Junction September 2023

LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE

421 Whitmore Road, Matakana

One hectare. One cottage. No covenants. Premium location. Sitting sweetly on almost 2.5 acres this spring cottage is only a few km’s from the sea and is surrounded by lush countryside, farmed pasture, established homes and native bush. Quaint and understated, it’s the perfect opportunity to start your country lifestyle. The cosy weatherboard cottage comprises two bedrooms, a sunroom and a central lounge with open kitchen. If you're inspired by a simple life with rural overtones, this nostalgic charmer has all the elements you could want for bucolic country living. With plenty of space to roam, it is a rural idyll and a true blank canvas with no restrictive covenants. This allows for a second dwelling if desired, or perhaps build a barn and let your imagination take over. Call Kellie now to view.

By Negotiation

Kellie Bissett 027 530 6843 www.bayleys.co.nz/1223266

PRESTIGIOUS POINT WELLS COASTAL SITE

43C Sandpiper Avenue, Point Wells

Presenting an enticing opportunity for builders, investors and families alike, this prime 1,007sqm (more or less) parcel of land is positioned in a highly regarded development with a reputation for quality, architectural builds and offers boardwalk access to Whangateau Harbour only a short walk away. Point Wells continues to rise in popularity, and with good reason. With its welcoming community, general store, library, hall, club and boat ramp, buyers have come to appreciate that charming Point Wells is the perfect place to live - be that a permanent move or weekend/holiday destination. Access to Auckland City is a comfortable commute, with the recently opened motorway and Matakana Link Road making the trip even more efficient. Homes in this development are sought after and selling well. Priced to sell – call Jodi now to book your site inspection.

Asking Price $995,000

Jodi Sterling 021 457 063

www.bayleys.co.nz/1223056

FARM, LIFESTYLE & LOCATION!

Paul Road, Mangawhai

Located only a stone’s throw from Mangawhai and all of its attractions is this 42 hectare (104 acre) grazing property. Golden sand surf & swimming beaches, world-renowned golf courses await with Auckland only a little over an hour away, ensuring this one’s a keeper. The canvas is yours to paint: design and build your dream home to take in the breathtaking 360-degree rural vistas, continue to farm it, or explore any future opportunities. This property represents a rare chance to own a piece of paradise in this highly sought after location. Farmer, lifestyler, or property opportunist –the vendors have bought elsewhere and want this sold!

Tender (unless sold prior)

12pm, Friday 29 September 2023 41 Queen Street, Warkworth John Barnett 021 790 393 www.bayleys.co.nz/1203609

BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED HOME IN THE VILLAGE

68A Matakana Valley Road, Matakana

Experience the benefits of modern living in this recently built, high quality four bedroom home in the heart of Matakana Village. With stylish finishes including American oak flooring, vaulted ceilings, woodburner fire with heat transfer system plus a high-spec kitchen with a butler's pantry at the heart of the home. With two living areas, generous decks, an office, and a flexible layout, the home has been designed to welcome guests and family. While the home presents ‘as new’, the grounds leave plenty of scope to add value and personalise if desired. Positioned well back from the road in an enclave of bespoke homes, the vibrant village is a short flat walk away.

By Negotiation Dahnie Burton 021

628 327

www.bayleys.co.nz/1223136

BESPOKE POINT WELLS

80 Point Wells Road, Point Wells

This beautiful architecturally designed home on a spacious 1037sqm site offers bespoke living in family friendly Point Wells. A labour of love, the house was meticulously designed and crafted to the owner's brief of a warm and inviting contemporary coastal home.

The main living areas feature dramatic over-height angled ceilings, exposed steel beams and mix of rich timbers; a stunning contrast with light and sunshine radiating into the home. A stylish kitchen is a separate space whilst connected to the living areas which flow out to both the back covered outdoor entertaining and front deck areas for all day sun and year-round enjoyment. Spread out on the large west facing front lawn framed by lush, landscaped gardens.

A statement staircase leads you to the upper loft lounge with a separate room for the home office. The master bedroom features a beautifully tiled ensuite with natural timber detail. A separate wing accommodates two additional bedrooms with ducted air conditioning, family bathroom, separate w/c and laundry. No detail has been overlooked in the design of this immaculate home.

Set Date of Sale (unless sold prior)

4pm, Thursday 7 September 2023

Victoria Turner 021 795 099

www.bayleys.co.nz/ 1170268

SECURE YOUR PIECE OF PARADISE

18 Mangatawhiri Road, Omaha

Introducing a hidden gem—an elevated 596sqm section in Omaha that's your ticket to paradise. Picture your dream beach home coming to life on this premium building platform, offering sea views from a two level build to enhance your living experience. Tucked away from the road, with convenient access to the beach, surf club, shops, and boat ramp, your weekends will be filled with relaxation and adventure.

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Bianca Howlett bianca@JunctionMag.co.nz

ART DIRECTOR + DESIGN

Susannah Marshall design@JunctionMag.co.nz

DEPUTY EDITOR

Emily Pattullo editorial@JunctionMag.co.nz

CONTENT & MARKETING MANAGER

Nikita Oliver Metcalfe marketing@JunctionMag.co.nz

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

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

GENERAL & DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIES hi@JunctionMag.co.nz

CONTRIBUTORS:

Luke Williamson, Kate Little, Milly Nolan, Geoff Ledbrook, Julie Cotton, Helen Bankers, Caren Davis, Sara Sarome

FRONT COVER:

Photographer: Kate Little www.KateLittlePhotography.com

Model: Susannah Marshall

Styling: Nikita Oliver Metcalfe

Flowers: Twig & Bloom www.TwigAndBloom.co.nz

Dress: BLAK Promise Midi Dress Khaki www.CaravanClothingHome.co

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

PUBLISHED BY JUNCTION MEDIA LTD

are not necessarily those

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

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

TYSON MILLER ORIGIN NORTHLAND

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

Doggy daycare

OtiBoaty Doggy Dreamland™ is a brand new, luxury, rural indoor/outdoor, fun, secure, affordable, conveniently-located, family-owned-and-operated doggy daycare for small to medium breeds in Warkworth.

Safety is their top priority, with 1.8m-high fencing, two-factor gates; their facility is cleaned daily, all dogs are fully vaccinated and fully supervised at all times. Their team is experienced in dog handling, having previous experience working in a high-intensity doggy daycare environment. And there are limited enrolment numbers so your dog receives the undivided care and attention they deserve.

Conveniently located in Warkworth, they are open Monday to Friday, 7.30am-6pm. Give them a call for pricing or visit the website.

020 406 49137 | www.OtiBoatyDreamland.co.nz

In full bloom

Formed in the depths of winter 2023, Whangateau Blooms is springing to life this season to bring you beautiful, locally-grown blooms in all their glorious forms. Whangateau Roses has been around for more than three decades, providing stunning, locallygrown roses to both locals and visitors. The goal is to merge the traditional roses with other beautiful, seasonal flowers to create bespoke bouquets and designs for their customers. They supply the new Warkworth Pak'nSave with roses and bouquets, and say it’s been so wonderful to see supermarkets making the shift towards supporting local businesses when possible. They look forward to offering a bouquet delivery in spring, taking on wedding bookings and helping customers get the very best locally-grown flowers for events and special occasions.

021 089 36700 | WhangateauBlooms@gmail.com

On the upcycling

New local business, The Foundry.lab in Matakana, is dedicated to the art of upcycling pre-loved furniture. Scarlett Mcgrath breathes new life into forgotten pieces, transforming them into unique and stylish treasures whilst maintaining a commitment to sustainability and creativity. Scarlett creates oneof-a-kind pieces, which sets her furniture apart from other general furniture stores, and means each piece is unique to the buyer. The Foundry.lab is a favoured destination for those seeking sustainable and artistic furnishing and restorations.

021 086 94024 | www.facebook.com/TheFoundry.labNZ

Speciality foods

Origin Northland is a boutique grocery offering the freshest products from local growers and producers, along with specialty cheeses and artisanal products from throughout NZ. Locals will recognise the fine products from Left Fields, Pinenut Bakery, Maungatapere Mushrooms, Aotearoa Grown, The Chocolate Barn, Epic Coffee, and Belle Chevre Creamery, plus a few new surprises. Seeking to source top-quality ingredients for your gourmet and healthy meals from the closest possible producer, you can find Origin Northland at Shop 1, 51 The Centre, Waipu. 09 432 0931 | Hello@OriginNorthland.co.nz

Skin deep

A serene sanctuary awaits in the heart of Warkworth at Avryl Kinnon Aesthetics. The newly-transformed clinic offers a complete experience in various beauty rituals, from advanced facial treatments to cosmetic injectables. Avryl Kinnon, a qualified registered nurse and visionary owner, actively strives to make luxury treatments accessible for all, encouraging women to indulge in regular appointments without compromise. Working alongside her is the talented Meika, a skilled skin therapist with the same passion and ethos. Together these experienced women want to inspire busy women to prioritise self-care and invest in their skin. www.AvrylKinnon.co.nz

www.instagram.com/Avryl_Kinnon_Aesthetics

Keeping fit

Fitness with Heidi has a private gym based in the heart of Matakana. Heidi is a qualified personal trainer who can help with building muscle, reducing body fat, improving mobility and flexibility, strength and performance, form and technique, training programs, and overall fitness.

Small group fitness classes are available during the week. Parents are welcome to bring their young children to their session to enjoy the kids’ area.

FitnessWithHeidi.nz@gmail.com

www.instagram.com/ FitnessWithHeidi.nz

Permanent beauty

Woven Ink started as a cosmetic tattooing studio to provide natural-looking permanent make-up, and in a short space of time has evolved into a central hub for all things beauty related. With over 18 years’ experience in the industry, Claire has had the privilege to be mentored by some of the best in the business. An absolute perfectionist, her passion for the industry shows in her work and clients who travel from across the country to see her. Auckland and Mangawhai based.

www.WovenInk.co.nz | 021 273 0668

Pet food men

Stockists of quality raw, dry and dehydrated food for all pets, Bob & Ben The Petfood Men, do free home delivery to town and rural addresses across the Kaipara region, from Ruakaka to Snells Beach. Their raw foods are guaranteed to arrive frozen as they transport in their own freezer truck, and items are placed inside a freezer bag. To get free home delivery, order online, or visit their shop at the Mangawhai Community Market every Saturday, and the One Tree Point Market on the third Sunday of each month.

027 292 4891 | www.BobandBen.co.nz

Plant-based baking – sweet!

French-born Carine and her husband Damien moved to New Zealand 12 years ago and soon became pregnant with their first child. With a newborn in the house, Carine saw her eating habits change. After a warning from her doctor, and with little guidance on what to do next, she decided to put her master cooking and baking skills to work; eventually reversing her pre-diabetes with a low-carb diet she created for herself.

A qualified scientist, Carine enjoyed delving further into the world of food and creating her own easy and healthy recipes. Researching extensively, she embraced the challenges, and when she decided to professionalise what had been a hobby, sharing her recipes online at Sweet as Honey, Carine embarked on another huge task, upskilling herself to become a food photographer a nd videographer.

Fast forward five years, and with one successful website under her belt, a new vegan diet, adopted by her athletic and planet-conscious husband, saw Carine back in the kitchen exploring, discovering and creating new recipes for The Conscious Pla nt Kitchen.

“Now running two successful websites, it became feasible for my husband Damien to come onboard; utilising his background in software development to assist with planning, analysis, marketing and technical support to grow our online publishing presence to 1,500 recipes and five-million page views a month between the two websites,” says Carine.

