Junction January 2023

ON THE LEVEL – DEFINITELY FOR SALE!

5 Wrybill Way, Point Wells

This immaculate, refurbished family home down a driveway on a level 1000sqm site in the friendly Point Wells garden village, is ready and waiting for your enjoyment. Spacious chefs kitchen, dining area and separate lounge open wide through stacking ranch sliders to expansive north-facing, covered decks for year-round entertaining. The second living area is a perfect home office, playroom or could be a fourth bedroom. Opening to the gardens and lawn, the private master suite features a lounge alcove, ensuite and walk-in robe. In a separate wing are two additional double bedrooms, full bathroom and guest w/c. There’s ample storage and laundry in the double carpeted garage, plus outdoor shower, vege beds and fruit trees. Walk or cycle around the harbour to the dairy, library and tennis courts or take a short drive to beautiful Omaha beach, Matakana shops and restaurants. Only an hour from the city, this stylish home is coastal living at its best! Vendors are moving on. CV$1.9m. Call Victoria or Joneen to view.

Victoria Turner 021 795 099 Joneen Smith 021 464 557 www.bayleys.co.nz/1170253

YOUR OMAHA BLANK CANVAS 94 Mangatawhiri Road,

Omaha

Sitting ready and waiting for your coastal home or weekend retreat, this 653sqm elevated, flat piece of bare land is a special offering located in the southern end of Omaha. Design your single or two level beach house to maximise the position and outlook, visualising drinks on the deck admiring the views after an afternoon on the beach or golf course. Centrally located to conveniently access the wonderful lifestyle that Omaha offers - the beach, golf club, tennis courts, bowling club, playgrounds, superette for supplies and cafe to enjoy a coffee. Do not delay - Forthcoming Auction, unless sold prior!

For Sale

Victoria Turner 021 795 099 www.bayleys.co.nz/1170254

Price by Negotiation

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Bianca Howlett bianca@JunctionMag.co.nz

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

DEPUTY EDITOR

Emily Pattullo editorial@JunctionMag.co.nz

CONTENT & MARKETING MANAGER Shannen Frear marketing@JunctionMag.co.nz

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

GENERAL & DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIES hi@JunctionMag.co.nz

CONTRIBUTORS:

Milly Nolan, Nikita Oliver Metcalfe, Christina Schmidt, Luke Williamson, Kate Moore, Wild Dunes Photography, Dominey Flores, Geoff Ledbrook, Kathy Hunter, Benthics, Cimino Cole, Jade Hart, Carlie Robin Star, Roger Mills, Simon Wilson, Jamie Cobel, Peter Young

FRONT COVER:

Photographer: Christina Schmidt www.instagram.com/WildSpiritWedding Model: Danica Burghout www.instagram.com/_Desert.Dreamer_ Hair Product: www.GypseaSolSurf.com www.instagram.com/GypseaSol_ Location: Mangawhai

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

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

Take up dancing

In 2013, Carla opened Talbot Dance Academy’s (TDA) doors to dancers in Warkworth and surrounding areas. This year marks her tenth anniversary of inspiring dancers to discover their passion and excel in dance, which was celebrated with a high-energy professional concert at the beginning of December.

Dancers thrive at TDA’s studios; friendships are made, goals are achieved, and talent is grown.

Carla and her team are passionate about welcoming new students. If you have a dancer that would like to be a part of TDA they would love to hear from you.

www.TalbotDanceAcademy.co.nz | 021 129 0113

New nook

New faces, new name, new stock; Wellsford’s much-loved stationery and bookshop (formerly Tina’s) is under new ownership, with locals Becky and Mitch Martin having taken the helm in early November.

The range of books, stationery, toys and gifts at The Nook is expanding and the store will undergo a refurbishment in 2023.

Locals can rest assured that The Nook will continue to provide competitively-priced school stationery; class stationery lists for participating local primary schools are kept at hand, and click and collect options are available via email. See the Facebook page for more details.

TheNookBookShop@outlook.com www.facebook.com/TheNookWellsford

Treating you well

Newly moved into the gorgeous Blush Beauty Lounge, therapist and trainer Vanessa King is bringing remarkable LPG endermologie® treatments to Matakana. Never heard of endermologie? You are not alone! While not well known in NZ, this beloved French technology provides over 200,000 treatments daily worldwide.

Endermologie’s gentle yet powerful mechano-stimulation reactivates dormant cellular activity to release fat, smooth cellulite, increase circulation and lymphatic drainage, and firm the skin.

Face, neck, and décolletage treatments, as well as medical treatments for scars, pre- and post-surgery, tight muscles, and back pain are also offered.

www.WellBodyClinic.co.nz | 021 876 427

New and improved

Four Square Wellsford welcomes new owner operator, Oliver Johnson, with big plans of giving back to the community. Oliver is committed to maintaining the strong support that Four Square Wellsford has provided the community over the past years and is excited to present huge summer giveaways from Christmas hampers to full BBQ kits, which will soon be announced on their social channels. Oliver is looking forward to further developing the store into the best version of itself by delivering fresh favourites, essentials, and fantastic local service to customers every day. www.facebook.com/FourSquareWellsford | www.instagram.com/FourSquareWellsford

Working from home

When Jason Magerkorth and his wife, Nik, moved to Warkworth in 2020, he said to her he wanted to immerse himself into the community. Fast-forward to 2022 and he has done just that. In April of this year the couple purchased Omaha Holiday Houses, a local holiday home management and maintenance business. Jason, who runs the day-to-day operations, says he has two favourite aspects of the growing business, "Connecting with home owners and showcasing Omaha and its surroundings to guests ". The couple love that Jason is based locally and closer to home, giving them the opportunity to connect with other local businesses and enjoy more time as a family. www.OmahaHolidayHouses.co.nz manager@OmahaHolidayHouses.co.nz

Store with a view

Green with Envy (GWE) moved into their gorgeous new store on Matakana Road earlier this year. The store has a striking green backdrop, and looks out onto native bush and an impressive waterfall on the Matakana River. Local owners, Nic and Dean, undertook extensive renovations on the exDragonfly/Hungry Elephant site. Many walls were demolished and replaced with glass to showcase the property. They have a café at the site but due to the current climate are instead running workshops in the space, and will be offering venue hire in 2023. GWE are loving the new larger store and have been able to expand their product range. They have just launched a new website which features hundreds of existing and new products. Go and check it out. There are many great gift options for Christmas.

029 775 1100 | www.GreenWithEnvy.co.nz

Insider knowledge

Interior design has the power to instantly change a space and elevate your mood. But do you secondguess ideas or struggle to get them out of your head and across the corners of your home? Whether you like to keep it simple or heavily decorated, there is a science and magic to interior design. The Inside Guides is your ultimate design blueprint – capturing everything you need to know to transform your home. Following the consultation you will receive ‘Your Design Guide’ complete with imagery. $450 incl. gst. To find out more o r book a consult contact below.

Sweet success

Dekadenz Chocolates was founded five years ago by Paul Jeffries and Andrea Prchal with Tatiana White. Tatiana has a passion for creating exquisite, handmade chocolates, which saw her win four gold medals, two bronze medals, and an overall category win for her Christmas and Novelty Chocolate entry in the NZ Chocolate Awards 2022. Combining world-leading Belgium chocolate with local and imported ingredients is a recipe for a truly exceptional, world-class product. Dekadenz Chocolates is located in Pahi Paparoa, Kaipara district. info@Dekadenz.co.nz | www.Dekadenz.co.nz

Sweet soul music

With the fast and competitive music industry seemingly so unattainable for most, Song Conversations slows things down and encourages nurturing and grounding before taking flight.

Words Emily Pattullo

Kiri Eriwata and Stephen (Tipene) Matthews started Song Conversations a year before Covid, having moved to Mangawhai five years ago. They wanted a place to host music workshops and so found somewhere with various spaces. They built a music studio to help people develop their songwriting and began organising songwriters’ retreats, which sadly came to a grinding halt due to covid.

Stephen is also known by his Māori name, Tipene. Te ao Māori is an element he and his partner, Kiri, are keen to incorporate, not least for the traditions and beliefs of the Māori culture that put emphasis on community and connecting with people. “Having been brought up both Pākehā and

Māori there has always been different phases and cycles during my upbringing and a need for self-discovery.” And this is what Song Conversations encourages through its various projects and teachings – what does identity mean to you and how do you define yourself?

“We work with some talented young people and so our first goal is to help them discover who they are as creative musicians in the hope that this might prepare them for the future,” says Stephen.

The pair managed to obtain Creative NZ funding during covid and introduced Audience Song. This project saw them gathering various songwriters together

to “tell people’s story through music”. They encouraged the public to write in with personal accounts of experiences or challenges they’d faced that could be interpreted through song.

From there they are now providing a free workshop series, The Songwriter Collective, which starts in February, and is for aspiring 13-19 year-old musicians across the Kaipara region to work collaboratively as a group and encourage support without competition or comparison. The idea is to foster a nurturing environment where everyone feels comfortable to not only receive but share feedback on other’s creations – to use each other as a sounding-board to “identify

specific things that engage; for example, reviewing a distinctive chord progression that sets up the chorus, asking, how did it ‘sound’ for everyone else?”.

It’s from their own personal experiences within various aspects of the music industry that Kiri and Stephen teach and mentor from a place of building from the ground up; in the often flighty, unpredictable world of music, having that support from the beginning helps in “preparing them for what might come in the future”. Kiri knows only too well having been a recording artist herself and writing and releasing an album. She has worked with many other songwriters both in the studio and on stage, as well as being a music industry consultant. Kiri taught vocal performance, songwriting and music industry studies at the University of Auckland’s School of Music, and has a “passion for fostering projects that connect songwriters with their community and the music industry”. She currently holds the role of General Manager for Te Whai Community Trust, Mangawhai.

Stephen is a composer and songwriter, and is interested in exploring “the deep connections between people and the land, water and sea” through music. Much of his work discusses issues to do with social justice and sustainability. He also lectures at

the University of Auckland’s School of Music. Their vision for the future promises more of the same, with further projects to promote the importance of community and “achieving for everyone. Working together is more important than personal gain,” says Stephen. It’s about building close relationships and sharing challenges, and most importantly, removing

the idea of competition and comparison so that each person can realise their own potential.

HARDWOOD OAK FLOORING DESIGNED FOR LIVING

The LivingWood™ range offers premium quality European oak in four profiles and two surface finishes bonded to a multi-directional, plywood substrate for the ultimate stability and dimensional accuracy.

All custom coated and pre-finished in a range of natural and toxin free Italian oil coatings. Installation is a breeze. Simply float or glue down over existing timber or concrete flooring with no additional sanding or coating required.

Phone us today on 0800 628 483 or email info@livingwood.nz.

Song Conversations is still taking applications for The Songwriter Collective. Apply through the website or email. www.SongConversations.com info@SongConversations.com www.livingwood.nz

Bo Peep also shears sheep

Traditionally, sheep shearing has been a male-dominated arena due to the physical strength that can be required. However, it appears women are getting stronger or are just not taking no for an answer, because, according to Leigh Blacker and Brya Harrison, female shearers are becoming more common on the grating.

Words Kate Moore

Brya Harrison, who has been shearing for 11 years, initially trained as a dental assistant but was called back to the family farm due to her father being involved in a bad logging accident which saw him laid up. Dairy cows occupied the farm, but 50 or so sheep “helped keep the weeds down,” and these were traditionally shorn at home by Brya’s dad. While home, Brya and her trusty lab discovered a fly-struck sheep; knowing that time was of the essence, Brya set her mind to

learning how to shear. Although the first time was patchy, the sheep survived and Brya was hooked. As a massive animal lover, Brya has become a strong, competent shearer in the commercial sphere and shears thousands of sheep annually. Because of her compassion and a lighter touch, her business has grown exceptionally well by word-of-mouth shearing family pets – always taking the time to explain to the anxious humans that accompany the sheep what it is she is doing and why.

Shearing has also allowed Brya to travel the world; joining shearing gangs, she spent UK summers travelling around the UK, France, Scotland, and Ireland.

If you asked Leigh Blacker six years ago if she saw her future as one of the main presenters for Sheepworld's stage show, which involved her shearing a sheep, the answer would have been a resounding, “no!”. Growing up, Leigh was the child that loved and respected animals. If any animal was

injured, Leigh would be the one tending to it and helping to fix whatever was hurt. This passion for animals saw Leigh become a dairy farmer working long hours looking after a farm of 500 cows in the deep south. Now she is responsible not just for sheep but also deer, emus, alpacas, and even a mini horse! Leigh is one of three presenters for the daily 45-minute shows and adores showing an audience how to keep calm and respectfully shear sheep, telling her story and seeing “little faces light up, especially when the sheep smiles at them”.

Brya and Leigh encourage other females to get out and give shearing a go. Traditionally women are the wool-handlers in the shed, but with a lot of determination, the oldschool status quo can be modernised, with the women giving the men a run for th eir money.

You can catch Brya and Leigh in action at Sheepworld in Warkworth, with both shearing in the famous shows during weekends. You can also be inspired by Brya's shearing o n TikTok.

www.tiktok.com/BowPeepSheep www.SheepworldFarm.co.nz

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.

Sunny rays & outdoor days

The sun is shining, and the weather is sweet. Where are you making your summer memories?

A skip through the market to collect your organic produce, a hike on one of our adventurous tracks, a tour through our finest vines or a surf at the beach.

Take it all in, soak it all up.

Photos Wild Dunes Photography Styling Shannen Frear Model Natasha Peck

Location: Kakariki at Bennetts of Mangawhai. Rosalita Midi Dress, Headscarf, Caravan Earrings, Citta Moroccan Basketwww.CaravanClothingHome.co

Location: Kakariki at Bennetts of Mangawhai. Sanur Maxi Dress - www.CaroWithLove.com Headscarf, Caravan Earrings, Citta Moroccan Basket - www.CaravanClothingHome.co

Underwater wonder

The Big Omaha coastline is host to the temperate reefs and diverse underwater ecosystems of the Hauraki Gulf. It is also the home of New Zealand's first marine reserve –Te Hawere-a-Maki (Goat Island), where crayfish, snapper and eagle rays cruise freely and are protected for all to see.

Images Benthics

Local photographer Benthics spends her spare time under the waves capturing the beauty that lies within the moana, and shares images that tell stories about the lush and wonderful world below t he surface.

As a freediver, Benthics quietly blends into the underwater environment to capture seascapes and natural interactions with the animals through her photography, with the aim to inspire others to care about the conservation of our oceans and find wonder in the flora and fauna below th e waves. www.Benthics.com www.instagram/Benthics_Below

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

A festival with heart

Warm summer days on a secluded island, combined with incredible music, equals a fantastic festival. Add in the fact that the funds raised will benefit and enhance the arts programs at the island's three primary and intermediate schools. And the result is pure kiwi enjoyment.

Words Kate Moore

The Wingman Festival takes place on the magical island of Great Barrier, starting on Saturday 28 January, with gates opening at 12pm, and finishes at 1am on Sunday 29 January. The all-ages festival is run biennially out of respect for the island, and showcases up-and-coming acts from around the mainland. Artists headlining for 2023 include K+LAB, Summer Thieves, Lost Tribe of Aotearoa, Knights of the Dub Table, plus many more incredible lyrical and musical artists. The ticket price includes access to the various workshops such as drumming and sound therapy. Numerous food and market stalls will be available to peruse during the day to ensure that dancing stamina is fuelled, but you are more than welcome to pack a picnic. Just please leave the alcohol a t home.

Wingman Festival is a not-for-profit festival run entirely by proud island volunteers. The money raised goes towards the continuation of the festival, ensuring a bigger and better Wingman Festival in two years, as well as the four small island schools to help them fund various art and music programs. Shuttles will be running from the DOC camping grounds to the festival and if you are planning on anchoring at Port Fitzroy, let the team know, as they can organise shuttles from the port if there is enough need. Some words of wisdom from the organisers, please bring cash to the festival – there is limited access to EFTPOS machines, and you will only be able to get cash from local stores if they have it.

For more information (or to purchase limited tickets): www.TheWingmanFestival.com www.instagram.com/TheWingmanFestival

FOR THE THRILL RENTAL

FOR ANY OCCASION, WE HAVE YOU SORTED.

