Nelson Magazine - January 2023

What’s

TRAFALGAR PARK, NELSON

Stan Walker

Madeleine Pierard

Oliver Sewell

Annie Crummer

I feel in a privileged position to be able share my thoughts on the early pages of this magazine each month, so this issue I’m going to use them to influence. I’ve been reading a bit about this thing called self-care lately and would like to use these 250 words to share what I’ve learnt and encourage you to take some time for

A new year brings new plans and goals, so it is important that your bucket is full so you have the bandwidth to look after yourself and others and operate at full capacity. Doing things that restore you means you have more energy for the people around you. We need to remove the stigma that taking care of ourselves is selfish. If you neglect yourself, other things in your life can begin to suffer and you won’t be as equipped to react to life’s challenges. Self-care is almost the opposite of being selfish. I’m writing this for myself as well as you!

Everyone has their own definition of self-care, the underlining rule is that it’s something that brings you more happiness in the long run and enhances well-being. So, whether it’s a coffee and a chit-chat with a friend, going for a walk, watching your favourite TV show, or simply saying “no” to things that cause stress, make sure you make yourself a priority so you can be the very best version of you.

If you’re after some more ideas, then read ahead. Within the following pages we have collated some ways that you can take selfcare into the New Year and put your best foot forward in 2023.

Sarah Board

EDITOR

Sarah Board | editor@nelsonmag.co.nz

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Tessa Jaine | tess@topsouthmedia.co.nz

DESIGN

Kara-Shay Manson, Patrick Connor and Kylie Owens

CONTRIBUTORS

Britt Coker, Felicity Connell, Judene Edgar, Adrienne Matthews, Amy Russ, Matt Lawrey, Mackenzie

Charleton, Whistling Frog Media, Ray Salisbury

ADVERTISING

Kirsten Ammann | kirsten@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Kara-Shay Manson | kara@topsouthmedia.co.nz

PUBLISHER

Top South Media 563 Main Rd, Stoke topsouthmedia.co.nz

Little Kaiteriteri Beach

Sarah Board

What is your definition of self-care?

Hayley Peti

Taking a few moments to just be with myself without interruption. Particularly first thing in the morning, to enjoy a hot cup of coffee, my feet on the grass, sun on my skin, and get my mind ready for the day ahead.

I enjoy reading a good book. Barbara Kingsolver is a favourite, she writes in a way that creates a world and you really get to know the characters. I recommend The Poisonwood Bible.

I love to move my body. So for me, it would be phone-free walks with Tom, reformer pilates, spending time with friends and enjoying a cup of tea on the couch – because rest is important too.

Spend time with the family. This summer I’ll be swimming up the Wairoa Gorge with my kids and doing bombs.

Don’t miss the big hits from Blackcaps and WhiteFerns stars, as Central Stags and Hinds take on Otago on Saturday 21st January at Saxton Oval. Tickets available from cdcricket.co.nz.

We are giving away 1 x Mates Pack (4x adults tickets) valued at $50 so you and your mates can enjoy the cricket this summer!

Email your best photo to editor@nelsonmag.co.nz to be in to win.

Congratulations

two.

Nathan Hughes

Jess Dasler

Spanky Moore

Tahuna Beach at dawn.

to Honor Stephenson who won a Chuffed experience for

Honor Stephenson

Margot Butcher

The Lawrey Story

If you’re reading this column, there’s a good chance congratulations are in order.

I say this because, if you’ve got a copy of Nelson Magazine in your hands, there’s a very high likelihood that you’re a resident of Whakatū. This makes you very lucky, very smart or, quite possibly, both.

Lucky because you were born and raised here. Smart because, if you weren’t born and raised here, you had the brains to move here. Both lucky and smart if you were born and raised here and then had enough nous to stick around or return.

We live in a colourful little city full of interesting people and shops and businesses, and great cafes, restaurants and bars. A town with taonga like The Suter, Nelson Centre for Musical Arts, Provincial Museum, Theatre Royal, Whakatū Marae, Refinery Art Space, Brook Waimarama Sanctuary and Saturday Market.

Not only do we have all this great city stuff, we also have this incredible natural environment on our backdoor step waiting for us to enjoy whenever we get the chance.

Geographically, Nelson-Whakatū is one of the smallest districts in the country yet within the city limits we have Tāhunanui Beach, Tasman Bay, the Maitai/Mahitahi, Cable Bay, the Boulder Bank, the Centre of New Zealand, the Grampians, the Glen and Delaware Bay. It’s extraordinary!

In fact, it’s so extraordinary, I sometimes worry that we’re spoiling our kids by raising them here – we’re effectively setting them up to be disappointed with just about anywhere else. Having said that, I kind of like the idea that spoiling them for anywhere else increases the chances of them choosing to live here and looking after us in our old age.

Then there’s the community itself. The weave of different people that make up this place is special as well. You only have to look at the incredible number of volunteers we have in this city and the extraordinary number of events that Nelsonians are constantly putting on to know what I’m talking about.

I think a big part of what sets this community apart is the high percentage of people who have made a conscious decision to live here.

Think about it: we’re off the main trunk line in an island nation at the bottom of the world. You don’t live here to get rich, powerful or famous. You come here, or stay here, for deeper reasons. I think that’s why so many of the people who call this place home are engaged in their community and make a point of contributing to it.

Nelson’s not perfect but it’s pretty bloody good and, in times like these, that’s worth keeping in mind. There’s no question that the world is facing a few challenges right now but, if you’re living in Nelson-Whakatū, there’s a good chance you’re better off than most.

Journalist and former Nelson City councillor Matt Lawrey loves unearthing the wonderful things Nelson has to offer. In between penning cartoons, managing Bike Hub Nelson and exploring the region with his whanau, Matt will be writing a monthly column for Nelson Magazine, where the topic is simply - Nelson.

What made news in our region...

Upgrade for Great Taste Trail

Tasman’s Great Taste Trail is set to be upgraded with an $87,425 funding boost from the New Zealand Cycle Trails Fund. Trail manager for Nelson Tasman Cycle Trails Trust, Belinda Crisp, says the money will go toward improving the environmental condition of the Lower Queen Street section of the trail that runs through the industrial area. Improvements will include the construction of screening using recycled wooden materials and more estuarine planting.

