the cuddliest Teds

Dear Ted is a proud New Zealand brand that lovingly crafts timeless bears. Our Teds come in two sizes and six playful colours. Each Ted is knitted from a blend of New Zealand possum merino and comes in a beautiful gift box with its very own little personality. They make the most adorable stocking filler or keepsake this Christmas. Use the discount code GiftDearTed for 10% off your first purchase.

www.DearTed.co www.instagram.com/DearTed_

Frolic Ceramics voucher bundle

Free Christmas decoration in a nicely wrapped bundle.

Whether you are a hopeless or completely thoughtful Christmas shopper...no one will ever know the difference!

Or visit the studio for more wares. www.instagram.com/ FrolicCeramics FrolicCeramics@gmail.com

A gift of self care

Naturopathically formulated and locally hand-blended, Ritualis organic herbal teas are the perfect self-care gift for a loved one (or yourself) this festive season. Local pick up is available.

www.Ritualis.co.nz www.instagram.com/ Ritualis.nz

A gift that keeps on giving

Flutter Design believes that a gift worth giving should give the receiver many years of enjoyment, comfort and style.

Hydra outdoor showers from $670

Flutter Butterfly Chairs from $570

Ingrid Anderson Table Runners from $92 Baya Outdoor Rugs from $430

Flutter Cushions $95 www.FlutterDesign.co.nz liz@FlutterDesign.co.nz

Goodgifts

Offering a range of luxury gift boxes hand-packed with locally sourced products. Create your own custom gift box perfect for friends, family or staff. New Zealand products, sustainable packaging and delivery New Zealand wide. Pick up option from Mangawhai, just off Wood Street. 022 070 0971 www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100075887536584

Joseph Taylor Homewares

Bursting with a stunning variety of gifts. With Christmas pending and new stock arriving all the time, there are suitable gifts for every occasion.

Zafferano Pina Table Lamp, Grey $348

Zafferano PRO Table Lamp, Dark Grey $379

OPINEL Essential Knives "Loft" Set of 4 $86

POLSPOTTON Peony Glass Tumblers (set of 6) $260

1B Molesworth Dr, Mangawhai www.instagram.com/JosephTaylorHomewares

Dimity Boutique

Visit Dimity this season for your best dressed outfit for all those summer occasions and grab a Christmas gift for your daughter, mother or just keep spoiling yourself! www.Dimity.co.nz www.instagram.com/ DimityBoutique

Matakana Cinemas

Matakana Cinemas gift cards are the perfect stocking-stuffer for all of the family. Give the gift of movies this festive season and support your local big-screen entertainment venue. 09 423 0218 www.MatakanaCinemas.co.nz

Merry Christmas with Ocean View Therapies

Ocean View Therapies in Snells Beach has Christmas covered with Dermaviduals skin care Christmas parcels, result driven homecare and complementary cosmetic bags.

Or tropical Pure Fiji luxurious smelling gift packs to suit all budgets, ideal stocking fillers.

Plus gift vouchers valid for six months.

info@OceanViewTherapies.nz | 09 425 7720

Squirrel Tree

On the hunt for a gift for that special someone, stop by Squirrel Tree Matakana.

Pictured left to right: magentic table dustpan and brush, ergonomic handled indoor watering cans, propogation cutting vases.

1 Anderson Rd, Matakana www.instagram.com/ SquirrelTreeMatakana

The Eco Room

Offering eco-friendly, sustainable products, unique gifts and artworks.

Elevate any wall with a sustainably sourced Macrocarpa Board from $425.

Make a statement with a hand-made Air Jordan Concrete Shoe Pot $65.

860 Matakana Rd, Matakana TheEcoRoomMatakana@gmail.com

Parohe Island Retreat

Give the gift of wellness this Christmas with a gift voucher to Parohe Island Retreat.

Nestled in 22 hectares of native bush, Parohe’s signature retreat packages include luxury accommodation, delicious plant based meals, land and water activities, wellness facilities, yoga, meditation - longer packages include remedial massage, cooking class, nutrition workshop and a hike to Kawau's copper mines.

Looking for an ideal destination for a celebration with family or friends this summer? Contact the team about exclusive venue hire, 17 guest rooms with on-site catering options available.

www.Parohe.co.nz | admin@Parohe.co.nz | 022 500 4524

The season of giving

Christmas is known as the happiest time of the year. For some families, though, it is also the most stressful.

Words Kate Moore

Financial pressures may mean that despite best efforts, presents to unwrap and celebrations with loved ones is something that some families struggle to provide. Thankfully our wonderful community comes complete with angels who, with the help of others, can sprinkle a little bit of Christmas magic to ensure that everyone can have a Merry Christmas. If you are in a position to assist with donations, please read about the following options:

Community Christmas Lunch

There will be a Community Christmas Lunch on Christmas Day from 11.30am by the flying fox playground on Sunrise Boulevard Road in Snells Beach. It is free for anyone to attend. This fantastic lunch has been happening for the last six years and wouldn’t be possible without the community’s support and donations of food items and wrapped presents. For more information, please contact Moana (021 0246 1732) or Katie (021 701 779). Donations can be dropped at Warkworth Police Station.

Christmas Aroha Baskets

Located in Mangawhai, the Te Whai Community Trust creates Christmas Aroha Baskets which consist of food supplies and gifts for local families who are doing it tough this holiday season. There are collection points all around Mangawhai where people can make donations to be added to the Christmas Aroha Baskets by 9 Decemb er. You will find these collection points on their Facebook page - www.facebook.com/TeWhaiCommunityTrustMangawhai

Christmas Treat Boxes

Wellsford Food Bank (Loaves and Fishes), Homebuilders Warkworth, Warkworth Food Bank and Rodney Women’s Centre all rely on donations to create regular food packages and Christmas Treat Boxes. The Christmas Treat Boxes require unwrapped Christmas gifts for all ages and non-perishable food items to help brighten the festive season. Please ensure all donated Christmas presents are new items. Suggested gifts are toys that encourage open-minded play or vouchers for families to enjoy community activities, such as vouchers for Charlie’s Ice Cream shop or Ti Point Reptile Park.

Drop-off Points:

Te Whai Community Trust have collection points specifically for their Christmas Aroha Baskets at the Opportunity Factory Mangawhai Heads, Miniwhais, Four Square Mangawhai Heads, Mangawhai Beach School, Before Six, Mangawhai Museum, Fame Arts Preschool, Tomarata School and Te Whai Community House which is located at 73 Moir Street until 9 December.

Rodney Women's Centre items can be dropped off at Harcourts in Warkworth until 16 December, ANZ in Warkworth until 16 December or directly to the Centre between the hours of 9.30am-2.30pm, Mo nday-Friday.

You can drop items directly to Wellsford Food Bank at the Wellsford Co-Operating Church, 253 Rodney Street in Wellsford, on Tuesdays, 10am-11am. Or please email FoodBankWellsford@gmail.com if t hat time doesn't suit.

Hestia Rodney Women’s Refuge has a present dropoff point at Ravish (located on the corner of Matakana Road and Sharps Road) until 12 December.

Warkworth Food Bank and Homebuilders work together to distribute donations to the families they provide for throughout North Rodney.

If you would like to contribute items for Christmas, please deliver them to the Mahurangi Presbyterian Church in Warkworth or the Mahurangi Matters Offices in Warkworth before 12 December.

If you are able to spread some festive cheer at this time of year please do so by supporting these amazing charities so that no one misses out this Christmas.

Christmas recipes to delight

The Farmers Daughter, 329 Omaha Flats Rd, Omaha www.TheFarmersDaughterOmaha.co.nz

TZATZIKI:

• 1 cup diced fresh celery

• 1 cup grated seeded cucumber

• 1.5 cup unsweetened Greek yoghurt

• 2T olive oil

• 2T fresh lemon juice

• 2T chopped fresh mint

• 2T chopped fresh dill

• 1 clove garlic, pressed or minced

• 1t fine sea salt

• 1/2t freshly ground black pepper

Combine all the ingredients, stir through until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

CRISPY SKIN KINGFISH:

1. Start with a 170-230gram portion of skin-on Kingfish.

2. Heat the pan over medium to high heat with enough oil just to cover the bottom.

3. Season the skin side of the fillet with flakey sea salt.

4. Lay the fillet in the pan, skin side down, making sure the entire surface of the skin is in contact with the pan.

5. Cook until the edges are no longer translucent.

6. Season the flesh side of your fillet and then flip it over, adding a little lemon juice to the pan.

7. Depending on the thickness, it will only need a couple of minutes on the other side – take it out of the pan just before you think it’s ready. It’ll keep cooking as it rests.

CHARGRILLED FENNEL: 1. Cut fennel and season with sea salt and olive oil.

Chargrill on a very hot skillet frying pan.

BLACK OLIVE CRUMB:

Heat the oven to 140c.

Lay out the olives evenly on a baking tray.

Cook until dried 1.5-2h.

Transfer black olives to a chopping board, then chop finely into crumbs.

Place a two tablespoonfuls of the Tzatziki on the plate, arranging the chargrilled fennel to the side of each, lay the Kingfish on top and sprinkle with Olive Crumb.

A Christmas Beetroot Salad

I’m a big fan of making this fresh and colourful salad as a side dish when I’m hosting guests at home. All the work is in the prep and the serve is super quick - perfect for when you’re entertaining. It looks impressive also.

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 baby gold beetroot

• 8 baby red beetroot

• 2 large red beetroot

• 2 large gold beetroot

• Mint leaves

• ¼ cup hazelnuts

• A zingy home-made aioli

• Vinaigrette

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Put two pots of water to boil and salt until it’s as salty as seawater.

2. Boil the baby beets grouped into their colours. Cook until you can insert the sharp point of a knife, but the middle is still firm (no one likes squishy vegetables!)

3. Drain and leave to cool. Once cooled, peel the skins, they’ll slide off super easily.

4. Slice the baby beets in half and set aside.

5. Make up a zingy aioli by whisking egg yolks, mustard, lemon juice and zest and a diced garlic clove. Then slowly blend in a light oil. Salt to taste.

6. Make your vinaigrette – the secret to an excellent vinaigrette is high quality olive oil and chardonnay vinegar. I only use Forum Chardonnay Vinegar (you can purchase online from Sabato) and Ti Point Olive Oil (you can purchase from Tea & Tonic). Dice shallots, cover them in chardonnay vinegar, set aside for 15 minutes, add flakey salt to taste, whisk in raw honey and olive oil.

7. Roast the hazelnuts, roll them in a tea towel to get the skins off, and roughly chop.

8. Peel the large beetroot and slice into sticks. Keep in a container in the fridge with a lid on – keep the different colours separate so they don’t bleed.

TO SERVE:

1. Put the baby beetroot on a small tray into a very hot oven for three minutes until warm but not hot. When you take them out, splash with a bit of chardonnay vinegar and sprinkle with flakey sea salt.

2. On a plate, spread your aioli with the back of a spoon in a circle. Place the baby beetroot halves on the aioli in the middle of th e plate.

3. In a separate bowl combine mint leaves, gold and red beetroot sticks, 3 tablespoons of vinaigrette and the hazelnuts. Mix with your hands making sure the sticks are well coated in dressing.

4. Place handfuls of the sticks on top of the baby beets, so they are sitting tall and not squashed down. You want a bit of height f or effect.

TUMBLEWEED

Tumbleweeds famous Christmas Shop is back!

Glitter, bling and more. For the month of December Tumbleweed are having a massive SALE.

20% off all Xmas decor and house plants

An impressive range, heavily reduced. Sale excludes already discounted prices. 09 422 7338

www.tumbleweed.net.nz

Blueberry & white chocolate gifting cookies

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup blueberries

• 2/3 cup white sugar –additional 1/4 cup for coating

• 2/3 cup unsalted butter

Instructions

• 2 cups plain flour

• 1t baking powder

• 1/4t salt

• 1 cup white chocolate chips

1. Line an oven tray with baking paper and preheat the oven to 200°C.

2. Defrost blueberries if frozen, ensure butter is at room temperature.

3. Cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add berries including juices. Beat on high until all ingredients are mixed well.

5. Combine the dry ingredients; flour, baking powder and salt, then combine with the wet ingredients.

6. Add white chocolate chips, then cover the bowl tightly and leave in the fridge for a minimum of one hour.

7. Roll cookie batter into small balls and roll in extra sugar on a flat plate.

8. Place on baking paper and flatten with a fork or similar.

9. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden but not yet brown.