We have a range of dresses to rent, wear and return. It’s as easy as that. These can be tried on in store at anytime and you can walk away with them then and there. Bring the items back to us as they are and we will do the rest. This is just the beginning of us offering sustainable fashion, locally. 40 Queen Street, Warkworth | forthethrill.co.nz

Workboat's regatta debut

Even after 46 years, few who attend the Mahurangi Regatta would guess that its revival was the work of an environmental organisation. But Mahurangi Action, then known as Friends of the Mahurangi, was always about the enjoyment of the Mahurangi, not just its protection.

Words Cimino Cole | Photo Roger Mills - Hummingbird video and photography

On Saturday 28 January 2023, the organisation’s self-effacing regatta profile will be raised slightly by the workboat J Barry Ferguson, on its first formal outing. Originally built to transport regional park staff and contractors from Sullivans Bay to landlocked parkland on the Mahurangi Peninsula, the vessel was purchased in May this year to advance the Mahurangi Coastal Path. Conceived 35 years ago, it has taken until now for the concept of connecting the regional parkland of Mahurangi with a coastal path to become official regional-park policy. Mahurangi Action saw the surplusto-regional-parks-operations aluminium landing barge as the close-to-perfect means of introducing potential users and policy makers to the sublime experience of walking through and between the parks.

While the coastal path is being pursued with missionary zeal, on Auckland Anniversary weekend’s Saturday it will be all about the good old-fashioned, leave-your-walletat-home picnic regatta at Sullivans, the sailing, and the prize-giving dance at Scotts Landing. Cancelled by the pandemic last year, the West City Jazz Orchestra will once more ensure the perfect, civilised climax to Aotearoa – New Zealand’s ultimate spectacle of the glory of sail and classic boats, in their sumptuous Mahurangi regional parkland setting.

While the slice of heaven-on-earth that is

the Mahurangi Harbour, the regatta, and the after-match marquee and live swing-era jazz, is incomparable, there is more. The glossy Mahurangi Cruising Club Yearbook, to richly remind adherents that they were not hallucinating and that the Mahurangi Regatta was indeed memorable. Thanks to the yearbook, many who revel in the world of sailing classic craft, are able to enjoy the Mahurangi Regatta from afar.

Closer to home, the coastal trail the J Barry Ferguson is pioneering could facilitate an Auckland Anniversary camping jamboree at nearby Te Muri. Any young Aucklander with a hiking tent and a bus fare could spend the holiday weekend making new friends, and maybe enjoying their only ever sa iling opportunity.

www.Mahurangi.org.nz www.MahurangiCruisingClub.org

Caro With Love

This beautifully curated store is filled with interior homewares, women's fashion, jewellery and cute baby gift options. Stop by and visit Caro and her gorgeous staff, they are open all summer.

104 Moir St, Mangawhai www.carowithlove.com

Rustic rural dining

The Cow Shed Restaurant is in a converted milking shed surrounded by a spectacular rural landscape. Evening 3 course set menu Sunday Lunch, 5 course Chef selection. BYO. Bookings essential. www.TheCowShedAndShop.co.nz 53 Pebblebrooke Rd, Mangawhai,

Whangateau Holiday Park

Comfortable, family friendly accommodation and camping options with waterfront sites available. Great place to base yourself to relax or explore the Matakana Coast region.

559 Leigh Rd, Whangateau www.WhangateauHolidayPark.co.nz

Kiwiness Tours

Want to see a Kiwi up close?

Come and explore Tawharanui Park with Kiwiness Tours on a guided three hour Evening Kiwi Bird Tour! $100pp. www.KiwinessTours.co.nz ness@KiwinessTours.co.nz

SUMMER MUST DO'S

Warkworth Museum

Steeped in history and set in the stunning Parry Kauri Park, Warkworth museum offers something for everyone. Visitors can learn the story of Warkworth’s rich heritage which is told through the wonderful collections and exhibits. Children love the outside displays, including the old jail and two US army huts from World War II. Or, inside they can discover scenes from yesterday including an old classroom, a general store, a blacksmith or even “the murderhouse”. The museum shop offers ice creams and cold drinks together with a range of locally crafted items.

Open daily 10am-3pm. Closed Christmas Day, Good Friday and Anzac Day morning. www.WarkworthMuseum.co.nz

Charlies Gelato

At Charlies they scoop their very own awardwinning small batch gelato and sorbetto. With 40 different flavours on offer each day, your only problem at Charlies is making a decision!

The kids can roam in the garden and secret playground area, while you check out their pantry store, which stocks local and international artisan food and kitchenware.

www.CharliesGelato.co.nz | 09 4227942

Estuary Café and Bar

The Omaha Beach Community Centre welcomes locals and visitors to the Estuary Café and Bar over the holiday season. Call in for a coffee, hot food, or a drink when the bar is open. There is a large deck for you to relax on along with a real fruit ice cream truck on hand during the weekends and lots of grass for children to play on.

Meals are available on Friday nights along with a Happy Hour from 4 till 6.30pm.

09 422 7551

Sheepworld

Running out of ideas for your next big day out? Sheepworld's just around the corner for your next funfilled day of activities! Find out why they have got such great reviews from all ages saying, "until you go, you just won't get how great Sheepworld is!"

The daily sheep shearing and dog shows (running 11am2pm everyday) are not to be missed. They also have a lovely eco-discovery trail through native bush, a natural adventure playground, an interesting shop, a café and a farmyard full of animals. Only five minutes north of Warkworth.

SH1, Warkworth | www.SheepworldFarm.co.nz

SUMMER MUST DO'S

Watersports by day, Tepees by night

Whether you are looking for kitesurfing, SUP, wakeboarding or wing - or foil boarding lessons, B lue Adven tures is all about providing a personalised and exciting experience. Their dedicated instructors are passionate about what they do and will provide you with a safe and fun way to learn watersports.

You can sign up for lessons or grab a SUP or surfboard rental from their store 'Omaha Surf & Supply’ by the Omaha estuary, where you can also shop for a hand picked selection of surfboards, wetsuits and swim- and beach wear from favourite brands such as Billabong, O'Neill, TCSS and more. And why not complete the experience by booking a stay in one of their tepees? Surrounded by pine and native trees, Tepee's setting invites you to unwind, unplug and re-connect with nature. A perfect finish to a fun day on the water! www.BlueAdventures.co.nz | www.OmahSurfSupply.co.nz | www.Tepee.co.nz

Martins Bay Holiday Park

Located on the edge of the ocean, with Kawau Island and the sparkling Hauraki Gulf at your doorstep, this picturesque holiday spot is nestled into a sheltered bay next to Scandrett Regional Park. There is plenty to keep you occupied here, including kayak and paddle board hire, fishing, bushwalking, children’s play areas and a safe swimming beach with a floating pontoon. Join in some of the holiday activities run by the park or just dig your toes in the sand and relax. An all-tide boat ramp and a fully secure boat parking area are available.

www.MartinsBayHolidayPark.co.nz | 0800 624 7275

Mangawhai Chalets

Step into a world of retreat, comfort and relaxation. Offering unique boutique “chalet style” accommodation in Magical Mangawhai. With three lovely chalets that offer you a wonderful space to relax and refresh. Set in a tranquil garden setting, each chalet is delightfully furnished with superb linen, and tea and coffee making in the room. Close to Magical Mangawhai beach and estuary, the local shops, bars, restaurants and across the road from the golf course.

A guest kitchen/dining chalet so you can be self-catering if needed and they are pet friendly. Worth a stay! 09 431 5029 | 252 Molesworth Dr, Mangawhai Heads

SUMMER MUST DO'S

Summer at Parohe Island Retreat, Kawau New beach cabins for 2023

Discover the much acclaimed new Parohe Island Retreat on Kawau Island, just 20 minutes from Sandspit marina. The island features eco chic cabins with luxury linens and amenities, a candle lit dining area, yoga platforms thoughtfully nestled in the bush, a pool, outdoor baths and sauna, water activities including kayaks, fishing and more. Signature wellness retreats of 2, 3 and 4 days are created to inspire and rejuvenate guests with extensive inclusions and outstanding plant based cuisine. Bespoke retreats focus on couples, Hot Yoga, nutrition, art, cuisine and more. Why not try our popular two night Signature ‘Relax Retreat’ designed to improve overall wellbeing, decompress and unwind in the serenity of nature. A great way to enjoy summer on the island. The retreat includes daily yoga classes, meditation workshop, wellness facilities, land and water activities, hiking trails and plant based meals. For more details contact: gm@Parohe.co.nz | www.Parohe.co.nz

Shannen Frear | Photos Dominey Flores

We live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world, white sandy beaches, pristine coastlines, green rolling hills, clear water and native wildlife. Explore, run free, and adventure in the summer of 23. Here Junction shares some recommended tour companies, great walking tracks, a few favourite things to do in the area, groovy tunes and, of course, those picturesque photo spots.

Tour companies:

Kiwiness Tours: choose between a Matakana wine tour, an evening kiwi walk, an oyster, wine and chocolate tour or your very own custom adventure. Escape the city for a day of wining, dining, company, and sightseeing. Enjoy a laidback experience touring a blissful location.

Open Road Motorcycle Tours: they’re slightly different from the usual tour offering, explore the untouched back-roads of New Zealand, where the traffic is light, the scenery breathtaking and the road is just for you.

Matakana Tours: offering corporate outings as well as day tours, Matakana Tours can customise the perfect itinerary to create a memorable and authentic day for you.

Great local walking tracks:

• Mangawhai Clifftop

• Kowhai Park

• Matheson Bay Bush Track

• Leigh Coastal Path

• Dome Valley Summit Track

• Piroa Falls

Things to do:

• The last Saturday at Brookelane vineyard, Mangawhai

• Sculpture trail at the Sculptureum

• Hire an e-bike from Coastal E-Bikes

• A ladies’ day out exploring the Mat akana wineries

• Visit a local museum

• Visit roadside stalls for fresh produce and flowers

• Grab an ice cream at Charlies Gelato Garden

• Matakana cycle trail

• Snorkelling at Goat Island

• Waipu glow worm caves

• Support our local cafés and stores

Kiwi classic tunes:

• Roady, Fat Freddy’s Drop

• So True, The Black Seeds

• Always On My Mind, Tiki Taane

• Love Your Ways, Salmonella Dub

• Dreams In My Head, Anika Moa

• Vibes, Six60

Photo spots:

• Clifftop walk in Mangawhai

• Top of Matakana Valley Road

• View of the Mahurangi from Scotts Landing

• Coming into Leigh on Pakiri Road

• Mermaid pool at Te Arai

You truly can’t beat the feeling of cruising around on your wildest adventure. It's a time when our towns are buzzing, our beaches are busy and our people are happy. Whether you are a local exploring your home or a tourist soaking up all that the area has on offer, you may be a daytime discoverer or a getaway enthusiast, possibly a top tent camper or a hotel stayer, a pack-up-the-mini cooper kind of person or a take-the-jeep traveller. Whatever way you prefer to explore, New Zealand never disappoints. So where are you road-tripping to this summer?

Learn to surf with Aotearoa Surf this summer

BEGINNER: How to turtle roll

1. Walk out into chest-deep water and hop on your board and begin paddling towards a small broken or about-to-br eak wave.

2. About two metres before the wave is going to hit you, grab the rails (side of the board) next to your chest, take a big breath and turn yourself and the board upside down! Always ensure your board is perpendicular to the wave to avoid it dragging you along.

3. Underwater, leave some space between yourself and the board and just relax and wait for the wave to pass over you.

4. To get back onto the board, push the surfboard onto its edge and push rail (side of the board) into the water, underneath your body and pull yourself up onto the board.

INTERMEDIATE: How to catch the perfect wave

1. Sit in the best possible positionensure to sit just before where the waves are ‘peaking’ to get the best possible ride, giving you the perfect ability to paddle into position when a set is coming.

2. Try to take off on the highest possible part of the wave to get the longest possible ride. Sitting too far to the left or right might mean a much shorter ride.

3. Look out to the ocean for the best possible wave of the set. This isn’t always the first but often the second or third wave.

4. Always reference a marker on the beach such as a tree or building to ensure you aren’t drifting with the current away from your in itial position.

ADVANCED: Learn to generate speed

1. We use the compressing and extending method here. Begin by surfing in an ‘S’ pattern along the face of the wave.

2. As your board moves towards the top of the wave, straighten your knees (extension) and throw your arms forward in the direction you want to go.

3. As your board moves back down towards the bottom of the wave, bend your knees and compress your chest toward your front knee (compression).

4. Continue with this pattern until you can feel yourself moving along at a slightly faster pace!

Escape to a world of creative wonder!

A fair to remember

Coming to Mangawhai Domain for the first time this summer, it’s family entertainment on a grand scale!

The Extravaganza Fair travels the country, visiting over 32 towns and cities between September and April to bring grassroots entertainment to the people of Aotearoa. There are unique and interesting market stalls, arts and crafts, food, musical entertainment, the Ashton Family Circus, Dylan Daisy's Magic Show, Jeremy Penguin the juggler, LuckyStar from festivals such as Splore & Shipwrecked, unique to NZ tiny homes, kids shows and games. With retroinspired sunshade lounges and hang-out zones, it’s easy to stay all day.

The fair is 100 percent solar-powered by the fire engine stage, which has solar panels on the roof and powers three stages, as well as some of the other businesses. And each mobile home powers itself.

It is a sustainable event and has banned all one-use plastic bags and plastic bottles. Instead it offers recycled canned drinks, freshly-made drinks in bio cups, and if you bring your own reusable water bottle there is a fill-up water station. Entry is free for kids, with a gold coin donation from adults to go towards props, couches, sunshades, toys, and trucks that carry the gear. They also donate to Trees that Count to offset their carbon emissions.

Now in their eighth year, they will be arriving in Mangawhai for the long weekend at the end of January.

9am-5pm, 28-30 January 2023. www.Extravaganza.co.nz www.instagram.com/The_Extravaganza_Fair

manager@omahaholidayhouses.co.nz www.omahaholidayhouses.co.nz

Locally owned and operated, Omaha Holiday Houses specialises in property management and short-term rental accommodation for Omaha and its surrounds. From booking reservations to property maintenance, OHH provides unparalleled service and results for its holiday home owners and guests.

Shaping up to be Sandsational

Grab a bucket and spade and head to Mangawhai this summer for a sand sculpting event that everyone will enjoy.

Now in its third year, Sandsational 2023 is shaping up to be bigger and better than the previous two events, with even more activities planned. Tickets will be available online from early January, from selected local businesses and from Mangawhai Rotary members, and they are expecting big crowds for this unique event.

To help with parking, once again Kaipara District Council have come to the rescue and will provide a free shuttle bus service to allow people to find a park further afield and catch regular buses running from

the Mangawhai Domain to the surf beach a nd back.

As well as some impressive sand sculptures, other events include fancy dress dog and owner competition, drop the golf ball, tug of war, buried treasure, and face painting. There will be a BBQ as well as ice cream and soft drinks available.

Once again, the event will be managed by both the main sponsor, The Real Team Real Estate (Mangawhai) and Mangawhai Rotary, with all profits from the event being donated to charitable organisations, several of which

are being considered. As with previous events, the 2023 one will be entirely notfor-profit.

Last year’s Sandsational had some amazing sponsors and once again they are seeking sponsorship for competition prizes for this year, so if you would like to be involved as a key business sponsor, please contact them via email.

10am-4pm, Sunday 5 February.

Mangawhai.Rotary@gmail.com

Mangawhai Heads Surf Beach

Located on a six-hectare block of regenerating native bush, and overlooking the beautiful Hauraki Gulf, Little Barrier and Coromandel, Ti Point Reptile Park is both educational and entertaining.

Founded by the late Ivan Borich, it is home to native and exotic reptiles, including skinks and geckos, alligators, tuatara, iguanas, lace monitors, many species of tortoises, terrapins, amphibians and, the not-so reptilian tarantula spiders.

Many of the animals have been bred at the park, including the green iguanas which were the first to be bred in New Zealan d. Now there is a spectacular group o n display.

Ivan's final construction project was his largest – a 1,000sqm polyhouse to accommodate viewing all year round; this enables the Park to replicate the natural temperature and habitat of the animals. The enclosures are situated in easy walking distance from each other, following a beautiful trail through the native bush.

The Reptile Park is a fantastic destination for people of all ages, birthday parties and school groups. Take a picnic – tables are available around the park grounds and you can stay all day if you wish.

www.ReptilePark.co.nz | 09 422 6021

Printed & local

Styling Nikita Oliver Metcalfe

HYBRID, PLUG - IN HYBRID OR 100% ELECTRIC

The Electrified Evolution. It’s on.