Port Nelson welcomes bigger ships after upgrade

Port Nelson welcomed the first vessel over 260m in length last month after a major redevelopment to its Main South Wharf. The $20 million dollar investment to upgrade the wharf included redeveloping the wharf’s northern section, increasing the Port’s earthquake resilience, moving main wharf container operations further away from residential neighbours and future-proofing the Port to accommodate larger vessels. Before the improvements the wharf regularly received vessels up to 250m in length.

Award for Victory green thumbs

Victory Primary School’s youngest green thumbs scooped up an award last month for their flourishing school garden. The school won the prize for the most established school garden at the recent Mitre10 Mega Nelson/Tasman School Garden Awards. Teacher Suzy Garlick, who runs the school’s garden club, says it has been going for just over a year and those who want to get stuck in meet every Thursday lunchtime. The students have enjoyed growing and taking home a variety of vegetables.

Te Pā Harakeke is open

Nelson’s brand new park is now open to the public. Te Pā Harakeke, built on the previous site of the Modellers Pond, opened at the end of November and is now being enjoyed by the public. After initial debate about the use of the space, the development has seen the area be transformed from an algae-filled pond into a reserve featuring seating, picnic areas, trees, natural play areas, boardwalks and a sheltered lookout for birdwatching, along with the upgraded model railway.

The war on weeds

Waka Kotahi came under pressure several times in 2022 due to the weed growth on Nelson’s most prominent roundabouts along State Highway 6. One driver even compared them to scenes from the post-apocalyptic thriller, ‘I am Legend,’ while mayor Nick Smith said the issue isn’t just an aesthetic one, but also damages Nelson’s reputation as a tourist centre. Regulation changes made in 2021 for the safety of workers have affected Waka Kotahi’s ability to control weeds in high-speed and high-exposure traffic environments. The Annesbrook roundabout weeds were cleared in December but a long-term solution is yet to be found. Yusuf named as local hero

Yusuf Corten knows what it’s like to go to sleep hungry and never wants anyone to feel that. From his central Nelson kebab store he offers free meals to anyone who needs them, and it is this generosity that has seen him named as a local hero medalist for the 2023 Kiwibank New Zealand Local Hero of the Year. Even after a tough couple of years, Yusuf continued to offer free meals and was humbled when he recieved the award, which arrived on his birthday, “This present is much better than a million dollars, it’s a feeling present, it’s awesome,” says Yusuf.

Things we love

‘Beyond the Face’, an exhibition by Age Concern is on now until 27 January at Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre. The unique exhibition features the fascinating life stories of six elderly locals, with the aim being to challenge viewers to look beyond a person’s current appearance and see them for the life they have lived, their experiences and achievements.

Pictured is 88-year-old Joan Ewers who shares her experience of life on a hop farm and raising a family of eight. Tim Cuff

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

“I like trying to help people change their lives, but they don’t have to hop in the ring to fight, just take one core thing out of it and do something positive.”

Christine Gillespie Pages

If I could...

Owning a café is probably the perfect job for coffee-loving Nick Schryvers. But the owner of Bridge Street’s Victus Coffee and Eatery also fills us in on his dreams of sax, railways and multi-tasking.

If I could tell my younger self one thing, it would be...

You can learn from your mistakes; but it’s probably better to learn from others’. I’ve been lucky to have been surrounded by some incredibly wise and caring people in my life, and I probably could’ve done with taking (and asking for) their advice a little bit more. I probably let the fear of failure stop me from starting with a few things, so I’d tell my younger self to simply give it a good go. Aim as high as you can, if you make it, hooray! If you don’t, you’ll still probably be better off than not trying at all. Aim high and ask for advice.

If I could be on a reality TV show it would be… The Amazing Race. I love a good challenge and mystery adventure, so think this would be right up my alley. The old pre-Covid version was the best, where they would fly somewhere without knowing the destination. I feel like I’d like to try that one day anyway, ‘Holiday Roulette’! No bags, no schedule, no plans. If they have a New Zealand version, I’ll apply.

If I could change one thing about Nelson, it would be…

It would be amazing for Nelson to have gotten rail access. My Dad has always been a huge train fanatic, and he would often talk about how Nelson was ‘robbed’ of a train line. Although it’s maybe not the most exciting thing I’d change about Nelson, it would be a neat way to improve Nelson’s connectivity and accessibility, plus my Dad would love it! (Shoutout to Willie).

If I could have a superpower, it would be…

I asked my sons for help with this one, and they suggested telekinesis and portal-making abilities. My wife already has superhuman level empathy, so that’s covered. I’ve always wanted to fly, but who hasn’t. I’ve got an everexpanding list of hobbies, projects and ideas, so maybe the ability to be in multiple places at once. Then I could be in the cafe, riding my bike, baking sourdough, badly learning disc golf, reading a book, building furniture and finally doing my lawns all at once!

If I could only take one thing to a desert island, it would be…

The saxophone I bought just before lockdown. I’d always wanted to learn it, so I purchased a used one online. As it turns out, being locked up with the family in a small house up a valley with not a lot of sound proofing is not very conducive to learning a brass instrument for the first time. I tried it a couple of times before destroying all semblance of peace and quiet in the house. It has sat in the basement ever since. I could probably muster up a good cry for help with it too, either that or I’d scare off all the wildlife.

If I could be famous for something, it would be… Making people feel loved! We all need love, even the toughest and roughest of us. If I could be remembered for only one thing, it would be that I showed love, made people smile, created moments of happiness in others’ lives, and loved those it was easier not to.

Dancing to the boxing ring

Is the boxing ring one of the last bastions of male-dominated sports to see adjustments in the gender balance? As more and more women get into the ring, Britt Coker finds one Nelson woman who is already in there and punching well above her weight.

Don’t mess with Gatling Gun Gillespie, she’s a ballroom dancer. Wait. That’s not it.

Christine Gillespie is a boxer - but she used to be a ballroom dancer. Now she twirls around her opponents before dazzling them with a right hook, left punch and quick upper cut, or some combination thereof. She’s a three-time New Zealand bantamweight champion, weighing in at just 54 kilos, but don’t mess with Christine Gillespie.