10. Allow cookies to cool slightly before transferring to a cooling rack.

Ringawera Baker

Christmas

027 808 7774 | Ringawera@xtra.co.nz

The countdown is on for Christmas!

Mangawhai Meats have all your needs for a delicious Christmas dinner, get your orders in now!

Succulent Christmas hams are made in store with 100% New Zealan d pork, you won’t have tasted anything like it.

GO IN THE DRAW TO WIN a Christmas Hamper valued at $120 when you spend over $90 in store. (Competition runs from 24 Nov-16 Dec).

Don’t miss out!

43 Moir St, Mangawhai Village | www.MangawhaiMeats.co.nz

Celebrating Christmas with Joy!

Try something different this year. Why not toast the magic and mystery of the festive season with the delicious, mysterious majesty of Mead? Created for the celebration of relationships, love...and life! Try its honey tones and mellow flavour with local cheeses or a not-too-sweet dessert. Handcrafted using 100% locally harvested honey. Joy is oak-aged , full of the rich aromas of honey, is deliciously smooth and oh so easy on the palate. www.MeadInNewZealand.com hazel@MeadInNewZealand.com

Fine Patisserie for your Christmas menu

The Chocolate Barn makes vibrant cakes that are designed to impress, making the perfect party dessert.

Chocolate & Caramel Gateau, Raspberry & Hazelnut Entremet, Mojito Mousse Cake and many more varieties of Tarts and Petit Fours.

Available for pick up or delivery in the Bream Bay region. Please contact the team if you have any questions on Instagram, Messenger, email hello@thechocolatebarn.co.nz or phone 09 432 1757.

www.TheChocolateBarn.co.nz www.instagram.com/TheChocolateBarnWaipu/

Toast of the town

Justin Fokkema loves gin so much that he decided to make his own. He has already made the first batch of 24 bottles and there is more coming. It may seem like a lot for one person but fortunately he doesn’t plan on consuming it all himself.

Words Emily Pattullo

During his time working as a bartender at the Vintry in Matakana, making cocktails and hosting tasting events, Justin’s interest in gin was piqued. So much so that he began to research more about it and started collecting different varieties until very soon there was a tantalising and eclectic array behind the bar. What he noticed, however, was that other craft gins - which are high in botanicals - lost their flavour once the tonic was added to the mix. He decided he wanted a really flavoursome gin throughout, and as he couldn’t find one that fitted the bill, there was only one thing to do and that was to make his own. “I also own the gym down the road and when I set my mind to something I just go for it,” says Justin.

Luckily Justin happened to have a friend in Albany who owns a rum distillery, so armed with locally-sourced grapefruit, tangelos and lemons, some rose and hibiscus, and the purest water he could find, he set about making his own gin. Using a vapour-distilling method that he says avoids macerating the botanicals in alcohol overnight (which tends to destroy the flavour) he has been able to produce 20-24 bottles at a time.

Justin recommends pairing his gin with grapefruit tonic. “Because of the citrus favours and the rose and hibiscus as well as some peppercorn, the first sip is quite spicy, but when you mix it with the grapefruit tonic then all the citrus floral notes come to the front,” says Justin. “That’s what I wanted to represent - the citrus, because Matakana is known for its citrus fruit growers. I’d like to use locally grown mandarins in another gin in the future. Hopefully I can source the rose and hibiscus nearby too and really make use of local flavours,” he says.

Justin has lived in the Matakana area for a long time and wants to use and support local products. The gin also contains pure mineral water from Matakana Water, which has a high mineral content and pH, so that along with the locally-sourced fruits and botanicals, a Matakana Gin could almost be considered one of your f ive a day!

Matakana Gin will be available to buy at the Vintry, and other local stockists.

www.MatakanaGin.co.nz www.instagram.com/MatakanaGinCo

Based on the corner of Matakana and Sharp Roads, Matakana Smokehouse has a new retail shopette with plenty of delicious smoked seafood and lots of delectable extras for your summertime entertaining. Get in quick to order your whole Salmon sides for Christmas and New Year as we will have limited supply.

www.matakanasmokehousenz.com

Summer Sours

•

•

•

•

•

•

NEW

NEW SHOWROOM IS A GAME CHANGER FOR CHESTERS PLUMBING & BATHROOM IN WARKWORTH

Six months after opening as a trade centre, Chesters Plumbing & Bathroom Centre is proud to open their brand new showroom to the public at 37 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth.

Branch Manager Nick McGregor says “This is such an exciting opportunity. I’m proud of our amazing new Showroom. It’s fantastic to now be able to provide the full Plumbing & Bathroom package to our Local Customers. Can’t wait to see you! We look forward to helping you any way we can”.

With so many permanent and holiday homeowners in areas like Mangawhai and Matakana, Chesters showroom will be a big asset for the Warkworth region. Residential customers can now get the advice they need including recommending the right plumbing tradesperson to complete the job right first time.

WARKWORTH SHOWROOM OPEN

37 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth (09) 777 4004 | chesters.co.nz

SHOWROOM TRADING HOURS:

Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.00pm Saturday 8.00am-12 noon

Do you have an Enduring Power of Attorney?

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 her team for specialist advice.

Artisan deli

Renowned for their delectable fish; fresh or smoked, Matakana Smokehouse have recently opened a new store selling their own goods as well as other culinary delights.

Words Milly Nolan

Well-known in the Matakana area and equally well-loved by many, husband-andwife duo (and parents to four children), Michael Isbey and Sophie Randrup, have owned Matakana Smokehouse since 2015. From humble beginnings at the Matakana Village Markets - where they still sell their wares every Saturday - the couple have taken their business from strength to strength, the latest string to their bow being a retail space where they can directly sell their fish to their ever-loyal customers and, to those that may happen to be driving by.

Situated at The Corner, on the corner of Sharp Road and Matakana Road, the store is in good company with their neighbours; Ravish café and The Space studio. Fitted out by Michael and Sophie’s father, the store is minimal in design - the neutral

palette letting the products on offer be the heroes. As always with the couple, they are passionate about supporting local, so with this in mind, the shelving was designed by WRW & Co, the interior signage by The Simple Signman, lighting by Frontier Electrical and the exterior signage by Matakana Metalworks.

Following the theme of celebrating local businesses, Sophie has filled the shelves with beautiful, artisanal brands from small, like-minded businesses, such as curry powders from Jen’s Cozinha, Salty River Farms spray-free salad, herbs and vegetables, Last Jar pickles and Hauraki Salt to name a few. “I love the idea of the store being a one-stop-shop selling items that perfectly complement our fish,” says Sophie. “We are both passionate

about food and believe in using locally sourced and sustainable products as much a s possible.”

Best known for their Akaroa salmon (which is antibiotic-free and sustainably sourced), as well as their vacuum-packed smoked fish - with the likes of salmon, kingfish, kahawai, warehou, mullet and trevally on rotation - you can also swing by to collect fresh white fish delivered daily from Lee Fish (caught in sustainable ways in New Zealand waters). Their in-house preserved smoked New Zealand Albacore tuna is to die for, as is their smoked Salmon pâté.

On visiting, you certainly won’t be leaving empty-handed.

Cnr Matakana Rd and Sharp Rd, Matakana www.MatakanaSmokehouseNz.com

The new Corner Bistro is open from 8am serving coffee, a daily selection of patisseries, pies and sandwiches along with a seasonal brunch and lunch menu. The dinner menu offers Mediterranean-inspired tapas, shared and large plates, using the finest locally sourced authentic ingredients wherever possible. A fine drinks list has been carefully curated with small New Zealand producers of quality craft beer, wine, spirits and a selection of French, Spanish and Italian wines.

Coastal eatery

Originally the Frog and Kiwi, the restaurant was once popular for its tasty, traditional French cuisine. After many years at the helm, the previous Frog and Kiwi owners were ready to move on, giving Mangawhai locals, Adam Booth and Bridget Fallon, the opportunity to bring a dream to life and establish their very own restaurant, Co rner Bistro.

The couple had considered opening a tapas bar in the past, but instead found themselves

setting up Pacific Coast Brewery, an upand-coming local beer, wine and spirits. When the chance to turn their dream into a reality cropped up in early 2022 - despite already being in the process of launching their brewery - the pair knew that there was no better time than now. So they took the leap and began planning their ideal restaurant - the perfect place for locals and travellers to enjoy.

Being well-travelled themselves, the couple knew the exact direction they wanted to take,

Words Shannen Frear

A cool atmosphere with a laid back vibe, Corner Bistro, in Mangawhai, is a lively place to sit down, sip on a cold beverage and eat superb food in the sunshine.

evolving the space into a dining experience for those who enjoy great service, tasty flavours, a good selection of drinks and a great atmosphere. “We have done a lot of travelling and eaten at a lot of different restaurants,” says Bridget. “We wanted to create a space where we would want to sit and eat and drink.”

What is on offer at Corner Bistro is a true reflection of their most loved eateries. To curate the menu, they simply sat down one evening, grabbed a pen and paper, and jotted down their dream meals. Previous Frog and Kiwi chef, David Bonometti, still works his magic in the Corner Bistro kitchen, and they have even left a few of the Frog and Kiwi favourites on the menu.

For the upcoming summer, Corner Bistro is looking forward to customers soaking up the good times, meeting friendly regulars and being able to serve their very own beverages that they create at Pacific Coast Brewery.

Who doesn’t love local energy, good beer, great wine and some divine Mediterranean food? See you at Corner Bistro this summer.

www.CornerBistro.co.nz www.facebook.com/CornerBistroMangawhai

Family vines

On Sharp Road, tucked away down a long drive, sits Matakana’s original cellar door and one of its most established vineyards, Heron’s Flight.

Known for its delectable Italian varietal Sangiovese and Dolcetto wines, Heron’s Flight recently opened a new tasting facility. Featuring DIY platters, visitors can enjoy glasses of wine, a tasting selection or share a bottle. For the first time, the family is offering white wine; an Italian Soave and Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc, to complement estate produced ros é and reds.

In 1987, husband and wife, David Hoskins and Mary Evans, planted the first vines on their property - a north-facing slope surrounded by farmland. Shortly thereafter, the family added olive trees and restored the streambed to its native origins, supporting a plethora of birdlife.

Over the years, visitors have experienced Heron’s Flight wine and food in many forms; a tasting room in a tractor shed, a popular

caf é , a world-class restaurant, and a pop-up in the winery. Mary often welcomed guests with warm scones and a side of wit, while winemaker David, regaled people with stories of wine and history. The family operated like this for years with their son, Gwynn, living in San Francisco with his family, while their eldest son, Luke, lived part time at Heron’s Flight while working in yachting. However, in March 2020, everything changed.

Gwynn, his wife Heather, and their young son flew from San Francisco for a family holiday just before the first New Zealand lockdown. The intent was to stay for a fortnight but as the Pandemic dragged on, they decided to stay in New Zealand permanently. No longer able to welcome the public, the cellar doorwhich was part of the family home - quickly became Gwynn and Heather’s family room.

When visitors were allowed on site again, David created a pop-up tasting room as part of the winery - offering visitors a view into what it takes to produce their Sangiovese and Dolcetto based wines, which are served at some of New Zealand’s top restaurants.

When it was decided that the entire family were committed to living on the land longterm, plans for a new tasting room started to form. Mary, the family matriarch, led the charge. It was time to deepen the roots planted by David and Mary 35 years ago, ensuring the third generation could continue to care for the land and share its magic for years to come. Their son Luke decided to join as a Director of the business, managing dayto-day operations alongside a talented team.

David’s winery pop-up proved that visitors wanted to see how vines were cared for and

Visit our new Tasting Room at Heron’s Flight Vineyard Sample our wines, and ‘build your own’ platter or picnic amongst the vines Open Weekends 10am-5pm

49 Sharp Rd, Matakana (Drive under the arch and continue down the drive) contact@heronsflight.co.nz

how the grapes were processed, while also learning about the history of the Matakana wine region. After contemplating this feedback, the family rallied around a theme for the new building: Grape to Glass.