We’re constantly driving towards a future that uses electric technology to encourage sustainability. That’s why for two decades, Lexus has been pioneering, reimagining, and delivering electrified vehicles that are sustainable, yet every bit as exhilarating.

Our electrified vehicles are among the quietest in the market. Coupled with incredible manoeuvrability, they are simply a pleasure to drive and thanks to our innovative technology, our electrified vehicles have excellent range — perfect for the city and beyond.

The world is changing, and people are making greener choices — with Lexus leading the charge.

Our electrified vehicles emit significantly less h armful carbon int o the air. And with less or

o fuel re quired, you will be a ble to e njoy

ubstantial savings between ou r range of Lexus vehicles. See t he table below for the differences between vehicle s To experience the electrified range for yourself, contact Lexus of North Shore and schedule a test drive. Arriving soon, the RX 500h F SPORT Performance with a new advanced 2.4-litre turbocharged hybrid powertrain

SOME THINGS EVER CHANGE

Power Source

Charging

For an optimised experience, our hybrid electric vehicles utilise a high-output battery coupled with a robust engine.

Our hybrid electric vehicles are equipped to charge on the go, without the need to stop and plug in to an external power source.

Electricity is the primary power source, with the convenience of a petrol engine when needed, for unparalleled flexibility and range.

Recharge the battery using an external power source. When the engine is in use, the system is also activated to refill the battery.

At the core lies the electrical trinity — a motor, battery, and power control unit. They seamlessly power the vehicle without fuel.

Compatible with an AC Type 2 charger. For a quicker charging experience plug into a DC charging station.

Driving

Braking

With two energy sources, these vehicles deliver power and efficiency. The system monitors driving conditions to coordinate both sources when required.

The hybrid battery is always charging — even whilst braking.

The regenerative braking system converts kinetic energy into electrical power, which is then routed to the battery to charge.

When the battery depletes, the system switches to petrol. Or select HV mode to use both the motor and engine for maximum power and efficiency.

Hybrid electric technology means when you slow down, regenerative braking recovers and diverts energy back to the battery. This makes Lexus a prime choice for energy efficiency.

Experience the exhilaration of instant torque and linear acceleration, and the joy of a drive that combines power with ultimate serenity.

Our electric vehicle’s regenerate braking technology ensures maximum efficiency by converting kinetic energy from the braking process to electrical power that recharges the battery.

Sarong season

The humble sarong has long been a staple for beach days and it's time for it to shine once again. Here’s how to tie yours to make a statement and get the most out of this versatile piece; plus a selection of beautiful sarongs you can get your hands on locally.

Styling Nikita Oliver Metcalfe

1. Knotted Skirt 2. Halter Dress

Drape sarong behind your waist and wrap high around one hip. Tie in a knot slightly lower at the other hip, creating a flattering diagonal line at your waist and a lovely feature knot.

Drape sarong behind your back and bring two ends up and under your arms. Cross at your chest and tie a knot behind your neck to show off those shoulders in strapless togs.

3. Handkerchief Top

Fold sarong in half creating a square then in half diagonally to make a triangle. Fold or roll the longest side until you reach desired length, then tie in a knot at the back for a relaxed look with

4. Strapless Dress 5. Shawl/Cape

Wrap sarong behind your back and hold out the top two corners together in front of you. Holding the two corners in one hand pull down using the other hand as close to your chest as possible. Wrap the ends around and through to knot at the front.

Fold sarong in half creating a square and drape over your shoulders. Tie the two ends on each side together creating arm holes for a lovely draping shawl that isn’t limited to the beach.

Raise your glass

Whether you’re enjoying a staycation, heading to the family bach, camping with mates or travelling further afield these holidays, there’s always a reason to celebrate. Whatever your refreshment preferences may be, mix things up and find your signature drink for those long summer evenings.

Words Nikita Oliver Metcalfe | Photo Christina Schmidt

Sangria

In a pitcher combine:

• 1 bottle of Herons Flight Dolcetto

• 1 cup of orange juice

• 1 cup of brandy

• 1⁄2 cup of sugar

• 1 cup of oob organic mixed berries

Stir well and let chill in the fridge for at least two hours. Serve over ice and garnish with a mixed berry skewer.

Strawberry Basil Gimlet

In a pitcher combine:

• 1⁄2 cup of Matakana Gin

• 1⁄4 cup of fresh lime juice

• 1⁄4 cup of strawberry syrup

• 1 handful of fresh basil leaves

Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a strawberry and a basil leaf.

Passionfruit and Pineapple Spritzer

In a pitcher combine:

• 2 tbsp of passionfruit pulp

• 1 litre of pineapple juice

• 3 cups of sparkling water

• 1⁄2 cup of chopped fresh mint leaves

Mix well and serve over ice with mint leaves to garnish.

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

Blueberry Mojito

In a pitcher combine:

• 1⁄2 cup of Bacardi White Rum

• 1⁄4 cup of lime juice

• 1⁄4 cup oob organic fresh blueberries

• 1 handful of fresh mint leaves

• 2 teaspoons of sugar

Muddle ingredients together, breaking up the blueberries and crushing the mint leaves. Pour into a glass filled with ice and top with 2 tablespoons of soda water. Garnish with blueberries, a mint sprig and a slice of lime.

Watermelon Margarita

In a pitcher combine:

• 1⁄2 cup of El Jimador Reposado Tequila

• 1⁄4 cup of fresh lime juice

• 1⁄4 cup of fresh blended watermelon juice

• 1 handful of fresh mint leaves

Shake well and strain into a salt-rimmed glass filled with ice. Garnish with a watermelon wedge and a mint sprig.

Raspberry Lime Rickey

In a pitcher combine:

• 1 cup of fresh lime juice

• 1 cup of oob organic raspberries

• 1 cup of sparkling water

Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a slice of lime and a raspberry.

Strawberry White Wine Spritzer

In a pitcher combine:

• 1 bottle of Brooke Lane Cheeky Charlie Pinot Gris

• 1⁄2 cup of sliced strawberries

• 1⁄4 cup of fresh mint leaves

• 2 cups of sparkling water or soda water

Stir well and serve over ice. Garnish with strawberries and a mint sprig.

Set in the heart of Mangawhai village, The Dune Restaurant and Bar is ‘the spot’ for locals and holiday makers to enjoy a relaxed brunch at the weekends and dinner every night of the week. We offer our customers the true essence of Northland with a relaxed coastal vibe. Our head chef designs the menu around fresh local ingredients to provide an array of enticing options including sharing plates, an assortment of smoked meats and wood fired Pizzas. Our mantra is eat local, drink local in the winterless North.

40 Moir St, Mangawhai www.dunemangawhai.co.nz

The coffee you deserve

Keeping it on ice cream

Imagine hosting a party this summer and offering your guests a beer or cider, only to hand over a glass of ice cream. Now wouldn’t that be sweet as!

www.BohemianCider.co.nz | www.McleodsBrewery.co.nz

Bohemian Twig and Berries Sorbet

INGREDIENTS

• 6 cups fresh raspberries

• 1t lemon juice

• 1 cup Bohemian Twig and Berries Cider

Sugar Syrup (see below)

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup sugar

METHOD

Place the raspberries and lemon juice in a food processor and puree until smooth, then pour through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl, pressing on the solids to extract the raspberry puree. Discard the seeds.

Whisk the chilled simple syrup (see below) into the raspberry puree. Put mixture in fridge to chill.

Pour the cider into a medium saucepan and place over medium heat. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat slightly, and boil for one minute. Watch the pan carefully so it doesn’t boil over. Remove from the heat and let cool.

Gently whisk the cider into the raspberry mixture. Process in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions. If you do not have an ice cream maker, place in the freezer. Every 30 minutes remove the sorbet to stir and smash up with a fork. After each time of doing this, try to smooth and level out the sorbet as best as possible.

Sugar Syrup:

Combine the water and sugar in a medium saucepan over a medium heat.

Bring to the boil, whisking often to dissolve sugar.

Reduce heat to low and simmer for 4 minutes, ensure all sugar is dissolved.

Remove from heat and let cool and chill.

McLeods Porter & Coconut Ice Cream

INGREDIENTS

• 5 egg yolks

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 cup coconut milk

• 3/4 cup cream

• 280ml McLeods Pioneer Brown Porter

METHOD

In a medium-sized saucepan combine coconut milk, cream and beer. Cook over a low heat until hot – do not boil.

In another bowl whisk egg yolks and sugar together until thick.

While whisking the egg mixture constantly, slowly add a few scoops of the hot liquid.

Once the egg yolk is warm, whisk in the remaining egg yolk mixture into the pot with the remaining coconut milk, cream, and beer.

Turn the heat to medium and stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the mixture is thick and coats the back of the spoon.

Using a strainer transfer to a bowl. Refrigerate until cool. Give the ice cream one last mix, then place in the freezer until hard.

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.

Improving with age

Well known for making its mark in the craft brewing industry, 8 Wired is setting its sights on distilling with the release of its first Triple Aged Single Malt Whisky.

Words Nikita Oliver Metcalfe

Søren Eriksen and his wife, Monique Eriksen, have been growing 8 Wired, established in Blenheim in 2009, from their brewery in Warkworth since 2014, and barrelworks in Matakana since 2019. With a masters in biochemistry under his belt and a passion for home-brewing and distilling, this Danish force along with his Kiwi partner are celebrating 8 Wired’s 13th year with a new venture in to whisky.

Søren has always been a keen home-distiller, a hobby he managed to find time to continue even while setting up a successful brewery. Not one to shy away from a challenge, he embarked on a passion project which has been in the works since 2016. “Whisky is a special thing because it takes so long to make,” Søren says. And now it’s time to enjoy the result of what is still a rare find, traditional whisky produced in New Zealand. Despite there being few legal guidelines around whisky production in New Zealand, Søren and Monique knew from the beginning they wanted to produce a whisky that was true to the traditional process of the spirit. This meant following Scottish laws which require a whisky to be aged for at least three years and, in order to be classified as single malt, must be produced at one distillery. After three years of ageing, annual tastings determine when the whisky has reached its best, and now here we are six years later.

8 Wired Whisky is unique due to the approach taken in production, which is more similar to beer production than is usual for whisky. Soren says the process is “not all that different to producing beer because the base product of

architecture, urban design, interiors

whisky is basically distilled beer”, made from barley and fermented with yeast.

Rather than using the traditional distilling malt for whisky, which is pale, Søren prefers to use a porter-style dark beer for the original wash, infusing chocolate and roasted coffee notes into 8 Wired Whiskey. During the triple ageing process the whiskey spends time in three barrels, two of which were previously used for stout beer. The residue from the beer combined with the charred oak inside the barrels gives the whisky its darker colour.

The entire vintage is 700 bottles and will be sold by the bottle at the barrelworks a nd online.

You can also stop by the barrelworks to enjoy 8 Wired Whisky by the glass.

56 Matakana Valley Rd | www.8Wired.co.nz

How to serve:

8 Wired Whisky is cask strength at 56% due to not being watered down in the distilling process, so it is best enjoyed:

• With one single small ice cube.

OR

• With a few drops of water added, as per Scottish tradition. The idea is not to make the whisky cold or to dilute it, but to infuse a little bit of water to open it up and experience the full flavour.

Orient in Mangawhai

bring No.8 to Mangawhai, Lloyd and Mike have finally transformed half of the Dune into an oasis of the Orient.

Having owned the Cove now for over eight years and the Whangarei town basin restaurants The Quay, No.8 and Loco for the last six years or so, it was time for their next venture and they couldn’t think of a better place than magical Mangawhai. No need to panic Dune lovers, as the Dune is still there serving wonderful slow-cooked meats from the smoker and pizzas from the wood-fired pizza oven, but the café side has been transformed into No.8. Lloyd and Mike made the decision this year and worked with the team at No.8 Mangawhai to create a unique dining experience which they are proud to deliver. Starting with the ambient interior, the moment you walk in you are taken on a journey, which is enhanced further when you view t he menu.

The head chef has created a modern Asian-influenced menu, which ensures there is something to tantalize every palate. Diners are encouraged to combine their choices, with plate-sharing recommended. The bar staff have diligently created cocktails which will match beautifully with the wonderful food that is offered. However if cocktails aren’t your thing, then one of their crafty beers or cheeky wines will be sure to hit the spot. So join the team at No.8 on a tour of the Orient and immerse yourself in the various cuisines that the region has to offer. From the Tuk Tuks of Thailand to the clippers of Hong Kong, from the sunsets of Vietnam to the crescent moons of India; leave Mangawhai behind and feast on the continent of Asia. www.instagram.com/No8Mangawhai | www.No8Mangawhai.co.nz

LOCAL BEER & CIDER

McLeod's Brewery

PARADISE Pale Ale, one of their flagship beers. Judged New Zealand’s best PALE ALE at the 2022 New Zealand Brewers Guild Awards.

An international-style Pale Ale, hoppy with a smooth malty sweetness and balanced bitterness. We use a blend of New Zealand and Australian hops to create a tropical fruit bowl of flavour and aromas.

Order online and expect a taste of PARADISE in every can. Enjoy! www.McLeodsBrewery.co.nz

Honouring the bohemian settlers of Puhoi

There’s something about the village of Puhoi. As you turn off New Zealand’s main highway you can’t help but take a big breath before heading through a winding road and emerging in a place where time forgot.

No wonder the bohemians who arrived 150 years ago felt at home. Mind you, the bush clad land they found wasn’t easy. And it sure wasn’t the beautiful farmland and pastures it is today.

So, Puhoi Beer celebrate their hard work, pioneering spirit, their sense of community, their sense of fun and their hard-earned thirsts by making a crisp, refreshing pilsner beer from the old country that rewards and celebrates that.

Puhoi Beer. Settle in. www.PuhoiBeer.co.nz | www.instagram.com/PuhoiBeer

Bohemian Cider

Cider is the perfect summer drink and Bohemian Cider is the regions only Craft Cider maker. With locally-inspired flavours, Bohemian dry Ciders offer a low carb, lower alcohol alternative.

From the citrusy Acid Drop to the English-style Original Cyn, there’s a flavour for everyone. Available at the various local outlets or pair a cold glass with your favourite dinner out.

Always on taste at Matakana Village Farmers' Market or shop the online store (opening soon) for free local delivery and special offers.

www.BohemianCider.co.nz | 021 880 864

8 Wired Brewing Barrelworks

The home of 8 Wired’s award-winning beers and great company. With 20 taps, a selection of cocktails, non-alcoholics and even 8 Wired’s own whisky you’ll be sure to find something you love while being treated to delicious casual food from the onsite Sculptureum kitchen.

Running twice in January (Friday 13 and 27 January), the sellout Comedy Night with Alan McElroy is a show-stopping night to catch up with friends.

Saturday 14 January hosts a fun-filled weekend for the whole family, bringing a Texan Rodeo with live music, a mechanical bull and USA-themed food. www.instagram.com/8WiredBarrelworks | www.8Wired.co.nz

A roasting hot summer with all the trimmings

David and Carol Kite fell in love with Mangawhai some 20 years ago and made it their home not too long after that. With a passion to get back into hospitality, they are opening Buffalos Roast House.

For lovers of a good hearty roast with all the trimmings, Buffalos Roast House will be a welcome addition to Wood Street eateries. Dine alfresco in the courtyard or pick up and takeaway. ‘Buffalos and Buffalettes’ are looking forward to welcoming you and aim to bring you traditional and gourmet roast meals, salads, desserts and more. Whatever the occasion, it will always be the right time to drop into Buffalos and grab yourself a delicious feast for one, or a dinner for the whole family.

Buffalos would love you to pre-order when you can, which will allow you to order what you want online via the Bopple App so

it’s ready when you arrive at Wood Street to collect.

As well as owning a café in Takapuna years ago, both Carol and David have corporate backgrounds, with Carol’s in customer service and, until recently, as owner of Mangawhai's Inspire By Design boutique. David’s background ranges from IT and software, business and marketing and film and TV production. With a culmination of all these skills Carol and David are now putting all efforts into the creation of Buffalos.

As well as serving customers in the restaurant they’ll also be offering catering

pick-up services to provide traditional and gourmet roasts, roasted vegetables and seasonal salads, desserts and refreshments to events and special gatherings such as birthdays and celebrations.