Similar to most ballroom dancer-turned-boxer life stories, Christine started waltzing around a room backwards aged 7, finally stopping about 14 years later when her dance partner left town. She then fell into a love/hate relationship with junk food and alcohol which consequently made her a more rounded individual (85 kilos on a shorty). Since dancing had kept her fit and lean for years she didn’t love Christine v2 and decided she wanted to ditch the liquid six pack for the muscular version of old. That determined, competitive Christine, the one not adverse to the limelight, looking a partner in the face and dancing around them, she was still in there wanting to get out. But still, boxing?

“I've always wanted to but never really did it because dad used to box when he was younger, and there was a sort of, 'You're a girl you can't do it’ [attitude]. Oldschool fathers (insert daughter’s eyeroll here). Then I was like, ‘I'll give it a go,’ and we tried some gloves on and that was pretty much it. I just thought ‘I'm going to have a crack.’”

Christine joined Victory Boxing, found her first trainer, learned some skills. But punching bags was not enough for Christine, she wanted to fight. Eventually an opportunity at a corporate fight night presented itself.

“I did that fight and I won that one and then that was pretty much it. This is my sport, I'm going to push as hard as I can and fight as much as I can and we'll see how far I can go with it.”

Discovering that being in the ring was her “happy place”, Christine ditched the corporate fights, which for most people are a “bucket list, sort of give-ita-go kind of thing” and decided she was going to move into the amateur division where qualifying for the Olympic Games is an option. As her passion for boxing increased, her weight decreased. Cue, ‘Rocky’ theme tune and images of a very determined woman punching things. Christine’s doggedness pays off and a national bantamweight title follows. Don’t roll credits yet, the story isn’t over.

Four years have passed since her boxing career began, and Christine has a nutritionist (who also advises former kick boxing champion Israel Adesanya and other top fighters), a gym (Hard Knocks, that she set up herself, driven by her need to find a dedicated space to box), is a national bantamweight triple-champion, part of New Zealand’s training squad for the 2024 Olympics - and has a trainer in Barry Galbraith. Barry is a successful boxer in his own right, has been involved in boxing for 50 years and was instrumental in the establishment of Victory Boxing. But he’s a busy guy and initially said no to the training request. Turns out Christine is determined in and out of the ring.

“I gave it another wee while and I was like, ‘no stuff it, I'm just going to ask him again’ and so I hounded him and he said, ‘look, if you find somewhere to train I'll train you.’” He thought that would be the end of it, but he didn’t know Christine.

He admits she wore him down but is happy she did, saying he’s really enjoyed the journey so far. What’s Gatling Gun Gillespie got, Barry?

“She's just tenacious, she gets herself really fit, and from a coach's point of view, I've trained a lot of fighters over the years, she actually listens, and she does what you advise her to do. A lot of men in the confrontational situation in the boxing ring they just decide on their own mind how they’re going to approach it.

Evan Barnes

1. Dancing at the Canterbury Dancesport Championships with her brother. 2. Christine in action at the New Zealand Amateur Boxing Championship where she won the bantamweight title. 3. Barry Galbraith has been coaching Christine for the last year and a half. Supplied/Evan Barnes.

But she's very disciplined, she trains really hard, gets herself really fit and is always looking after her weight….People who win New Zealand titles strive for years to do it, but she's done all of this in about four or five years.”

“We've got aspirations and high hopes that she can make the Olympics, she's certainly good enough.”

Of course, she needs other women to be in the ring in order to fight them but more and more are stepping in to give it a go. For someone who has been involved in the male-dominated sport for several decades, Galbraith loves the change.

“When I was boxing there were no females in the sport at all. That's something that's just come on and I’ve embraced it. I just think it’s fantastic. The skill level and everything else that females have shown in the short time that they've been involved is quite astounding.”

From Christine’s perspective, he has been instrumental in improving her technique, her last two bantamweight titles coming with his guidance.

“Barry has probably taken me right back to basics, straight punching. I've found I've got faster, I’ve got harder, everything's just changed for the better and it just works really well for us.”

I throw a random left hook. Has ballroom dancing helped you with your boxing?

“I think I find it easier to pick up footwork than other people. You’ve got to get in, punch, and get out before they punch you back…I find some people get quite nervous when they have to hop into the boxing ring because they’ve got to fight in front of people.

I think I’ve really benefited from that [ballroom dancing]. But I like playing on it too. I actually like going and fighting girls in their hometown and they’re all screaming for them, whereas I’ve just got my coach and one other. I feed off that, where a lot of people I find are intimidated.”

You can box too if you want to. Don’t be put off if you don’t have a background in ballroom dancing. Christine cites several upsides that come from putting the gloves on.

“There are quite a few females who are actually getting in the ring and having a go but you don't have to get in the ring if you want to try boxing. You can just do the fitness side of it which is still beneficial. You can lose weight and build confidence and all the same values, but you don't have to hop in the ring.”

Gyms are recognising the popularity of the sport amongst women and are catering accordingly. Confidence levels in women have always been a bit

(pun warning) hit and miss, so any activity that is empowering can easily become addictive. Christine would love to see more women take up boxing.

“I think if you want to learn and listen and put the effort in, anyone can actually do it. It's just a matter of pushing yourself.” She’s underestimating herself here. This woman is aiming for the Olympics. There is pushing yourself and then there’s discipline, unwavering commitment and a steadfast desire to win. Qualities of a champion.

Reactions to her passion for boxing are mixed amongst friend circles.

“The dancing people, they're like ‘wow, you're actually boxing and getting punched in the face,’ and then the other people who know me because I live on a farm and do pig hunting as well, they're all like, ‘Oh yeah, that's pretty standard for you, Chrissy.”

Mid last year, Christine started a youth class for Waimea College students through their On Track programme. After an initial reluctance from the students, she’s seen a positive change in attitude and enthusiasm, putting it down to a sport that requires discipline and focus but offers plenty of benefits.

“They’ve stopped smoking, some of them are actually trying to do boxing now, and I've got a couple that potentially want to fight. Just watching them change their whole lifestyle has been amazing...Two of the boys wanted to try and quit vaping so they've been coming twice a week and they would give me the vape on the Monday and they'd get it back on the Friday to help them cut down to start with.”

She acknowledges that there are other things going on in their lives but hopes they can see the reward in the sport as an opportunity to learn new skills and develop good core values. “For them to do any sparring I've told them they've got to be able to respect me and respect each other, and that has brought them on a lot. Pure exercise too has helped. A lot of them do nothing, and when they first came to me they were like, dying in 20 seconds.”