Designed by son Gwynn and award-winning interior designer (and family friend) Annabel Smart, the tasting room now sits at the end of the drive. Attached to David’s winery, the winemaking process is viewable through two big windows and tasting occurs at the rammed earth bar made with the same terroir in which the grapes grow. A large wrap-around deck provides views of the vineyard and Mount Tamahunga. Picnic tables in the vines emphasise the Grape to Glass experience. The family is thrilled with the results delivered by local builder, Tom Bultema and his company Bultema Builders. Sadly, Mary passed away suddenly in June, but the Heron’s Flight family is determined to keep her vision alive.

Visit Heron’s Flight at 49 Sharp Road, down the drive under the arch. No doubt you’ll be greeted by a family member ready to share La Dolce Vita.

www.facebook.com/HeronsFlight.co.nz www.HeronsFlight.co.nz

For all good food lovers

Recently opened in Kaiwaka, Black Velvet Café is owned and run by Kirsten Wintle.

Having worked in the hospitality industry for over ten years and in customer service for over 20, Kirsten took a leap of faith when she saw that the lease on the café was up for grabs. Excited to work for herself rather than others, Kirsten has poured her heart and soul into the café, ready to serve customers this summer.

The name Black Velvet is a nod to her favourite song to sing at karaoke. In fact, Kirsten is so well known for singing the 90’s hit that her best friend (of over two decades) nicknamed her BV.

Understanding the importance of serving great food with brilliant service, Kirsten is passionate about making sure there is a range of food options at varying prices to suit everyone. Being a Mum of four, it is important to Kirsten that the food is homely and appealing to kids also. On offer are pies, sandwiches, gourmet filled bagels, sausage rolls, hot dogs, cakes, slices and muffins – as well as gluten free options. Her specialty is a delicious gluten free blueberry and white chocolate muffin.

In November, opening hours will be Friday - Sunday, 9am-5pm.

In December, opening hours will extend to Thursday - Monday, 9am-5pm.

Over the Christmas holidays, the caf é will be open later so travellers can stop for a rest and a bite to eat.

1954 State Highway 1, Kaiwaka

The best of Aotearoa cheese

When it comes to cheese related puns, Dan Jennings, cheesemonger and founder of The Artisan Hub, has curd them all and while you won’t find Chesdale cheese slices or Baby Bell rounds at their Matakana Village Farmers' Market stand on Saturday mornings, you will find one of the best selections of New Zealand artisan cheese in the country.

The Artisan Hub curates a range of more than 40 cheeses from the best small-batch, handmade cheesemakers from around Aotearoa. Their range extends from soft oozy brie and two-year aged Vintage Gouda (pronounced how-dah), to Stilton like blues, ash coated Chevre style goat’s cheeses and pungent washed rinds, and is constantly evolving with the seasons.

Based at the Matakana Village Farmers' Market every Saturday from 8am to 1pm, you can taste and select your cheeses to put together the perfect platter. Working closely with local cheesemakers like Jenny Rodrigue from Belle Chevre Creamery in Waipu, the Rosevears from Mahoe Farmhouse Cheese in Kerikeri, and Albert and Ineke Alferink of Mercer Cheese, The Artisan Hub brings you the best cheeses New Zealand has to offer with a distinct focus on local producers.

“The Artisan Hub has a mission to showcase the best of New Zealand Artisan cheese and to make the range available to everyone in

the country, not just to those who live close to where the cheese is made” says Dan. “We’ve scoured the Farmers' Markets and visited the regions to discover New Zealand’s best artisan cheeses and would happily eat any and all of the cheeses we stock.” Drawing comparison to the wine industry he says “much like it is rare to find a vineyard that produces all varieties well, cheesemakers tend to excel in one or two categories of cheese (soft, hard, blue, etc). So we’ve picked and chosen only what we believe is the best in each category.” Dan is genuinely excited about the beautiful cheeses being created in New Zealand and urges people to not assume that European cheeses are superior to locally produced ones.

If you can’t get to the market, The Artisan Hub delivers all over the country via orders placed through their website where you will also find some of the country’s best condiments and accessories to create a stunning cheese platter. If you have trouble

deciding whether to go with the Manchego styled Curado from Nelson, or the Vintage Danbo from Hawkes Bay, choose from one of the Artisan Hub’s Best of New Zealand Artisan Cheese gift boxes featuring three, four or five Ne w Zealan d artisan cheeses, crackers an d condiments.

The Artisan Hub is also available for cheese platter catering, cheese towers and their very popular virtual and inperson tastings where they work with local New Zealand vineyards and breweries to create wine, beer and cheese matches so you never have to wonder what to drink with that Camembert, Cheddar, or Maasdam ever again.

You can find The Artisan Hub at the Matakana Village Farmers' Market every Saturday, 8am-1pm, or online at www.TheArtisanHub.co.nz

www.instagram.com/TheArtisanHub_NZ info@TheArtisanHub.co.nz

Specialists in New Zealand Artisan cheese

Choose from a curated range of New Zealand’s finest hand-made, boutique, artisan cheese and accompaniments, delivered to you or your loved one’s door anywhere in the country. Visit our website today or find us at the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market

www.theartisanhub.co.nz

Opportunities abound as the warm weather of summer asserts itself. Whilst in our area we may struggle with some of the traditional summer fruits like cherries and apricots, there are many subtropical fruiting plants that will thrive - not only giving you delicious fruit, but also adding a lush vitality to garden spaces..

Subtropical fruit

Subtropical fruit bearing plants flourish in microclimate, loving the mild winters and enjoying summer rainfall. Look for a warm north facing site that offers good sunlight hours and a degree of shelter. To establish subtropical plants the ability to water them through dry periods in the summer is important. As is ensuring that they will not get too waterlogged in prolonged periods of wet over the cold winter months. Ideally your soil should be reasonably free draining with good organic matter levels. Fertility can be added with mulches, compost and rotted manures.

Subtropical plants to consider are bananas, tamarillos, passionfruit, cherimoya, casimoroa (white sapote), carob, mountain pawpaw, sugar cane and pepinos.

Bananas are an easy to grow option and will fruit reliably. A good variety to try is Misi Luki which is a lady finger type banana. It grows to about 3 metres in height and will fruit around 18 months from planting a vegetative sucker. Plant suckers in a well dug planting hole at least twice as deep as the plant. Add a generous amount of compost if you have it. Allow 3 metres between plants. The sucker you plant will establish a root system that will produce further suckers as the plant develops. When this sucker produces a bunch, wait for signs of yellowing in some of the bananas before cutting down the whole plant to harvest the banana bunch. One plant produces one bunch only. However, by that stage you will have the next plant maturing from another sucker produced by the banana’s root system. Manage your suckers to ensure you always have a plant developing that will give you your next bunch. Growth when there is adequate warmth, water and fertility can be very quick. To sustain growth, soil temperatures above 12 Celcius are needed with the ideal minimum being 16 Celcius and above. Most plants will survive a light winter frost, but take care to pick a site that is least susceptible to any frost you may get.

Plant

• Beans

• Beetroot

• Capsicums and chillis

• Celeriac

• Celery

• Courgettes

• Cucumber

• Ginger

• Greens (spinach, silverbeet, rocket, kale)

• Herbs (basil, parsley, mint, coriander, dill, chives, oregano)

• Leeks and spring onions

• Lettuces and chicory

• Melons

• Pumpkins and squash

• Sunflowers

• Sweetcorn

• Tomatoes

Sow

• Beans (climbing and dwarf)

• Beetroot

• Borage

• Carrots

• Capsicums and chillis

• Celery

• Courgettes and cucumbers

• Eggplants

• Greens (Asian greens, summer spinach varieties, silverbeet, rocket)

• Herbs – basil, parsley, chives, coriander, dill, rosemary, sage

• Leeks and spring onions

• Lettuces and radicchio

• Okra

• Parsnips

• Pumpkins, melons and squash

Words Geoff Ledbrook

• Asparagus

• Beetroot

• Brassicas - broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage

• Carrots

• Celery

• Greens - kale, spinach, silverbeet

• Herbs - basil, coriander, parsley, spring onions

• Fennel

• Lettuce, radicchio and mesclun

• Parsnips

• Peas

• Radishes

• Rocket

• Zucchinis

Fruit/vege of the month: passionfruit

Originating from South America, passionfruit is a vigorous climber. It is a lover of warm free draining soils and sunshine. Regarded as frost tender, passionfruit does not like water logged soils over winter. The most common variety, the purple fruited Black Beauty, is easy to grow from seed. Plant well developed seedlings 3 metres apart from mid spring to early summer. Flowering is in summer with fruit set in autumn - expect fruit about 18 months after planting. Plant in a fertile soil with a pH above 6.5. If your soil is more acidic, apply lime or gypsum. Fertilise with compost, rotted animal manure or a citrus fertiliser. Passionfruit likes good levels of potassium. Water the roots, not the vines, in summer when soil dries. Provide a robust trellis for the vine to grow up. Permanent structures like a household water tank also work well. The vines will benefit from good airflow around them, but not strong wind. A light prune in early spring will encourage growth and new wood for flowers to form on.

How to harvest passionfruit

Purple passionfruit will ripen from late summer to early winter. You will see them changing colour on the vine from green to purple. If you leave them on the vine too long the fruit will start to shrivel and drop off. These fruit need picking up and eating straight away. Otherwise, snip off your fruit as they colour and store them at room temperature. They will get sweeter as they continue to ripen in the bowl. A heavenly experience!

Juicing passionfruit

1. Start by slicing the passionfruit in half with a serrated knife.

2. Using a small spoon, scoop the pulp from its skin.

3. Add to a small pot and gently heat the pulp to liquefy it slightlymaking it easier to strain.

4. Using a sieve strainer, drain the juice from the pulp.

5. If the juice is struggling to come through the sieve, use the back of the spoon to press the pulp an d seeds.

The secret garden

Owners, Bruce and Raewyn Whistler, have spent the last five years creating their very own slice of heaven. With no landscape plan to speak of, the pair had always envisioned a pond in their backyard, so that’s where they started. Focussed on creating a feeling of being “on holiday in their own home”, they embarked on a project that continues to evolve and is truly magical.

After a weekend away, Raewyn came home to a digger-happy Bruce who had made a start on what is now the 1,300 cubic metre master piece of their garden; a pond that holds 1.3 million litres of water. Fully lined using second hand materials, the pond filled naturally with rain water, and thanks to a clever invention by Bruce even has a beach like entrance to enable easy access for the family’s kayaks.

Bookended by a picturesque wooden bridge that leads to a small island with seating, there is also a pontoon (which was also obtained second hand) with a wooden row boat tied to its edge. The pond's setting is anchored by a fale, soon to house an outdoor kitchen, and constructed using recovered Totara milled by New Zealand Native Riverwood. Currently under construction is the next instalment in the evolution of the pond; an impressive waterfall that will weave down a trail of rocks and pump 700 litres of water a minute!

The surrounding gardens are set to the peaceful and serene backdrop of soft birdsong and display an array of Clivia and Palm varieties direct from the nursery. Nikau, Kentia and Dypsis Baronii are complemented by various grasses, most of which

Words Nikita Oliver Metcalfe

Photos Amy Jenkins

Hidden at the end of the long driveway of Matakana Palms Nursery, sits a private tropical retreat that dreams are made of.

Raewyn has propagated, while white hydrangeas add a nontraditional flare to the tropical garden.

Raewyn believes there are no rules when it comes to planting and instead picks varieties based on what she loves. The garden is finished off by a subtle bird theme, enjoyed by the couple's four grandchildren, with sculptures and ornaments dotted throughout. This spectacular garden where many precious memories are being made has also become a valuable tool for showcasing established palms to nursery customers. Visit Bruce and Raewyn at Matakana Palms, open six days a week.

www.MatakanaPalms.co.nz | MatakanaPalms@gmail.com

A unique opportunity to secure a premium site in this exclusive development awaits. Utilise architecturally designed plans, or start from scratch, on this coveted coastal site in picturesque Point Wells village. Located just two back from the water, the site comprises 1007sqm (more or less) of bare, fertile, peat soil. With title already issued, this blank canvas is ready for you to build your bespoke home, without delay. Become part of this welcoming coastal community with a relaxed holiday vibe, in family-friendly Point Wells, surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Whangateau Harbour. Call Jodi to register your interest.