“We’re excited to be providing a service that the locals have wanted for so long. With a bumper summer in store and campers and visitors returning to our beaches, what better way of showcasing our hospitality,” says David. “Keep a look out for the Buffalos' red and white mini cooper driving around magical Mangawhai.”

www.Buffalos.co.nz

Taste of summer Northland style

Classic juniper with a twist, lemon, liquorice, botanicals and sweet sweet citrus. These are some of the flavours that Brookelane are tickling your taste buds with this summer.

Words Shannen Frear

Ray and Nicky, who live on a beautiful vineyard in the valley of magical Mangawhai, had been visiting the area for years before making it their home sweet home. They bought the six-and-a-half acre property five years ago with the intention of buying a motorhome and adventuring through Aotearoa, however the vines and grapes that came with the land had other plans – there was wine waiting to be vinified and gin ready to quench their thirst. And so, after settling down at Brookelane, the couple were encouraged by experienced wine-makers in Kerikeri to make the most of what the property had to offer. Now they produce a divine pinot, rosé and chardonnay that sells out every year. And whilst their wine

business continues to grow, their sights are set on something new and exciting.

"Whilst on holiday in Melbourne, Nicky and Ray visited Four Pillars Gin Distillery, and the inspiration began to flow." They felt the experience was just “magnificent”, and with an already burgeoning love for gin as well as the resources on hand ready to succeed, the couple thought “why not, if they can do it so can we”, says Nicky. So from there, aspirations began to flourish as they started to work on bringing their very own gin to the market alongside their tasty wines. The pair purchased two copper stills and have been making, trialling, tasting and testing ever since.

Inspired by their pet tui who flutters around the property daily, Tui Tui Gin w as born.

In order to provide a space for tastings, a concrete water tank has been converted at their winery where people are able to experience the flavour of a true New Zealandmade gin, with a “good ol’ Northland twist”.

Nicky and Ray are looking forward to welcoming you to their vineyard to taste their new creations and seasonal flavours. “People leave with a real appreciation of what is possible when you drink a nice gin, so see you in the summer”, says Nicky.

www.BrookelaneVineyard.com 021 545 299

Monday to Sunday 10am - 5pm • Labour Weekend to Easter (Summer hours) 52 Brooke Lane, Mangawhai. 5km down King Road. www.brookelanevineyard.com • Phone 021 545 299

This architectural contemporary home has to be one of Takatu Ridge’s best kept secrets. Graced with specimen trees and a secret garden, parklike grounds make way to this board and batten home. Light-filled and airy, the thoughtful layout is evident with a considered kitchen anchoring the living spaces, offering a majestic vista and an everchanging outlook. Stealing the show is Little Barrier - our vendors tell us of a late afternoon on a fine day she reveals her cliffs and valleys. Designed for effortless family living, there’s a self-contained guest wing, and practicalities such as storage and garaging are abundant, including a utilities barn and loft. A true home to create

Leigh Eats - quality grilled and fried goods

Most Popular: Fish Burger & Staff Pick: Timmy’s Special Chicken Burger. Traditional fish and chips at their absolute best. Leigh Eats provides locally-sourced, delicious food for all. Now open 7 days, 8am-8pm. Order in store or call now! 09 422 6035 | www.instagram.com/LeighEats

Gourmet Burger Co

Free-range beef, bacon, smoked cheddar, jalapenos, sriracha mayo, onion rings, egg, pickles and onions. It's a saucy and satisfying feast! 027 232 6287 | 7 Neville St, Warkworth

Smoked Beef Brisket Burger

The Tahi Bar’s own tender, house-smoked beef brisket with sweet pickle, fresh tomatoes, horseradish cream and crunchy coleslaw. 1 Neville St, Warkworth www.TheTahiBar.co.nz

A

Matakana Bacon Company

When the company making the burger makes the best bacon in New Zealand, you know that you’re onto a winner! Matakana Bacon now has a range of beef and bacon burgers starting with a 120g beef pattie, bacon and trimmings of your choice. Open every day 7.30am-7.00pm throughout the summer holidays.

Big Green Shed, 2 Matakana Valley Rd | www.MatakanaBacon.co.nz

MEAN BRGR

BOB - Brioche, Jamaican jerk marinated, deep fried free range chicken thigh, slaw, MEAN rum’n’bacon jam, lime’n’thyme sauce.

THE FACEPLANT - Brioche, double hickory smoke infused beef, double cheese, ketchup, mustard, pickles, MEAN rum’n’bacon jam, crispy shallots. 6 Wood St, Mangawhai Heads | www.Mean-Brgr.co.nz

Nebalicas

Burger of the month changes monthly along with their regular beef, chicken, pulled pork or falafel burgers. Located in The Grange Warkworth behind BP. 09 394 3450

Simple, fresh and family friendly

Jason van Dorsten has a background in restaurants having owned several in Auckland, the most well-known being Cafe Hanoi, and Saan in Ponsonby. After selling up, taking some time off and then moving to Warkworth to start a family with partner Emma London some years ago, he was soon ready to get back to hospitality. With Emma’s background in cafés, they took over Whanga Eats in October having seen the huge potential for the site, and with a view to continuing to build on the ‘grub hub’.

They have hit the ground running providing fresh, home-cooked food made on site, which Jason describes as “good, simple, honest fare”. Toastie delights including the smashed avocado favourite, or grab a big breakfast, sweet baking, and coffees galore to get your day started. It is a child and dog-friendly venue with a fullyfenced outside area and playground to keep everyone safe and happy.

Jason is hoping to secure a liquor licence in the future and extend opening hours into the evenings, but in the meantime, they are open 7am-2pm Wednesday to Saturday and 8am-2pm Sunday and you’ll find them at 1199 Matakana Valley Road, Whangaripo.

www.WhangaEats.co.nz www.instagram.com/WhangEats

Christmas is over, roll-on New Year 2023 celebrations

Have you got that favourite piece for the beach... let’s get this holiday started! We’ve got some light summery linens and oh so cheeky Freedom Moses slides, 100% vegan, 100% cruelty free, the best thing for the beach this season. Support local this Summer at Dimity. We can’t wait to welcome you instore and find us online too!

Open 7 Days

The Hub, Unit 4/6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai www.dimity.co.nz dimityboutiquemangawhai

Words Emily Pattullo

Gardening calendar

January is a month to immerse yourself in the joys of the harvest. Many of the crops you have planted in spring and lovingly tended will be ready to pick. Keep up the watering, pick off bugs, remove dead leaves and enjoy those long days of summer. What a fabulous time of year to be a gardener.

Subtropical Herbs

A few subtropical herbs planted in and around the garden can give your kitchen table a valuable flavour kick. Herbs like lemongrass, Vietnamese mint and coriander will grow in most gardens. Add kaffir lime leaves into the mix and you will have a full suite of flavours at your fingertips.

Lemongrass is a fragrant grass originating from Asia which is widely used in Asian cooking and to make fragrant teas. It will grow in a vigorous clump and likes a warm spot. Water well and feed with a dressing of good compost or rotted manure. It will die back in winter, but if you trim it in early spring it will resume growth. Lemongrass can also be grown in a large pot in a standard potting mix.

Vietnamese mint is a herb widely used in Asian cooking, whose flavour includes hints of coriander, lime-leaf and green chilli. It is a vigorous grower and will spread on creeping stems in wet places. Choose your growing place with care as it can spread quickly. It is very hardy but will die back outside in winter.

Coriander, although not strictly a subtropical plant, is an easy-to-grow herb providing you get the basics right. Sow seed directly into compost-rich soil or potting mix. To keep a regular supply, plant small amounts of seed every 2 to 3 weeks. Coriander grows well in cooler months, but has a tendency to bolt in the heat of summer or when it dries out. Keep it well watered. The leaves, seeds and roots of coriander are all edible.

Kaffir lime leaves are highly aromatic and give an amazing flavour. A member of the citrus family, the Kaffir lime is well-suited to growing in a pot on a dwarf rootstock. Move the pot indoors to a sunporch or hothouse to keep it growing through winter. One of these little trees in your garden will give you the leaves you need all year round.

Plant

• Beans

• Beetroot

• Courgettes and cucumbers

• Greens (spinach, silverbeet, rocket, kale)

• Herbs (basil, parsley, chives, oregano, French tarragon)

• Spring onions

• Lettuces

• Pumpkins and squash

• Sweetcorn

• Tomatoes (big plants for a late crop)

Sow

• Beans (climbing and dwarf)

• Beetroot

• Carrots

• Cucumbers and courgettes

• Greens (Asian greens, silverbeet, rocket)

• Herbs (basil, parsley, chives, dill, oregano, sage)

• Lettuces and radicchio

• Radish

• Sweetcorn

• Turnips

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

Words Geoff Ledbrook

• Beans

• Beetroot

• Capsicums and chillies

• Courgettes and cucumbers

Fruit/vege of the month: tomatoes

Having a bowl of sun-ripened tomatoes on your kitchen bench is a just reward for the work you have done so far to stake, pinch out laterals, prune dead leaves, fertilise and water your tomato plants. With the warmth of summer, keep up the regular watering and top up soil fertility levels with an application of compost or liquid fertilisers to the soil. A fertiliser mix with good levels of potassium will encourage fruiting.

How to harvest tomatoes

Along with tomatoes, beans, capsicums, cucumbers, courgettes, eggplants and sweetcorn will be ready now. They will continue producing in the coming months. If you planted garlic it can be harvested and dried for storage. Potatoes and onions will start to be ready depending on the variety. Both these crops will keep in your garden bed and can be harvested progressively as you need them. Keep an eye on the weather though as overly wet soils will encourage rot. If the tops of the potato plants have not died down you can always feel around for a few early potatoes to raid for the pot. Herbs including basil, dill, parsley, chives and oregano are producing as well.

Tomato Panzanella

INGREDIENTS

Croutons

• 1 loaf of bread

• 1/3 cup olive oil

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

3T red wine vinegar

3T balsamic vinegar

1/4 cup minced shallots 1/2t minced garlic

Salt and pepper

1 cup thinly sliced red onion

1kg cherry tomatoes halved 5 baby cucumbers halved 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Line baking tray with baking paper. Tear bread into large chunks, roughly 1½ inches. Place bread on baking tray and drizzle the olive oil and season with salt. Toss to combine. Bake for 10 minutes, until the bread starts to brown at the edges, but is still soft. Remove the bread from the oven and leave to cool.

In a small bowl combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, shallots, garlic, and salt and pepper, shake and stir until combined. Place the red onion, tomatoes, cucumbers and basil in a bowl. Pour vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently. Add the croutons and toss again until everything is well combined. Let salad sit for 10 minutes to allow the croutons to soak up the dressing, then serve.

Designer of the land

With good design, Carl believes he can greatly enhance resource security in regards to food, water and energy. He has seen a big uptick in the interest of productive landscapes in the last few years, with people beginning to recognise this kind of resilience is becoming a ‘must have’ as well as a pleasure to experience.

Food forests are often an integral part of Carl’s work, being well-suited to the subtropical climate in northern NZ. Most subtropical fruiting trees originate from forest environments and are very much at home in locales of high humidity plus low air movement, as well as close relationships with surrounding plants. The same can’t be said

of deciduous fruit trees which need airflow, pruning and often mounding in heavy clay to reduce the incidence of fungal disease. As a rule the two should be separated.

Fruit trees planted in subtropical food forests include casimiroa, cherimoya, avocado, macadamia, banana, inga bean, lucuma, guava, jackfruit, babaco, Japanese raisin tree, fig, pomegranate, sugarcane, mulberry and citrus. These are planted with nitrogen fixers like tagasaste, native broom, brush wattle, senna and silk trees. Biomass plants including tithonia, abysinnian bananas and whau are added, along with rongoa plants like koromiko, hangehange, harakeke, kumerahou and kawakawa. These nitrogen

fixers and biomass plants (once established) are periodically pruned to aid the growth of fruit trees by either releasing nitrogen to the surrounding soil, or by adding biomass for soil-building. Once the root systems of trees are well-established, chickens can begin to be incorporated periodically to scratch, forage and deposit their manure around the trees.

Carl and his team are using a technique to remove kikuyu grass (a pervasive rhizomatous grass that out-competes most other plants but hates shade) without the need for glyphosate herbicide. To do this, they lay a breathable weed mat over the ground and after five months the grass is

Carl Pickens is an award-winning landscape architect specialising in the design and installation of rural landscapes with an emphasis on beauty, ecology and permaculture.

gone – rhizomes are exhausted with few if any left alive. This significantly reduces maintenance in the future but the downside is planning must be done well in advance of planting (most projects take 8-12 months from design to practical completion). Once kikuyu is gone, Carl and his team can plant and stake unimpeded and sow herbal leys underneath (this might include red clover, phacelia, lupins and comfrey). There’s ample opportunity in the first few years for rambling crops like pumpkin to be planted underneath too. These opportunities reduce as time goes by and the trees grow.

For some people Carl works with, it’s all about food resilience and security, whereas for others, it’s about education and community, or giving back to the land. Carl and his team recently implemented a plant-out at Kelmarna City Farm to double their fruit-growing areas. Another Northland project will serve as a nature school for kids and an education centre for self-reliance.

Carl Pickens is a Landscape Architect with 20 years’ experience and a background in organic horticulture. Permaculture is just one notable string to his bow. For the full range of his work visit the website.

www.CarlPickens.co.nz www.instagram.com/Carl.Pickens.Landscapes

Seven food forest tips:

1. Engage a designer with experience in (preferably organic) horticulture.

2. Know your site (soil type, rainfall patterns, water sources, prevailing winds).

3. Lay breathable weed mat to remove kikuyu without using glyphosate.

4. Decide how much surplus fruit you want for sale, preserving or giving away.

5. Plan well in advance knowing it can take a year from design to planting.

6. Consider propagating your own plants to save on establishment cost.

7. Use thick layers of cardboard and mulch if you have only a small area of kikuyu.

We are in the perfect climate to grow beautiful subtropical fruit.

Carl has the ability to design a large scale landscape for you.

There is a way to remove kikuyu grass without glyphosate. We can take care of everything you need from design to planting.

From food forests to natives and pools to paving, we do it all.

Phone Carl Pickens 027 350 9868

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

- 027 444 9206

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. 027 449 2349 Caro@Wtm.co.nz

Mangawhai & Milford

Where exceptional quality lives

Our homes have become sanctuaries in a world filled with uncertainty. Houses are not just buildings; they are our haven and the place where we can be ourselves. Brackenridge Builders pride themselves on creating spaces of extreme quality, whether an entirely custom-new-house build, a high-end renovation, or a commercial property.

Words Kate Moore | Images Simon Wilson & Jamie Cobel

Brackenridge Builders have been a prominent construction company in the community since Steve Brackenridge moved to the area in the 80s. They have carved a niche within the jaw-dropping architectural structures around the enviable Omaha Beach. Although they know the coast exceptionally well, they operate all around the Rodney area and have also completed jobs on prominent North Shore Properties. A diversely talented team of 17 make up the company, with Tony Borich (Managing Director) at the helm. Having worked in the New Zealand construction industry for over 16 years, he also holds a degree in construction management and a postgraduate diploma in business. Tony understands that it is imperative to

employ reliable project managers and builders who respect the work, contain an encyclopaedic amount of knowledge and can juggle multiple jobs. Dane Waring (Construction Manager) and Alan Borich (Project Manager) fit the bill and have proven industry track records. Dane has ten years of experience under his (tool) belt. He has been physically on the tools and completed a Certificate of Carpentry, a Bachelor of Design and a Masters in Urban Planning. Alan has been in the building industry for over 20 years, accumulating a wealth of knowledge across various trades and is a trade-qualified plumber. This quality-driven team understands that any construction job is a big decision. If required, Brackenridge Builders will walk clients through every stage

and assist with maintaining the property in the future. "We tailor our approach to our clients", Tony explains. "Some owners want to be on-site daily, some pass over the keys and say we are off overseas; let us know when it's completed."

Being established in the industry for over 30 years means that Brackenridge Builders have formed valuable relationships with local subcontractors and product suppliers. "Once you find people that uphold the same standards as you, you hold on to them," Tony explains. The relationships with suppliers are also crucial, with supply issues documented throughout the industry. Being extremely organised and able to store products safely off-site allows clients a breath of relief to know that the product will be available when

required. This high level of thought is evident in every detail of a Brackenridge build. The number of customers that have returned to them repeatedly confirms an exceptional track record. Tony's advice for future clients is simple, "Bring us in at the beginning". The expertise and insider knowledge within the team means that they can work with you and your architect to produce a dwelling constructed by experienced people using premium products.