Christine says that truancy can be a problem but the enthusiasm for the sport now has regular attendees and a couple of the students have started private sessions. There are still those that are more concerned with trying to look cool in front of their mates, but she can see the enjoyment in their eyes, and hopes boxing will transform them like it did her. Though not necessarily to the same degree.

“I like trying to help people change their lives, but they don't have to hop in the ring to fight, just take one core thing out of it and do something positive".

Idyllic by the inlet

Coming home to her parent's apple orchard after two decades overseas, Elspeth Collier has made the Matahua peninsula home for her family and a relaxing getaway for countless others. Felicity Connell finds out more.

The road gently winds down a hill, past grapevines and grazing sheep, with glimpses of the Waimea Inlet, distant hills and mountain ranges.

This is the Matahua peninsula, where Elspeth Collier spent most of her childhood growing up on her parents’ apple orchard. After many years living in Wellington, London and Sydney working as a freelance photographer, it’s where she returned to just over 20 years ago.

“My parents were in their 70s and starting to talk about retiring. I was living in Sydney with my thenhusband Charlie and our four-year old daughter Nina. We were ready for a change of pace after years of big city living and loved the idea of a more relaxed rural life. Rural Australia didn’t appeal, so it was a great option to return home to Matahua and Māpua,” Elspeth explains. Living close to her parents, and Nina being able to spend time with her grandparents was also a major drawcard.

Half the orchard was sold and replanted as a vineyard. On the remaining half, the apple trees came out, and a new chapter for Matahua peninsula began.

Part of its new life was to transform three apple pickers’ cottages built in the 1950s into boutique holiday accommodation. Perched at the end of the peninsula, all three cottages have stunning views across the inlet to vineyards, orchards and mountains.

“The idea to renovate the cottages for holiday accommodation was hatched in Sydney. We lived down the road from a huge auction house. Every week, we would bid for furniture from the 50s, 60s and 70s. Back then it still sold for a song! We eventually had enough to fill a container to ship to Nelson. We arrived back in 2001 and welcomed our first guests only a few months later. After 20 years of slow and careful renovating, things are a lot more luxurious than that first season when the loos were still outside. They did have magnificent views though!”

“It’s been hard work, but also a lot of fun, especially when it comes to the interiors. I had a strong vision of what I wanted the cottages to look and feel like. It was a style that felt right for the cottages and fitted the eclectic furniture that we had collected. There is an actual term for this look now – ‘rustic luxury,’” she laughs.

Tessa Jaine

For many guests, the outlook over the Waimea Inlet is the main drawcard. The inlet is the second largest estuary in the South Island, stretching between Nelson and Māpua. Its tidal nature means that there is an ever-changing play between light and water.

The Inlet is famous for wading birds, and from Matahua peninsula you will often see matuku moana (white faced herons), poaka (pied stilts), kuaka (godwits), tōrea (oystercatchers), kōtuku-ngutupapa (royal spoonbills), pukeko, and occasionally a kōtuku (white heron).

“I’ve been on a huge journey over the last 20 years, learning about this unique environment and working to restore the original vegetation and bird habitat around the shore of the inlet. Nearly all the plants come from the wonderful team at Tītoki Nursery in Waimea West and are from locally-sourced seed,” Elspeth says.

“Planting, weeding and trapping are a community effort. We couldn’t have achieved what we have without the volunteers from all over the world who have been helping us from the start.”

Kim Bowie, Elspeth’s partner of 15 years, does predator trapping, checking traps around the peninsula as part of the Battle for the Banded Rail community project to protect and restore bird habitat around the whole of the Waimea Inlet.

“We have two significant natural areas (SNAs) here. One is the Matahua Saltmarsh which fringes most of the peninsula, and the other is a patch of remnant coastal forest. Over the past two years about 1,000 trees such as rimu, mātai, tōtara, kahikatea, putaputawētā, kaikōmako, and tiīoki have come to us through the Waimea Inlet Billion Trees Fund. These have been added to the coastal forest along with more than a hundred tawairauriki (black beech) trees that have been grown from the seeds of a very old beech tree which has been on the property as long as anyone can remember.”

Elspeth and Kim also have a large organic vegetable garden and home orchard, growing everything from citrus to artichokes. Breakfast for the cottage guests includes freshly laid eggs from their chickens, and jams and marmalades such as Seville orange

Elspeth Collier, at home on Matahua peninsula.

1. Chickens provide eggs for the cottage guests. 2. Elspeth’s partner Kim Bowie checking a predator trap around the peninsula. 3. Karaka Cottage.

Elspeth Collier

marmalade and greengage and vanilla pod jam, all made by Elspeth from their own fruit trees. Honey comes from the beehives up the hill.

“Looking after the property is a big job, and so the volunteers that come through the Willing Workers on Organics Farms (Wwoof) scheme and Workaway are an important part of life on the peninsula. We’ve built many wonderful and enduring friendships,” Elspeth says.

“Some stay for six months or more, and even years later we’re still in touch. We’ve had chefs, architects, doctors, builders, engineers, tattoo artists, musicians, artists, and, not surprisingly, lots of environmental studies graduates.”

“It’s such a great way to exchange skills and knowledge. They get to spend time here and learn about our restoration projects and I nearly always end up learning something from them too. A recent volunteer was a chef and expert fermenter, pickler and preserver. Luckily his stay here coincided with late summer when the orchard and garden were at their peak. I learnt a lot from him about sauerkraut and how to ferment and pickle all kinds of other things.”

Like everyone else in the tourism and hospitality sector, the Covid-19 years has had a big impact.

“Pre-Covid we were focused on the international tourism market, which was very seasonal,” Elspeth says.

The big shift for The Apple Pickers’ Cottages has been the growth in the domestic market while the international borders were closed.

“We have been very lucky with the renewed interest in short, local breaks. We have a lot of repeat guests coming from Ōtautahi (Christchurch), Marlborough,

and across Te Tauihu, including Nelson, wanting to go somewhere where they can get away from it all, without being too far from other options like wineries, cafes and restaurants. Māpua is just 5 minutes away by car.”

Elspeth and Kim know from first-hand experience how relaxing it is to stay in the cottages.