Price by Negotiation

Jodi Sterling 021 457 063 www.bayleys.co.nz/1223056

Expertly crafted, this premium and private coastal Point Wells property features a four bedroom home plus separate pavilion with double garage, games room, office and bathroom, on a sprawling 1012sqm section (more or less). Open plan living and dining areas are an entertainer's dream, flowing to outdoor deck with open wood fireplace. Enjoy established grounds with an array of beautiful trees and flowers creating privacy. This is an exceptionally built, quality property which will appeal to discerning buyers. Call Jodi now to view this bespoke coastal sanctuary.

Price by Negotiation

Jodi Sterling 021 457 063 www.bayleys.co.nz/1223031

Feel the bustle of busy city living slip away as you tip over the crest of Brick Bay Drive and the stunning panorama of Kawau Bay opens before you. Positioned on 7,551sqm with wide sweeping views, this is a grand and elegant home offering generous living spaces that will call out to those who love to entertain. With four double bedrooms all enjoying the luxury of a high end ensuite, your guests may well prove difficult to move on! The home has been extensively upgraded throughout and offers generous living areas, pool and spa plus plentiful storage and garaging, with additional space for the boat or caravan outside.

Dahnie Burton 021 628 327 Victoria Turner 021 795 099 www.bayleys.co.nz/1223037

Away from it all in the heart of it all! This location in the southern end of Omaha Beach is a bit of a secret destination, tucked away from the crowds in summer with a serene outlook over the hills and a short flat walk to the ocean beach. Among high quality homes this 704sqm site offers an opportunity to design either a wonderful home or a bach to suit any family. With so few bare sites left in Omaha, this is a rare opportunity to secure a position that boasts a pristine surf beach, golf and tennis right on your doorstep. Keep the kids busy through the summer with the Surf Club or the numerous playgrounds dotted along the pathways that run the length of the beach.

Auction (unless sold prior) 2pm, Wed 7 December 2022 30 Gaunt St, Bayleys Auction Rooms

Dahnie Burton 021 628 327 Victoria Turner 021 795 099 www.bayleys.co.nz/1203257

Only 38% of the sites remain on the market, so don’t delay.

This is the last remaining parcel of undeveloped light industrial land in Matakana’s growing environment - truly a one-off opportunity not to be missed.

Please contact Chris Blair or Henry Napier for more information.

Board

Words Nikita Oliver Metcalfe

Creating homes that spark joy and blur the lines of function and beauty is what Jordy and her team strives to achieve. Offering their clients everything from detailed kitchen and bathroom design to staging and styling your interior decor, Board and Batten’s team members cover a wide range of expertise to ensure that they can meet the needs of each individual client brief.

Believing that trends will always come and go, Jordy says when it comes to approaching your home's interior, it’s always best to stay true to your own sensibilities and preferences. In saying that, it’s also helpful to have cues to use as a guide and ensure that your home and its interior styling will stand the test of time. We sat down with Jordy to get the inside scoop on upcoming interior trends for 2023…

Bring the outdoors in

Continuing on from what we’ve seen in 2022 will be the desire to bring the outdoors in. Sparked by spending so much time at home during the Pandemic, this trend isn’t going anywhere soon and is easily achieved through the introduction of natural materials and earth-inspired colour palettes. Biophilic

design - a concept used to increase connectivity to the natural environment - will continue to dominate with organic shapes and textures remaining prevalent.

Colour trends

This connection to nature is heavily reflected in the colour trends for 2023 which are trending towards richer, deeper and more earthy hues. Experiment with the spectrum of colours found in the natural environment and introduce warmer neutrals and deeper tones to your interior styling. As the global focus on sustainability and combating climate change continues, we also see this in home design with a shift towards sustainable, natural materials and products sourced or manufactured locally.

Embrace curves

Reflecting the dominance of organic shapes is the resurgence of curves. Whether you like them or not, curves are back in a big way! Taking cues again from the shapes and silhouettes found in nature has caused a shift away from the more structured geometric forms that have been popular in the last decade.

You’ll find curves present in everything from furniture to decorative items, allowing you to add small touches of this trend to your home or you can go wild with larger pieces.

Eclectic details

At the other end of the design spectrum is the rising popularity of eclecticism. In response to the uber modern and minimalist homes we’ve been seeing for the last while, there is a shift towards collectable design pieces and the return of craftsmanship and artisanal detailing in furniture. How we combine elements or items of furniture is also set to change - mixing things up by combining different design styles will become more commonplace and instead it will be the details that tie pieces together aesthetically.

www.BoardAndBatten.co.nz info@BoardAndBatten.co.nz

Abstract artist

In her home studio, located in Snells Beach, is where you’ll find Lucy Rice, enjoying creating and making her dream career a reality.

Words Nikita Oliver Metcalfe

Having studied at Elam School of Fine Arts at the University of Auckland, Lucy was always encouraged by her Mum, who sadly passed away last year from cancer, to pursue a career as an artist. Growing up painting and drawing throughout her schooling, Lucy was inspired by her Mum who owned an art shop. As a child she recalls sitting for hours in her Mum’s shop painting and trialling all of the new paints. Knowing her Mum would be so happy that she’s followed her dream continues to be a source of inspiration f or Lucy.

Describing her artistic style as abstract, Lucy uses a lot of layering to create soft pastel abstracts, scenes and figurative pieces. She admits finding her style hasn’t been easy though. “I feel like I have my own personal style now but it’s taken a bit of trial and error to work out what I really love and how I want to paint,” she says. Having

said that the evolution of art is ongoing and Lucy believes her style will likely change and grow over the years to come.

Working on canvas using acrylic and mixed media, Lucy likes to play with the idea of merging emotional and physical landscapes in one, displaying nostalgic undertones. Using a specific colour palette, her artwork is usually created in collections which consist of three to eight pieces. This brings a cohesiveness to her work which she describes as loose and expressive with brushstrokes and a lot of layering. “When I create my artwork I’m usually dancing around my studio with music on,” says Lucy. “I get into a flow and find that when I don’t overthink what I’m about to create is when I make my best work.”

Lucy is currently working on a popular seascape series; “I think all of us have an intimate relationship with water and the sea

in this country. It’s so healing and calming,” she says. A feeling she hopes to capture in each piece of this series. Commissions and private pieces for her stockists are also on the go as well as a new venture selling prints of her original pieces and making her artwork affordable for everyone. Lucy recounts two projects as being her favourite so far on this journey. The first, a large personal mural which will forever be special as Lucy chose to donate a portion of the sales proceeds to The Breast Cancer Foundation. She also teamed up with Brood Fermentation in Nelson to create artwork for their wine label; “seeing my artwork on wine, it doesn’t get much better than that,” she says.

Lucy will be having an Open Studio Day on Sunday 11 December from 11am3pm and also offers private viewings by appointment. Her art is stocked at Endemic World Gallery on Ponsonby Road and online at her we bsite below.

www.LucyRice.co.nz www.instagram.com/LucyRice.Art

“My work is bright and expressive, achieved through bold brushstrokes, colour and rhythm,” says Bridget. “I love creating harmonious paintings that bring a sense of wellbeing to people, and into their homes.”

Bridget's talent for painting became apparant around age four. Lessons after school at a private art school allowed her to channel her sensitivities and delve deeply into an enticingly creative world. She moved from realism to abstractpreferring the fluidity and freedom of the style.

Immigrating from South Africa to New Zealand was a plot twist. “At age twelve I struggled with leaving extended family and friends. We lost all communication and I felt I had lost everyone. My parents were divorced shortly after - it was a deeply sad and lonely time for me,” says Bridget. “Painting, drawing, music and poetry were my tools for processing shock and helped me to adapt to change. I empathise with anyone dealing with heavy sadness as it feels like it will never pass, but it will.”

What followed? School, university, art awards, a design scholarship and work experience at varying agencies in Melbourne. A dynamic career in graphic design for both print and web took off - working in Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland. Painting was a side hustle whereby word-ofmouth buyers would request commissions and originals. Her work was exhibited in Sydney and twice at the New Zealand Boutique Wine Festival.

Lifting spirits and spaces

Meet Bridget Bahlmann, an abstract and semi-abstract acrylic artist based in Omaha.

Creating beautiful, functional, liveable and magical outdoor spaces, unique to each client’s wants and needs. Resident Garden Designer, and qualified Horticulturist, Paul Glover combines his talents and experience to guide clients through the design process to ensure every detail reflects them and ultimately results in a garden they love.

Whether you have dreams of transforming your bare section into a botanical wonderland to relax, entertain and laugh in with family and friends, or you are re-thinking your existing garden to grow with your young family, giving your children a space to safely play and explore the natural world in, or anything in between - we would love to help.

These days, she lives by the beach with her daughters Riley and baby Isla, her partner Mason and part-bengal cat Jon Jon (named after the famous surfer, Jon Jon Florence).

She describes her artistic technique like “dancing on the canvas with my brush in colour”. A love of poetry results in poetic descriptions of each piece. “My mission is to enrich people’s lives by lifting spirits and spaces with joyful art,” she says.

Being no stranger to life’s struggles, Bridget says that a positive outlook has turned the negative events in her life into positive ones. Art can be a powerful healing aid. Her desire is to help foster a positive outlook, to warm the heart and cool the mind.

“There’s often a solution to our problems and time heals all. Meditation ‘is right up there’ when it comes to making peace with the world around us,” says Bridget. “Owning your purpose, having confidence and passion is another tool. By fulfilling these we will always have that place to fill our cup from, despite what life has to throw our way. I think of my paintings as visual meditation where joy and positive emotions can be shared. They are calming, uplifting an d energising.”

10% of all profits from the sale of Bridget’s art is donated to the Mental Health Foundation, New Zealand. Go in the draw to win a framed print titled ‘Passion’ when you join her

Words Shannen Frear Photos Brook Sabin

Pheasants often lurk in the long grass, and fantails dance in and out of the surrounding native trees. When the waves are big you'll hear them crashing onto the nearby beach. Nature is truly at its best at the Little T in Shed.

“When we purchased our property in 2018, we knew that we had a special place that deserved to be shared,” says owner Julia Smith. So two years later, the journey of creating Little Tin Shed began - a tranquil retreat to share with others. The inspiration behind the aesthetic of the Little Tin Shed - which was an old smoko hut relocated from a nearby building site - was for it to be like a traditional New Zealand

woolshed, with a unique design goal to create a space that felt authentically old alongside select luxuries of modern-day life. From the stunning tiled shower, to the crockery on the kitchen shelves and all the special rustic touches from the repurposed and recycled materials used, the Little Tin Shed i s beautifully executed.

The beachside town of Mangawhai has always been home for Julia - she spent her early twenties travelling far and wide - but when the timing was right, a natural sense of belonging called her home to New Zealand. Julia mentioned that she feels the town is ever-evolving and has now become

quite the hotspot in recent years being surrounded by so many beaches, and with only being an hour and a half drive from Auckland, it makes for an easy getaway. Completely off the grid, staying at the Little Tin Shed leaves a very minimal footprint on the environment. It is thoughtful and ever so unique - a perfect glamping experience with your loved one or simply by yourself, taking time to get back into nature, disconnecting from your everyday busy life and enjoying the simple things. The dreamy pathway that leads through Manuka trees to an outdoor bath will set the tone for your stay, as will stargazing, quality time and getting lost in a great book.

Little Tin Shed has been created with connection and a slower pace in mind and has everything you need but nothing that y ou don’t.

www.CanopyCamping.co.nz/Little-Tin-Shed

CHRISTMAS SHOP 7 DAYS A WEEK AT MATAKANA VILLAGE

Shopping should be fun! A day of discovery and excitement, searching and finding things that you never thought you would. That’s why you won’t find big chain stores in Matakana Village. And you know that when you shop in Matakana Village, you’re supporting local. Don’t forget to reward yourself for all your hard work with a beautiful meal paired with a nice glass of local wine and end your day with a movie in Auckland’s most beautiful cinema. Matakana Village is open 7 days a week.

It’s an experience - and it’s open every day.

MATAKANA VILLAGE FARMERS’ MARKET IS OPEN EVERY SATURDAY UNTIL 2PM

Green hills chalets

Words Shannen Frear | Photos Deft Photography

The perfect place to kick back and relax, the view at Green Hills Chalet is magnificent and it truly is “a bit of a vibe” as owner Karen Johnson would say. Karen, who also owns Studio 56 in the area, a small boutique gift store, runs Green Hills Chalets with her husband Steve. After purchasing the lush two acre block in Mangawhai, as an investment piece a few years ago, the first intention was to plant trees and gradually develop the property into a little slice of paradise. Over time and with prompts from their family, the idea came about to provide holiday accommodation and so Green Hills Chalets was born.