To view past projects, please view either the Brackenridge Builders website or search for Brackenridge Builders on the awe-inspiring website of ArchiPro. www.BrackenridgeBuilders.co.nz info@BrackenridgeBuilders.co.nz

A little slice of Haven

outdoor pool is heated between Labour weekend (October) through to Easter (April). Enjoy the outdoor fireplace whilst you relax and unwind in the landscaped garden with its elegant, trimmed hedges, which offer privacy and seclusion. Get competitive on the backyard golf putting green and help yourself to fresh herbs from the vegetable patch. The spacious garage has room for two cars, plus driveway and street parking if required.

Whether it's for relaxation, retreat or adventure, The Village Haven has everything on the doorstep. Nearby are many indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy – from snorkelling at Goat Island to visiting Action Matakana where there is target shooting, archery and obstacle courses.

Beautiful Omaha Beach is a six-minute drive away, and even closer is The Matakana Country Park with its great play area for kids and Sunday market. The Mount Tamahunga trail is a breathtaking walk overlooking Big Omaha high in the hills. Matakana River tours, Morris and James Pottery, Ti Point, Sculptureum, Tawharanui Regional Park are all worth a visit too.

Built in 2016 and thoughtfully designed by award-winning architects Dorrington Atcheson (DAA) alongside AMR developments, this home accommodating up to eight guests sits in a unique and beautiful setting. There are four lavish bedrooms, two ensuites, and the main bathroom where you can indulge in a bath by candlelight. The heated pool provides hours of fun, and evenings can be spent toasting marshmallows on the outdoor fireplace. A world away from the rush of everyday life, slow down and enjoy a holiday just a short stroll from the village.

Luxury begins as soon as you walk in the door. The light hallway welcomes you in with

its gorgeous parquet French oak floor. There are two comfortable living areas, one with a large TV and the other a gas fire for when it’s time to get cosy. The well-equipped kitchen with its beautiful marble bench top has all you need to cook up a storm.

The master bedroom has a king bed, an ensuite, and its own private deck area where you can sit out and enjoy your morning coffee. The other three bedrooms consist of two queens and a king room, one includes an ensuite. All rooms contain spacious wardrobes. Each bedroom feels cosy and comfortable, with beautiful Baksana towels, and all linen provided.

Outside there is more to enjoy. The stunning

The bustling and very popular Matakana Saturday village market is also worth seeing with the delicious local handmade and organic produce on offer. Not forgetting the magical Matakana cinemas for a rainy afternoon, and the cycle pathway from Matakana to Omaha and Point Wells. The list goes on and on!

There is an incredible selection of local cafés and eateries providing delicious food and drinks. Omaha Bay Vineyard and Matakana Estate are just two of the many local vineyards. Experience the best of Matakana at The Village Haven.

www.instagram.com/TheVillageHaven.Matakana 021 261 8013

ARA HILLS BY AVJENNINGS

Not many communities offer a sea and tree change. Ara Hills, located in breathtaking Orewa, does both. Bordered by the protected bushland of Nukumea Reserve and overlooking Hauraki Gulf, Ara Hills is close to Orewa Beach and the Hibiscus Coast.

With Stage one sold out, construction of the first homes is underway and the feature park is now complete, Ara Hills developed by AVJennings will eventually be home to approximately 2,000 people and will offer a range of beautiful homes designed to take advantage of the unique landscape. Welcome to visit the Sales and Information Centre located off Grand Drive, Orewa. 09 416 9590 | www.avjennings.co.nz

notioNZ also stocks a good range of Decoupage accessories.

Ann & Larry’s background is in confectionery so they will also be retailing some hand-made NZ confectionery products and will add their own made to these later in 2023.

As they upcycle all the furniture themselves at their farm base at Maungatapere, the store is open only set times so if you are making a special trip, you are best to refer to the website.

OPEN: Tuesday & Friday 9.30am-2.30pm | Saturday & Sunday 10am-1pm. Other times may be open if the flag out.

108 Victoria St, Dargaville | www.notionzupcycling.co.nz

Ann & Larry Johnstone have an ‘Upcycling Décor Store’ in Dargaville, selling upcycled furniture and new décor items. They source solid furniture and Ann uses her design skills to rebirth each piece...

Food, fire and friends

SYML is Welsh for simple and that is the constant goal that Mark reverts to whenever he creates something new, “The metal brazier is elegant and strong and will outlast generations,” he says. Currently his products all connect with the outdoors and are made locally in New Zealand, benefiting the community and protecting the environment. “We have to stop purchasing products that end up in a landfill,” he says.

Mark realised very quickly that in today’s society, many people haven’t cooked over a fire or used embers and charcoal to create flavour. So he now provides workshops on his property in Matakana that showcase his products and draw on his vast culinary knowledge from his background working in a Michelin Star restaurant. These intimate workshops (only 10-12 people at a time) last for around four hours and will allow patrons a

chance to jump in and give the slower-paced cooking a go. At only half a dozen workshops planned for the year, keep an eye out on the instagram page to snap one up; and in direct contrast to all that Mark embodies, you had better be quick!

The braziers are able to be viewed and purchased in Parnel at Outdoor Concepts. Other products on offer are hand-beaten frying pans, Habachi Japanese BBQs, and practical things such as unique bottle openers. The wish list is long and Mark has many other ideas in the pipeline to help connect his three loves, “food, fire and friends”, to the outdoors. In 2023 expect to see stunning outdoor lighting which is moving into production shortly. www.Syml.co.nz www.instagram.com/SymlNz

Words Kate Moore | Photos Peter Young

Awesome autumn arts

Creative Matakana (CM) 2023 workshops are now online. Heading into its sixth year, the week of art and craft classes each May is a much-anticipated fixture on the autumn calendar.

Words Kathy Hunter

CM2023 has a sustainable theme, with most courses having an eco-friendly, recycled or upcycled angle. As usual there are inspiring workshops on offer to excite your inner creative – and none require any pre vious experience.

Five-day courses are an excellent way to get a solid grounding in a new arts practice, or to take your existing experience to a whole new level. There’s still time within shorter courses (two to three days) to get into the nuts and bolts of a craft or artform, but if you can really only wangle a day off, the One-Day Wonders are a great educational day out with a delicious lunch included.

Tutors for the five-day classes this year include some award-winning Matakana

locals: Louise McRae teaching sculpture, Helene Carpenter with her broadly artsbased class (2023 includes cyanotype print), and Alysn Midgelow Marsden with seaweed-inspired textiles. There’s also foraged jewellery with Vaune Mason, nontoxic printmaking with Mark Graver, nature journaling with Jo Ogier, pastels with Maxine Thompson, and fabric printing and stitching with Marianne Hargreaves.

Shorter workshops (two to three days) include another lauded local, Liz Sharek, working with clay. Memoir writing returns with Maria de Jong and there’s traditional papermaking too, with Rob Kennedy. One-Day Wonders will see star florist Davina Prankerd back by popular demand, Ronja Schipper creating

recycled rubber jewellery (two half days), and Jasmax’s sustainability expert Jerome Partington talking ‘deep green’ architecture.

Finally, gardening guru Yotam Kay will help gardeners achieve bumper harvests with regenerative practises – there’s a daytime session with lunch included, or a shorter Friday evening session in Matakana Hall with drinks and nibbles.

Organisers say regular feedback they get from participants is not just about new skills learned, but about new friends made. Investing in the opportunity to learn a new creative skill often provides a clear space to talk and find common ground with others –which many seem to find almost as enriching as the art.

To this end, social options include a Sunday evening welcome event for those on five-day courses and short workshops, and a ticketed participants’ dinner at the Sawmill Brewery; a much-loved feature of the week. Participants often meet for drinks at local wine bar The Vintry after classes.

WIll 2023 be the year you explore a new creative skill? There’s not long to ponder your choices before booking opens on Monday 9 January. You can subscribe for email reminders on the Creative Matakana website, where you’ll also find more information about all classes.

www.CreativeMatakana.nz

Luxury country retreat

This is a forever home in countryside Mangawhai, turning heads for its sophistication and generous lifestyle.

Privately positioned on 1.1634 hectares, attractive gabion walls and secure gates set the tone and the owners' vision is apparent on arrival. This is a bold house, a statement-maker in board and batten, with gabled rooflines and raked ceilings, crafted for maximum space and views.

Matching the superior home is a large boatshed, with two-bedroom accommodation for extended family and friends where the style and detail holds strong. Landscaped gardens, outdoor living zones and an inground pool all relate to the contemporary theme - fastidiously mapped out to support those who love entertaining.

Constructed in 2020, you can sense the level of planning and energy to create this property masterpiece. Rooflines and expansive joinery hero the countryside vista;

exposed trusses and oak barn doors add to the rural character; polished concrete floors, a wood fireplace, and electric blinds add flair and convenience. An astute buyer will step into an enviable lifestyle, reaping the rewards of the hard work and design prowess at #34.

The kitchen is a standout for its modern appliances and large walk-in pantry. All four bedrooms are spacious with picturesque views, the master with walk-in-robe has a stunning ensuite. A well-appointed study and a media room add to the magic, as does 40sqm of attic space for storage.

Open-plan living seamlessly connects to a covered BBQ area with a fireplace and spa, leading on to that indulgent heated pool and cabana. A double garage (carpeted) with custom laundry completes the picture of a perfect home.

Back outdoors, the scene is a tropical oasis, with a focus on fun and exploration. From the rockery and formed pathways, to the sheep paddock, tree hut and filleting station, to a tapestry of native plantings - what an epic lifestyle.

Mangawhai is a 10/10 for boating, beaching and now country living too. Act quickly on this exclusive offering!

34 Waiotahi Drive, Mangawhai

Price by Negotiation www.bayleys.co.nz/1153026

Laureen Hayes 021 431 386

Letitia Partridge 027 274 8779

A home on a tiny footprint

Add your own stamp to Ruru Tiny Homes polished interiors for a lifestyle of luxury.

Their instagram-ready maisons will take your grid to the next level. Cocktails, canapés and a chilled rosé overlooking the vineyards, in a build that’s superior to the rest…. an entertainer’s dream!

No matter the location and view you choose, your whānau will be kept comfortable and, most importantly, healthy, all year round. Ruru homes value using NZ-made building materials, supporting local businesses and offering fair trade employment for the production of their homes. Built like a true mansion, on a tiny footprint. Lock up and leave. The jet setters among you know how important it is to be able to escape to a foreign location at a moment’s notice. Low maintenance is a key consideration of a build by Ruru. Flexibility is vital to live life to the fullest and Ruru Tiny Homes couldn’t agree more. Their durable yet aesthetic homes ensure a trouble-free, easy-care approach to life, all while being able to move should you want a change of scenery. Transport available between Cape Reinga - Stewart Island. www.rurutinyhomes.nz | hello@rurutinyhomes.nz 54 Green Lane, Motueka | Fertilizer Road (Port Whangarei), Whangarei

Life journeys through art

The desire to produce paintings for her upcoming book about ageing in partnership with creativity, triggered a year of wild activity for artist and poet Phillipa Reeve. Intensive study, followed by 40 weeks of full-time painting, and now a pop-up show. The Life Journeys series focuses on the journeys we take, both inside ourselves and out there in the world.

Why do you paint?

To explore myself, the world and the notion of possibility. To expand my awareness and gain insights into concepts, images and words I’ve unconsciously closed off, or taken as fixed. I paint to unleash or connect with a sense of something more. I aim to create something aesthetically pleasing, which adds energy and perhaps even functions as a spark or an opening for those who engage with it.

How do you get inspired?

In multiple ways. I have collections of ideas, phrases, colours and shapes, which have grabbed my attention at various times. One or a combination might function as a spark. A poem I’ve written might be a trigger. But, it is the call-response process of painting itself, mixed with music and movement, that provides the bulk of my inspiration. There is always music playing. I paint standing up so I can move, dance even. Each mark or colour inspires the next. My creations have layers and layers. Some become covered, or only peak through, but each informs the next. Each provides clues for directions to go. I also work on several paintings at once, so that they can inspire and challenge each other.

What is your favourite time of the day to create?

Mornings, but I paint throughout the day, and would probably carry on into the night if I had lights. We bought an old shed that we dismantled and revamped into a warm studio with windows. It isn’t finished though because I’ve been reluctant to vacate it in order for the work to be completed. I paint in bursts of 30 minutes to an hour. The breaks allow my mind to go sideways. I need this to quiet my thinking and ensure I keep connected to intuition.

The Life Journeys series is taking place at Hakaru Hall (near Mangawhai), on Saturday 21 January, 10am3pm and features over 45 original acrylic abstracts. phillipa@PhillipaReeveCreative.co.nz www.PhillipaReeveCreative.co.nz

Making a difference through art

Mahurangi College has a beautiful new mural that speaks to the thoughts, feelings and emotions of the kids that created it, kids that might not have gone to school that day had they not had the opportunity to express themselves through art.

Words Emily Pattullo

Local artist and illustrator, James Nicholls, has been using his background in teaching and youth work to provide art therapy classes for Mahurangi College students and really make a difference to their lives. The opportunity to take part in the art therapy sessions was extended to all students from years 7 to 10 who were disengaging from school for various reasons. James carefully put together different groups, which they then worked within over the year and “it really opened them up,” he says. “The art works that the 32 students produced were proof of that freedom of expression. Classes were scheduled so as not to conflict with other learning and it worked on a mentor/ me ntee basis.”

Together they created a kaitiaki mural of an animal – a hammerhead shark, which represents strength, determination and protection – using boards made out of plywood or timber, and called the finished artwork ‘Tiaki’ which means nurturing a nd care.

With the help of government funding through Creatives in Schools, and championing from Gaynor Tahitahi who is head of faculty/ SENCO for the college, James has been able to realise a passion for inspiring young people who are struggling with learning difficulties and emotional issues. “He is amazing,” Gaynor says of James. “This artwork is the end of a journey which James and myself believe has been transformative

to these young people’s self belief. The feedback from parents has been moving too.” Unfortunately they have missed the funding opportunities for this year and would like to “invite anyone who might have access to funding to step forward and help us out with another project”.

James has lived in Snells Beach for four years and been local to the area for 10. He works under the artist name TUSS. His speciality lies in live drawing and “capturing people in the moment”. In working with young people he has created ‘heART groups’ to facilitate further opportunities for art therapy within learning environments.

www.ArtByTuss.com www.instagram.com/ArtByTuss

Boutique Coastal Living with a difference – The Highlands

Six years ago, as Gary Leslie stood on the hills high above Langs Beach, he had a decision to make. The usual process would be to re-plant the freshly-harvested land in front of him with another round of radiata pine forest. But, standing there, looking out at the panoramic coastal views and down at the pockets of mature Kauri groves, carefully preserved during harvest, the birth of a new dream began. The possibility of regenerating indigenous forest on this incredible landscape and on this scale would be straight into the ‘too hard’ basket for most, but for Gary it was an opportunity to bring all his experience together and achieve the seemingly impossible. The goal was to regenerate the 160ha cut-over pine forest into a stunning indigenous forest, completing the cycle from coastal native to farmland to plantation forest and now back to coastal native. In doing so, securing a legacy for future generations of hundreds of pre-existent species to cohabit and to enjoy alongside a handful of privileged owners. Nestled within the habitat, each with commanding views of Bream Bay, the Pacific Ocean and a myriad

of islands, are eight spectacular housesites, perfectly positioned and created with a minimal overall footprint.

Gary proceeded to gather around him a unique team of people as passionate about his project as they are about their quality of workmanship. What followed was an enormous undertaking of targeted planting of tens-of-thousands of native plants, fertiliser and wilding control on the steep hillsides, along with management of pest plants and pest animals, all assisting in the natural reversion. In addition, eight unique sites were thoughtfully crafted into the landscape with clever engineering, providing house sites with commanding coastal views and a secluded tranquil feel, each with their own area of regenerating forest to nurture a nd enjoy.

Six years on and the regeneration process has been a phenomenal success, first succession natives and birdlife are flourishing, alongside a continued robust pest management program. The rich diversity of flora and fauna has been

incredibly encouraging. Kiwi can be heard at night; tui, bellbird, kereru, piwakawaka, quail and other smaller birdlife are abundant. Bees enjoy the blossoming manuka and kanuka, providing honey. If you walk into the bush, the diversity of plant species growing under the canopy is a sight to behold; just about to burst through. Several tracks have been developed to enable the enjoyment of some special sites within the development, including a mature kauri grove and a waterfall.