“A few years ago, before our own house was renovated, if there was a gap in cottage bookings we would pack up and head 50 metres down the road for a mini break. It’s very close to home but in many ways it’s a world away. It’s pretty easy to relax there, follow the rhythm of the tides, watch the wading birds amble around the saltmarsh. All three cottages are set amongst native bush and are so private and peaceful. For the romantically inclined, there have been a few marriage proposals, and some of our guests have tied the knot under the shade of the trees overlooking the inlet.”

Now that both international and national travel restrictions have been lifted, Elspeth is finding that locals are still keen to explore their own backyard. “The international guests are coming back, but for my own carbon-conscience I love hosting domestic travellers. It’s the perfect low-carbon footprint holiday for locals, especially if you bike or have an electric car!”

“We think it is a spectacular location, and we know others do too. It’s been wonderful to watch the transformation from apple orchard back to a much more natural environment over the past 20 years and to be able to share it with others. We’re planning to be here for a while yet, and leave it in good shape to hand on to the next generation.” applepickers.nz |

Singers take country to the city at Rockquest finals

Maddison Connor and Zac Griffith's passion for country music propelled them to a Smokefree Rockquest title last September. They explain to Adrienne Matthews why this is just the beginning.

Established in Christchurch in 1989 by high school teachers Pete Rainey and Glen Common, Smokefree Rockquest has been encouraging New Zealand’s high school students to showcase their talents in song writing and performance ever since.

In 1990 it became an annual national competition which has proven to be a springboard to further musical success for many participants who have gone on to develop their own dynamic musical careers. Think Anika Moa, Brooke Fraser, Kimbra, Evermore, L.A.B and Julia Deans to name a few, along with Nelson’s own Georgia and Caleb Nott of Broods.

Thanks to Covid, Smokefree Rockquest had to take a break for two years but it has just graced the country’s stages again with forty gigs throughout New Zealand to select regional winners to compete in the national finals.

For the third time since 2010, Nelson has beaten entrants from schools throughout the country and produced the national winners in the Solo/Duo category, Zac Griffith (17) from Garin College and Maddison Connor (14) from Waimea College who performed together. Initially Maddison was preparing to sing with someone else. “That fell through and I was suddenly put up to the test,” laughs Zac. “I thought it’s my last year of school. I’ll give it a go. There was nothing to lose.” “The night before the regional competition we hadn’t even finished the first song,” says Maddison, “but somehow we got through and went on to win the regional final.”

That success meant the duo had to travel to Auckland to compete in the finals. Despite looking remarkably comfortable performing onstage, there were nerves underneath.

Chontalle Musson

Maddison Connor and Zac Griffith performing at this year’s Smokefree Rockquest.

Tessa Jaine

“It was quite intimidating being in that professional environment,” says Maddison. “I was more nervous of the social aspect of it,” says Zac, “although I soon realised it was very comforting being around so many like-minded people. We were all there for the one thing; to play music and enjoy the process. It was a very cool experience and it would be great to do it all again, but having finished school now I am no longer eligible.”

“I would really encourage others to have a go,” he continues. “It doesn’t matter how far you get. It doesn’t matter if you win or you don’t get through the regionals. As long as you get up on stage and have a good time and do your thing and don’t worry about what anyone else thinks.”

The pair have very supportive families. Maddison was surrounded by music from birth and her family’s living room is full of trophies and awards from their successes performing over the years. Her father Luke and younger brother William, along with friend Laura, are all part of the band ‘The Harmony Hunters’. “We set up originally to enter the band section at the 2019 NZ Gold Guitar Awards. We were lucky enough to win so decided to make the group a permanent thing,” explains Maddison. Zac now plays guitar and sings lead in the band, also.

Luke, Maddison’s mother Paula and Zac are also part of popular cover band “Route 66.”

Zac grew up in Tapawera but his family moved to Lake Rotoiti when he was ten. After receiving a music scholarship to attend Garin College he shifted back to Tapawera to make the school commute easier.

“I am really lucky to have a very supportive family too,” he says. “They aren’t musical and I think I’m a wild card that was flung out,” he laughs. He is very grateful that his family have been able to attend most of his performances and cheer him on.

Maddison began singing at a very young age and about three years ago learned to play the keyboard. Zac found his singing voice at the age of seven and quickly realised he didn’t really want to do much else. “Except trout fishing,” he interjects with a laugh. “Ever since I began to sing, I have dreamed of performing on stage at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee,” he says.

“We first met when we used to compete against each other in country music awards around eight years ago,” explains Maddison. “We started entering the duet section together in 2017, something we’ve kept on doing ever since.” They work well together. “She mostly puts up with me,” chortles Zac. “Except when you annoy me,” retorts Maddison.

At New Zealand’s biggest country music festival, the New Zealand Gold Guitar Awards in Gore, Zac recently won the Intermediate vocal solo, gospel and

traditional sections. His prize is a trip to the next Tamworth Country Music Festival in Australia where he hopes to sing and play guitar to as many people as possible. “I hope I can pave the way to us all performing as a group at Tamworth one day,” he says. Meanwhile, Maddison will be going into her first NCEA year when the next school term begins. “I would love to be doing a lot more music but I have to make sure I get an education first,” she says.

As part of the duo’s winner’s package, they have had their first professional recording session in Wellington with NZ on Air. “It was really awesome,” says Maddison. “Over two days we laid down the vocal, keyboard and guitar tracks and it was super exciting to hear it all back,” adds Zac. A video is yet to be produced and both will be released sometime in the new year.

Zac has been writing his own music for four years. For their main song entry in Smokefree Rockquest he and Maddison first thought of a topic that would be appropriate. They chose mental health because they knew it would resonate with a wide number of listeners. They then crafted the words and music together, bouncing ideas off one another and Zac worked on the tune in a key that would suit them both. “You’re never quite sure what you’ve got until you finish it,” he laughs.

Both want to end up in the music business full-time. “The experience of Rockquest has given us a taste of what it’s like to perform professionally with the right equipment and resources,” says Zac. “We were fortunate as finalists in the competition to also be given lots of mentoring and information about the music industry as well as the practical experience of performing on a professional stage, we are very grateful for that. The Rockquest organisation is very good at preparing us for what will hopefully be a career in music,” he continues.

It's hard not to feel sorry for Maddison, knowing that she has at least a couple more years of study ahead of her before her musical wings can truly fly, but in the meantime she and Zac are making the most of everything they can do as a duo but also to further their musical knowledge and experience as solo musicians and as part of the bands they belong to.