Known for her sweet recipes, Carine’s focus is on healthy baking, which is where her true passion lies. All of her recipes are simple, she prefers baking without too many steps and enjoys involving the whole family. “I like baking

Recent Matakana resident, Carine Claudepierre, brings with her a passion for vegan baking fueled by her love of the planet. Sharing her recipes online as a food content creator is something she’s been doing for many years, and now she’s looking forward to the opportunity to connect with her new community through food.

Words Nikita Oliver Metcalfe

because it’s really about sharing love,” Carine says. “But it’s not as simple as heading to the kitchen to bake!”

Carine spends hours analysing food trends, seasonal planning and researching keywords and content before the baking begins. Just as many hours then go into postproduction, editing photos and copy, and sharing her work online, via email and through various social media channels. In order to remain authentic, Carine chooses not to participate in brand sponsorships, believing everyone should have the option to choose the products they want to use.

For Carine it’s all about educating, sharing knowledge, and helping others. “Through my immense passion for plant-based recipes, I have discovered I can deliver delicious cakes, muffins, pies, and more, without the bad fat or the bad sugar, and my kids love it. People need to know about that, and it’s also costs less.” Carine believes a more plant-based approach to food is the future. Seeing the awareness and acknowledgement from her own children about eating meat and its effect on the planet, she wants us all to help support the next generation with th is change.

Carine is looking forward to becoming involved in the local community, saying Matakana gives her a feeling unlike any other place she’s been in New Zealand, and of course she loves the food scene. “Healthy baking and cooking doesn’t have to be difficult,” s ays Carine.

www.TheConsciousPlantKitchen.com

www.facebook.com/TheConsciousPlantKitchen

Facing the future

Point Wells local, Mark Laurence, first heard about Artificial Intelligence (AI –the simulation of human intelligence in machines) technology nearly a decade ago when he was working in a marketing agency. It was three years ago, however, when he started studying futurism through the Institute for the Future, that he started taking it seriously. “Futurism is about understanding the factors that are going to affect our future, and so obviously artificial intelligence is a big part of that,” says Mark. Mark’s consultancy, Ten Past Tomorrow, was created on the premise that AI is going to transform the global economy and affect every business and industry. “When ChatGPT burst into our lives, suddenly AI became tangible to everyone,” says Mark. “Before ChatGPT, if I ever mentioned the word ‘artificial intelligence’, people would just roll their eyes at me. Now it feels very real,

and since ChatGPT’s launch there’s been a lot of hype, questions, confusion and fear about what artificial intelligence means for our future. My job as an AI Consultant is to answer those questions and dispel the fear.”

Developed by OpenAI (an artificial intelligence research lab and technology company), ChatGPT is an AI tool designed to generate human-like text responses to prompts or questions from users. Trained on a vast amount of internet text data, it can be used for answering questions, drafting emails, writing code, engaging in conversation, providing explanations, and much, much more. According to Mark, what is fascinating about ChatGPT is that for the past decade, the futurist’s predictions were that AI (through the likes of robots and other advanced technologies) would affect manual labour and low-skilled jobs the most. However, generative AI is now seen as more

of a threat to the likes of creatives such as writers, designers and visual artists, and website developers, as well as knowledgebased careers such as accountants a nd lawyers.

“I think the worst thing that anyone can do at this stage is to put their head in the sand,” says Mark. “AI is not going anywhere, it’s here to stay, so it needs to be embraced. ChatGPT is just one AI tool in a very large toolbox. What we've got at the moment is incredibly powerful, but it’s also the ‘dumbest’ version of AI that we are ever going to have – it’s just getting smarter and smarter, quicker and quicker. Artificial Intelligence isn't going to take your job, but a human using AI might.”

As an AI Consultant, Mark’s intention is to help businesses understand the generative AI landscape: how it applies to their business, what the benefits, risks and

Words

Milly Nolan

AI Consultant, futurist, marketer, and founder of Ten Past Tomorrow, Mark Laurence, is telling anyone that is concerned about what Artificial Intelligence may mean to them personally or in business to ‘embrace it, don’t fear it’.

Mark Laurence; Junction's first AI image

ethical implications are, and also to help educate their staff, and then to successfully implement generative AI into their operations and processes. “I think the beauty of AI and what it will do for us as humans – if it's deployed correctly – is that it can take out the parts of your job that you don't like,” says Mark. “Anything that's manual, repetitive, boring drudgery, AI might remove that part of your job. I'm interested in helping businesses increase their productivity two or three times, by offloading the stuff that AI can do for them instead. It’s not about culling jobs, it’s about helping businesses become more productive and produce more revenue with jobs that are more satisfying for their employees.”

Predicted to shake up the world more than the introduction of the internet did, while generative AI has some massive upsides to it, there’s no denying that there are also real risks. “Sure, there are parts of it that scare me,” says Mark, “but if we all talk about it openly, we've got a better chance of understanding it collectively. Don’t be caught flat-footed; tomorrow is already here. In fact, it's ten past tomorrow, and time for action.”

www.TenPastTomorrow.com

FOR DOGS CATS BIRDS HENS DUCKS RABBITS GUINEA PIGS FISH

HOME DELIVERY TOWN & RURAL Ruakaka, One Tree Point, Mangawhai, Kaiwaka, Paparoa, Maungaturoto, Whakapirau, Port Albert, Wellsford, Te Arai, Tomarata, Leigh, Omaha, Matakana, Kaipara Flats, Snells Beach, Algies Bay, Warkworth.

The horsehuman connection

Horse trainer, Tyson Miller, has a passionate commitment to nurturing the individual partnership between horse and rider. Trust-based horsemanship and understanding a horse’s mind is where his core values lie as a horse trainer.

Influenced heavily by the teachings of Tom Dorrance, Ray Hunt, and Buck Brannaman, and a past apprentice of Ben Longwell from True West Horsemanship, Tyson has found the greatest teacher of all is still the horse. Specialising in colt starting and trust-based horsemanship, Tyson’s aim is to encourage others to build and develop their own partnership with their horse.

Based in the wider Auckland region, Tyson's influence extends far beyond his home turf. As a horse trainer, he traverses the country with his horsemanship clinics and lessons, educating horse owners on ways to refine and better their understanding of their connection with their horse. Central to his approach is the belief that education should extend to both horse and owner alike. “I focus on ensuring I create a safe environment that sets both the horse and owner up for success, through facilitating not only the growth of the horse's abilities but also the owner's knowledge,” says Tyson.

An aspect of his profession that Tyson has found enlightening, is the variety of horse

owners and horses he has encountered; forming his belief that the horse-human partnership is an individual journey of horsemanship, regardless of age or discipline. “Each horse has a different mindset and ability, so my approach is to encourage others to learn how to eliminate their ego and adapt to the place where their horse is at mentally,” says Tyson. Progress is never linear in regards to horsemanship, which Tyson feels is explained well with the quote "work with the horse you have today".

Tyson thoroughly enjoys sharing his knowledge of horsemanship with others and is always seeking opportunities to ensure that each individual has something they can add

to their skillset in order to build a stronger partnership with their horse. With Tyson’s next clinic schedule set to start at the end of October, he is looking forward to being able to help others build a solid foundation based on trust, and create a respectful relationship with their horse through clear communication. Whilst using his clinics and lessons as an opening to share his knowledge, he also utilises each interaction he has with a horse and/or owner as an opportunity to expand and adapt his own skillset. “I value the neverending learning process that comes with trust-based horsemanship.”

TMHorsemanship@gmail.com

www.Instagram.com/

TysonMillerHorsemanship

09

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

Words Nikita Oliver Metcalfe

A family buzz-ness

Something sweet and extraordinary is taking place around Warkworth. A small local beekeeping company called Rhybees, named by a passionate young boy called Rhylee, is creating a buzz in the community. With a mission to teach beekeeping at affordable prices, Rhybees provide the opportunity for individuals to become skilled beekeepers and they are also playing a vital role in bee conservation efforts.

Joshua, Tanya and Rhylee (who just had his sixth birthday) are the three founders of Rhybees. What inspired this family to embark on their bee-utiful adventure all began with Joshua's fascination with plants and horticulture. As Joshua explored the world of flowers and fruit trees, he realised the integral role that bees play in pollination and the overall health of ecosystems. This newfound interest proved infectious, with Joshua's enthusiasm soon spreading to those around him, including his partner Tanya and her bee-keen son, Rhylee. Together they established Rhybees, a family business dedicated to making beekeeping accessible to everyone, regardless of age or experience.

Rhybees offer hive sales and rentals, making it possible for anyone to embark on this fulfilling journey. Their affordability sets them apart – they have the cheapest prices in the country. They prioritise teaching over profit and with the guidance of Bryan Alexander, a seasoned beekeeper with over 40 years of experience, they ensure their aspiring beekeepers receive

comprehensive training and support, to provide them with the knowledge and skills needed to nurture their own hives.

"Beekeeping is not without its challenges but the rewards are abundant. Seeing Rhylee and other children confidently donning beekeeping suits and overcoming their fear of bees brings immense joy to us," say Joshua and Tanya. "They gain fulfilment by empowering others and fostering a harmonious relationship between humans and these remarkable creatures. This includes helping to dispel misconceptions surrounding bees and beekeeping, such as educating the public about what bees do, and that their natural instincts cannot be manipulated. For those with a fear of the buzzy little creatures, Rhybees offer this simple advice: bee calm and bee kind and you will be a-ok!"

Rhybees also encourage others to contribute to bee conservation efforts. They say by using bee-related environmentally friendly products such as beeswax wraps and by planting pollen-rich flowers, people can help to sustain and support bee populations.

For those considering beekeeping, Joshua and Tanya emphasise the importance of locating hives in areas abundant with flowers and sunlight, and facing north, to align with the bees' natural flight patterns. They also stress the significance of being calm and kind to the bees, as they are not aggressive creatures and pose no threat if treated with respect.

Looking towards the future, Rhybees plans to establish a website and a presence on social media platforms to expand their reach and impact.

With their dedication to nurturing the next generation of beekeepers and their unwavering commitment to bee appreciation and conservation, the team at Rhybees are an inspiring example of how a small family business can make a significant difference. If you want to buy some yummy raw honey or you’re interested in giving beekeeping a go, contact Joshua.

Joshua.Rhybees@gmail.com 022 464 9870

The Sculptureum experience keeps getting more unique, with works by both famous and emerging artists recently installed in its Galleries. Some of the new works have vibrantly coloured frames that make the works really pop.

A large number of different forms of art are displayed in the galleries and gardens at Sculptureum, so our guests can see how diverse and fun art can be. Sculptureum is where Art meets fun. There is something for everyone.

www.sculptureum.nz | 40 Omaha Flats Road, Matakana 0986

Welcome to Warkworth Butchery, one of New Zealand’s oldest and trading on the same site for 117 years. We’re a local family run butcher holding traditional values very strong with everything handmade, cured and smoked in store and forever adding to our already large variety.

09 425 9947

10 Queen Street, Warkworth www.warkworthbutchery.co.nz

The Sydney Morning Herald

describes

Sculptureum

“A startlingly original experience.”

A seed of inspiration

Indoor Plant Lady (at least that is what the locals have come to know her by), Siobhan Vermaak, uprooted her family and business four months ago from bustling Auckland to embrace a more serene lifestyle in the verdant haven of Kaipara.

With a builder for a husband, two boisterous boys, two energetic Jack Russells, and a plant subscription business, Siobhan says she is always happy to get her hands and heart dirty. A South African by blood, but now a proud Kiwi, Siobhan has a background in sales, marketing, and product photography, and possesses a great love of all things indoor-plant-related. A self-confessed plant obsessor, she believes indoor plants can turn any house into a home. “Not only do plants bring life into the home, some improve indoor air quality and our mental wellbeing,” s ays Siobhan.