Each of the eight Lots for sale in ‘The Highlands’ boutique coastal development average 20ha. Your private ecosystem to enjoy, express, nurture and shape to the n ext level. 027

School’s out, un-schooling is in

It’s a reminder for them that, through time in nature, we are able to learn about ourselves, life and each other. This is their guiding motto when they open the doors twice a week to 16 children and welcome them in to learn through nature.

The children get to experience life unhurried, authentically and in connection. They feed the sheep, collect eggs from the chicken coop, they journal and nature-watch. They choose to engage in curiosities which they feel drawn to, and they meet with the community to learn skills from others. They have the freedom to be authentically themselves and are celebrated for it.

Amy was a primary school teacher, teaching the middle years in Auckland. She loved being part of a community working for a common cause, and even more so loved the connections she made with her students. Amy took a break from teaching to have her first child, Finley, but she didn't plan for this particular change in direction. It was through her continued learning and researching around education that she discovered the theories of

‘unschooling’, and everything changed.

By the time her second child, Harvey, was born she knew there was no going back. The teacher had become an un-teacher and her children were going to be learning from home. Talking this through with her coteacher husband, Daniel, she remembers, “We thought a lot about how we would like our children to experience learning. At this point in time Finley was only two and Harvey was a newborn; we watched Finley’s ability to learn naturally and her wonder for the world, and this gave us a lot to think about.”

Six years on, with the commitment to their children learning at their own pace cemented in their lives, Amy and Daniel have created the missing piece of the puzzle: The Little Farm School. Drawing on elements of Montessori and Steiner education, combined with the theories of lifelearning, the philosophy of The Little Farm School is simply this: inspiration to create a community of connection. When translated into aligned action, this inspiration takes on a life of its own. It becomes a movement of holistic education and nourishment for

both children and whanau. A space for tamariki to deepen their knowledge of self, to learn the tools needed to process what is happening within them; a hub for whanau to spend time together, to volunteer and raise the village in the modern way.

The Little Farm School runs an education program two days a week for children aged 5-13 years old. It is part of a larger community initiative Wild Wholistic, which will see educational and emotional workshops, gatherings and events for the loc al community.

www.Wildwholistic.co hello@Wildwholistic.co

Rethinking nutrition –ending food wars at home

Star

Rachael Wilson is a registered dietitian, nutritionist and mindful eating coach and she's on a mission. The goal of The Food Tree nutrition clinic is to bring together positive parenting, self-compassion, mindfulness and nutrition to provide integrated care. After 20 years of experience in her field, she knows there is so much more to nutrition than nutrients. Our thoughts, feelings, coping strategies and our ability to connect with our body are all connected with what and how we eat.

“I felt a lot of information about nutrition for families was quite restrictive and shamebased. I wanted to provide support that is evidence-based but also focussed on kindness and self-compassion,” says Rachael. “Healthy eating is so much more than what we eat. A key element is our

relationship with food and our bodies. To be truly healthy we need to dig deeper into how and why we eat.

“Picky eating is an area so many parents struggle with, and I am here to help. I was lucky enough to be one of only seven people worldwide selected to be mentored directly by Ellen Satter, a registered dietitian and family therapist who is a pioneer in this area.”

2. Eat family meals. Children learn by seeing how and what we eat. Eat as a family as much as possible. Serve smorgasbord style, and let your children serve themselves from what you put on the table.

3. No pressure or restriction. Trying to ‘get’ a child to eat more or less almost always backfires and has the opposite effect on t heir eating.

1. You provide, they decide. As a parent, you are responsible for what food is served, and where and when it is served, it is up to the child to decide whether and what they eat from the food that has been provided.

Food, mental health and body image issues are at a crisis point for young people, it requires a community effort to turn things around. The Food Tree has a series of workshops and support packages for schools and early childhood centres, to foster positive messages about food and bodies for children and their teachers.

Rachael’s top three tips for parents with a selective eater or fussy eater are:

Words Carlie Robin

New Zealand's leading child-feeding and body image expert brings her international expertise to Matakana.

worried about weight gain and will sign up for a new year’s diet. They probably will lose weight initially, however, 50 years of scientific diet research shows that 85 percent to 95 percent of people regain the weight within five years, and 75 percent will gain more weight than what they lost initially. It is clear that diets don't work, whether it’s intermittent fasting, keto, weight watchers, or noom. As Rachael says, “If a surgeon told you your surgery had an 85-95 percent failure rate, would you go ahead?”

Rachael offers an entirely new approachintuitive and mindful eating. Intuitive eating gives you control over your eating rather than your eating controlling you. You re-learn how to eat when you're hungry and stop when you're full. It also teaches you how to manage emotional eating. This means you can ditch the diets for good, heal your relationship with food, and learn to care for your body.

Rachael has a private clinic in Warkworth and is running a series of workshops for parents at The Space in Matakana in the new year. If you would like support please con tact Rachael.

rachael@TheFoodTree.co www.TheFoodTree.co

Perfect partnership

Caroline Hailstone has a passion for skin care with a career spanning over three decades. She started her first business in the infamous Grand Hotel, Brighton, UK, where a clientele of celebrities and politicians expected only the very best in treatments, “This is where I learned about service, and to this day I carry the same ethos into my practice”.

Caroline then moved to Waiheke in the nineties where she established the island’s first beauty therapy clinic. Such was the success of Beauty On The Beach that to this day a clinic still runs from the same site.

Moving to Auckland meant finding a place in an already saturated beauty market. Ponsonby Road called and Caroline founded Skinperfector in 2010. Working alongside

an eclectic group of hairdressers and entrepreneurs was an inspiration where creative flow gave space to innovative ideas for a new concept.

Fast forward to 2020 and Skinperfector has evolved into sophisticated skin care clinics in Mangawhai and Warkworth. Both clinics are private and tranquil. Clients can relax, safe in the knowledge that the guesswork about skin care is removed. “We choose your facial for you, it’s as easy as that.” Facials and skin care programs are individually designed to suit each client’s needs; this includes in-depth skin care prescriptions so that you can look after your skin 24/7. With an ever-evolving menu of twenty-plus facials including the most indulgent Myofacial Lift,

SKINPERFECTOR

By appointment only. www.skinperfector.co.nz 021 274 1919 info@skinperfector.co.nz

this silent facial curated by Caroline focuses on myofascial release, lymph massage and TMJ techniques.

Recently, Skinperfector has had the pleasure of introducing a new face to the Mangawhai clinic. Originally from Serbia, Marijana specialises in Ombre brows and Collagen Ropes. She will also be adding a wonderful Gua Sha Facial to the bespoke facials.

They are the first clinic in New Zealand to offer Ropes, a non-invasive anti-age treatment, which magically vanishes fine lines and gives the skin a natural lift.

To make a booking call or visit the website. 021 274 1919 www.SkinPerfector.co.nz

In the heat of it

Keep your skin and hair well protected this summer with these hot weather must-haves.

Words Milly Nolan

Photo Christina Schmidt Model Danica Burghout - Gypsea Sol Surf

Enriched with Pro-Vitamin B5, Rosehip Oil and superfood fruit extracts, simply spray your hair after hitting the surf to ensure smooth, clean and shiny locks. You’ll look like a mermaid and smell like a tropical goddess. www.GypseaSolSurf.com

Little Mango Citrus and Cedarwood Deodorant Stick

Now in a convenient stick form, this much-loved deodorant is powerful and effective enough to last the day, yet also gently nourishes and protects the skin, thanks to its blend of naturally supercharged ingredients. www.LittleMango.co.nz

Earth’s Kitchen EK SPF50+

Proudly certified natural, this family-friendly sunscreen creates an invisible barrier from the sun as well as being free from nasty chemicals, and is non-GMO, biodegradable and reef safe. www.EKSkincare.com

Ed&I Body After Body Oil

Deliciously hydrating and soothing on the skin, liberally apply this whiskeyinfused elixir after being in the sunthen sit back and enjoy what happens. Made with various nut oils, it will leave your skin as smooth as silk.

www.ForTheThrill.co.nz

Organic Ever Kind Insect Repellent

Made locally in New Zealand and using only pure natural, certified organic ingredients, Ever Kind is DEET free with no chemical nasties - offering perfect protection for the beach, bush and backyard. www.GreenWithEnvy.co.nz

Oh Yeahh! Lip Balm

As well as protecting the lips with SPF30, this lip balm has been scientifically proven to boost serotonin – your 'happy hormone' – due to its incredible natural ingredients. So not only will your lips look good this summer, but you’ll feel good also.

www.OhYeahh.co.nz

Spinal Thermograhy

Dr Barry Rushton Chiropractor, Summit Matakana, says he will be using Thermography to aid in his Chiropractic practice at 15 Takatu Road Matakana.

Research shows that patterns of spinal skin temperature imbalance are associated with nerve interference and a thermographic scan of the spine with the state-of-art scientific instrument is completely safe, quick to use and comfortable.

The Instrument simply runs up the spine and is totally non-invasive as it records the temperatures both right and left as the nerves exit at every vertebral level.

Dr Rushton further states, that if someone is unsure if normal Chiropractic care is right for them, then at least call and have a thermographic scan which is 3rd party neutral and see what the graph prints off.

Remember, you don’t only go to a dentist when and if you have tooth ache. Professionals of all disciplines are trained to be honest, to see if there are matters developing and then offer corrective care before things get potentially worse.

Dr Rushton believes that this Rodney district could be a beacon of healthy people and healthy living.

To search further about benefits of thermography go to 'ncbi' in google search or visit : www.titronics.com 09 425 8761 www.SummitChiro.co.nz

143 Ridge Road, Scotts Landing

You found the Unicorn! This stunning Scotts Landing waterfront section has been handed down through the generations since the 1800’s and is now on the market for the first time. Comprising of 1 acre (approx) of prime, west facing land which boasts unsurpassed expansive views over Mahurangi harbour and beyond to the pristine rural views of Mahurangi West. Design a home in keeping with this exclusive location and neighbourhood and watch the yachts bobbing on their moorings and the ever changing vista.

Off-shore beauty

Local company, Matakana Distributors, was born four years ago out of the desire to bring Matakana locals international beauty brands that were not only unique, but also best-sellers overseas.

As co-owners of Matakana Pharmacy (as well as being well-loved pharmacists there), Mina Geris and Craig Miller found themselves constantly being asked by their customers whether they stocked certain international beauty products. Rather than continually disappoint, and to ensure they kept on top of the latest trends in beauty and health, the business partners headed overseas to attend a Kiwi conference on international brands.

Returning home with the licence to distribute the Italian brand, Oh Yeahh!, in New Zealand, saw the beginning of Matakana Distributors. Originating in Milan, Oh Yeahh! began with a premium lip balm range and has now recently extended to a chewing gum and toothpaste – all of which are made from an exclusive and patented formula consisting of cacao, Kiwi extract and Griffonia Simplicifolia (an African plant). All these elements are rich in tryptophan, which is the precursor to the happy hormone, serotonin, which helps regulate appetite, the sleep-wake cycle and makes you feel good.

Since bringing Oh Yeah!! to New Zealand shores, the lip balms have proven to be a firm favourite with Kiwis – available, of course, at Matakana Pharmacy as well as over 300 retailers throughout New Zealand. “It’s the best lip balm for so many reasons,” says Mina. “The company creators in Italy wanted to build a playful message around happiness

when designing this product, so they specially formulated it using ingredients that naturally support and increase the serotonin (our happy hormone) levels in the saliva. It’s pretty incredible how the patented formula is designed and it’s been scientifically proven that it really does work. Plus, with a SPF30 factor, it’s perfect for protecting the lips from sun damage and dryness,” he says.

Also part of the Matakana Distributors' stable is Oro di Spello Italy, a stunning Italian face and body skincare range. Soon they will also have a German haircare range and a line of Korean skincare on offer. “We look for products that are doing really well in the beauty industry in other countries, which aren’t yet available in New Zealand or Australia,” says Mina. “The more unique they are and the harder to replicate, the better fit for us.”

With nearly seven years under his belt at Matakana Pharmacy – which is renowned for its dependable and friendly service - Mina says that Matakana Distributors really came about as a solution to a problem, but now has become a business that he and Craig are passionate about and are excited to grow with more fabulous products. “As a pharmacist and natural health prescriber, I care hugely about my customers – not only what they are putting in their body, but also what they use on their skin and hair,” says Mina. “It’s exciting that through Matakana Distributors we have the opportunity to offer international products to not only Matakana locals and tourists, but to the rest of New Zealand also.”

www.OhYeahh.co.nz www.MatakanaPharmacy.com

Words Milly Nolan

Seeking tranquility

Constantly rotating at the top of my wish list – as a busy mum of three young children - is the desire for some peace and quiet, a good night’s sleep, and not having to think about cooking. Amazingly, all three of these wishes were granted during my time spent at Parohe Island Retreat on magical Kawau Island.

Words Milly Nolan

When the water taxi departed Sandspit on Friday afternoon, I was still in ‘fastpaced’ mode. Instead of engaging with the other guests seated beside me or taking in the lovely views as we crossed the harbour towards Kawau Island, my head was instead stuck in my phone; frantically sending emails, replying to messages and sending my husband all sorts of instructions to ensure nothing dire happened to the kids while I was away. The week had been stressful and busy, my shoulders were tight, and the irony of it all was that I didn’t feel like I had ‘time’ to go on a retreat – I was really struggling to let go of the never-ending to-do list.

As it turned out, the moment I stepped onto the jetty at Parohe Island Retreat

and walked towards the natural wonderland of the property, that ubiquitous to-do list was forgotten. Surrounded by Manuka and Kanuka trees, the birdsong lulled me into an immediate sense of peace. The other guests and I were led through the tree-lined paths to our cabins, all of which are dotted throughout the property (with some under construction and due for completion in 2023). Scandinavian-inspired, the cabins are minimal in design yet have everything you need for complete comfort. The silk-covered, weighted blanket had me sleeping soundly all night without moving – and perhaps the candlelit yin yoga I had done before bedtime played an equal part.

Whether you are going solo, as a couple, or a group, there is a range of wellness retreats

to choose from at Parohe from two to fournight stays – all of which have been designed to ground the senses and uplift the soul; a wholesome getaway to recalibrate your health and wellness goals. The retreat packages include nutritionist-approved, plant-based meals featuring organic ingredients from the gardens on the property or local suppliers. From mango and raspberry chia-seed puddings at breakfast to whole-roasted turmeric cauliflower at dinner, the food w as delicious.

While each retreat is different depending on which one you have signed up for, your day will most likely begin with sunrise yoga and finish with relaxation yoga to calm the mind and encourage a restful night’s sleep. Mindfulness and meditation workshops teach

you how to integrate daily practices that will promote mental clarity and focus, as well as reduce stress and anxiety. With all sessions being optional, you also have access to Parohe’s picturesque hiking trails, land and water activities and wellness facilities; such as the sauna, fresh-water pool and outdoor baths. Massages are also available. The absence of everything the city represents is what made my stay at Parohe so perfect. No one was rushing, no one had anything they needed to do – everyone had switched off from the ‘real world’. Over the duration of the retreat, I slowly felt the weight on my shoulders lift and the dark circles under my eyes lessen. On boarding the water taxi for the second time, I felt relaxed and rejuvenated – I was heading home, not to tick anything off the to-do list, but instead to try and maintain a level of calm in my every day. 09 366 1039 www.Parohe.co.nz

Bringing businesses together

The Mangawhai Business Association has a new chairperson. Andy Bruce has lived in Mangawhai for less than two years but it didn’t take long for him to fall in love with the place.

“When my family (wife and daughter) moved up from Birkenhead, I brought my business with me” he says. “I run Elevated Media, a video production company creating marketing content for businesses.” Since moving to Mangawhai, Andy’s photography has had a chance to blossom and he has opened Elevated Gallery in Mangawhai Heads showcasing his wildlife (orca) and drone landscape photography.

Andy joined the Mangawhai Business Association (MBA) last year with an aim to revitalise the connections within the local business community post Covid. “Mangawhai is no longer just a small beach community of old-time locals and baches. It’s that and much more now. There’s a population of approximately 7000 currently, and that’s forecast to more than double in less than

20 years. It’s becoming a dynamic business hub in one of the fastest growing regions in Ne w Zealand.