The husband and wife team began their journey to transform the location into an oasis for travellers, holidayers, couples, friends and anyone looking for a lovely tropical getaway. The pair planted palm trees, created timber and bamboo screens, and have constructed an outdoor atmosphere that is just irresistible. “That is what Canopy Camping is all about, the outdoors. Our little logo includes a palm tree, showcasing exactly what is special to our place", says Karen.

Green Hills Chalets ideally is suited to couples or a group of girlfriends on a

weekend away, this sweet sanctuary can sleep up to six and there is enough space for people to enjoy each other's company with a restful vibe, while only being ten minutes away from all of the action that magical Mangawhai provides.

If you enjoy lounging around and being surrounded by the trees and the shining stars on a beautiful clear Aotearoa night, Green Hills Chalets truly offers it all.

www.CanopyCamping.co.nz/Green-Hills-Chalets www.instagram.com/CanopyCampingEscapes/

IT SUPPORT AND SERVICES

Whanga

A

Known locally as the “Tech Wizz”, Nic is helping Residents and Local Businesses with IT Support and Services from Puhoi to Te Arai. Nic can help with; Home and Business Internet, Wifi Solutions, Audio and Video systems, CCTV Cameras, Computers, TV’s and Projectors, Mobile Phones, Email accounts, General IT Support including Printers, and much more.

Open: Wednesday-Saturday, 7am-2pm Sunday 8am-2pm.

1199 Matakana Valley Road, Whangaripo www.whangaeats.co.nz

Puriri Yurt

Kakaras, wood pigeons and tuis are in abundance. Moreporks can be heard regularly at night along with the trickle of water from the nearby pond - a sound that nurtures you as you drift off to sleep. It's a sweet, sweet place on earth.

Words Shannen Frear | Photos Dan Kerins

Puriri Yurt sits in its own private corner of a beautiful three acre lifestyle block. Surrounded by wonderful 100-year-old mature native trees and blossoming gardens that create an oh-so-restful setting, Puriri Yurt is a lovely place to unwind.

What makes this divine retreat so unique, is the intriguing yurt and the thoughtful touches that have gone into piecing together the overall feel. No detail has gone unnoticed. Soak in the outdoor bath near the fantastic fireplace and take some time away to connect back with yourself or your loved one. Even though off the grid, the yurt provides hot water to all guests.

The many special touches provided give a romantic feel that has guests coming back for more. Yoga mats make sunrise yoga a perfect thing to wake up for. The finest quality bedding ensures guests feel as though they are sleeping on a cloud, and a macrocarpa swing seat rests in the

Located in the heart of Matakana Coast and only a short 1-hour drive from Auckland CBD, you will find a stunning boutique winery. Perfect for day trips and stopovers during road trips. Meet a team of passionate and knowledgeable wine lovers, and learn more about wine and the Matakana wine region with one of our many wine-tasting flights which range from $10-$18 per person. Delicious gourmet platters are offered on the menu, these are a great lunch option designed to be shared. Or try out one of our most popular offerings, the wine blending experience (bookings required). Step into the shoes of a winemaker and learn to blend your own wine. Each person gets to take home a 375ml bottle of their own red wine blend at the end of the session. This is an incredibly fun and creative experience, suitable for wine beginners and wine aficionados. Luxury lodge accommodation is also available for groups. Matakana Estate Lodge sleeps 8-10 guests and is available for exclusive hire.

trees catching the breeze. A range of high quality tea is on hand as are marshmallows and chocolate stirrers from Bennetts of Mangawhai Chocolate Shop, Mangawhai Olives olive oil, local Rush Coffee and of course some top-notch port give this accommodation experience a distinctive vibe. Owner Marion says “these little things make people feel like we care about them, and we do - every guest needs to feel that this place is especially made for them.”

Marion Stewart and her partner John purchased the property in 2019 thinking that they would move to Mangawhai within the next five years, but after paying a visit and falling in love with both the property and community, they moved up earlier to follow their dream of curating a Mongolian outdoor look that is off-grid and an all round fabulous experience.

Marion says “there are many beautiful places all around New Zealand and we are one of them, it’s just that feeling of, ahhhh.” Experience a sense of freedom and privacy. Unplug, sit back and relax at Puriri Yurt. www.CanopyCamping.co.nz/Puriri-Yurt www.instagram.com/ CanopyCampingEscapes

All onboard

Floating in the heart of the Mangawhai Estuary is Capella, a 48ft Outremer Catamaran. Originally a dishevelled yacht left behind in Tahitian waters at the start of Covid lockdowns, she was lovingly brought to life over the last year, by owners Fraser and Olivia Cameron.

With mounting costs of renovation and plans in place for their young family to sail offshore in the future, Fraser and Olivia decided to set up Mangawhai Yacht Stay with guests staying onboard Capella, as a way to help make their future dreams become a reality.

Living in Mangawhai, the couple have watched the town expand, and observed how popular it is for weekend getaways with summertime accommodation hard to come by. Let alone accommodation that offers a unique experience. Having spent many nights onboard Capella themselves, they know that staying on the Catamaran is something truly special. To be on the Mangawhai Estuary for that unique evening light, after the last beachgoers or dog walkers have gone home, or to have a coffee on deck first thing in the morning before there’s even a breath of wind, is priceless. A quick look at their Instagram page shows water so clear you can see the waves of sand from up on deck, along with regular appearances of orcas, dolphins and stingrays. Not something you get with your typical Airbnb.

From the second you step off the dingy and on-board Capella, everything you touch has been carefully thought out and renovated. From the keels to the cupboard doors, nothing has remained untouched.

Use Capella as you see fit - perhaps as your adventure base as you fish, swim, snorkel or kayak to the beach. Once there, walk over the sand dune to find a surf break all to yourself. Or, if sitting on a beanbag in the sun, cocktail in one hand, a good book in the other is more your cup of tea, Capella is the perfect spot. If you are after a romantic getaway, a birthday location with a difference, a weekend with your girlfriends, or the chance for your family to experience life on a yacht (without the risk of getting seasick), Mangawhai Yacht Stay is for you. Mangawhai’s very own holiday accommodation and event location on t he water.

You can book on Airbnb for accommodation or email m angawhaiyachtstay@gmail.co m for event enquiries. www.instagram.com/MangawhaiYachtStay | www.AirBnB.com

On a roll with Sailrock

“I think swimsuits should support women in being active, while still looking beautiful. My swimsuits accommodate a broad range of body sizes and styles, and make people feel good. You get the beauty, style and functionality of a bygone era, but with the best of modern materials.”

Words Luke Williamson

Jessica Loomis of Sailrock Swimwear makes bathing suits that are flattering and functional, something that’s very important to her as a swimmer, surfer and swim teacher. Jessica says, “I’ve enjoyed a lifetime of being in and around the water, and I know what fabrics last and what styles are flattering. Sailrock Swimwear is designed so that you can surf all day, lounge on the beach until dusk, climb a tree and do a cartwheel on the sand should you want to. A great swimsuit looks and feels good wet, dry and under a variety of circumstances. They’re like the little black dress of swimsuits – a good choice for every occasion.”

Growing up in Santa Cruz, California, Jessica was introduced to vintage surf culture by her father. His extensive collection of classic surf magazines and films sparked her passion

for surfing and iconic beach fashion. “Those swimsuits were made like garments. It's not just the stretch of the fabric, it's the seams and construction that are flattering and offer support. Most modern swimsuits are just fast fashion, made to last for only one season,” says Jessica. The challenge for Jessica was to update those beautiful vintage styles using modern fabrics.

Sailrock Swimwear is made in New Zealand using sustainable and recycled materials. “The fabric is top quality, but also ecofriendly, chlorine-resistant, supportive and should easily last more than one season,” says Jessica. “They’re great for competitive pool swimming as well – I wanted these swimsuits to be really versatile.”

The range currently includes five one-piece suits and a two-piece. Jessica will be working on a new two-piece suit over the summer. “The styles are named after notable surfers or swimmers from history, and each has a little story behind it,” she says.

The swimsuits are popular across a broad range of women, including a sub-culture

of young surfing wāhine who appreciate a beautiful, but practical, outfit for wave riding. “I get photos from them, and they're really happy because the suit is really flattering as well as practical,” says Jessica.

And boys, don’t worry about missing out because Jessica is also working on Sailrock boardshorts. “They're in a 60s style, midthigh, and made from recycled spinnaker sails. The fabric is really soft and every pair is unique because they’re made from different sections of the sail,” she says.

Jessica chose Sailrock for the name because the landmark is so recognisable from her home-beach of Waipu. “Like Sail Rock, I want people to see my swimsuits and recognise them, and experience their durability,” she says. “I want them to be different and beautiful so that people look at them and say, “Oh, that’s a Sailrock swimsuit”.”

To buy Sailrock Swimwear, visit the Surf Shack in Waipu. or order from the website. www.Sailrock.co.nz www.instagram.com/Sailrocknz

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

Festive fashion

TIME TO PARTY

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

A beautiful architecturally designed home available for special getaways, sleeps up to 8 guests. A world away from the rush of everyday life, slow down and enjoy a holiday, just a short stroll from the village.

Caroline is a travel agent extraordinaire with over 35 years’ experience.

Offering a mobile business in the Mangawhai and surrounding areas, meeting at your place of choice, supporting local cafés. Also offering 24/7 emergency service.

Mangawhai & Milford

Hand therapy

The Hand Clinic has recently opened their third clinic in Warkworth, complementing their two other clinics located in Matakana and Wellsford, and providing easy access to hand therapy services within the local community.

The three hand therapists at The Hand Clinic are Sandra Kettle, Georgia Barnes and Naomi Marshall - all trained physiotherapists that have completed post graduate study focusing on hand therapy. Collectively, they represent 35 years of experience within the hand therapy field.

At The Hand Clinic they provide a professional approach to accurately assess, diagnose and treat a wide range of hand, wrist, forearm and elbow injuries. This may include degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, repetitive strain conditions such as tennis elbow, postoperative care, ACC related injuries such as a fractured wrist from a fall, sports injuries and other conditions such as carpal tunnel

syndrome, trigger finger, and De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.

The goal is to get clients back doing the things they love as quickly and safely as possible. A range of treatments are used which may include but isn’t limited to wound care, casting and splinting, exercise prescription, oedema management an d massage.

The team of therapists at The Hand Clinic provide extensive advice and education to ensure the patient has a clear understanding of the diagnosis and treatments required. The team is dedicated to ensuring that rehabilitation is tailored to each individual person’s needs, and is of the highest

quality to get the best results. Clients can be confident that their advice is founded on years of experience and many happy rehabilitated customers.

The Hand Clinic works alongside other top health professionals including physiotherapists, doctors and specialists to provide comprehensive and holistic care. A referral can come from your health care provider but isn’t required – you are welcome to self-refer.

Booking an appointment is easy - you can book online at www.thehandclinic.co.nz or by phoning 09 945 2020 or email at ad min@thehandclinic.co.nz www.TheHandClinic.co.nz | 09 945 2020

Get the look

Be glam this festive season with these local beauty finds.

Words Milly Nolan

Jane Iredale Glow Time

Pro BB Cream SPF25

With a radiant satin finish, this mineral-based, weightless formula, conceals blemishes and fades uneven pigmentation, creating a flawless look that will last all evening. www.BlushBeautyLounge.co.nz

Aleph Lift Lengthen Mascara, Black

Designed to lift, define and add volume to the lashes, this toxic-free mascara will also nourish, strengthen and lengthen lashes over time. www.NomadAndHome.co.nz

Aleph Radiance, Star

For a celestial glow, add this orchid pink cream to your cheeks, eyelids, lips or even add it to your foundation to help illuminate the entire complexion.

www.NomadAndHome.co.nz

Karen Murrell

Lipstick, 20 True Love

Formulated without any nasty ingredients, this lipstick is a lust-worthy, blue-based red for the ultimate statement lip. Matakana Pharmacy, Shop 16, Matakana Valley Rd

Jane Iredale PurePressed Eyeshadow Triple, Pink Quartz

Ever so shimmery, this carefully curated trio of complementary eye shadows will take you from day to night this festive season. www.BlushBeautyLounge.co.nz

L’Oreal Paris Superliner

Liquid Eyeliner, Black

Gliding on with precision, this long-lasting liquid eyeliner pen dries without smudging, delivering a sleek make-up look.