A seed sown while in lockdown, Plant Baby started as a small idea for indoor plant

lovers, both amateur and well-seasoned. “The objective you might ask? To create a community of plant enthusiasts enjoying the benefits and beauty of being an indoor plant subscriber. A space to share advice, care instructions, and ‘show off’ your plant babies,” says Siobhan.

Once signed up to a subscription, clients receive an indoor plant every third week of the month, delivered to the address of their choice. “This allows newbies to learn how to care for plants at a steady pace, and for seasoned veterans to find another space for their new Plant Baby. Each month’s box is specially curated to feature an indoor plant – a well-established, mature indoor

plant (contrary to the company name), think Philodendrons, Calathea varieties, plants with exotic names like Sting Rays and Monkey Mask – a beautiful matching cover pot, and a fun gift or accessory, depending on your selected subscription tier. Care instructions are emailed and posted so you always h ave access.”

Subscribers can sign up and cancel their subscription anytime in the client portal, so there are no set contracts. Plant Baby delivers to every corner of New Zealand and shipping is free. “Use it as your gifting concierge like some of Plant Baby’s clients do, or keep all the plants for yourself.”

Now running the business from her lifestyle property in Hakuru, Siobhan has big plans to expand. Last year saw New World and Airwick Haze collaborate with Plant Baby to deliver 800 native subscriptions across N ew Zeala nd. So this year, with Kaipara being home, Plant Baby wants to integrate into and support the community. Collaborations are underway with local businesses such as Stitch in Time and

Cleanz, and ideas for new subscriptions services are in the works. Corporate gifting solutions will be launched soon too.

If you live in Hakaru or Mangawhai, Siobhan has set up an exclusive promo code for $12 off your orders. Simply use MANGAWHAI at checkout.

www.PlantBaby.co.nz www.facebook.com/Plant.Baby.nz

Plant Baby's Top Tips

With Spring around the corner, here are some tips to help your indoor plants out of hibernation:

• Spring is a great time to re-pot if required. If roots are growing out the bottom of the pot, it's time to re-pot! Use a well-draining soil.

• Cut off any brown or dead leaves as far as you can.

• Fertilise your indoor plants with a light, water-soluble feed once a month from spring to late summer, then drop to once or every few months in the colder months.

• To maximise your plant’s photosynthesis ability, dust or wipe your plant’s leaves – this will allow them to grow quicker an d stronger.

Gardening calendar

Your spring garden will be emerging from the perils of a wet winter. Increasing sunlight hours giving more energy to plants each day will help throw off the winter blues. Lettuce, spinach, silverbeet, fennel, radishes, celery should be growing well. Early courgettes planted under cover will start producing as spring progresses.

Words Geoff Ledbrook

Good company

Some plants work best growing with other plants – just like us, plants enjoy good company. Plants that attract beneficial insects, repel pests, promote growth, and clean up the soil can all work together in your garden.

Carrots and leeks produce scents that help repel each other’s pests. Sage planted close to celery has an aphid-deterrent effect. Basil is thought to improve both the flavour and growth of tomatoes. Brassicas like growing near dill. Marigolds have a smell that repels many insects. The roots of marigolds also exude a chemical that kills nematodes in the soil. Nematodes can be bad news for your potato crops. Try planting a few marigolds in your potato patch. Flowers make fantastic companions too, attracting pollinators, providing sanctuaries for beneficial insects, and creating shade in the summer garden. Harvest the blooms to brighten your home or sprinkle petals on salads.

Tomatoes

September is a good time to start thinking about big juicy summer tomatoes. If you are sowing your own seeds, allow four to six weeks to transplanting. Plan your tomato garden, taking note of where you planted last year. Wherever possible, rotate your growing spaces to lessen soil-borne disease. Pick a spot that gets full sun, but not too much wind. Get stakes or a trellis in so everything is ready to plant into. More importantly, get the soil ready and work in plenty of compost or rotted manures. An open, free-draining soil structure is best. If you have a warm, sunny space near the house, use this to get an early crop going in pots or up against a sunny wall.

As tomatoes grow, water them from the base and keep the soil moist, but not overly wet. Pinch out laterals as they form between the new branches and the stem. Remove the older branches with yellowing leaves from the bottom of the plant to maximise air flow and sunlight penetration. Growing tomatoes will respond well to a liquid feed or extra dressing of compost. They love potassium which supports good fruiting.

Plant

• Asparagus crowns

• Brassicas (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower)

• Beetroot

• Celery

• Courgettes

• Fennel

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

• Herbs (parsley, coriander, dill, chives)

• Lettuces

• Onions, leeks, and spring onions

• Peas and snow peas

• Potatoes

• Radishes

Sow

• Brassicas (kale, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower)

• Beetroot

• Beans

• Capsicums and chillies

• Celery

• Carrots

• Courgettes

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

• Lettuces and radicchio

• Pumpkins and squash

• Radishes

• Sweetcorn

• Tomatoes, capsicums, chillies, and aubergines

Our services:

• Cedar – protecting oil or stain

• Decks and timber – beautifying oil, stain or paint

• House-washes

• Window cleans

• Concrete and paving cleans

Heather & Mark

With over 60 years of combined property mastery, this dynamic pair is your ticket to transforming real estate dreams into tangible success.

But there’s more to this story. Imagine “Selling Sunset” infused with Kiwi charm. Heather and Mark infuse luxury real estate with an approachable twist. They’re not only champions of high-end homes but also masters in the realm of luxury vehicles – talk about versatility!

Their secret? A blend of experience and passion. Heather’s attention to detail pairs seamlessly with Mark’s negotiation prowess. Together, they’re an unstoppable force that ensures excellence in every transaction.

Yet, their brilliance extends further – their expansive network sets them apart. Industry connections branch wide and deep, from real estate moguls to influencers in various sectors. Heather and Mark’s reach is unparalleled.

If you adore beach vibes and sandy strolls, you’re in for a treat. Beyond real estate, Heather and Mark are beachcombers, understanding the allure of coastal living. Whether selling a beachfront bungalow or a panoramic mansion, they’ve got you covered.

In a world of empty promises, Heather and Mark are the genuine article. Selling Sunset Kiwi Style is more than words; it’s a pledge of true expertise, unwavering dedication, and the allure of New Zealand charisma. So why settle for ordinary? Contact Heather and Mark today.

Let this ultimate real estate power couple turn your property dreams into reality. They’re not just selling homes – they’re crafting a lifestyle, one beach walk at a time.

Flowers: Twig & Bloom - www.TwigAndBloom.co.nz

Top: Kindred Wintour Top Dove - www.CaravanClothingHome.co

Jeans: models own

Flowers: Flower Bar Studio - www.Facebook.com/EcoFloristNZ

Top & Bag: Esmaee Delphine Blouse Seafoam, Natural Woven Tote Small www.CaravanClothingHome.co

SPRING BLOOMS

Flowers:

Flowers: Twig & Bloom - www.TwigAndBloom.co.nz

Top: POM Marie Rose Pullover - www.CaravanClothingHome.co

Twig & Bloom

Are you an art lover? Do you appreciate balance, movement and colour making sense in designs? Then Twig & Bloom is the place for you. Not just standard florists, they are artists who are passionate about creating floral botanical art.

www.TwigAndBloom.co.nz

021 246 5466

www.Facebook.com/EcoFloristNZ

www.CaravanClothingHome.co

Flower Bar Studio

Amongst Mangawhai’s many hidden gems you’ll discover the Flower Bar Studio. A personalised floral service, offering a carefully curated selection of New Zealand blooms. Each bouquet or design showcases the artistic and innovative vision of The Flower Bar, whilst capturing your own personal intentions.

198 Molesworth Dr, Mangawhai 021 022 68432

Wildly Madly Deeply Wedding Florist

Wildly Madly Deeply are a wild bunch of professional florists led by Debby Quinn. They are mad about weddings and events, and deeply passionate about flowers! A onestop-shop offering three services. Florist/stylist/ wedding and event planning.

hello@WildlyMadlyDeeply.com

www.instagram.com/Wildly.Madly.Deeply

www.WildlyMadlyDeeply.com

Flower Bar Studio -

Top: Kindred Wintour Top Dove -

Photo credit: Maryanne Bilham

In the garden

Get on top of that winter overgrowth and spring clean your patch with help from these local garden specialists.

SEPTEMBER SALE AT MATAKANA PALMS

20-45% off some lines; nikau, chamaedorea, dypsis, all clivia colours excluding greens. Visit the website for more details.

Stop by this spring to view a wide range of clivia colours in bloom. Subtropical Garden Photography Wedding venue.

www.MatakanaPalms.co.nz

102 Omaha Flats Rd

GREEN MATTER TREE CARE

With a wet winter behind us we hope for a dry, sunny spring! Green Matter is a tree care company local to Matakana. They offer a variety of tree services including small and large tree pruning, hedging, tree removal, stump grinding and palm work.

021 047 0585

www.GreenMatterLimited.com

EF LANDSCAPES

Creating gorgeous outdoor areas since 2000, EF Landscapes will help bring your garden vision to life. Full landscape design services for the smallest courtyard to expansive rural properties, EF Landscapes would love to work with you to create a beautiful, functional, and sustainable garden. An extension of your home, personality, and lifestyle, your garden deserves expertise, and wellplanned spaces save time and money in the long term. Call Erin today to discuss improving your outdoor space, and get your garden summer ready!

Special offer for Junction readers until 30 September – 10% off all design services – just mention this ad.

www.EFLandscapes.co.nz | 021 242 3268

ROCHFORD LANDSCAPES

Rochford Landscapes is the Matakana and Mangawhai region's premium provider of all forms of outdoor construction and earthworks. They are there to help clients with driveways, retaining walls, concrete, decking, garden edging, boardwalks, paving, rock work and everything in between.

They have been operating in Rodney for more than 10 years and are fast becoming the number one provider of top quality landscape services in the area.

By offering a complete landscape service from conception to full installation, the team can cater to all of your landscaping needs. Liaising directly with homeowners, or in conjunction with builders, designers, architects or any other building professional, to ensure your desired outcome is achieved.

www.RochfordLandscapes.co.nz

todd@RochfordLandsapes.co.nz

021 939 117

Image credit: Kate Little Photography

PENINSULA MOWERS & HEATING

Your local specialists in outdoor power equipment and home heating solutions. They offer sales, services and repairs along with after sales support –domestic through to commercial. Spring is the perfect time to get the garden ready for summer!

09 424 3104

www.PeninsulaMowers.co.nz

TREECONTRACTS

Spring is a great time to maintain your trees. TreeContracts can take care of all your tree, hedge and chipping needs. Locally owned, operating since 2008 and based in Matakana, this team of professionals will find the best solution for your trees.

Qualified – Experienced – Insured 021 849 040

www.TreeContracts.co.nz

NEWSON CONTRACTING LIMITED

Based in Snells Beach, Newson Contracting specialises in retaining wall construction and small earthworks. Their retaining walls are built to last while also improving the look of the space. Covering all the Rodney area. Call Ben to discuss your ideas.

www.NewsonContracting.co.nz | 0275 786 733

READY TO SPRING INTO ACTION?

Protea Patch are specialists in the proteaceae family of plants. They have a range of Protea, Leucadendron, Leucospermum, Grevillea, Banksia and other hardy coastal plants.

20% OFF when you mention 'Junction Magazine' during September.

Contact the team today. 027 576 8563 | www.ProteaPatch.co.nz

Spring is upon us which means it’s time to start tidying up.