“I really appreciate the way Maddison’s family have taken me under their wing and it is great to be able to contribute to their music, too,” says Zac.

Meanwhile the dream of the Grand Ole Opry continues to hang tantalizingly close. “We just have to keep practising, performing as much as we can, and hopefully that dream will become a reality one day,” he says.

Anton brings Shakespeare to Nelson

He nearly got trampled by horses, he got threatened by a man wielding a sword, and died spectacularly being skewered as part of a five-solider kebab… but Anton Bentley says that that’s all in the past… or more correctly, his acting past, as he turns his focus to directing and producing shows.

Words: Judene Edgar Tessa Jaine

Anton’s career on stage and television started shortly after he commenced studying business studies at Wintec. Having enjoyed drama at high school, he decided to take Saturday morning acting classes while studying. “Out of nowhere” the company he was taking classes with invited him to join them on a tour of the North Island. “I think I was the worst business studies student they had ever had,” he laughs. “I think we were mutually glad to see the back of each other.”

He spent the next nine months performing ‘Rumpelstiltskin’ and ‘Scarlett Pimpernel’ to schools and communities from the top to the bottom of the North Island. “It was such an amazing opportunity to be touring and performing straight out of high school. I really couldn’t believe my luck.” Keen to take his acting further, at the end of the tour he

shifted to Auckland to study drama at Auckland University and enjoyed an eclectic range of roles from working in a puppetry theatre to delivering singing telegrams in a neon-coloured tutu.

He then headed overseas for the next seven years – two years in Sydney where he studied opera with Opera Australia – his highlight performing to packed houses at the Sydney Opera House – followed by five years in the United Kingdom doing “a bit of all sorts” – acting, directing, ticketing, and promotions – including directing ‘Once a Catholic’ for the Kensington Drama Company. “It was my first introduction to directing and I really enjoyed it.”

Returning to New Zealand he got cast in Xena, Season 1, episode 1 as Perdicus, who was betrothed to Gabrielle, and ended up doing a range of other characters throughout the show’s run. He was also

Anton Bentley has produced The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)

Polaroids from Anton's role in Hercules.

cast in Hercules and did a number of characters in that show too. At the same time, he was teaching acting classes at the Howick Children’s and Youth Theatre. He continued doing a number of TV shows and commercials but after a few years he decided to go back to university to gain his diploma in secondary teacher training and started teaching drama at Macleans College. “It was hard to combine teaching and acting, so acting took a bit of a back seat, but I was still directing.”

In addition to school shows, he directed a broad range of shows at the Howick Little Theatre Company, including ‘Some Girls’, ‘Walking Eve’, ‘The Woman who Cooked her Husband’, ‘The Shape of Things’, and ‘The Glass Menagerie’.

At the end of 2015 he shifted to Nelson to take up the role of Head of Drama at Nayland College. “I’d never been to Nelson but I was ready for a change of pace and I’d heard about Nelson’s reputation as an arts centre. I spent some time here when I came down for my interview and I really liked it and what it had to offer.” However, one week after arriving in Nelson he was diagnosed with cancer – melanoma in his right eye. He spent the next few weeks flying up and back to Auckland for specialists’ appointments before starting his new job. And then, two weeks into the new school term he had to have surgery to remove his right eyeball. “I didn’t really have a lot of time to think about it. There were a couple of other options, but ultimately it was the best option so I just had to do it.”

The surgery was successful so he was able to go straight back to work. The long wait was waiting for a prosthetic eyeball, which came a year later. “The weirdest thing is the lack of depth perception, and I had to learn to move my head a lot to be able to see, but you get used to it very quickly. However, there were a lot of spilt drinks in the first month or so!”

He didn’t let this slow him down, within weeks of the surgery he was offered the opportunity to direct a play for the Nelson Fringe Festival, ‘Bananaruma’ written by Dawn Marron. “It was so good to get involved in the Nelson arts community and I think it was a great distraction too.” And the play went on to win the People’s Choice Award at the Festival. Keen to meet more people in his new home, he decided to “do a bit of acting”, taking on roles in ‘You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown’, ‘Mamma Mia’, and most recently, ‘Horton Hatches a Controversy’.

He was also in the Nelson Summer Shakespeare productions of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘Twelfth Night’. “I’d wanted to be a Shakespearean actor when I was

younger so it was great getting to take part in these really fun shows. I only want to do roles that really interest me and that I’ll enjoy. I use the same principle when choosing shows for school or to produce. I want to give the actors something that challenges them, interests them, and has a point of view.”

At the start of 2020 he decided to go back to directing and producing shows with his production company Piece of Work Productions, but unfortunately less than a week before the opening of ‘Children of the Poor’, New Zealand was thrust into a lockdown forcing the cancellation of the show. And then again in 2021, he was in rehearsals for Mary Poppins and less than a week before opening night the show had to cancel due to another lockdown.

But he’s confident that the time is right for him to reignite his passion of directing and producing and has even left teaching to dedicate himself to producing shows. “Nelson’s missed out on a lot over the last few years due to Covid, so I’m ready to help get the theatre scene humming again”. The first of a number of shows he has planned for this year is ‘The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)’. “I wanted something really fun, a really good comedy – a bit zany and crazy.”

Anton says that the Complete Works is an irreverent fast-paced play that romps through all 37 of the Bard’s plays in 97 minutes as three madcap actors in tights weave their wicked way through all of Shakespeare’s comedies, histories and tragedies in one wild ride that will leave the audience breathless and helpless with laughter. “It’s the perfect outdoor summer show for people who just want to have fun and we haven’t had Nelson Summer Shakespeare for two years now, so there’s a definite gap to be filled.”

He's cast three local actors who have to take on “more roles than I can count. They had to be incredibly versatile with contrasting yet complimentary styles.” Matthew Edgar (Barden Party, The Comedy of Errors), Imogen Vlugter (A Christmas Carol) and Myles Smalley (A Christmas Carol). With Matthew off to the National Academy of Singing and Dramatic Arts (NASDA) next month and Imogen off to Toi Whakaari, Anton says that it may be the last chance for Nelson audiences to get to see these two incredibly talented actors perform.

‘The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)’ performs at Fairfield House, Nelson, Monday 9 - Friday 13 January 2023.