Life Pharmacy Franklins, 48 Queen St, Warkworth

YOUR NEW FITNESS OBSESSION AWAITS.

YOUR NEW FITNESS OBSESSION AWAITS.

No other workout can strengthen, sculpt and reshape your entire body like Studio Pilates. You’ll feel energised, transformed and incredible.

YOUR NEW FITNESS OBSESSION AWAITS.

No other workout can strengthen, sculpt and reshape your entire body like Studio Pilates. You’ll feel energised, transformed and incredible. Build your strength from the inside out, so you look, feel and perform your very best. Take your workout to the next level at Studio Pilates Albany.

Build your strength from the inside out, so you look, feel and perform your very best.

SPECIAL OFFER

No other workout can strengthen, sculpt and reshape your entire body like Studio Pilates. You’ll feel energised, transformed and incredible.

Take your workout to the next level at Studio Pilates Albany, Takapuna and Wynyard Quarter

Get started with our 7 classes for $60

SPECIAL OFFER

Build your strength from the inside out, so you look, feel and perform your very best.

Take your workout to the next level at Studio Pilates Albany, Takapuna and Wynyard Quarter

Get started with our 7 classes for $60 Introductory offer at one of our stunning 3 studio locations - simply email the studio and we can help you get started!

SPECIAL OFFER

Get started with our 7 classes for $60

Introductory

HYBRID OR 100% ELECTRIC

That is the question.

As part of the New Zealand Governments commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (primarily carbon dioxide CO2) to 30% below 2005 levels by 2030, the Clean Vehicles Act that came into force in February 2022 that made it cheaper for New Zealanders to switch to an eligible lower carbon emission vehicle. The programme includes providing a rebate for eligible lower carbon emission vehicles and a fee for higher emitting vehicles.

At Lexus we have been on the electrifi cation journey for over 15 years, and we are committed to creating an electrified driving experience that is focused on the driver’s enjoyment and exhilarating performance. We are moving towards a carbon-neutral future, and by 2050, Lexus aims to achieve carbon neutrality throughout the lifecycle of its entire model line-up – from the manufacturing of mate rials, parts, vehicles to vehicle logistics, to the final disposal and recycling of older vehicles.

Since 2003 when we introduced the world’s first luxury hybrid electric vehicle, Lexus has been leading the electrified charge. By continuously pushing the boundaries of hybrid electric technology, we have crafted sustainable and fuel-

efficient vehicles that are equally exciting to drive.

If you are thinking about purchasing a lower carbon emission vehicle and don’t know which one is best for you, the answer is simple – it all depends on your driving and lifestyle habits. With Hybrid Electric, you can enjoy the best fuel efficiency and frequent long-distance drives that require no charging. With Plug-in Hybrid Electric, you can use the high-output battery for pure electric power during short trips, and the petrol engine for reduced range anxiety during longer trips. With Battery Electric, experience pure electric power and zero exhaust emission on your drives. It’s also easy to recharge at public and home charging stations.

At Lexus, we believe electrification is much more than the technology. It’s a feel ing. Vehicles that deliver exhilaration and indulgence in equal measure. To experi ence the electrified range for yourself, 4 Link Drive, Wairau Valley, Auckland. 09 442 3670

Next issue - The Electrified Evolution. It’s on.

Arka Modular’s vision is to design an economical and architecturally designed home that adapts to varying needs.

Arka Modular is a premium product available in standard sizes and finishes. Delivered to your site within 4 months. Designed by a team of Architects and Interior designers at Wingate Architects.

Mangawhai Showhome coming soon. www.arkamodular.com

The 3rd hardest ‘thing’ in the world

Well Dr Rushton, chiropractor, feels there is a 3rd. That is “Getting the understanding of what Chiropractic Practice is really about”

Many think Chiropractic care revolves around ‘bad backs, stiff necks and headaches’, and yes Chiropractic practice helps in this category but using an educational simile, that ‘bad back’ concept is the ‘kindergarten’ understanding of Chiropractic. The ‘tertiary’ understanding, would be for example, an opera singer coming for performance, not necessarily for pain treatment.

Every function in the body is co-ordinated by the brain, the nerve system and our sense organs and Chiropractic tries to allow everyone to have their nerve system ‘free of interference’ to function and perform to th eir best.

That ‘interference’ may present immediately (sudden back pain) or take time to be evident (like rust in a car).

The hope of Dr Rushton starting SUMMITMatakana is to serve those people who are keen on true Wellness care: to add “life to years and years to life”.

027 419 2256 | www.SummitChiro.co.nz

Winston Churchill once said “There are only 2 things harder in the world than Public Speaking.

1) Climbing a wall leaning towards you.

2) Kissing someone leaning away from you”.

Sustainable, but make it beautiful

New to Matakana Road is a gift store worth stopping for. Full of New Zealand made products with an eco-friendly and sustainable vibewhether buying for yourself or a gift, there’s something for every room in the house.

Words Milly Nolan

A true local to the Matakana region and a Mum of three, Rachael Drinnan, has over recent years been exploring how her family can live in a healthier and more sustainable way; reducing waste and using as little plastic as possible. Her career history has been extensive and varied, from the corporate world in banking to selling raw treats at the Matakana Village Farmers' Markets, but most recently the urge to share her journey and vision with like-minded people couldn’t be resisted, and so T he Eco Room was born.

Situated in a large black shed that Rachael’s husband, Chris, uses to house his equipment for his contracting business, Drinnan Contractors, The Eco Room takes up a small portion at the front of the building. Wanting to keep the interior of the store as rustic as possible, Rachael and Chris fitted out the space themselves, repurposing as many materials as possible to match the store's ethos. On the ceiling are iron sheets claimed from Chris’s father’s old farm shed, on the walls are beer crates and on the floor are large wooden cable reels - both of which act as shelving to display the items for sale. A floor-to-ceiling faux green wall

behind the counter with neon signage, and industrial festoon lights hanging from a railway sleeper, perfectly complement the polished concrete floors and plywood walls.

Inside the store you will find an array of functional, eco-friendly products such as kitchenware, cleaning products and personal hygiene items, sitting alongside some beautiful pieces of unique art, jewellery and giftware; all of which are made by talented kiwis from throughout the country. Simon Lewis Wards’ giant and nostalgic ceramic Eskimo Candymen sit proudly on display alongside unique Pounamu jewellery by Ana Krakosky, handmade leather handbags by The Loyal Workshop and uniquely shaped candles by Blow My Wick – just to name a few of the many talented artisans on display.

While the black shed is unmissable, zooming past is easy to do, so next time you drive past, be sure to slow down and stop in for what is a lovely shopping experience. Opening hours are Wednesday to Sunday, 10am-4pm.

860 Matakana Rd, Matakana

TheEcoRoomMatakana@gmail.com

The payment platform saving Kiwis Dolla’s

Business owners in Aotearoa pay some of the highest merchant service fees in the world, and this generally impacts small local businesses the hardest. On a mission to change this is Kiwi built and backed, mobile payments business Dolla.

Founded by Matakana-based Ben Lynch, Dolla wants to bring down the cost of doing business in New Zealand. The app allows anyone in New Zealand to create a payment QR code, send or request payments, split money or pay bills - directly through the smartphone application. It's free to send and request money when using it personally, and merchant fees start from only 0.5% for business es.

“Dolla is offering an alternative way for Kiwis to be paid directly and pay each other without their money being filtered through to the likes of big global players like Visa and Mastercard - costing vendors more when times are already tough," says Ben.

“The domestic payments industry hasn’t changed much in over 30 years, it's time for Kiwis to catch up to the rest of the world, and Dolla is driving a small part of this change, whilst keeping more money in our communities”.

Local businesses have already jumped on board, with the likes of The Farmer's Daughter caf é , and a number of select stalls at the Matakana Village Farmers' Market, making the most out of the reduced fees on each transaction, and ease of setting up.

“Matakana has been the springboard for a number of Kiwi businesses. We are a community of innovators and changemakers and this has provided the perfect opportunity for the platform to be trialled and launched.”

Currently, Dolla has found that most smaller hospitality businesses pay around 2-3% of their sales in merchant service fees, someti mes having to pass these fees on to their customers. For a busy caf é , Dolla could save them over $20,000 per year by using its platform.

Despite being a fairly new concept in New Zealand, open-banking payments are set to become commonplace in New Zealand via the recently announced government Consumer Data Right (CDR) which enables consumers to connect their bank account information to third party apps like Dolla. Enabled by New Zealand’s leading openfinance platform Akahu, Dolla does not hold any money and instead users authorise Dolla to initiate payments on their behalf via their existing bank account.

Shaking up the finance industry is no small feat, but Ben is up for the challenge, and hopes that Dolla will help drive some healthy competition in the sector for the benefit of both the small business owners and consumers.

Get started with Dolla today by downloading the app, or find out more about Dolla for businesses on the website. dolla.nz

A buzz about honey

The story behind Great Barrier Island Bee Co. is steeped in enough history to warrant a dedicated honey museum that has been carefully curated over the last 14 years in its own black barn in Matakana.

Words Kate Moore

A remote island that depicts a long-ago Kiwi landscape and lifestyle, Great Barrier Island, is also one of Danvers Devereux's favourite places. He fondly remembers camping on a property owned by the Blackwell family with "the three essentials - surfboard, tent and a fishing rod". In 2007 when he was staying at a friend's bach in the bush part of Medlands, Danvers started reading a book while suspended in a hammock between two manuka trees about the history of Great Barrier. He became fascinated with the island's beekeeping history from the 1800s, especially since it was a labour of love to complete but a necessity for the island. Luckily the stories also included the names of pioneering families that lived on Great Barrier Island during this time and Danvers was able to visit many descendants. One family was Les and Bev Blackwell who, over many years and cups of tea alongside homemade baking, continued to educate and inspire Danvers on more stories about the home of the first commercial beekeeping enterprise in New Zealand.

from Great Barrier. The brand sits under its parent company; prestigious and divine Matakana Botanicals. The Les Blackwell's Gardeners Handcream has Les' tick of approval and is housed in an aluminium tin in remembrance of the old tin cans in which the honey was initially stored.

The brand now has its own dedicated museum at Matakana Botanicals HQ. Displaying an extensive collection of Barrier books and original equipment used by the pioneers, as well as the 100-year-old Kauri honey press gifted by Les and Bev Blackwell. Danvers is also the proud custodian of the original honey boat named Rosella, which now sits under a protective cover next to the distillery barn. Rosella was originally crafted in 1926 by Vos Boatbuilders in Westhaven and was built to Adam Blackwell's specifications to transport around a ton of honey from Barrier to the mainland - which would have taken around nine hours! After being "lost" since the 1970s (after the Blackwell family sold it) how the boat came to Danvers's care after a seven-year search is an adventure tale well worth hearing. Currently, the tale is only told during private tours that also cover the process the beekeepers went through with a demonstration using the yes teryear equipment. www.MatakanaBotanicals.co.nz info@MatakanaBotanicals.co.nz

One for the men

We spend our entire lives working flat out in what is hopefully a fulfilling career to reach the pinnacle of retirement at 65 years of age.

Words Kate Moore

Once the party is over, though, what happens next? What do people, especially men, do? This is where the Men’s Shed shines. The Men’s Shed is a worldwide club with chapters throughout New Zealand, Australia and Europe. The Warkworth chapter, which began in September 2018, now boasts 45 members, and despite the name, five women are also in the crew.

Paul, the secretary of the Warkworth chapter, explains that the Men’s Shed was constructed to help care for men’s mental health by giving them something to do during the day. “Women seem to have multiple groups to attend where they crochet and knit and chat,” says Paul. “But men don’t. This is why the Men’s Shed is so important.”

The operation is a well-oiled machine with dedicated areas for woodwork, electronics and engineering; the health and safety signs are prominent, the project board is regularly updated with assigned workers, and there are plenty of biscuits to have with a cuppa. The crew always have multiple projects on the go.

The majority will benefit the community with items such as bench planter boxes constructed and painted, children’s wellloved play equipment put back together and various projects for other groups. Weta houses and Bug hotels are built, which they donate to various primary schools and playgroups in the area.