STIHL Shop Warkworth have everything you need from secateurs to ride-on lawnmowers. Pop in-store to see their range of tools and equipment to help you tackle that spring growth.

www.StihlShopWarkworth.co.nz 09 425 7772

CENTRAL LANDSCAPES WARKWORTH

Central Landscapes Warkworth now offer online shopping to their valued customers in Matakana, Warkworth and surrounding areas.

Get your garden spring-ready with their Premium Garden Mix and Compost.

For advice on your landscape project, go and see the friendly team. Great range of landscaping products and free loan trailers. Central Landscape Supplies. Where beautiful landscapes begin. 09 425 9780 | warkworth@CentralLandscapes.co.nz

PROTEA PATCH

It's a new dawn and the match is flawless - Omaha's top rated agent, Rod Cheeseman, teams up with Meyer Real Estate, the area's premier boutique agency. This partnership introduces Meyer's innovative and proven sales systems to Omaha and Point Wells homeowners for the first time. With Rod's experience and flair, the plan is clear: revolutionise the industry, delivering elevated service and excellent results to all our clients.

Rod: "As Omaha’s top rated agent 2023 I have been very discerning about my next step and after months of negotiations I am pleased to announce that I have joined forces with one of the country's most innovative,

technologically advanced, results driven and customer focused agencies - Meyer Real Estate. It’s like hopping out of a cranky old Holden and into a McLaren. Trust me you will be impressed by this cutting edge boutique crew of dedicated professionals.

Like most things in life, timing is everything. We are a destination, beach community and we need the Spring weather to get buyers engaged in fulfilling their Omaha dreams. I've got a huge database of active buyers and they will be warming up, along with the weather, upon their return from winter travel destinations. Beat the rush, contact me today and let's make it happen without any of the drama."

OMAHA/POINT WELLS SPECIALIST

Rod Cheeseman 021 875 331

rod@meyerrealestate.co.nz

Evolution Realty Limited (REA 2008)

"Absolutely first class in every way. Rod's level of service and communication was exceptional"

-Paul, Omaha purchaser

"Smooth process, great results! We are very happy we chose to sell with Meyer Real Estate. Marketing was top notch and attracted a lot of attention resulting in a great outcome."

www.meyerrealestate.co.nz

-S & C Cato

"i'm excited at what this partnership means for my clients."

ROD CHEESEMAN

When excellence unites, greatness ignites

La Vista Elegance

Are you ready to break free from the ordinary and embrace a life of coastal luxury? Wake up to breathtaking sea views every morning, where the horizon becomes your masterpiece. With an office, 3-bedrooms, and 3-bathrooms, this haven is more than just a home – it's an experience waiting to be lived.

A sanctuary for the discerning, this home defines craftsmanship. With a view from almost every window. This property hosts a triple garage for all your toys and treasures, and even a lift for future-proofing.

Why settle for the mundane when you can have the extraordinary? Elevate your lifestyle on a large section that offers privacy, space, and the kind of views that make you feel like you're on top of the world. Quality-of-build isn't just a promise; it's a standard that this home delivers in eve ry detail.

But it's not just about the home; it's about the destination. Welcome to Snells Beach – where local vibes meet coastal paradise. This is more than a location; it's a lifestyle upgrade. Holiday makers, retirees, and owner/occupiers, this is your invitation to see beyond the ordinary. Every inch of ‘La Vista Elegance’ whispers luxury, style, with views to match. Seize the chance to redefine life – this isn't just living, it's thriving. Time is of the essence, as this unique haven won't stay available for long. Schedule your viewing today and make this dream your reality.

Your future awaits at ‘La Vista Elegance’.

Don't just dream it; live it.

www.MeyerRealEstate.co.nz

Steffan Meyer 021 055 4346

steffan@MeyerRealEstate.co.nz

Yvette Davies 027 357 9620 yvette@MeyerRealEstate.co.nz

Cultivating nature’s bounty

Jodie is the mastermind behind Baby Tropics and More. Her story began with a simple love for growing her own food and relishing the taste of garden-fresh produce.

With a passion for growing her own food and a desire to eat fresh from her garden, Jodie started with a patch of veggies that gradually grew into a sprawling garden of greens. Soon enough, fruit trees entered the scene, alongside a variety of berries, expanding her horizons. “Nurturing nature as it nurtures me back”, is how Jodie describes her initial desire to take on this n ew venture.

“As I delved deeper into the fruit realm, I was struck by the astonishing array of varieties of everyday fruits, like apples and bananas, things most of us take for granted,” says Jodie. This fascination led her to explore tropical and subtropical fruit plants, nurturing a growing passion that eventually gave birth to Baby Tropics and More. With a little one in tow, the thought of a new generation savouring a diverse range of fruits stirred excitement within her.

Providing New Zealand with tropical and subtropical fruit trees, shrubs, and vines, is at the heart of Baby Tropics and More, with an assortment of plants, vines and seeds available. It's not just about selling plants, but rather about sharing the secrets held within the seeds. Fresh arrivals and old favourites make up her collection, which is continually expanding as new seeds arrive from her global network of suppliers. This ensures Jodie is able to provide a rich diversity of species and varieties. The quality of her offerings is a top priority, evidenced by each seed undergoing germination testing.

Jodie's dedication to her venture is palpable. Grateful for the support of her customers, she sees her work as a bridge between nature's wonders and the tables of many. Her hands-on approach extends to crafting her own fertilisers – of which seaweed is a favourite – a practise that nurtures both her plants and her connection to the earth.

“Approaching its first anniversary, Baby Tropics and More represents a dream turned reality for me,” says Jodie. “It serves as a canvas for my creativity, where I continue to learn and grow each day. Meeting fellow enthusiasts along the way has enriched the journey, as I absorb knowledge and share the joy of my pursuit.”

New Zealand's landscapes have provided the backdrop for Jodie’s explorations, and she looks forward to discovering even more orchards and food forests in the time to come. Find Baby Tropics and More on Facebook, or email below for more information.

BabyTropicsAndMore@gmail.com

Our Unwind Range available in four fabric colourways, including Sunbrella ‘Nutmeg’ as shown

Cream of the crop

David and Jennifer Rodrigue milk a small herd of goats in the rolling hills of Waipu, and Jennifer makes award-winning goat cheese under the label, Belle Chevre Creamery.

Until recently, Belle Chevre Creamery products have been locally distributed, mostly through farmers’ markets. But owners Jennifer and David had their hearts set on a retail space. “We wanted a place to retail our products that would serve, package, and present them as we ourselves would do at the markets, making sure they arrived home looking just as gorgeous as they did when the artisan producer made them,” s ays Jennifer.

Jennifer recalls the days of trying to find space in the village of Waipu, but nothing was available or it just wasn’t right. David suggested they build. It was then the section at 51 The Centre, Waipu, was purchased and so began the design and build stage. During this time, the couple had the section tidied up to be used to host the Roving Rural market for several months in a row last winter and spring.

Origin Northland is named based on trying to source as many products as possible from Northland. “We will go further afield throughout the country to bring Waipu shoppers what we think is the ‘best of show’ for its category, with every product having a point of difference.”

to just how big we take our paddock-to-plate business, with demand increasing around the country after each year’s NZ Specialist Cheesemakers’ Champion of Cheese Awards. We decided to keep it a small family business and make the cheese available first and foremost to the local community through Origin Northland. We wish New Zealand had more village cheesemakers, however if you don’t have fabulous local goat’s cheese near you, we are happy to courier our beautiful goat milk products to you.”

choices, reducing waste (allowing customers to bring their own container), and very tempting treats. Store manager, Mini Winters, says the shop is still on the lookout for locally grown or produced products.

The building project at 51 The Centre includes five other businesses that each will be opening in the months ahead. “Special mention to local artist Amy Evergreen for the illustrations capturing the feel of the shop before it is furnished and thriving.”

Origin Northland will focus on “shop by lifestyle”, catering to all manner of food

09 432 0931

hello@OriginNorthland.co.nz

Back on the farm, they are also completing an expansion of the cheese processing room. The expansion is much needed but isn’t on a massive level. “We had to make a decision as 09 883

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 the Trust Team for specialist advice.

Spreading the goodness

The Hemp Butter Co was founded in 2019 by food lovers and good friends Hasanthi and Leigh. They started The Hemp Butter Co when they were each on a journey to find healthy food alternatives that were also tasty, and were one of the first businesses to create a hemp seed spread in New Zealand.

“We saw a gap in the market for a non-peanut spread that was high in protein, healthy and delivered on flavour,” says Hasanthi. After two years of research and development they launched their first four products into the market – a range of delicious, nutrient-dense hemp butter spreads.

Their products are made using fresh New Zealand-grown hemp seeds combined with premium-quality tree nuts and spices to give

the perfect blend of flavour and nutrition. Creamy almonds from California, sweet Turkish hazelnuts, maple syrup from Quebec, and spices from beautiful Sri Lanka. All products are made in small batches to give a little extra care and love, providing the very best quality products. The newest addition to the range is a Kiwi-grown hemp heart oil.

The Original Hemp Butter has a nutty flavour and a creamy texture with just a hint of salt,

making it a perfect base to complement any flavour combination when cooking – often used in smoothies to give a daily boost. This flavour is almost 100 percent roasted hemp seeds, giving maximum hemp nutrition.

The Almond Hemp Butter rivals other almond butters in the market due to the roasting technique and the use of the whole almond, producing a beautiful medium-roasted almond spread.

Beautiful custom-made drapes, shutters and blinds

Curtain and Blind Specialists have been providing quality, stunning window furnishings including blinds, draperies and shutters for over 20 years. Phone for a measure and quote, or pop into the showroom 1 Elizabeth Street, Warkworth.

09 425 0037

The Maple Almond Hemp Butter is unlike anything on the market – a robust, decadent spread made with whole, scorched, creamy Californian almonds, roasted hemp seeds and Canadian maple.

The Vanilla Hazel Hemp Butter is a beautifully rich spread made with roasted hazelnuts, roasted hemp seeds, Canadian maple and organic vanilla – it is often likened to a healthy version of nutella which makes it an ideal alternative for kids.

The Hemp Butter Co spreads have an abundance of nutritional benefits including a source of protein, source of omega 3, the optimal range of omega 6 to 3, and all essential amino acids. They are vegan, a source of dietary fibre, preservative-free, made with Kiwi-grown hemp seeds and proudly manufactured in New Zealand.

“We recently expanded our product range to include a beautiful Cold Pressed Hemp Heart Oil,” says Leigh. “The oil has a natural source of nutrients and essential fatty acids to support a balanced and healthy lifestyle. The smooth, light, nutty taste makes it a versatile addition to any dish.”

The Hemp Butter Co are now regulars at the Matakana Village Farmers' Market and you can also find them online.

www.TheHempButterCo.com

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.

Talking natural wines

Speakeasy wines is the latest exciting project from ‘fermentologists’ Justin and Cynthia Oliver. Already riding high on the success of their locally-famous Bohemian Cider brand, Justin and Cynthia are set to release a range of natural wines, crafted from local vineyards.

“We have always been fans of natural wine, in fact we made some great natural wines under our Te Rata brand in the early 2010s. We were a bit ahead of our time back then and Bohemian Cider really took off, so all our energy has been focused on that in the meantime. Now that the natural wine movement is gaining momentum globally, we thought it was a great time for Matakana wine to get involved,” says Justin.

So what is natural wine? There’s no official definition, but if you think all wines are simply made from grapes and sunshine, it might be shocking to learn that there are over 72 additives legally permitted in winemaking. These include milk, enzymes and acidifiers, added colour, added sugar, nitrogen, hydrogen peroxide and powerful preservatives like sulphur dioxide.

Justin says, “To me natural wine is like listening to the live, acoustic version of your favourite song – authentic and raw – without all the special effects and manipulation that come from the studio.”