Love, laughter, and happily ever after

Your wedding day is by far one of the most important and special days of your life. And as the reality of your new engagement sets in and the excitement starts to build, you’ll want to get started on the wedding planning process.

Nelson Magazine has bought together some of the key players in the wedding industry. Read ahead for ideas and inspiration for local vendors who are here to help and support you throughout one of the biggest events in your life.

Wedding of Nic and Brooke, married at Fairfield House.

Sophie Milson

Iconic day, iconic venue

Nestled in seven acres of beautiful woodlands and gardens, Fairfield House is one of Nelson’s most loved historic homes. The magical venue and unique heritage building is a perfect wedding location offering stunning spaces for your ceremony, reception, photographs and dance.

Conduct your ceremony surrounded by nature. Make a spectacular entrance from the woodland path into the meadow, an open grassed area with terraced rock walls and large stone steps, surrounded by magnificent old trees. The west courtyard, an intimate bricked outdoor area, is delightful for a summer evening’s reception. The ballroom could be your dining room with French doors giving a view out over the cathedral. The wooden floored gallery makes a romantic dance room; all are connected by wide verandas perfect for drinks and chats. The diversity of the spaces means you can tailor the day to suit your own taste and needs.

Fairfield House – Its beauty, warmth and grandeur are yours to enjoy.

Individually designed bridal wear

Creating individually designed and exquisitely detailed unique bridal gowns, MADCAT design director Jill Alexander can create anything from a 1920’s beaded lace dress to a steampunk multi-layered creation complete with Victorian style corset and bustle skirt. Or perhaps a gracious 1950’s ball gown or an empire line gown from the 1800’s time of Jane Austen’s novel Pride and Prejudice? Each dress is made to measure from scratch in Jill’s Nelson workshop.

“Every one of my wedding dresses is unique and is designed especially for each individual bride. My 40 years plus of experience as a fashion designer, fashion lecturer and pattern cutter provides a unique opportunity for me to work together with my brides to achieve the dress of their dreams, enhancing their body shape and ensuring it is within their budget.”

Bridal Wear by Jill Alexander also specialises in wedding dress alterations and offer a wedding day dressing service for brides within the Nelson region.

Take the stress out of your wedding

Pop Up Events owner Alex Bradley has been creating and organising events for the past ten years. He is a registered celebrant and loves to be able to take part in one of the most special days in a couple’s life, connecting two hearts as one for the rest of their lives. He takes pride in any event that he is part of, whether it is a small intimate gathering of a few people to ticketing support at an event with 25,000 people, he will put the same level of detail and attention into both. Let Alex and his team take the stress out of your wedding day by having them coordinate a package that perfectly suits your needs. From ‘on the day’ coordination, ‘set up and pack down’ options to ‘the full package’ and ‘pop up weddings’, providing wait staff and bar staff, to hire items, the team at Pop Up Events have you covered without any hassle. “Get in touch with us today to see what we can offer.”

Experience a wedding like no other

Located near Greymouth, Shantytown Heritage Park is a replica gold-mining village which offers a private rainforestembraced venue filled with award-winning historical attractions and relics of yesteryear. The entire town creates a welcoming environment for friends and family and a visually stunning opportunity for wedding photos on your chosen day.

A quick tip: The two most popular locations for exchanging your vows at Shantytown are their faithfully restored 1866 Interdenominational Church, complete with seating for 80 guests or the 10-metre-high water wheel, which makes an incredible cascading outdoor backdrop.

While you enjoy post-ceremony photos around the township and heritage trains, guests can head to the fully licenced Golden Nugget Saloon for refreshments. Followed by swinging open the double doors to the Miner’s Hall reception venue so everyone can dine, dance and finish your memorable day in style.

Shantytown’s dedicated event management team operates under the much respected ‘West Coast Events Centre’ banner. With over 15 years of experience, their expertise covers a wide range of solutions across all tastes and budgets. It is best to contact the staff directly for personalised advice.

Sophie Milson

Wedding of Arni and Alana, married on Alana’s family property in Spring Grove.

A

Romantic weddings in a spectacular setting

Built in 1879, Melrose House offers a truly exceptional wedding day experience, from the ceremony to photographs in the house and grounds. One of the last surviving ‘grand’ historic homes in Nelson, with beautiful architecture and a park-like setting, Melrose House is the perfect venue.

The bridal party and guests will enjoy exclusive use of the house during your special day. The bride, groom, and members of your wedding party are welcome to use the upstairs rooms for wardrobe changes for reception and/ or departure. The gardens, with magnificent heritage trees, garden beds, sweeping lawns and woodlands surrounding Melrose House, are well-hidden from the street and ensure memorable photographs of your wedding day.

Melrose Café is the exclusive catering provider for all weddings held at this stunning location. Passionate café proprietors, Cindy and Terence, will collaborate with you to create a delectable menu to suit your catering requirements. Contact Melrose House to arrange a tour and discuss plans for your extra special day – “At Melrose House we want your dream of the perfect wedding to become a reality.”

Experience the wedding of a lifetime

Established over 30 years ago, Helicopters Nelson is a well-known and respected aviation company owned and operated by a large and very passionate aviation family. Alongside tourism and commercial operations, the team specialise in creating luxury, tailored and unique helicopter tours in and around the Top of the South, offering helicopter charter services to some of the country’s most stunning remote locations. Whether you’re looking for an active adventure or a romantic escape – anything is possible with Helicopters Nelson.

Experience the wedding of a lifetime with their Heli Wedding package. Enjoy an intimate ceremony in an alpine location, escape by helicopter to a remote beach for photographs, or surprise guests and land at your reception venue in style. Enjoy a unique Heli-picnic with your favourite person and be dropped into areas that can’t be reached by vehicle, or if you are looking for a truly unique experience or have a dream flight in mind, Helicopters Nelson also specialise in creating bespoke itineraries for their clients. They love to make dreams come true!

A perfect start to your perfect day

Located in a stunning villa at 98 Nile Street, Mabin House Body & Skin Sanctuary is the ideal place for couples to enjoy some relaxation and pampering within a private and serene environment. A family-run business, Tina and Jess provide a luxuriant range of divine couples and wedding packages to suit your needs, including couples’ beauty and massage treatments with full body massages, Double Bubbles, Cloud Nine Facials, and a range of bridal and make-up packages to ensure you look fabulous for your special day.