They also do regular work for Predator Free New Zealand, and to date, they have completed 200 rat and possum traps for the charity, as well as nesting boxes for birds.

The club survives on grants and donations of items that can be brought back to life and then sold on their TradeMe page; they also have a list of local businesses that sponsor the club, where they purchase any nee ded materials.

The Men’s Shed is open Monday to Friday, 9am until 1pm. New members are always welcome. Please email to obtain a form.

MensShedWarkworth@gmail.com www.facebook.com/WWMensShed

Professional, locally owned & operated cabinet making business. Kitchens, storage solutions, wardrobes, laundry’s, bathroom cabinetry and more. Get in contact today for a free measure and quote! Servicing the Mangawhai and Kaipara area.

jake@mangawhaikitchens.co.nz | info@mangawhaikitchens.co.nz Jake - 027 444 9206

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

Part Time

Junction is growing and the team could use some help from a sales and administrative superstar. We’re looking for someone who loves our region as much as we do to sell the magazine we love creating. You’ll be a natural and driven sales person with a passion for reaching sales targets and providing high quality service to our loyal customers. Networking and banter come second nature to you and you aren’t scared to pick up the phone and close a sale.

The ideal candidate will have the following skills and experience:

• Strong sales background with proven experience in achieving targets

• Experience in cold calling and developing own leads

• Confident negotiation skills with perseverance and initiative

• Excellent communication and administrative skills

• Strong work ethic and confidence, ability to multitask

The ability to write sales proposals is essential, media experience is a bonus but not required. Junction Magazine is a wellestablished and loved unique brand and our new Advertising Executive plays a pivotal role in developing the magazine.

It is important they have a friendly and positive attitude and can work well in a creative team where everyone’s ideas and opinions are welcomed. Loyalty and honesty are a must with the ability to work unsupervised. They must be cool and calm under pressure with the ability to prioritise and manage deadlines and client demands. Most of the work can be done from home with occasional production meetings or client visits in person.

If you think you are the right fit please send your covering letter and resume to hi@junctionmag.co.nz

Applications close Thursday 8 December

ARA HILLS BY AVJENNINGS

Pick of the bunch

The Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme first burst onto the scene in April 2007. Under the scheme, accredited employers from the horticulture and viticulture industries can recruit workers from eligible Pacific countries to complete seasonal work when there are not enough New Zealand workers.

Words Kate Moore

The scheme is a mutually beneficial policy as it ensures that companies have enough workers to complete their harvests, ensuring the product is on the shelves in New Zealand supermarkets, while also giving overseas workers various life skills and also the ability to earn money to send home to their families.

This scheme has shown incredible success, and at least four outstanding companies in our community utilise and thrive from the scheme. Southern Paprika has participated in the scheme for the last fourteen years and currently has assigned 48 staff to work for nine months yearly. The workers mainly work in the picking areas, which are warm and humid, reflecting the climates of

their home islands: Kiribati and Tuvalu. A significant part of the scheme is ensuring that the workers coming in from the islands are not taking away accommodation from New Zealanders. To overcome this, Southern Paprika employs a billet system where the temporary staff lodge with their permanent staff. Friendships develop, and workers learn things such as money management and Western technology. These perks mean that, quite often, the same familiar faces reappear each year as they earn enough to buy a house or start a business in their village.

Matakana Berry Co explains that there is mutual respect for the workers who leave their families for up to seven months to live

in a country that is so different from their own. Once they are here, they genuinely care about the crops and are incredibly hard-working. Matakana Berry Co has purpose-built accommodation built on the property to house the workers and have a significant return every season. Most of the workers tend to do a minimum of three seasons. The plan is that after the first season, they can purchase a block of land back home in Vanuatu or Tonga. After the second season, they can build a basic structure and then after the third; they can complete the property. The RSE scheme not only supports island economies but also allows workers to control their destinies and

gives them the tools to grow crops and make life better for themselves and their families.

Avocado Heaven in Tapora and Ezypeel Mandarins in Matakana employ workers from Vanuatu and Tonga for different lengths of time to complete the various tasks required to ensure the orchards are constantly running at peak production. Analysing the scheme from a business perspective shows that as the workers are incredibly stable and productive, the business expands and grows, creating more permanent positions for New Zealanders. The enormity of the scheme is not lost on the employers and all agree it's an incredible privilege to be a part of it and help others to better their lives.

All businesses join forces to form the Upper Auckland Labour Governance Group and work with various government agencies to ensure that this successful scheme continues to support both New Zealand and our island neighbours.

www.EzypeelMandarins.nz www.MatakanaBerryCo.co.nz www.spl.nz

EXPERIENCED WEDDING CELEBRANT & MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Carla Rotondo will be there to make your day, go your way. Capable, passionate, open minded and adaptable.

“I am passionate about people and celebrations. Everyone has a story that is worthy of being told the right way.” 021 241 0668 www.carlarotondo.com

Fighting fires

Previously known as The New Zealand Fire Service, Barry joined in 1972, after an earlier career as a type-writer mechanic. He recounts the firefighter recruit course as the toughest thing he’s ever done in his life; nine grueling weeks across two South Auckland stations. Health and Safety was an afterthought in 1972 - in those days you climbed out the third floor window of a five-storey concrete training tower, carrying a fellow recruit on your back as the ‘patient’, and straight down the ladder. Holding on tight was forefront of mind for all involved!

Barry’s first year of service was spent at Otahuhu Fire Station, before being moved over to Manurewa, and then Manukau Station - where he learned to work on what used to be called the ‘Emergency Tender’ - and helped to set up the Breathing Apparatus (BA) Servicing Department. St John’s held all the vehicle cut-out equipment and was handing this over to the firefighters at The New Zealand Fire Service, when Barry began this specialist training. In 1976, he passed exams to become a Senior firefighter finding his preferred position on the truck, and the rank he would stay with for the next 32 years serving on Blue Watch in Sou th Auckland.

Barry and his wife Cheryl started building their bach just out of Matakana, down Greens Road, in 1984 with ‘pocket money’. In those days Barry recounts Cheryl as an excellent roofer. By 2003, Barry was fed up with the traffic and commute, and had an excellent super scheme through the Fire Service, so he retired to Greens Road. After always saying he would never join the ‘vollys’ (volunteers), it wasn’t long until Barry was a permanent fixture at training nights at the Mahurangi Volunteer Fire Brigade. Along with ten others, Barry was a founding member of the Matakana Volunteer Fire Brigade, and had a hand in designing the station which opened in 2008. “In the beginning, we sure got a lot of calls,” he remembers.

To celebrate his long service, the Matakana Volunteer Fire Brigade presented Barry with a Double Gold Star on 19 November at their honours night, with local dignitaries, FENZ board members, and past and p resent members.

Barry has a very calm manner, a good listening ear and is always willing to give up his time to share his wealth of knowledge and experience. After spending 50 years serving members of his community in their time of need, Barry is a true legend. He is extremely supportive of new members of the Brigade and is renowned for his favourite saying “at the end of the day, don’t forget to have fun”. Keep informed on incidents the brigade attends, their training and people via their official social media channels. www.instagram.com/MatakanaFire | 09 423 0382

Kasey 027 529 4639 www.shoreditch.co.nz

Yaldi!

Sunday 1 January 2023

The 150th Highland Games held in Waipu are shaping up to be an extravaganza of events and fun for the whole family.

Words Kate Moore

The Games officially begin on 31 December, with the primary day of festivities on 1 January ending late into the night. Spectators should prepare to be transported overseas and back in time with nationwide competitors competing in traditional activities such as solo piping, solo drumming, highland dancing, heavyweights, fiddling and the highly competitive tug of war. There will be food vendors galore with generous bars sponsored by McCloud's Brewery and plenty of entertainment for kids, including traditional running races and bouncy castles.

The Waipu Highland Games is one of the longest-running Scottish gatherings in the Southern Hemisphere and is a prestigious world-class event. Run by the Waipu Caledonian Society volunteers, all Game Day proceeds go directly into the lo cal community.

The first event is the Helen McGregor Memorial. This prestigious event was Helen's dying wish that has grown in popularity over the years. It is a competition where pipers can ‘flair their fingers’, playing whatever they like for eight minutes - this may be a medley,

a traditional piece, a modern pop song or something composed by themselves. It is the perfect start to Hogmanay.

The first day of the year will start in a riot of colour and sound as all the Clans parade down the main street of Waipu, ending at the centre. Around 10-15 clans participate, upholding strict dress protocol in their clan colours. After the opening ceremony, a mass band with all the drums and pipes will play together, followed by a mass highland fling. The main arena will then host the original 'extreme sports.' With 22lb Gaelic Hammers, huge rocks and cabers (up to 130lbs and 18 feet long!) are thrown and tossed around while competitors are judged on balance, technique and timing. These Heavyweight champions are all highly competitive and train extremely hard all year to become t he best.

To round off an exciting day, there is Ceilidh – a traditional Scottish barn dance held in The Celtic Barn. All of the winners from the day perform (pipes, drums and dance) throughout the night and Twisty Willow is on hand to entertain. Eat a traditional suppercomplete with Haggus - and enjoy a cash bar that will be available.

Waipu is an area that remembers its incredible history, and its website is a wealth of knowledge. There is also a timetable for all of the events located on the website below.

Tickets can be purchased for one event or all in advance from Eventbrite, or you can purchase entrance for the main event at the gate on the day.

The Caledonian Society would be thrilled to have more volunteers on the committee and would like to invite anyone who is enthusiastic about this proud event to join them, and ensure that this unique and important community event continues.

www.facebook.com/WaipuHiglandGames www.WaipuHighlandGames.co.nz

Carrying a wide range of products - with an emphasis on NZ madethis cute Studio is worth a visit. Jewellery, homewares, accessories, art, candles, bath/shower products and more! You’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Open Fridays and Saturdays 10am-2pm at 56 Moir Point Rd, Mangawhai Heads, or online.

www.Studio56.nz | www.instagram@Studio56Nz

Grab your wheels

Pumporama Skate Competition

From 10am, Sunday 27 November

Leigh School invites all keen skaters, BMXers, and their fans to bring their best tricks to Pumporama, a skate competition held at the newly completed Leigh School pump track.

Pumporama will celebrate the opening of the new community-built pump track and will be a fundraiser for Leigh School to replace their ageing sports uniforms, helping the kids compete with more pride at inter school events.

The event will be an all-ages, fun family day out. There will be bands playing, local food for sale including beautiful line-caught Leigh fish burgers, and activities for kids - like a fun run and an ice slide. There will also be some great spot prizes and quickfire raffles from Lee Fish and other sponsors. There’s an extra special bestdressed prize for those who want to bring their unique style out to play on the day.

Entry to the competition will be $5 - but fans are welcome for free. The competition can be entered with a skateboard or BMX bike. The competition categories are under 10 years, 10-15 years, 16-39 years, and 40+ years. Helmets and shoes are mandatory for safety.

The construction of the pump track at Leigh School was a true labour of love, championed

by a group of passionate parents who saw the need for a community facility for the kids of Leigh. As part of the Covid Stimulus Package, schools around New Zealand were granted money to invest in community projects and aid local economies.

Leigh School parent Tim Haggitt tirelessly championed the idea of a pump track for the school, got the community on board, and engaged top pump track designers Velo Solutions to architect the facility. A keen crew of Leigh parents and community members helped to support the construction of the pump track, organizing materials and machinery and putting in some hard graft with their wheelbarrows to get it completed.

The pump track’s existence reflects the

strong community spirit, generosity and creativity of Leigh. It has given the tiny village - where kids’ facilities are few - an amazing new spot to hang out. Any day of the week you can see kids, teenagers and parents alike building their confidence, fitness, and skills on the pump track while friendships and community bonds grow.

Leigh School looks forward to welcoming the community and neighbours to Pumporama to experience the spirit and fun of the pump track.

Registration opens at 10am on 2 7 Nov ember, and the comp kicks off at 11am. (Rain date Saturday 10 December).

www.facebook.com/LeighSchool Leigh School, 26 Hauraki Rd, Leigh

www.boutiquebarn.co.nz

An evening of

The Auckland Opera Studio is once again presenting their popular Matakana Opera Picnic in the beautiful gardens of Robin and Simon Barkley located on the corner of Ward and Matakana Valley Roads on Saturday 18 February 2023, at 5.30pm. Gates open at 4.30pm and free parking is available across the road.