Natural wine is all about hand-harvested, organic grapes, fermented with native yeasts (naturally occurring on the skins), minimal manipulation and little or no preservatives. It’s the current darling of sommeliers the world over and is challenging the definition of the qualities that define good wine. Making wine in this

way is a pure expression of the qualities of the grapes and their terroir, and this approach resonates deeply with Justin an d Cynthia.

“We can grow great grapes in Matakana, as we’ve seen with the amazing vintages of 2019 to 2022. This has given us the perfect opportunity to craft some beautiful nat ural wines.“

Speakeasy’s initial releases will include a Cabernet Franc Dominant red Bordeaux blend, a Blanc de Noir sparkling, and Rose.

“We have also commissioned a talented young local artist to create a mural on a wall of wine bottles – resulting in 200 individually unique, limited-edition bottles, the perfect way to celebrate our inaugural release.”

Cynthia compares the Speakeasy wine range to the specials board at your favourite restaurant, “It’s an ever-changing selection, reflecting the best of the local terroir and the whims and skills of the talented winemaker. There is no push for control and homogeneity so you can be assured there will never be a d ull moment!”

Speakeasy will share a tasting room with Bohemian cider on D uck Creek Road.

Open by appointment only.

021 880 864 | www.FreeRangeWines.co.nz

SKIN ONCE AGAIN”

Leigh Eats has been a popular eatery for locals and visitors alike for many years. Owners Tim and Zoe took over the famous fish and chip shop in 2021, and say the first month was about learning the ropes, but after that it was “all hands on deck”. Apart from Tim breaking a deep-fryer on the busiest day of the year, they got throu gh unscathed.

In 2022, they were joined by their best friends Annaliese and Josh, who became co-owners. Alongside their staff, they have created a space that is a “must do” when visiting the area. Tim can be found beaming behind the coffee machine, Annaliese is usually busy baking sweet treats, and Zoë juggles three different tasks at once (not to mention growing a child). Josh has another full-time job – afternoons on Life FM radio station – but he can often be found taking orders front-of-house, or simply showing off a fish he’s managed to catch to the Leigh swimming group.

Face-lift for Leigh eatery

Leigh’s iconic fish and chip shop, Leigh Eats, has had a makeover to incorporate a great new design and indoor seating.

Annaliese, Tim, and Zoe are “passionate about not only providing great food to the many day trippers and tourists that find themselves in paradise (also known as Leigh) but also creating a space that our lovely locals can think of as their own”. This was kept firmly front of mind as they embarked on a recent renovation, as well as completely new branding thanks to Dialog Studio. After keeping things largely the same since taking over from Rach and Wax, the shop front has been renovated, a brand new counter and concrete benchtop have made room for a much larger waiting area, and there is additional indoor seating. The inside has been beautifully painted and the new

red logo now adorns the walls and windows. Dialog helped create a fabulous new website too, which displays the new menu in full. The new look is modern but remains warm and welcoming to all.

While visually the shop has changed, the heart of Leigh Eats remains the same. Quality food that promotes local and fresh produce, a sense of ‘home’ for the locals, and a taste of something special for travellers, drawing them back to the area to experience more of the amazing community in Leigh.

www.LeighEats.co.nz

www.instagram.com/LeighEats

Serene oasis dream turned reality LIFESTYLE

Christian and Mark, seasoned by previous renovations, approached the creation of their new home with a clear vision. The first was to find a builder that shared their passion and motivation for the build. After a seamless sales process, excellent communication, and a fixed price, the couple were sold; finding their perfect match with Landmark Homes.

The couple’s design brief was an intricate tapestry of desires; a home where every inch spoke to purpose and luxury. Embracing the essence of family life, they envisioned a layout that offered both intimate retreats and vibrant communal spaces. The outdoor area was to serve as a focal point, while privacy was top of mind; with the notion of dual wings providing an escape for the adults when needed, and the kids as they get older. Woven throughout was the commitment to seamlessly intertwine the beauty of nature with the interiors, which they had expert help by engaging interior designer, Lulu Wilcox. The result is a meticulously-designed haven embracing the magnificence of the outdoors whilst nurturing intimate family moments within. A leafy corner oasis, complete with water feature and fish pond, sets the scene at the entryway and, with floor to ceiling glass on two sides, continues through to the living area. High ceilings throughout the kitchen and family room offer a grandeur to complement styling features such as chandeliers and gold accents,

Photos Helen Bankers

Words Nikita Oliver Metcalfe

For Mark and Christian Newman, the creation of their resort-style family haven was a collaborative effort, resulting in a true masterpiece that stands as a testament to perseverance and the power of a shared vision.

softened by water views and a natural colour palette welcoming the outdoor landscape inside.

Frankie and Lulu’s wing is a child’s dream, featuring mirrored rooms – each with a built-in bunk bed – which opens out to a shared playroom. A guest bedroom offers flexibility, while the couple’s resort vision truly comes to life with a charming pool house, providing a tranquil respite for visitors with feature wallpaper and pendant lighting setting the scene for an island vacation.

The architectural beauty of this home is captured by the stunning lines and angles created in the outdoor sanctuary which is the heart of the home. Featuring a pool, spa, builtin barbeque and bar fridge, and multiple seating areas, it’s easy to see why it’s such a focus. Glass fencing around the pool area ensures the stunning coastal view is embraced, while black, wood, and concrete exterior materials combine to create a striking contrast against the natural backdrop.

In a wing all of its own is the master bedroom, separated by a long hallway which tucks away a shared office. Sumptuous blue velvet adorns the entire wall of the bed that anchors the master bedroom, which also enjoys the same stunning coastal views as the rest of the house. A walk-through wardrobe leads to a tranquil master bathroom with an opulent bathtub in front of a floor-to-ceiling window framing that inescapable view.

The path to Christian and Mark’s dream home was driven by an unwavering pursuit of perfection, which meant a whopping 54 variations were made by the couple to sculpt the home that is so close to their hearts. “It is our forever-home and I didn’t want to live with things I didn’t like,” admits Christian. The culmination of two years of passion, planning, and perseverance has resulted in this couple turning their dream home into a reality... and they love it!

www.Instagram.com/LoveFromYourDads

www.LandmarkHomes.co.nz

YOUR NEW LIFESTYLE AWAITS YOU AT KENSINGTON PARK!

Introducing this newly completed addition to the prestigious and established Kensington Park Orewa community. Designed by leading architectural firm Shanahan Architects, these sought after apartments are move-in ready with limited but premium options still available to secure today. Choose from one, two, or three-bedroom configurations, each offering scenic views of the lake or garden reserve.

Regardless of your age or lifestyle, The Gardens Apartments cater to every discerning buyer. Secure entry through elegant lobbies, single-level living via elevator access from the basement garages to your private, elevated home. Open plan and light filled with floor to ceiling windows and stacker doors to generous outdoor living spaces. Premium specification with luxury touches including Miele kitchen appliances, Grohe European tapware, composite benchtops, StoneCast basins, carpets, oak flooring, fully tiled showers and more.

As a resident, you will have access to an array of community amenities designed to enrich your lifestyle. Take advantage of the heated indoor swimming pool, fully-equipped gym, and sauna. Immerse yourself in the extensive gardens, complete with scenic walking tracks through native bush, or stroll to the golden sands of Orewa Beach.

Visit our vibrant development today to explore The Gardens Apartments Showhomes.

Pricing From: Single bedroom from $1,003,750 | Two bedrooms from $1,567,500 | Three bedrooms from $1,732,500

Contact

UNITY COLLECTION

Winner of the Junction 2023 Retail Award in the south region. Tania Rupapera (Ngāti Kahu/Ngāruahine) is the founder and curator of Unity Collection, an authentic contemporary Māori gallery with art, fashion and design from leading Māori creatives.

Sharing their storytelling while aligning with Unity's vision and values, she weaves her passion and purpose to bring this Kaupapa to life. Tania is also a coach at Mana Coaching and facilitator of the Mana Mindset Well-being Wānanga.

Unity is a small gallery with a big purpose.

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

PREMIUM REAL ESTATE MATAKANA

The leader in selling fine New Zealand homes since 1984. From a central location in the historic village of Matakana, Premium Matakana is perfectly located to serve the beautiful Matakana coastal region and beyond.

The team at Premium Matakana are dedicated, passionate, property professionals who understand their clients’ needs and wants.

Go in and talk to one of thes team about your next move...Linda Smith, Rob Matulich, Gail Van Reemst, Julia Lewis and Sue Harden.

9 Matakana Valley Rd | 09 422 9280 PREMIUM

LITE INJECTABLES

Teri is the founder and injecting RN of Lite Injectables in the Village. Teri has carefully selected a range of products known for their exceptional purity in order that her clients can experience the safest and purest appearance medicine and skin health treatments. Most popular treatments are pure hyaluronic acid injectables to redensify and strengthen skin, wrinkle reduction to soften pesky lines and wrinkles and Dermapen micro needling to rejuvenate and strengthen skin using the body's own healing mechanisms.

Contact Teri today for a complimentary consultation.

2 Matakana Valley Rd | www.LiteInjectables.nz

HEAVENLY SOLES

Welcome to Mandy's shoe and fashion wonderland in the heart of Matakana! Heavenly Soles is an iconic destination for the most divine curation of shoes, clothing and accessories. Mandy has been in the business for many years now, and has become the trusted go-to for dressing the women of the Matakana coast and beyond. They stock a beautiful range of goodies from your favourites at Kathryn Wilson, Marlo, Briarwood, Zoe Kratzmann, Carrano, EOS, Django & Juliette and many more.

Mandy looks forward to seeing you in the store soon!

2 Matakana Valley Rd, Matakana | www.HeavenlySoles.co.nz

The Foundry.lab Upcyclery studio in the heart of Matakana, is a new local business dedicated to the art of upcycling pre-loved furniture.

With a commitment to sustainability and creativity, Scarlett Mcgrath breathes new life into forgotten pieces, transforming them into unique and stylish treasures. She not only creates one-of-a-kind pieces,but she also contributes to a greener environment. Her passion for upcycling furniture sets her apart from general furniture stores, making The Foundry.lab a beloved destination for those seeking sustainable and artistic furniture and restorations.

021 086 94024 | www.facebook.com/TheFoundry.Labnz

TEA AND TONIC

Tea and Tonic is a haven where souls find respite. Monni Jansen and her team curate holistic treasures that embrace both person and planet. Luxury, sustainable fashion, jewellery, oils, ceramics and natural beauty products unite, offering personal solace or bespoke ethical gifting. Natural scents of essential oils and tenderly prepared tea are offered with the encouragement towards self care. Tea and Tonic isn't just a shop; it's a whispered reminder of our connection to self and earth – a tranquil escape from the world's rush.

Shop 5/A, 2 Matakana Valley Rd | 021 212 8909

MATAKANA FARMERS' MARKET

Ever met someone whose energy just draws you in? That's Kate Arbuthnot for you. Since donning the hat of the Farmers' Market Manager, Kate's been bringing a fresh vibe to Matakana's favourite Saturday hangout. Remember the Whangaripo WildFood Festival? Yep, that was her brainchild. And now, she's weaving that same community spirit into the market. It's not just about zero waste or fresh produce; it’s about the laughter, the stories, the banter, and the ties that bind Matakana. With Kate steering the ship, Saturday mornings aren't just an errand – they're quite possibly the highlight of your week.