Andy feels like there is so much potential and opportunity for local businesses when they connect and work together, which is especially important considering the current economic climate. The vision for the MBA is to create opportunities for business members to come together, to network and to share information. It is about supporting, developing and advocating for, and on behalf of, loc al businesses.

The association has recently surveyed members as part of a strategy refresh and the feedback has helped them to define their goals for the year ahead, focussing on three key areas:

1. Develop our membership growth strategy.

2. Develop engagement plans for key organisations.

3. Establish a tradeshow concept to create and foster B2B connections within the area.

Benefits of membership include a listing in the MBA’s business directory on www.mangawhai.co.nz , access to monthly networking events, promotion on their social media channels, as well as access to the employment board and events calendar.

“We need to regrow our membership and get to a critical mass so we can get things really happening. So, if you’re not already in, you know what to do,” says Andy. “Just $120 a year, what a bargain!”

www.Mangawhai.co.nz/Join-Us

A good mini adventure

The Pork Pie Charity run is an epic road trip from Paihia to Invercargill that takes place just before Easter 2023.

Words Kate Moore

Fifty minis follow the route made famous by the movie Goodbye Pork Pie released in 1981. For those that haven’t seen the film, it is an exciting story of two very different young men that set out on a thousandmile escapade in a very small, very stolen, ye llow car.

Brothers Sam and Willie Ryburn have completed this adventure through New Zealand numerous times, but 2023 is special because they are in separate minis for the first time. Sam is riding with his son Blake in a team named ‘Just call me Les’. Blake is one of the youngest on the trip and purchased his own mini before he even had his licence. Sam explains that the motivation to complete this exhausting trip is seeing “the smiles on everyone’s faces when they see the convoy of minis going down the road, especially when we call into the schools. Being able to raise funds for such a great charity like KidsCan at the same time is a bonus”.

Willie will team up with school friend Chase Hann and form ‘Team Half Arses’. Willie explains that his motivation comes from “raising awareness for the KidsCan Charity and having fun on the trip”. He also enjoys rattling the cans in various towns for such a great cause and meeting up with like-minded individuals.

The run is limited to 50 minis, and these spots get snapped up within 10 minutes of

registration opening. A payment of $3,000 per car owner is the cost; this pays for hotels and ferries. The Ryburn brothers work together in their fundraising efforts. To support them, there will be a three-hour twilight cruise aboard the historic Jane Gifford, which will cruise down the Mahurangi

River on Wednesday 18 and Friday 20 January. A Trivia Night will also be held at Bridgehouse on Wednesday 15 March. For enquiries and tickets for either event, please email or phone Sam.

pork.pierun@gmail.com | 027 442 7685

Pipi knows best...

When evening draws near and the moonlight appears shining light on the roof overhead, It might sound quite boring –I’d rather be snoring - and safely tucked up in my bed.

The neighbourhood’s crawling with cats that are brawling to be at the top of the tree.

Being neutered or spayed stops more being made - a relief there will be only me!

A chip is some bling without any ring that lets people know I am tame.

A bell round my neck is loud jingly check, to foil my stalking type game.

My ancestors ate without a nice plate, we are all just big cats in disguise.

Red meat for dinner will make me a winner - I won’t want to hunt for a prize.

When you leave me alone without even a phone, I tend to go roaming around.

More toys for play and someone to stay means I can stay home safe and sound.

Responsible cat ownership is something we can all do to help protect our wildlife.

For more info go to www.COEdNZ.com

Basketball for local tamariki

What is the importance of basketball and youth?

Our main focus is not to become a dominant force, instead we want anyone and everyone to feel welcome to participate and socialise with enjoyment. No matter your abilities, skills or experience, you are always welcome. We want the community to come together and create relationships with each other in the game and in their everyday lives while creating an understanding of team values and facilitating creativity. It is just awesome that we can do that through the sport of basketball.

How does Kaipara Basketball support youth?

Providing basketball to all tamariki is our main priority and how this is achieved is our delivery of annual programs and competitions. These consist of skill sessions, school competitions, refereeing opportunities and a chance to play.

What are you most proud of as a club this year?

We have seen massive strides in development from our under-13 age groups. Showing our strength at the Northland Tribal Wars, with our under-13 and under-11 boys continuing an unbeaten record for the second year running, and our under-13 girls only losing one game. We also had the opportunity to take these teams down to the Northern Regionals where both teams pla ced.

What makes your club unique?

All of our volunteers do not necessarily have a background in the sport but rather use it as an avenue to help develop our community and give opportunities and experiences to people that might struggle to obtain them. It is not a passion for basketball that drives them but a passion for growth and enjoyment.

What is something you and your club live by?

Confidence, Communicate and Energy. What we find powerful about these values is that these are the main components for us to succeed in the game. Expressing to youth that basketball is more than just skills and being perfect, we want our youth to be comfortable with the effort they give, regardless of results, and ensure that whatever they do is to the best of their ability. We hope that they carry these values off the court and into their everyday lives and future ambitions.

basketball.kaipara@gmail.com

Words Shannen Frear

Kaipara Basketball Association delivers basketball to the district and provides opportunities and pathways for local tamariki to thrive. Coach Kalem Tana talks about the Kaipara Basketball journey.

Retreat to heal

Owners of A Place to Be who run an evidence-based and successful rehabilitation service at Ōtāhuhu for people struggling with drug addiction, are opening their second facility to meet the growing demand from business executives for a residential 30-day program – a new, luxurious and discreet rehabilitation centre in Warkworth. The Retreat opens its doors in January and is confident that its 12 beds will be occupied as a result of alcohol-associated behaviours and impacts resulting from the holiday season.

CEO of the charity behind The Retreat, Janet Thompson, says, “With the current demand and anticipated need for rehabilitation care in New Zealand, we have seen a growing number of enquiries from an emerging market for our alcohol-dependence recovery program in Warkworth. This new market is emerging from both corporate employers and the self-employed.

“We know that leaders are feeling the ripple-effect from the past three years of the

pandemic. They are burnt-out, stressed-out, over-worked, and a growing number have developed substance dependencies. We are grateful to be able to offer this market a discreet residential program – The Retreat is simply a place where you can turn up with honesty and with daily dedication to sober living, and then return to work and family with a new focus and sober living goals.”

The program is designed specifically for people who have an alcohol dependency and want a 12-step residential treatment approach. The people who work at The Retreat are there because they have been through either drug or alcohol addiction themselves and with their insights can lean in

to support guests. It’s run by people who believe in the power of peer support.

“It’s not easy, which is why, at The Retreat, we have designed and offer a program that assists a person’s efforts in maintaining sobriety and resulting quality of life,” s ays Janet.

The Retreat provides a discreet and focused solution to support executives with alcohol addiction. It aims to meet the demands of executives and enable guests to connect with others on a similar journey to recovery.

reception@TheRetreatNZ.org.nz www.TheRetreatNZ.org.nz

“I

Carla

Words Jade Hart

Designer jackets give hope to homeless hounds

Dog fosterer and artist Emma Thatcher, aka Sam Jolie to her furry friends and Facebook followers, has found a way to support a charity close to her heart and showcase some of the dogs they’ve saved.

Long time fosterer for Saving Hope and owner of seven dogs at the last count, Emma stumbled upon a niche idea which is likely to cause a stir among fashionistas and dog-lovers alike. “It started with painting native birds on t-shirts for the Department of Conservation (DOC), and then became painting on denim jackets and jeans for my kids and their friends,” says Emma. “I had been fostering for Saving Hope and wanted to help raise money for them, so I painted some of the rescue dogs on a denim jacket for a raffle prize and it went from there.”

Known at Saving Hope as ‘the one that takes on the special cases’, Emma wants to do even more for the charity and is focussing on putting more of her jackets up for auction and donating 100 percent of profits to them. Emma is absolutely amazing,” says Janine Hinton, manager of the Saving Hope Silverdale branch. “We are hoping to raise funds to buy land for shelter, so we can have a classroom for children to come to and start teaching there. We have also had an influx of ‘returned’ dogs since covid, it’s overwhelming. We are desperate for puppy fosterers and volunteers too.”

Having always been into art, Emma has worked as a decorator at Morris and James pottery as well as at Middle Earth Tiles, painting for them and introducing new colours. She was responsible for personalising tiles for customers too. “I also want to do more native bird designs and flowers on the jackets and auction those as well,” says Emma, who supplies vouchers for her designs to other charities like Bay of Islands Animal Rescue and Rottweiler Rescue.

To support Saving Hope and bid on one of Emma’s jackets, visit the Saving Hope Foundation Auctions facebook page. Or to enquire about fostering or volunteering, go to the Saving Hope website. www.SavingHope.co.nz

MATAKANA INJECTABLES

Matakana Injectables specialises in nonsurgical enhancements using clinically-proven, top-of-the-range products to deliver premium results. As a CANN accredited injector, Matakana Injectables follow the highest standards of practice to ensure patient care and safety. Renowned cosmetic injectables specialist Deb Barham is an expert in her field, with decades of experience in healthcare as a registered nurse. Whether you’re after fuller lips and smoother skin, or you’re sick of those ageing frown lines and want to freshen-up your look, Matakana Injectables is the place to go.

By appointment only.

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

Words Emily Pattullo

Romping read number two rolls into town

It was this time last year that Isaac’s debut children’s book Queen of Muck was getting all sorts of attention – an exciting and hilarious adventure romp that kids loved. Now his second book Zola the Roller is hitting the shelves. It’s a page-turning action tale full of laughs, thrills, incredible twists, suspense, orphans, opera singing, danger, a greedy villain, bravery, sad bits, scary bits, extremely poor supervision and an incredible finale.

There’s Fabiano Berettoluzianicino, the world’s greatest opera singer, poor unwanted Henry Pignut, dastardly (and unintentionally funny) Mr Snide the greedy property developer, and not forgetting brave and clever Zola, of course.

“She’s the kind of kid I’d like to be…”, says

Isaac, “except for the orphan bit.”

So, how did he get Zola done in less than a year?

“My background is as a creative writer in advertising, where things move fast and finish quickly. That’s how I like to work. I’d rather throw everything at it for a shorter time than go dipping in and out, pushing ideas aimlessly around the plate for years.”

And, as with the last book, Zola the Roller features a swag of fantastic illustrations delivered from fellow local talent, M illie Perocheau.

“Millie is probably the best illustrator I have ever seen,” says Isaac. “She nails the overall look, feel and quirks of a character or scene

right down to the most subtle expressions and body language. And everything she does makes you grin.”

Isaac’s advice for other fiction writers is, “Come up with loads of ideas, pick one that jumps out then just start writing. Keep anything that sounds likely and, eventually, the real story will appear.”

Isaac is not intererested in writing books that leverage the cause-of-the-week.

“Good on the people who do but it feels like too much to me. I think childhood is mainly supposed to be magical, exciting and fun, not a relentless search for butterflies in your tummy or horrors in your head.”

www.IsaacThackray.com

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.

Making sense of what comes next

Clive Elliott KC is an Auckland barrister with a place at Omaha Beach and author of the bestselling book The Power of Wellbeing – A blueprint for rebuilding the social fabric and reimagining an inclusive society.

With warmer weather on its way and Matakana starting to buzz on market days, everyone is looking forward to a summer without masks, lockdowns and sealed borders. Clive Elliott has thoughts on what comes next and isn’t afraid to say so. “In the early days of the Covid 19 lockdowns the team of five million sang from the same hymn sheet. But by March last year, the anti-vaccine, anti-mandate occupation of the grounds of parliament and Bishop Tamaki’s antics put a big question mark over our much-vaunted social cohesion and unity, not to mention the invisible but important social contract that binds us together. Is this all just the aftermath of the pandemic and a necessary adjustment, or is it something more ominous? For my part, I don’t think this is something that will pass any time soon. Rather, I believe we are experiencing something momentous and that we are in

the middle of a huge paradigm shift. That is, the decline of progressive values and democracy, the growth of disinformation and inequality, and China’s emergence as an economic and military superpower.”

Clive has tried to make sense of these trends: “I believe we can’t focus on the effects – the manifestations of inequality and deprivation – instead we must understand and deal with the causes to avoid becoming a country of haves and have-nots. In my book, I argue that the way to do this is to have a strong economy, one that can fund progressive wellbeing programs effectively. We also have to face up to our shortcomings and be honest with ourselves. We need to employ critical thinking, understanding, and tolerance. Kiwis are amazingly resourceful, practical and pragmatic folk. Throughout our history we have also been prepared to accept change.”

In The Power of Wellbeing , Clive discusses these issues and sets out a vision for the future, explaining how we can do it, both as individuals and members of a wider society. “I articulate how, together, we can foster social cohesion and create a better, more trusting society for all, regardless of who we are and where we come from. I encourage everyone to embrace the Christmas spirit and celebrate the good things in life and most importantly reach out to others.”

Clive’s book is available at Matakana Village Books and on the Amazon website.

www.Amazon.com.au

Is 2023 the year you’ll finally write that book?

Whether you don’t know where to start, lack confidence in your writing or find the scale of a book project overwhelming, it’s easy to find a reason to delay that dream for another day – or another year.

“Writing a book is a huge undertaking,” says award-winning local author, Maria Gill. “It can be hard to know where to start, and even harder to see it through to the final page.”

That’s why Maria has teamed up with fellow author (and Point Wells neighbour) Christine Sheehy, to support local writers in making 2023 the year they finally write their books.

The pair have created Just Write, a nonfiction book writing course that will take a small group of aspiring writers from idea to draft manuscript in 10 months. “It’s for people who have longed to write their memoir, as well as those who want to share their knowledge and perspective on a specific topic. It could be professional knowledge,

self-help, or a ‘how to’ instructional book on a hobby like gardening or cooking.

“We want to demystify the process and help writers set and achieve manageable goals each month,” adds Christine. “We’re giving writers the support and accountability they need to realise their dreams of becoming published authors.”

Maria is a full-time writer, the author of more than 60 books, has a Masters in Creative Writing and teaches writing skills to children and adults around the country. Christine is a bestselling author, non-fiction book coach and ghostwriter, best known locally for her work as story editor on The Village Table.

The 10 Saturday morning workshops cover everything from defining a compelling book idea, to telling an engaging story, writing dialogue and vivid scenes, research techniques, book design and preparing a manuscript for publication. Writers will set

monthly writing goals, with Zoom check-ins for accountability and feedback.

“It’s so easy to feel isolated on your writing journey. By coming together as a group, writers can support each other to make it to The End,” says Maria.

Christine agrees: “There is a stage I call the murky middle, where self doubt kicks in and it’s easy to give up on a half-written manuscript. We want aspiring writers to understand that it’s a normal part of the process. With the right support, you’ll be able to push through and finally hold that book in your hands.”

Just Write: Make 2023 the Year of Your Book, kicks off Saturday 11 February 2023, in Warkworth. Places are strictly limited. For more information and to apply, visit th e website.

www.ChristineSheehy.com/JustWrite

IT SUPPORT AND SERVICES

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.

nic@centivetechnologies.nz www.CentiveTechnologies.nz 021 0864 1865

12 Morrison Drive, Warkworth

Design Manufacture Install

Kitchens, laundries, wardrobes, vanities, bespoke cabinetry. Showroom & factory open Mon to Fri 8am-4pm. www.kitchenworks.co.nz | info@kitchenworks.co.nz | Ph 09 422 2001

It’s said that 80 percent of people want to write a book ‘someday’. The reality is most people will never get around to it.

Blazing a trail for all

Best known for her international

sporting career as one of New Zealand’s elite athletes, Point Wells local, Allison Roe, is a mother and grandmother, and also a campaigner for better living.

Words Milly Nolan

As the founding chair of the Matakana Coast Trail Trust (MCTT), Allison says she is “passionate about the benefits of cycling, and how well-planned trails connect communities and have a truly measurable impact on our health, road safety, local economies and the great New Zealand environment”.

With a strong desire to give back to the community – human welfare, holistic health and the benefits of being able to access the natural environment is of utmost importance to her – Allison discusses her involvement in the MCTT and how we, as locals, can help make the Trust’s dream a reality.

Have you always lived in the Matakana region?

My husband, Alan Barwick, and I, bought a little slice of paradise as a ‘weekend retreat’ and one summer we simply decided to stay. We love the special feel and vibe of the Matakana coastal area; the influx of cool and creative people and those simply wanting a more natural environment for their kids to grow up in.