After a year’s hiatus due to Covid, Frances Wilson and her talented Auckland Opera Studio crew are itching to get back to their rightful place over the pond. The program has, as usual, been carefully curated by Frances and includes operatic favourites as well as songs from popular musicals.

This year’s line-up includes some of their long-time favourite performers like Amelia Berry, Tayla Alexander, Oliver Sewell, Samson Setu and Ipu Laga'aia.

Add to that the exciting talents of Carla Camilleri and Sid Chand with maestro Somi Kim at the piano and you have what promises to be a superb evening of entertainment.

Bring your own food, refreshments, a picnic blanket and your friends.

Bookings are available via the Opera Studio Website. www.AucklandOperaStudio.co.nz www.facebook.com/AucklandOperaStudio

Cooked over fire

Mangawhai Tavern Barbecue Festival

Sunday 11 December 2022

Over the past five-or-so years, the American style ‘low'n’slow barbecue’ has really been set on fire here in New Zealand, and is showing little signs of slowing. In fact, there is a booming industry set up to cater for the growing barbecue market - from specialty shops, butcheries, a well patronised national competition circuit, restaurants and even a top rating local television production, Cooks On Fire, which is in a primetime slot on TV1, all lapping up the trend.

Barbecuing began when the first pitmasters climbed out of the foliage, some two million years ago, and started adding the right amount of heat, smoke and flavours to create succulent offerings for the tribe, which in turn allowed the human race to advance an d prosper.

In many respects barbecue has not evolved

too much further - sure technology, taste profiles and methods have developed over the millennia - but, it is not just about meat cooked to perfection over fire, it is about bringing whānau and friends together, it is about celebration, it is about community.

The organisers of the Mangawhai Tavern Barbecue Festival say "we wanted to share the barbecue vibe with this amazing community and bring people together - the historic Mangawhai Tavern was the obvious location. We approached the Tavern team and they shared our vision of a fun family day with plenty of things to see and do."

The Mangawhai Tavern Barbecue Festival is on Sunday 11 December 2022 where the final New Zealand Barbecue Alliance sanctioned competition for the year will be held, and teams from all over New Zealand will be

fiercely vying for the top spot. There will be market stalls for those looking for a little retail therapy, live music, demonstrations, a chilli eating competition, low'n’slow food options available for purchase and plenty of great drink specials.

G.J. Gardner Homes and many of the event sponsors are offering up an epic gate-prize for one lucky attendee to really kick their xmas holidays off in style. The event is free and all are welcome, but the organisers do ask that attendees bring a gold coin donation (or more) and support the local charity organisations that will be on site.

For more information visit the events Facebook page: @managawhai tavern barbecue festival.

www.facebook.com/MTBF.2022 events@BarbecueLife.co.nz

Chris Penk MP for Kaipara ki Mahurangi

NYE HAPPENINGS

New Year’s Eve at Freddie’s Outdoor Kitchen

5pm-12:30am Saturday 31 December

Freddie’s Outdoor Kitchen, Sculptureum

Enjoy a classic summer evening and toast the new year at Freddie’s Outdoor Kitchen. An event suitable for all ages, bring along outdoor seating or a picnic blanket and park up for a night of entertainment.

Enjoy lawn games, live music performances, entry to the Sculptureum Galleries and Gardens and marvel at the laser light shows choreographed to music.

Preordered picnic hampers are available with ticket purchases, $15 per child, $25 per adult.

40 Omaha Flats Rd, Matakana | www.Sculptureum.nz

Rothko New Year’s Eve Dining Event

6pm-12:30am, Saturday 31 December

Rothko, Sculptureum

Experience a spectacular dining event at Rothko to ring in the new year! Executive chef, Josh Hazel, will be delivering a 5-course degustation accompanied with laser light shows at sundown and midnight. After dinner, take a stroll through the Galleries and Rear Gardens to discover special lighting exhibits and works of art from local and international artists. $249 per person. www.Sculptureum.nz | www.facebook.com/RothkoSculptureum

Connected 2023 -

Ultimate NYE Party

9pm-2am, Saturday 31 December

Leigh Sawmill Café

Make the last night of 2022 one to truly remember, Random Four are excited to present Connected, the flagship party on none other than the biggest night of the year. Expect a high-energy night of the best jungle, old skool, and drum and www.LeighSawmill.co.nz | www.facebook.com/LeighSawmill

Matakana Comedy Club

7pm, Friday 16 December 2022

8 Wired Barrelworks

The Matakana Comedy Club is back at 8 Wired Barrelworks. With NZ comedy queen, Justine Smith (The Project & Comedy Gala). Joining her is the hilarious, Courtney Dawson (Have You Been Paying Attention), John Carr and the MC again is Irish comic, Alan McElroy (RNZ's The Panel) These shows have sold out in the past, so grab your tickets early. www.facebook.com/8WiredBarrelworksAndTaproom

Christmas Members’ Exhibition

10am-3pm, Thursday 8 Dec - 12pm, Wednesday 21 Dec

Mangawhai Artists Gallery

The Mangawhai Artists Gallery, presents a range of small 2D and 3D artworks at its annual Christmas Members’ Exhibition.

Come celebrate the season and find some unique gift ideas at this ‘cash and carry’ exhibition which is running daily between 10am-3pm from Thursday 8 December to midday Wednesday 21 December. www.MangawhaiArtists.co.nz gallery@MangawhaiArtists.co.nz

The Great Summer Art Exhibition

Saturday 31 Dec - Monday 2 January

Mahurangi East Community Hall

The Mahurangi East Tennis Club is proud to host The Great Summer Art Exhibition for the 29th consecutive year. This year's exhibits include a wide range of media, including photography. Opening/Preview evening with prize giving on Friday 30 December, at 7pm. Entry is $20 per person (ticket sales available at the door or collect from Bayleys Warkworth). Refreshments will be served. Prizes in all categories (except People’s Choice) will be presented.

The Exhibition opens to the public on Saturday 31 December 2022 and runs until Monday 2 January 2023, daily from 10am-4pm. Admission by donation. People’s Choice Award will be announced on the afternoon of the final day.

www.MahuTennis.co.nz/Art-Expo

Dog Day Out

10am-2pm, Saturday December 10

Mahurangi

East Library

A celebration of our furry friends to highlight the fabulous Goodall Reserve Dog Park in Snells Beach, where you can take your friend walkies off leash.

Enjoy our dog show, dog businesses, hot dogs, face painting and loads of barking mad fun!

Entries open now. For more information please email. MahuEastFriends@gmail.com | 21 Hamatana Rd, Snells Beach

LOCAL GIG GUIDE

MARKETS

Every Fri 4.30-8pm

Wellsford/Te Hana Night Market

Every Sat 8am-1pm Matakana Village Farmers Market

Wellsford Community Centre/Te Hana Marae

Matakana Village

Every Sat 8am-2pm Matakana Market The Old Dairy Factory, Matakana

Every Sat 8.30am-1pm Mangawhai Tavern Market Mangawhai Tavern, Mangawhai

Every Sat 9am-1pm Mangawhai Community Market Mangawhai Beach School

Every Sun 8.30-1pm Matakana Country Park Market Matakana Country Park

1st Sat of the Month 9am-1pm Wellsford Market

2nd Sun of the Month 9am-1pm Waipu Boutique Market

OWL Community Hub, 120 Rodney Street, Wellsford

Coronation Hall, Waipu

3rd Tues of the Month 9am-12pm The Whangateau Community Market Whangateau Hall

Last Sun of the Month 9am-1pm Puhoi Village Market Puhoi Domain

Last Sun of the Month 9.30am-2pm Warkworth Country Market

A&P Show Grounds, SH1

DATE TIME EVENT VENUE

Fri 25-27 Nov

WEBSITE

ART-Full Weekend Matakana Village Hall kac.nz

Fri 25 Nov - 3 Dec Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves

Fri 25 Nov - 7 Dec 10am-3pm Exhibition: The Lounge Mangawhai Artists Gallery MangawhaiArtists.co.nz

Sat 26 Nov 10am-2pm Off-Grid Living Workshop Fernlea Fernlea.kiwi

Sat 26 Nov 10.30am Wellsford Santa Parade Wellsford District Community Centre

Sat 26 Nov 10.30am Tawharanui Snorkel Day Tawharanui EMR.org.nz

Sat 26 Nov 12pm Cellar Door Live Sessions Matakana Estate MatakanaEstate.co.nz

Sat 26 Nov 1-4pm Footshooter 8 Wired Barrelworks 8Wired.co.nz

Sat 26 Nov 4-8pm The Last Saturday Club Brooke Lane Vineyard BrookelaneVineyard.com

Sat 26 Nov 9pm Frisky Business Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

Sat 26 Nov CCR Tribute Show Warkworth RSA WarkworthRSA.co.nz

Sun 27 Nov 12pm Sunday Sessions with Marianne Leigh Mangawhai Tavern MangawhaiTavern.co.nz

Sun 27 Nov 2pm Summer Sunday Sessions Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

Sun 27 Nov 2pm Faces of Christmas Mahurangi Presbyterian Church facebook.com/Matakantata

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

Fri 2 Dec 5pm Horizon School Arts Festival Horizon School facebook.com/Horizon.School.nz

Fri 2 Dec 6-8am Wellsford Plus Tradie Breakfast Wazza's Coffee & Icecream facebook.com/WellsfordPlus

Fri 2 Dec 6pm-9pm Fiji Friday Smiths Matakana SmithsMatakana.co.nz

Fri 2 Dec 6pm-Late Live in the Lobby Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Fri 2 Dec 8pm Daddy Long Legs Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

Sat 3 Dec 9am-12.30pm Point Wells Library Book Sale Point Wells Hall

Sat 3 Dec 10am-2pm Brewing Workshop Fernlea Fernlea.kiwi

Sat 3 Dec 6pm-9pm Mixed Messages Smiths Matakana SmithsMatakana.co.nz

Sat 3 Dec 6pm-Late Hotel Swing Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Sat 3 Dec 8pm Bowie Bowie Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

Sun 4 Dec 2pm Sunday Sessions with Marianne Leigh Mangawhai Tavern MangawhaiTavern.co.nz

Sun 4 Dec 2pm Summer Sunday Sessions Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

Sun 4 Dec 2pm Sunday Service Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Wed 7 Dec 6pm-Late Ladies Night Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Fri 9 Dec 7.30pm The Mangawhai Singers Mangwhai Museum Mangawhai-Museum.org.nz

Fri 9 Dec 8pm The DeSotos Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

Sat 10 Dec 7.30pm The Mangawhai Singers Mangwhai Museum Mangawhai-Museum.org.nz

Sat 10 Dec 10am-2pm Dogs Day Out Mahurangi East Community Centre 09-425 6541

Sun 11 Dec Mangawhai Tavern Barbecue Festival Mangwahai Tavern

Mon 12 Dec 7-9pm Magical Mondays - Ukulele Jam Mangawhai Bowling Club MagicalMondaysukes@gmail.com

Wed 14 Dec 6pm Club Christmas Picnic Point Wells Bowling Club PointWellsClub.co.nz

Fri 16 Dec 8pm Sojourn & Two Step Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

Sat 17 Dec 4-8pm The

Thu

Thu

•

• The third house back from the boat ramp

• A private contemporary 2 level beach quality holiday or permanent home ready for Christmas

• 4 beds/3 ensuites/ open plan and outdoor living/entertainer’s kitchen/double garaging

• CV $2.55m

• Timeless architecturally designed, luxurious, ultimate outdoor living spaces

• Expansive upper level viewing decks both sides, outdoor fire, spa

• Exceptional build quality, solid concrete masonry exterior

• 4 large bedrooms/2.5 bathrooms/2 living/ designer kitchen/ 2 wet bar refreshment stations/3 decks/

• Beautiful tropical gardens, high stud 2 car garage/garden shed

• Off ‘Mustang Alley’, suprisingly quiet & very close to the golf club, triple garaging suitable for boat storage

• 2022 completely refurbished interior & exterior, ready for tropical Christmas holidays

• Immaculately presented, north-facing, fresh, contemporary, light & airy, huge securely fenced courtyard

• Two level quality home, privacy from adjoining rear boundary reserve/pedestrian access to the surf

• 4 bedrooms/2.5 bathrooms/2 living/open plan kitchen/dining/ separate laundry/3 decks/generous storage options