2 Matakana Valley Rd | www.MatakanaVillage.co.nz/Market

MATAKANA PUB

As the Matakana Pub Operations Manager, Carolina enjoys connecting with the locals and working alongside Chris and the rest of the team, who share a passion for this community and hospitality. She is proud to be part of this new season. With 13 years of hospitality management experience followed by a career in Experiential Marketing, Chris wants to build on the already legendary dining experience. Events, great food and fun are what the community and its visitors should have at their local meeting place.

11 Matakana Valley Rd, Matakana | www.TheMatakana.co.nz

MATAKANA INJECTABLES

Renowned cosmetic injectables specialist, Deb Barham of Matakana Injectables, specialises in non-surgical enhancements using clinically-proven, top-of-the-range products to deliver premium results. As a CANN accredited injector, Matakana Injectables follows the highest standards of practice to ensure patient care and safety. Deb 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.

0274 901 010 | barhamd@outlook.com

JIN JIN

Jin Jin is a vibrant, busy little Asian restaurant found in the heart of Matakana, run by Daniel. Offering authentic dishes full of flavour, matched with a variety of drinks including local beer and wine.

A talented team, offering delicious food and excellent service.

44 Matakana Valley Rd | 09 945 0909

RINGAWERA BAKER

Located in the heart of Matakana Village, Ringawera Baker is open seven days a week. They offer a wonderful selection of breads and pastries, alongside many assorted sweet treats. Breakfast and lunch are covered with a great range of fresh sandwiches and savoury pastries.

New in store is a quality cake section. Message or email the team or visit the website to make contact.

Open seven days from 7am or earlier.

Ringawera@xtra.co.nz | www.RingaweraBaker.co.nz

MATAKANA COFFEE ROASTERS

There’s a hidden gem in the corner of the Village upper carpark. It’s The Roastery & Espresso Bar of Matakana Coffee Roasters, serving fresh roasted coffees, house-made meals and snacks.

For many locals this is their go-to for meetings, dates and catch ups with friends. Open from 8am-2pm, Monday to Saturday, with good tunes, good company, and great service. Come join those who have discovered this small, very important part of everyday that just works perfectly!

roastery@MatakanaCoffee.co.nz | 021 644 337

INDUSTRIAL VINTAGE FURNITURE HOMEWARES & GIFTS

745 MATAKANA ROAD, MATAKANA

OPEN THURSDAY-SUNDAY FROM 10AM-4PM www.facebook.com/OldSchoolMatakana www.instagram.com/matakanaoldschool

Meet the heart and soul behind Matakana Village

Each smiling face you see is a testament to the passion, dedication, and love they pour into their businesses every single day It's these villagers that make Matakana a truly special place Dive into our vibrant community and discover the stories, dreams, and flavours that make us unique Welcome to Matakana Village

www.matakanavillage.co.nz It’s an experience - and it’s open every day.

With age comes beauty

Loma Studios is the artistic home of Rebecca Lloyd, a seasoned creative who has honed her skills across a range of industries since 1998.

For as long as Rebecca can remember she has been a maker of things: ceramics, sculpture, clothing, and jewellery, to name a few. Her journey into leatherwork started last year, self-taught from books, online, and just by doing, and like most things Rebecca does, once the seed was planted she figured it out and got stuck in. With an attention to detail that drives her curious mind, she is constantly learning new techniques and perfecting her skills. “Creating new designs is one of the highlights of my craft; finishing

a new piece is extremely satisfying, and when someone else desires it too, that really cements my purpose,” says Rebecca.

After completing a Bachelor of Graphic Design, Rebecca was drawn to the film industry working as a prop-maker and sculptor for nearly two decades. She then ran a bespoke wedding cake business on Waiheke Island, before moving on to building houses alongside her partner Adam. There soon came a desire for more space and a change of direction, so with Adam and their

two dogs by her side, Rebecca said goodbye to the big city and relocated to Mangawhai to pursue her dream of crafting unique, hand-made pieces that exude beauty and functionality.

She has always been attracted to leather, be it boots, bags or accessories; not the shiny, new polished variety but the vintage pieces that tell a story. She loves how good-quality leather beautifies with age and if it is looked after it can last a lifetime. She wants her products to be like that and to have a minimal

modern feel whilst embracing the essence of traditional leatherwork, the simplicity of construction with lacing or weaving, and the labour-intensive hand-stitching and ed ge-finishing.

Each bag and accessory is handcrafted in limited editions, cut from quality, full-grain leather hides and completed with solid brass American hardware with an antique finish, in keeping with the vintage feel. ”I think people like to know what’s behind a product, who made it and where. When I’m selling at the Mangawhai community market every Saturday, I love that I can say it’s hand-made by me, just down the road,” says Rebecca.

“Loma is the name of my much-loved godmother/aunty of sorts. A woman who loved fashion, was full of life, and was always a great confidant throughout my life. She was a strong woman with a strong name.”

www.LomaStudios.felt.co.nz

www.instagram.com/Loma_Studios

Roll up, roll up for the next Junior Artisans’ Market

The first of its kind, the recent Matakana Junior Artisans’ Market was met with great enthusiasm from the local community, and children and adults alike had a fabulous time on the day.

Over 80 local, young entrepreneurs gathered to display their creativity across some 50 stalls at the first ever Junior Artisans’ Market in Matakana. Izzy Wagstaff and Lucy Howlett did a fantastic job organising the incredible event, giving their peers a platform to showcase their creative talents. Through the girls' efforts and the generous support of the Harcourts Cooper & Co ‘Coffee & Cone’ truck, over $900 was raised for their chosen charity partner, Country Retreat Animal Sanctuary.

Helen and Gavin from the retreat were blown away by the support: “Because of your hard work we have found lovely homes for two of our pups and possible homes for another two.” The money raised also meant they were able to help some pups that needed urgent medical attention.

If you would like to be involved in the upcoming Junior Artisans’ Christmas Market get in touch via the email ad dress below. JuniorArtisansMarket@gmail.com www.CountryrRetreatAnimalSanctuary.org

ADOPT A RESCUE DOG TODAY

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All dogs come with essential services like desexing, microchipping, vaccinations, and flea & worm treatments organised so you can focus on loving your new pet. Get in touch today and learn more about our adorable rescues

countryretreatanimalsanctuary@gmail.com

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From the bush to the bowl

Luxury Conscious Antarctica Stewardship Expedition

4-15 March 2024: A Journey of Discovery with Peter Hillary, Sir Graham Henry, Lady Raewyn, and other incredible guests.

This 11 night/12 day expedition is unlike any other as you take part in the Antarctica Stewardship Expedition – a unique journey that is just as much about the journey as it is about the destination. The exploration of this place with people provides a sense of true collaboration, something that is not easily found in today's world.

The expedition is organised by passionate Mangawhai Tiny House "Wander Nest" owners and founders of Wonder and Wander, Steve and Sarah Pirie-Nally, in collaboration with Insider Expeditions, a company specialising in conscious luxury travel that has been featured on numerous media outlets including CNN and The New York Times. On this journey of discovery, you will be accompanied by some of the most inspiring people from around the globe including Peter Hillary, Sir Graham Henry, Damon Gameau and more incredible leaders, entrepreneurs, and passionate travellers.

The Antarctica Stewardship Expedition is more than just a journey; it is an opportunity to explore the unknown in a way you never thought possible. From daily zodiac excursions to experiencing the incredible wildlife, this expedition will leave you feeling inspired and empowered by your experience of true collaboration. And the best part? All of this comes with a luxury package on one of the most conscious navigators, ensuring that you can experience all of this without harming or changing the environment

Join them on an unforgettable journey that will leave you feeling like you have truly experienced the world!

Pricing starts at $19,997 per person.

steve@WonderAndWander.com

sarah@WonderAndWander.com

www.InsiderExpeditions.com/Stewardship www.instagram.com/WonderWanderAgency

www.customkit.co.nz enquiries@customkit.co.nz 09 238 6518

Barn Style Homes & Timber Framed Sheds

Horses for courses

Hamish Fryer started Barefoot & Wild after discovering the Horses Helping Humans program, which he has expanded to include men’s workshops.

Nestled at the bottom of the Brynderwyn Hills is Barefoot & Wild. Almost all of the horses originally came from the wild, but through gentle handling have come to be part of a relaxed herd. “Some of them came to us as ‘never to be ridden’,” says Hamish. “But we believe no horse or human is ever beyond repair. Each horse has a unique story, the common theme often being that the horse has been misunderstood and suffered trauma. Much like humans we can find ways to understand each other better and re act differently.”

Hamish stumbled across the Horses Helping Humans program and instantly recognised it was an excellent way to help more horses and humans. “The program was originally started for at-risk youth but has expanded to everyone from juvenile offenders, youth on the spectrum, family units, right up to corporate team building.” He says that the beauty of working alongside the horses is there is no bluffing with them, horses are an extremely intuitive animal and give you instant feedback and insights into how you feel and what you are putting out for others t o see.

On Sunday 24 September, Hamish is running another men’s half-day workshop, costing $140 per person. The plan would be to run one a month, as he sees a need to assist men’s mental health; it’s a long-term goal to

help young boys and men, and encouraging male role models who can communicate better. “Men tend to go into themselves instead of asking for help and there is still a stigma attached to reaching out. This program is about understanding yourself and your conditioned response to situations, working on different ways to change your body chemistry, emotional regulation, and commu nication skills.”

The exercises are all ground based, with no riding involved unless there is a desire to try at the end of the session. “By working alongside the horse we can alter different things about ourselves and our body language which has profound changes within our body chemistry, and when practised will have long term effects.”

The goal is to create a space where men can feel comfortable and relaxed and be able to discuss and apply new techniques that can and will help in everyday life, either at home or in the workplace environment. Also to have a network of other men to touch base with.

“There is an ever-increasing level of pressure on men where masculinity is frowned upon. Being masculine is a part of our DNA, being macho on the other hand usually never ends well. The end goal is being comfortable in their own skin and mind.”

Hamish is on the lookout for funding to help reach more men, and can be contacted about this or the Horses Helping Humans prog ram below.

020 4118 9392 | www.BarefootAndWild.co.nz

Kōmako Gardens is a multidisiplinary gardening practice working on the Matakana Coast.

Spring is the season to prune and shape ornamental shrubs and hedges before any vigorous growth begins.

Reach out to organise a free consultation.

www.komakogardens.com

hello@komakogardens.com

021 297 6927

Open up to man up

Crowding into a small church hall in Kaiwaka on a rainy Wednesday evening are 40 men who have taken the challenge of attending the Man Up Tu Tangata course being run by Tawhiri Littlejohn.

Tawhiri decided to introduce the program to the Kaiwaka community last year and was amazed at how many men showed up. “One of my workers was a full-on gangster, in jail for 14 years, and I asked him what had turned his life around. He said it was the Man Up program,” says Tawhiri. “We have everyone from men on the bracelet, men struggling with drugs, business owners, farmers, sports coaches – a whole range. The program has been so effective that we've just carried on doing it.”

Tawhiri’s desire to help men and improve his community is informed by his own experiences of hardship. “I've come from the dysfunction of drugs and violence, and when I see people stuck where I was, there's more passion to help them and show them a b etter way.”

During the 10-week program, there is group discussion around addiction, jealousy, heartbreak, violence and many other topics. The group is a safe space to open up about experiences and emotions with others who may have gone through something similar.

“You build a close friendship with people outside of your normal sphere of influence, which is great,” says Tawhiri. “It's really nice that men are feeling comfortable and empowered enough to come along and do that. We celebrate the men that just walk through the doors to be honest.”

Josh was one of those prepared to man up for the first cycle last year. “I’d headed off in the wrong direction in my life when I was younger. I knew I needed to change so I started coming to church with a friend of mine and that’s where I met Tawhiri. He introduced me to Man Up and I’m now on my third rotation, still learning, still helping, still absorbing. This has restored my integrity and I’m learning how to be honest again – with myself and other people. If you want to be a better father, son, uncle, role model, or whatever, this is a great place to start.”