When did you first get involved with the Matakana Coast Trail Trust?

Back in 2014, I was approached by Raz

Sutherland, Scott McCallum, Neville Johnston

– all active, go-ahead locals – who were on a mission to get a cycle/walking bridge across the Matakana River. I knew nothing about building bridges but did have some useful contacts, and before long we formed a partnership agreement with Auckland Transport, the Rodney Local Board, the Matakana Community Group and other trail interest groups. We established the Matakana Coast Trail Trust, a wild vision for the future, and 18 months later we built the handsome bridge across the Matakana River.

What inspired you to get involved?

I couldn’t turn down the opportunity to help create a trail of national significance which brought together our close-knit communities. The vision ticked so many boxes, from carbon-zero and access to the natural environment, to health, sustainable transport and the opportunity to identify heritage sites and tell stories of the land and history of its people, in what will be a truly intergenerational trail and a legacy for fut ure generations.

The Matakana region may not look like an area of high need, but we have over 500 migrants and their families living and working here, as well as people who were mandated out of their jobs and those who are affected by inflation. Food banks in the area are overwhelmed and churches are very active in picking up the pieces; there is always need, when you peel back the layers. Being able to get around on a bike, on foot or on a horse in some areas of our planned trails is a godsend for safety and in times of uncertainty, it’s also important that taking control of our own health is more paramount than ever before.

What is the purpose of the Trust and what is its vision?

The MCCT is a not-for-profit charitable trust run by passionate volunteers and trustees working in partnership with many stakeholders and community groups. The Matakana River Bridge-building exercise

was the catalyst for doing something much more exciting that would get locals off the dangerous Rodney roads, while also enjoying what our environment has to offer.

Eight years in, our goal is to create a worldclass, multigenerational trail network that connects towns and villages from Puhoi to Mangawhai, and eventually connects to Northland’s Twin Coast Trail. So far, we’ve fully planned, engineered and costed a 117km trail, with many sections ‘shovel ready’. It’s a $52 million project. Our immediate ‘ready to build’ project is the Point Wells to Matakana Country Park cycleway. Additionally, the exciting ‘commuter’ trail connecting Matakana to Snells Beach and Warkworth is also ready to build with a good deal of it on private land.

The project will deliver the most beautiful trail in New Zealand, given our rich farmland, stunning coastlines and fresh environment. The business-cost ratio indicates that the Puhoi to Mangawhai trail will produce jobs and economic opportunities on a scale never seen before in any of New Zealand’s Great Ride destinations.

What is next on the agenda?

The Trust has engaged local businesses

providing pro bono services and there has been hundreds of thousands of hours of volunteer time and labour to get to this exciting stage, where all we require now are the funds to build the dream and get spades in the ground. The Point Wells to Matakana Country Park trail has been ‘shovel ready’ for nearly two years – we have $400,000 for what is a $1M build so we need to find that shortfall before we c an begin.

How can the public help get the trail off the ground?

We welcome and embrace public interest and donations. People may wish to get involved with the Trust or introduce us to their contacts who share our passion and who may have the power to nudge things along. The Trust has done the hard yards but now in order to build the trail, we need people-power to find the funding.

To see who is involved and what you can do to help create this legacy trail, please visit the website to donate, or contact M eg Eriks en by phone on the nu mber below.

www.MCTT.org.nz | 021 984 316

Map of the proposed trails

Deep dive into wellness

The Immersion Weekend

Thursday 9 - Sunday 12 March

Parohe Retreat, Kawau Island

Leaning on their vast wellness and performance coaching skill sets, founders of wellness studio, The Space, in Matakana, Alex Davids and Ana Lynch, have designed an unusually deep, three-day immersive experience at Parohe Retreat on Kawau Island, to help people discover what they need so they can thrive in life – on a physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual level.

Finding time to be sustainably healthy and have great energy isn’t easy amongst the busy lives we all lead. More often than not, putting ourselves first is also not the priority it should be. Far from a ‘retreat’ focused on pampering and rest, this experience will be run by highlyexperienced guides and facilitators. Through workshops, they will challenge participants’ current state of being; allowing deep reflection on various approaches to wellness, and addressing desires for where people would like to be, while providing tools to build strong wel lness foundations.

Even before arrival at Parohe, the experience begins. Ana (a nutrition and self-awareness specialist) kicks things off with a private consultation to discuss any current physical, emotional and habitual conditions, and addressing any health issues. For more indepth analysis, scientifically-based functional testing is on offer.

Over the three days of the immersion, there will be nutritious meals, access to the stunning grounds of Parohe; hiking trails, land and water activities and wellness facilities. Highperformance coach, Dave Woods (WMW Integrated Training) will be leading participants through the fundamentals of breathwork and how to find calm under pressure. Tailored IV infusions from Drips.nz will also be on offer to kickstart the journey to physical health. One-toone sessions to discuss the functional testing

results and recommendations will be available with Ana.

To wrap up the weekend, Alex (a global high performance coach to CEOs and executives) will offer practical support through private sessions on how to integrate the experiences and knowledge provided over the weekend, to sustain the path to wellness beyond t he process.

“We want to make sure that anything learnt on the immersion is truly embedded and not merely experienced,” says Alex. “Too often, you can go on amazing ‘retreats’ and then return to real life, and forget all that you have learnt. We want to make sure people know how to apply what they’ve learnt with us to their daily life, so that they can continue to grow their journey to optimal wellness.”

www.TheSpaceMatakana.co.nz

yoga | pilates | meditation | events

Words Milly Nolan

Chop-tastic tradition at Puhoi Pub

Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival 9am-5.30pm, Saturday 14 January 2023 at the Puhoi Pub

Words Nikita Oliver Metcalfe

The annual Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival is back and sure to delight all ages with events running throughout the day with a live band to finish off the evening. Owners Bernie McCallion and Gary Levert are looking forward to their second year hosting the Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival after taking over the Puhoi Pub during the pandemic in May 2020. Run in conjunction with Puhoi Axemen, this year's event will be the 18th annual chop the club has held at the Puhoi Pub, a unique venue for this type of event and the only one in the nation held at a pub.

Puhoi Axemen will also be celebrating its 60th anniversary. This huge milestone reached by the club last year will be commemorated by a veterans chop held on the day. With the last annual Puhoi Woodchopping Carnival pulling a crowd

of 5,000 people, one of the largest the event has ever attracted, this year is set to be an event to remember.

Around 40 competitors representing regions from all over the country will be displaying their talents in 22 categories of chops, which will run throughout the day and include underhand chops, single-hand sawing and standing chops. Each category includes a prize-giving for first, second, third and fourth places, with cash prizes and gifts all generously donated by sponsors, including local businesses Puhoi Valley and Ian Bateman of Mike Pero R eal Estate.

Among the competitors will be 15 of the Puhoi Axemen’s own, including Jordan Thomas, one of the club’s teenage choppers who recently represented New Zealand in the Under 21s team at the Royal Adelaide Show.

One of the club’s oldest choppers, Graham McDonnell will be supporting his three sons who are all competing this year, one of which is the club’s youngest competitor.

Plenty of food options will be available all day including the full pub menu and a BBQ run by The Local Farmer with their specialised sausages and sliders on offer. And be sure to check out the Puhoi Pub and Puhoi Axemen merchandise stalls to take a souvenir home.

This is a free event for the whole family. Bring the kids along and enjoy an actionpacked day supporting your local wood chopping team.

Live Music by The Recliner Rockers from 5.30pm onwards.

www.PuhoiPub.com 09 422 0812

HAPPENINGS

Gardening With Soul

Doors open 7pm, film starts 7.30pm Wednesday 25 January

Coronation Hall, Waipu

Waipu Garden Circle is proud to present Gardening with Soul, a New Zealand documentary film by Jess Feast, produced by Vicky Pope. It follows a year in the garden with 90-year-old Sister Loyola Galvin. Sister Loyola’s optimism is infectious and this is an intimate, funny and moving portrait of a woman approaching the end of her life.

Tickets cost $20 which includes a glass of bubbles and nibbles. The proceeds will go to the Waipu Garden Circle. This is an active, friendly group, with members of all ages, who meet monthly to visit gardens, make friends and share knowledge. New members are always welcome.

Tickets: Waipu Market stall.

Denise 027 4754 070

Marilyn 027 410 1125

Late NightChinese New Year Theme

5pm-8pm, Thursday 26 January

Matakana Estate

Matakana Estate’s first late-night of the year will have a festive flare, with a Chinese New Year theme to celebrate the lunar new year. Chinese BBQ skewers (Shao Kao) will be on the menu, and they pair perfectly with local beers and wines. Spot prizes will be given out in the form of red pockets, and, of course, it would not be a late night without live music.

This event is open to all ages, but bookings are required.

www.MatakanaEstate.co.nz/Cellar-Door-Book-Now info@MatakanaEstate.co.nz

Mahurangi Riding School

8.30am-3pm, throughout January

11 and 12 January – Intermediate/ Advanced two day development camp.

18 and 19 January – Beginner Own-aPony day camp.

24 and 25 January – Intermediate/ Advanced 2 day development camp.

Own-a-Pony beginners’ day camps, and development camps for the more experienced riders – ages six and up, spaces are limited.

All run 8.30am-3pm, $220 for both days. 021 113 1154 | www.facebook.com/MahurangiRidingSchool

Chris Penk MP for Kaipara ki Mahurangi

Ultimate Kids Surf Camp – 5 Nights

8-13 January (Camp 1)

22-27 January (Camp 2) Moirs Point Camp, Mangawhai

Aotearoa Surf 5 night Ultimate Kids Surf camp!

Accommodation, transport, surf lessons twice a day, kayaking, paddle boarding, yoga, a waterslide and confidence course. Memories for a lifetime. Book online today!

www.AotearoaSurf.co.nz/Ultimate-Kids-Surf-Camp 09 431 5760

Classics at the Cove Summer Series

Road Waipu

Sirrah - 7pm, Saturday 7 January.

An Eclectic evening of Music - 6pm-10.30pm, Saturday 21 January.

Jazz on a Summer’s Day - 2pm-6.30pm, Saturday 28 January

Rock N Rods - 3pm-11pm, Sunday 5 February.

Bowie Bowie - 8pm-11pm, Saturday 11 February.

An Eclectic evening of Music features The Good Shit (previously The Goods), who dominated the summer of the very first Classics at the Cove in 2012/13. Fronted by Karam Brockie-David, a Mangawhai local, their non-stop classic blues and country rock kicks off a fantastic evening of musical talent with Albi and the Wolves, Barleyshakes, Australia's top Celtic Band and Whangarei's Social Graces. Albi (Chris Dent) originated from Maungaturoto. The evening will be a footstomping joyful romp.

www.EventFinda.co.nz | 021 324 707

Y Holiday Program

8.30am-3pm, $40 per day

7am-6pm, $54 per day

Monday-Friday, 9 January-3 February Warkworth Primary School

The Y school holiday program, for 5-12 year-olds gives kids the space to wind down after a busy year while keeping them interested and involved through different activities each day. From games and sport to creative self expression, they'll make new friends and stay busy –you'll be picking up happy kids at the end of each day!

www.YMCAnorth.org.nz/Programmes/Holiday-Programmes oscar@YmcaAuckland.org.nz

January-February, Tahamoana Angora Goat Farm, 566 Cove

LOCAL GIG GUIDE

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

MARKETS

Every Fri 4.30pm-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 WEBSITE

Thu 29 Dec-2 Jan 10am

Resolution NYE Festival

Tumanako Hope

ResolutionFestival.co.nz

Thu 29 Dec-1 Jan Northern Bass Kaiwaka NorthernBass.co.nz

Thu 29 Dec-3 Jan

Waterworld Mangawhai Tomarata Lake Wipeout.co.nz

Sat 31 Dec-2 Jan The Great Summer Art Exhibition Mahurangi East Community Centre MahuTennis.co.nz/art-expo

Sat 31 Dec 3pm Highlife NYE Festival

Ascension Wine Estate HighlifeNYE.co.nz

Sat 31 Dec 4-8pm The Last Saturday Club Brooke Lane Vineyard BrookelaneVineyard.com

Sat 31 Dec 5pm NYE at Freddie's Outdoor Kitchen Freddie's Outdoor Kitchen Sculptureum.nz

Sat 31 Dec 6pm NYE at Rothko Rothko at Sculptureum Sculptureum.nz

Sat 31 Dec 8pm NYE with BlackFire Mangawhai Tavern MangawhaiTavern.co.nz

Sat 31 Dec 8pm NYE @ KBC Bon Accord Bar & Bistro KawauBoatingVlub.nz

Sat 31 Dec 9pm

Connected 2022 - Ultimate NYE Party Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

Sun 1 Jan 9am 150th Highland Games Waipu WaipuHighlandGames.co.nz

Sun 1, 2 & 3 Jan 12pm Mr Big Stuff Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

Mon 2 Jan Mangawhai Gala Mangawhai Domain MangawhaiGala@gmail.com

Mon 2 Jan 4.30pm A Summer's Day - UB40 Matakana Country Park Eventfinda.co.nz

Tue 3 Jan 12pm Acoustic Day with Kate Wood Mangawhai Tavern MangawhaiTavern.co.nz

Wed 4 Jan 2.30pm Summer Haze Matakana Matakana Country Park SummerHazeNZ.com

Wed 4 Jan 6pm - Late Ladies Night Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Thu 5 Jan 6pm - Late Live in the Lobby Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Thu 5 Jan 8.30pm My Baby Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

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

Fri 6-18 Jan 10am-3pm Exhibition: Sisters Mangawhai Artists Gallery MangawhaiArtists.co.nz

Sat 7 Jan 6-9pm Mixed Messages Smiths Matakana SmithsMatakana.co.nz

Sat 7 Jan 6pm-Late Hotel Swing Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Sat 7 Jan 7pm Sirrah Tahamoana Farm, Waipu Eventfinda.co.nz

Fri 13 Jan 6pm Sculptureum Tasting Series Rothko at Sculptureum Sculptureum.nz

Fri 13 Jan 7pm Matakana Comedy Club

8 Wired Barrelworks 8Wired.co.nz

Sat 14 Jan 9am Puhoi Pub Annual Woodchopping Carnival 2023 Puhoi Pub PuhoiPub.com

Sat 14 Jan 12pm Wild Wild West Fest 8 Wired Barrelworks 8Wired.co.nz

Sat 14 Jan 5-9pm Food Truck Collective William Fraser Reserve, Omaha FoodTruckCollective.co.nz

Sun 15 Jan 12pm Sunday Sessions with Marley Mackay The Mangawhai Tavern MangawhaiTavern.co.nz

Sun 15 Jan 2pm Sunday Service Smiths Matakana SmithsMatakana.co.nz

Sun 15 Jan 5.30pm Grand Piano Sessions Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Thu 19 Jan 10.30-11.30 Family Heritage Walk Warkworth Library 09 307 7795

Thu 19-22 Jan mARTakana Matakana Primary School harbourhospice.org.nz/our-events

Fri 20 Jan-1 Feb 10am-3pm Exhibition: Four Visions Mangawhai Artists Gallery MangawhaiArtists.co.nz

Sat 21 Jan Fishing Competition The Salty Dog Inn SaltyDogInn.co.nz

Sat 21 Jan 10am-3pm The Life Journeys Series Hakaru Hall PhillipaReeveCreative.co.nz

Sat 21 Jan 12pm Oyster & Wine Pop-up Matakana Estate MatakanaEstate.co.nz

Sat 21 Jan 1.30pm Soul Vibes Band Puhoi Pub PuhoiPub.com

Sat 21 Jan 1.30-4.30pm

Mon

Sat 28-30 Jan 9am-5pm The Extravaganza Fair Mangawhai Domain Extravaganza.co.nz

Mon 30 Jan Whangateau Folk Club Whangateau Hall Whangateau.co.nz

Fri 3-15 Feb 10am-3pm Exhibition: The New Road Mangawhai Artists Gallery MangawhaiArtists.co.nz

Sat 4 Feb 10am Mangawhai Bowl Bash Mangawhai Activity Zone

Sat 4-6 Feb Mahurangi Artist's Studio Trail Various Locations MahurangiArtistNetwork.com

Sun 5 Feb 10am-4pm Sandsational Mangawhai Heads Beach Mangawhai.Rotary@gmail.com

Sun 5 Feb 3-11pm Rock 'n' Rods

Tahamoana Farm, Waipu Eventfinda.co.nz