Fresh out of rehab and a recent arrival in Kaiwaka, it's Jesse’s first experience with Man Up. “I was going through a break-up and I was away from my children – I was going through a lot of things. I heard some

of the testimonies the bros were sharing and I related to them. Being connected here with the church and the Man Up crew is providing an awesome community vibe. It’s ‘open up’ instead of ‘harden up’, so if you really want that healing, come to an environment lik e this.”

Giving so much to a community and men in need can take a toll, but Tawhiri insists, “Your greatest value is to take care of others. So, for me, it's love for people, families and community. There's no fulfilment in just trying to live a better life for yourself. You get fulfilment from making someone else's life better and that enhances your own life.”

When the work is done and men have helped each other repair some of the trauma in their lives, Tawhiri hopes to see them return to being fully involved in their communities. And, he says, “Be a man in your home, one who takes care of his family, not out of fear, but out of love and encouragement.”

www.facebook.com/Tawhiri.Littlejohn

BLOOD

Rings On Water is the second crime book in the Matakana Series. The reader is reunited with recurring characters and the scenic area of Matakana. Excellent plotting, timing and realistic personalities enhance the hunt for drug dealers and a killer, placing many in jeopardy, leaving no one untouched. All of this culminates in an ending you won’t see coming.

Madeleine Eskedahl does not disappoint!

Chronicles of Crime, your mystery bookshop

Available at all good booksellers

www.madeleineeskedahlauthor.com | @madeleineeskedahlauthor

RINGS ON WATER, THE MUCH AWAITED FOLLOW UP TO THE BESTSELLING LOCAL CRIME NOVEL

ON VINES IS FINALLY HERE.

Words Luke Williamson

Gathering for suicide prevention

Following a moving and powerful event that brought together a beautiful group of souls for a meaningful cause, Wendy Douglas, alongside Sandey Hoskin, Lisa Elliot, and Hamish Barton, is set to lead another impactful gathering. On Sunday 10 September, from 8-10:30am, at The Barn in Matakana (thanks to Hyoumankind), they will be leading 108 Sun Salutations in a heartfelt effort to raise funds for suicide prevention.

“The tragic impact of suicide is far-reaching and leaves a lasting void in the lives of those left behind. Every life is precious, and it is heartening to witness a community coming together to support a cause as critical as suicide awareness,” says Wendy. The proceeds collected from this event will be donated to LifeKeepers NZ, a charitable organisation that has developed a specialised training program aimed at equipping individuals with the ability to identify and provide support to those vulnerable to suicide.

For Wendy this cause holds a deeply personal significance; the journey of selfdiscovery she embarked on after losing her mother to suicide when she was only

20 years old has been profound and transformative. “Through the guidance of spiritual teachers, coaches, and practises like yoga and meditation, I have found comfort and healing in both my inner and outer worlds. When Sandey Hoskin initially approached me to co-lead the same event at Basecamp in Grey Lynn recently, I immediately accepted. My mission now is to inspire others to find a similar sense of joy and gratitude for life, and to explore new pathways towards increased contentment and fulfilment.”

Wendy’s journey towards healing has given her a deeper understanding of the complexities of life and the significance of supporting one another through challenging times. “The upcoming event at The Barn promises to be more than just a gathering for yoga enthusiasts, it symbolises unity – a collective effort to stand against the shadows of despair and hopelessness. As participants come together, moving through the Sun Salutations, they will not only honour their own bodies and minds but also extend their

compassion to those who have struggled with mental health challenges.”

Wendy says it is crucial to recognise that suicide is not a solitary battle, it affects families, friends, and entire communities. “If we can together have the difficult conversations and shine a light on mental health issues, which are really a day-to-day pandemic, we may break down barriers to seeking help and promote a culture of understanding and empathy.”

Join Wendy Douglas and her team on 10 September at The Barn in Matakana for Sun Salutations – a gesture of solidarity and hope in support of Suicide Awareness. Email to participate or donate to 38-9012-0271239-01. wendy.firehorse@gmail.com

InspireYogaTeacherTrainingNZ@gmail.com

For further support and information, LifeKeepers NZ is available nationwide and is free of charge to New Zealanders who are 18 years and over and who are likely to interact with people at risk of suicide.

www.LifeKeepers.nz

Photo Sara Sarome

Smile for sustainability

Mouthy, a premium oral care brand based in New Zealand, is proud to announce the launch of a new luxury toothpaste. Made with high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients, it’s the perfect solution for those who want to add a touch of luxury to their daily oral care routine.

“It's always frustrated me that the endless variety of toothpastes you see at your local supermarket all look the same and have little effort towards sustainability. It's no wonder toothpaste is hidden away in the drawer beneath your bathroom vanity, despite being one of the most used products daily,” says founder Mindy Evans. Recognising the opportunity to cater to consumers like herself, she set out to create a business with consumer needs at its heart.

A three-year journey of innovation and development resulted in the launch of Mouthy Fluoride Toothpaste, Spearmint & Eucalyptus 100g. Affordably priced, Mouthy aims to be accessible to a wider range of consumers. The company believes that everyone should have access to premium products that not only work effectively but are also affordable.

"We are excited to launch our new luxury toothpaste in the market," says Mindy. "Our mission is to provide beautiful, high-quality oral care products that are made with sustainable ingredients sourced from local communities.”

Made with a unique blend of locally-sourced ingredients that provide superior oral care and protection against cavities and gum disease, the toothpaste is formulated with fluoride, which is essential for preventing tooth decay and maintaining strong, h ealthy teeth.

Welcome to spring

With daylight saving just around the corner, it’s time to book your accommodation at Pakiri Beach Holiday Park. Longer evenings and plenty of time to enjoy our white sandy beach. We are remotely located on the beautiful Pacific Ocean, only 100km’s from Auckland. Happiness is waking up on a spring day at the beach. Please go to our website to see what is available and make your bookings.

With the planet in mind, Mouthy tubes are made from recycled plastic. “The majority of household items intended to be recycled end up in landfills due to contamination, so it was important to do as much as possible to create a product that minimises waste.”

At $7.49, the product is not only beautiful and effective at cleaning your teeth, but an affordable addition to your daily hy giene products.

Mouthy is now available for purchase at selected New World supermarkets across the North Island.

www.MouthyToothpaste.com

www.instagram.com/MouthyToothpaste

EXPERIENCED WEDDING CELEBRANT & MASTER OF CEREMONIES

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

“I am passionate about people and celebrations. Everyone has a story that is worthy of being told the right way.”

021 241 0668

www.carlarotondo.com

Construction waste – a building concern

As the hillsides of Mangawhai are gradually transformed into bustling urban landscapes, with new builds popping up on every other corner, the issue of construction waste has become an ever-present topic in conversation amongst the team at Sustainable Kaipara.

Mangawhai has historically consisted of a small township, plus holiday homes. However, the area now has a rapidly expanding residential population – with Mangawhai projected to more than double by 2051, and anticipated to account for 86 percent of Kaipara's population growth over the next 30 years.

Industry engagement highlighted that builders in Mangawhai currently use an average of five skip bins (mostly nine-metre-cube bins) per new build, but some use more than 20. The feasibility study identified that with a status quo approach, there would be almost 16,000 tonnes of waste produced by new home builds and an estimated value of lost materials of $108 million by 2051.

Recognising that construction and demolition waste make up roughly 50 percent of waste to landfill in NZ, and the fact Mangawhai is one of NZ’s fastest growing towns, the Sustainable Kaipara team knew action was needed in this space. The Building Out Waste in Mangawhai is a feasibility study and construction waste diversion project. With Phase One just completed, the team is now eyeing up the implementation phase – how to effect change on the ground.

The feasibility study identifies 13 key actions to better manage construction waste in Mangawhai. A Construction Waste Guide has been developed, which identifies the options currently available to construction companies in Mangawhai to keep valuable materials in use rather than being disposed of at the end of the line. The action plan in the study also looks at the systemic issues, including the need for a construction material sorting facility at Hakaru Re:Sort to allow for reuse of a variety of materials, and the need for targeted advocacy and education campaigns that look at specific issues or materials.

Mangawhai construction waste could be reduced by 40-45 percent, simply by diverting timber, plasterboard and metal from landfill. Diversion of a range of other materials is also very achievable. Project lead, Sarah Bray, says, “Circularity is key, we need to design out the waste from the beginning as well as focus on what needs to be done to keep valuable resources in the loop. There’s good options available right now to move timber and metal up the waste hierarchy; plasterboard recovery will be available soon. So we’re focused on supporting the local builders to tackle these materials as a starting point.”

The project has been funded by the Ministry for the Environment and Vermont Street Partners. Project supporters include ITM Mangawhai, Smith Construction and Fin ess Group.

To view the feasibility study or download the construction waste guide, please visit the website. For further details email S arah Bray. www.SustainableKaipara.org | sarah@SustainableKaipara.org

Dig, Grade, Roll and Deliver

Photo Caren Davis, The Treehouse Creative

Chris Penk MP for Kaipara ki Mahurangi

House sites, farm races, ponds, driveways and more

Servicing the Kaiwaka, Managwhai, Mangaturoto, W Waipu and Wellsford areas

Local literary festival

Organised by award-winning local children’s author Maria Gill and volunteer librarians Julie Snowsill and Vanessa Barber, the inaugural Point Wells Village Literary Festival offers a full day of author events to delight kids and adults alike.

“Many people don’t realise how many talented writers live in this area,” says Maria. “We wanted to create a literary festival that would showcase our local writers and offer a fun opportunity for the community to g et together.”

Maria is no stranger to literary festivals. She’s the author of more than 60 children’s books, published both in New Zealand and overseas, and the current chair of the Auckland branch of the New Zealand Society of Authors. She’s a regular speaker at the Auckland Writers’ Festival, has organised dozens of literary events, and for 11 years organised workshops for nationwide children’s writers’ group, KiwiWrite4Kidz.

The Point Wells Village Literary Festival takes place on Saturday 16 September and kicks off at 9am, with readings from celebrated children’s writers. Chris Gurney (The Hug Blanket) and Tania Sickling (Grandpa’s Dashing Dessert) will read aloud from their latest picture books. Maria Gill will share true adventure tales (Epic New Zealand Adventurers) and Janine Williams (Holding the Horse) will talk about her shortlisted book

for readers 10-years-plus.

Entry for kids is by koha, with all proceeds going to the Matakana Dyslexia program.

From 12pm, the program switches to adult books. Crime writers Sherryl Clark (Judi Westerholme series) and then Madeleine Eskedahl (The Matakana Series), non-fiction writer Debbie Aldred (Sailing Marmax), and poet Kit Willett (Dying of the Light) will share their books. Cookbook writer Brigid DiMattina (Nostrana) will talk about sustainable gardening and cooking and prepare o ne dish.

At 5.30pm, musician Milly Tabak will sing and play New Orleans-style music while participants sip OBV-donated wines and Pak'nSave-donated cheese and crackers. “We’ll also draw a raffle for two signed cookery books by Al Brown,” says Vanessa.

With the help of a Creative New Zealand Communities grant and generous local sponsors, the organisers can bring this all-day event at the ticket price of $30. Attendees can go to one or all five adult talks, as well as music and drinks. Partners

of attendees can join the music event fo r $15.

“It’s turning out to be a real community event,” says Julie. “Mary-Liz from Matakana Village Bookshop will be selling books, and Bex from Point Wells General Store will make muffins and coffee for a special price on th e day.”

The organisers will decorate the hall so it has a festive and welcoming feel. “During lockdown it became important to get to know your neighbours and to look out for each other. This is another opportunity for residents to meet more people in their community and celebrate our local talent,” says Maria. “We hope to hold the festival every year in the springtime.”

Point Wells Literary Festival, Point Wells Hall, Point Wells Road.

Saturday 16 September, 9am to 6pm. Tickets all day – $30 adults; Music and drinks only $15; Kids by koha. www.trybooking.com/nz/events/landing/9636 www.PointWellsVillage.co.nz/events

Stomping grounds

Celebrating 14 years of showing visitors the beauty of the Mahurangi region, and a little beyond, Warkworth Walks is on the march again from 10-12 November, with a wide and varied choice of some of the best walks out there.

Brand new for 2023 is a visit to Atiu Creek Regional Park, situated on the beautiful Kaipara Harbour, and still a novelty to many. The guides will take you on a visually stunning circuit of the park, stopping to enjoy a packed lunch and some historical highlights along the way.

Also new this year is the Fallen Tree Bush Walk, which follows a loop track in the hills immediately to the north-east of Warkworth. This trail goes through thick bush and will appeal to dedicated trampers. There are sneaky views to be had and plenty of bird song, so lots to look forward to.

Returning in 2023 is Takatu Rock Hopper, taking walkers along the southern coastline of Takatu Peninsula, visiting the beaches and bays along the way, and enjoying amazing views of Kawau Bay.

Walk on Water begins this year with a kayak trip down the Puhoi River to the southern end of Mahurangi Regional Park. Then walking north via Te Muri and Sullivans Bay to Opahi Bay. The trail will offer the best of land and water, and a truly unique experience.

The Bigger Big Omaha Trail will go south to north again this year. At roughly 18km of uphill and down-dale, this is for serious

walkers who enjoy a bit of everything, including spectacular views north and south from some of the highest points in the district. The ever-popular Vineyard Trail includes visits to Beetopia, Sculptureum, and several local vineyards for tastings and lunch. Always fun and convivial, this sells out fast.

Crowd favourite, Duck Creek Explorer, visits Bohemian Cider, Mahurangi Olives and a new private trail on Solway Farm. A joyful day out with gorgeous views and tastings.

Totally Tamahunga takes you to the top of our local maunga, the historic site of Otamahua pā. There are beautiful views from the summit

Words Luke Williamson

and a well-deserved lunch stop at Sawmill Café to look forward to.

Mahu West Wonderland offers glorious views, native bush and the gorgeous beaches of Mahurangi West. The Warkworth Walks team did this trail in April and everyone was astounded at how beautiful it is, so check it out for yourselves.

The coastal classic, Goat Island to Pākiri, is the best way to see this magnificent stretch of coastline, incorporating marine reserve, rocky shore, soaring hillsides and white sand beach. Truly splendid, and a rewarding lunch at Sawmill Café to finish.

To cap it all off, we revisit Tāwharanui Regional Park with guides who know the park inside out. Insiders’ Tāwharanui will take you places you might not get to on your own, and seek out the special corners, creatures and plants that only the experienced gui des know.

Make a long weekend of it and take in a selection of the great walks on offer. Check the website for details and remember to book early to avoid disappointment. www.WarkworthWalks.co.nz

Riding back through time

Horse trekking enthusiasts are being offered a unique opportunity to roam across ageold lands that the masses will never see. A visual wonderland, a time capsule of memories for you and your best friend, and a helping hand for a tiny little rural school.

The Pouto Peninsula is a very special place, a place kept youthful by the absence of the many. A window that connects the wilderness of the Tasman Sea and its worlds beyond, to Kaipara harbour and all the secrets that she keeps. Pouto is a remote rural peninsula settlement one hour’s drive through farmland and forest, south of Dargaville. It is girded by majestic sand dunes that caress the sea. Miles and miles of long sandy beaches that are left unbroken, filled with timeless history and words left unspoken. Pouto is a place that winds us back, an umbrella that shelters us from the complexities of a modern world – no shops and no worries. A quiet space to hide, if only for a moment, from your busy life. Meander through tall trees that reach for the sun in all their glory, whilst untamed winds kiss your skin to leave a story. Crystal-clear freshwater lakes that never run dry, with stars that sprinkle throughout the sky. Come join us and fill your lungs with organic clarity and listen to our native birds that sing so happily to our nature’s song sheet. Ride your horse back in time when simple fare, the strumming of a guitar, and a picnic blanket under the sky was as revered as sipping champagne on a yacht. So, you’ve been to paradise, but you’ve never been to Pouto riding your horse wild and free?

The Great Pouto Peninsula horse trek is being held on Saturday 18 November, with overnight camping from Friday 17 November. It is a fully-guided trek run by knowledgeable locals, and in aid of

the local Pouto school. It includes lunch on the day of trek and a fun get-together, with catered dinner on Saturday night after the trek. There will also be demonstrations, advice, and knowledge-sharing by renowned New Zealand horsemanship clinician Ken Dromgool. Limited spaces available.

021 427 205 | admin@oceanique.co.nz

Words Julie Cotton

Fire in the hole! Golf Tournament

Friday 29 September, Omaha Golf Club

The Omaha Golf Club has invited the Matakana Volunteer Fire Brigade to join its annual fundraising golf tournament to raise funds for a new medical response vehicle. There will be a nine-hole Ambrose tournament, buffet dinner, and raffles with live and silent auctions.

Matakana Volunteer Fire Brigade attend over a hundred medical calls a year. Email to register, or search ‘Omaha Golf Club Fundraiser for Matakana Fire Brigade’ on Facebook for more information. support@OmahaGolf.co.nz

Back Bar Jazz

Every first Thursday starting on 7 September, 6:30-9:30pm

Back Bar at the Warkworth Bridgehouse

Go along, grab a drink, and maybe order a meal, settle in for some fresh, local, home-grown talents from the wide spectrum of Jazz and Blues styles. Mainly featuring local artists and musicians living close by.

Next gig: Thursday 5 October ‘Latter Karma’ Jazz and Latin standards – and some not so standard.

No cover charge.

www.BridgeHouse.co.nz

Mental Health Awareness Week Fundraiser

Sunday 24 September, 9-11am

Bali Garden, 292 Point Wells Rd

Head to Bali Garden Matakana for a beautiful morning of wellness in The Palms. Move your body and free your mind with a Nia Technique class taken by Amara Labb, followed by a relaxing Yoga Nidra class with Rebecca Leaker. Daily Organics kombucha will keep you hydrated throughout the morning. Koha (donation) only. 100 percent of the proceeds will go to I Am Hope charity. Booking is essential as spaces are limited. www.BaliGarden.nz

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

Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Sat 9 Sep 7.30pm Brendan Duggan and Dennis Marsh Waipu Citizens & Serivces Club Waipu.c.s@xtra.co.nz

Sun 10 Sep 8-10.30am Sun Salutations The Barn LifeKeepers.nz

Sun 10 Sep 9-11am Early Bird Morning Rave Warkworth Masonic Hall Eventbrite.co.nz

Sun 10 Sep 9am-1.30pm Pregnancy Workshop Totara Park RebeccaLeaker.com

Sun 10 Sep 12pm Sunday Service Smiths Matakana SmithsMatakana.co.nz

Sun 10 Sep 12-2pm Live in the Lobby Warkworth Hotel WarkworthHotel.co.nz

Tue 12 Sep 2.30pm Gold Connect Afternoon Tea Snells Beach Baptist Church ojthompson@hotmail.co.nz

Thu 14 Sep 5-8pm Live Music with Phil Stoodley Smiths Matakana SmithsMatakana.co.nz

Thu 14 Sep 7pm Quiz Night 8 Wired Barrelworks & Tap Room 8Wired.co.nz

Fri 15 Sep 5-8pm Live Music with Phil Stoodley Smiths Matakana SmithsMatakana.co.nz

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

Fri 15 Sep 5.30-7.30pm Rotary Warkworth Charity Fashion Show Warkworth Town Hall facebook.com/WomensCentreRodney

Sat 16 Sep 9am-6pm Point Wells Literary Festival Point Wells Hall TryBooking.com

Sat 16 Sep 10am Pet Day & Gala Pakiri School Pakiri.School.nz

Sat 16 Sep 12pm Live Mustic with Danny Crocome Matakana Estate MatakanaEstate.co.nz

Sun 17 Sep 10.30am-12.30pm The Gathering Golden Light Retreat Centre GoldenReiki.co.nz

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

Fri 22 Sep 4pm No Limits After Dark No

Surf and Skate NoLimitsSurfAndSkate.co.nz

Sat 23 Sep 10am Little Intelligence Rubbish Pickup Forestry Beach Carpark SustainableKaipara.org

Sat 23 Sep 4.30-10pm Oktobesfest Smoko Room SawmillBrewery.co.nz

Sat 23 Sep 7.30pm The September Equinox Tahi Bar TheTahi.com

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

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

Sun 24 Sep Half Day Mens Course Barfoot and Wild BarfootAndWild.co.nz

Sun 24 Sep 9-11am Mental Health Awareness Fundraiser Bail Garden BaliGarden.nz

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

Sun 24 Sep 10am-12pm Print-Play - Kids & Parents Day Mangawhai Artists Workspace MangawhaiArtists.co.nz

Sun 24 Sep 1-3pm Print-Play - Kids & Parents Day Mangawhai Artists Workspace MangawhaiArtists.co.nz

Mon 25 Sep Whangateau Folk Club Whangateau Hall Whangateau.co.nz

Fri 29 Sep Matakana Volunteer Fire Brigade Fundraiser Omaha Beach Golf Course 021353666

Fri 29 Sep 4-9pm Matakana Night Market Matakana Country Park facebook.com/CountryParkMarket

Sat 30 Sep 4pm Calathea Quartet Warkworth Town Hall WarkworthMusic.org.nz

Sat 30 Sep 4-8pm The Last Saturday Club Brooke Lane Vineyard BrookelaneVineyard.com

Sat 30 Sep 5.30-11pm Blue Fiesta for Blue Sep Wellsford District Community Centre facebook.com/WellsfordPlus

Sat 30 Sep Ultimate 80s Show & Frisky Business Warkworth RSA WarkworthRSA.co.nz

Sun 1 Oct 8.30am Mangawhai Community Cleanup MAZ SustainableKaipara.org

Thu 5 Oct 11am Viva Las Vegas Warkworth Town Hall Operatunity.co.nz

Sat 7 Oct 8.30pm White Chapel Jak Spring Nights Mangawhai Tavern MangawhaiTavern.co.nz

Sat 7 Oct 1-3pm Pre-Loved Clothing Fundraiser Snells Beach Baptist Church

Sun 8 Oct 8.30am-1.30 Matakana Country Park Market Matakana Country Park facebook.com/CountryParkMarket

Wed 11 Oct 1-4pm Print-Play For Adults Mangawhai Artists Workspace MangawhaiArtists.co.nz

Wed 11 Oct 6-9pm Print-Play For Adults Mangawhai Artists Workspace MangawhaiArtists.co.nz

Sat 21 Oct 9am-3pm Kowhai Festival Warkworth KowhaiFestival.co.nz

Sat 21 Oct 10am-3pm Labour Weekend Garage Sale Bonanza Puhoi Hall PuhoiHall@gmail.com

Sat 21 Oct 5pm Food Trucks Up North - Warkworth A&P Showgrounds Facebook: FoodTruckCollectiveNZ

Sat 21 Oct 8pm The After Leigh Sawmill Café SawmillCafe.co.nz

Sun 22 Oct 8.30am-1.30 Labour Weekend Market Matakana Country Park facebook.com/CountryParkMar-