Mabin House provides services from lashes and brows to advanced skin therapies, massage, spa treatments and more. “Jess and I are very passionate about the business. We complement each other well,” says Tina.

“Your wedding is a very special day and a good excuse for some old-fashioned pampering! From natural day looks to evening glamour, we can help you feel and look gorgeous using our beautiful range of quality make-ups from Quoi, Blinc and 1Skin. If you’d like to build your own special package or have any enquiries, please get in touch. We can customise a package to suit you and your loved one.”

Tiered wedding cakes were once only available to the wealthy, so most people would add a decorative vase to add height. That’s likely why we use cake stands nowadays!

Sophie Milson

Wedding of Ashleigh and Joey , married at Gardens of the World.

Casual gourmet food using nothing but the best ingredients

With over two decades of cooking experience, Craig and his Beat Kitchen catering team are the perfect solution to your wedding function needs. Working from their bespoke mobile commercial kitchen they can cater to any event and location across the Nelson Tasman region. “The substance of our specialty - casual gourmet - is about freshness and deliciousness that comes from the available local and seasonal ingredients. Bringing our own kitchen ensures that your meals are freshly prepared and there is an efficient use of time, money and ingredients.”

As a qualified chef, Craig has worked across New Zealand, Melbourne and in the French Alps. He was also a head chef at a large restaurant in Wellington, managing various functions. “Our menu isn’t limited to specific cuisine or type of food. As experienced chefs, we can tailor the menu to suit your event. If you have a theme, let us know and we are happy to get creative with you on the menu.”

The ultimate honeymoon destination

Falcon Brae Villa is set high on a hilltop above the Motueka River with 360-degree views across the surrounding mountains, magnificent Kahurangi National Park, and river below. The modern, contemporary-designed building captures the spectacular views and offers guests complete privacy within its luxurious spaces. This award-winning residence features a large central lounge area with sunken bar, grand piano, media theatre, and a stunning collection of New Zealand and local art.

Falcon Brae Villa’s private chefs offer the very best in cuisine using quality, local, sustainable produce, and when matched with local wines and the spectacular views you have an unmatched culinary experience. Explore the property’s 18km of bush walks, relax with an in-house massage, lounge beside the pool, or take aim at the golf greens, and make your honeymoon a luxurious experience to remember.

Raise a glass with Nelson’s finest

A great wedding has a few key elements – two people getting married, friends and family in attendance, good music and great beer. Fortunately Nelson is home to the Sprig + Fern and they can ensure your wedding guests enjoy a great drop while celebrating your special day.

Sprig + Fern can supply you with 50 or 30 litre kegs, with all the gear you will need including ice banks, gas and a pouring system. Any leftover beer can be poured into riggers ensuring there is no wastage. Or they can provide cans or bottles of beers, ciders and seltzer.

Based in Richmond, Sprig + Fern are the perfect fit for any wedding. So give their friendly team a call and see how they can help you make your day even more special.

A special occasion deserves a special setting

One of the most iconic and flexible wedding locations in Nelson Tasman, Founders Heritage Park is close to Nelson city centre and accommodation, flexible for a variety of budgets, sizes and styles and has on-site parking.

Beautiful mature gardens, charming streets and character buildings help create a memorable day. The Park has a variety of venues to suit any size, including Old St. Peter’s Church, The Granary, Jaycee Room, marquee sites, The Energy Centre, or hire the whole heritage park for exclusive use of all the venues and enjoy privacy for the entire evening (the Park remains open to the public for normal business hours).

If you prefer, you and your friends and whānau can take control of organsing your day, alternatively, if you wish to relax and let the professionals work their magic, the team at Founders Park work alongside some of the best creative brains in Nelson, and can suggest suppliers who are familiar with the Park and its facilities; from event organisers, theming, entertainers, sound and lighting, floral artists and caterers, as well as marquee and equipment hire specialists.

Photos by Francesca

Wedding of Logan and Tayla, married at Founders Park.

The Ultimate Wedding Gardens

During the late 16th and 17th centuries, it was more fashionable to wear the wedding ring on your thumb.

club

Established 1857, Nelson Yacht Club on Wakefield Quay, is an outstanding location for your wedding celebrations. With stunning waterfront views the Aurora Lounge, on the second floor, offers unrivalled scenery across the Nelson Harbour to The Cut and beyond.

The expansive 14m x 15m lounge with a large, dedicated dance floor, works well for events and parties of all sizes says club manager Tim Fraser-Harris. “We are fortunate to have Chanté Whitehouse and the team from Nourish Catering based in the Aurora Lounge creating delicious cuisine that delights. With their combination of fun, creative and inspiring catering options, Nourish can tailor menus to suit your budget for everything from full wedding breakfasts, through to standing dinners, grazing tables and corporate events.”

An awesome venue for weddings, conferences and parties, Nelson Yacht Club is also home to the fantastic Nahm restaurant. For outstanding vistas and fantastic food, contact the Nelson Yacht Club online or by email manager@ nelsonyachtclub.org.nz. “We recommend getting in touch early in your planning.”

Nelson Tasman’s premier romantic garden wedding venue

Gardens of the World is set on six acres of sweeping grounds, the gardens offer a dazzling array of blooms, majestic avenues, open lawns and an expansive lake for photos, ceremonies and receptions.

Their team appreciate that attention to detail, both big and small, is essential to ensuring a perfect day. Their large 15 x 9 metre marquee allows you to have your ceremony no matter the weather, or to stay a bit longer to enjoy a beautiful garden reception. Gardens of the World have equipment for hire and work alongside many other local companies to ensure you have the perfect wedding experience. Whether you’re planning a grand affair or something more intimate, Gardens of the World provides the perfect setting to celebrate, entertain and relax.

Weddings customarily have been celebrated with a special cake. Ancient Roman wedding ceremonies were finalized by breaking a cake of wheat or barley over the bride’s head as a symbol of good fortune.

The Aurora Lounge

Ana Galloway

Wedding of Sophie and Ben, married at Fairfield House.

Your Perfect Match

Let forever begin

Creating unforgettable custom rings since 1960

Jens Hansen Jewellers

jenshansen.co.nz P: 03 548 0640

Let’s create a little bit of timeless magic together

This is your legacy, let me capture your story, your adventure.

Sophie Milson- Nelson Photographer E: sophiemilsonnz@gmail.com sophiemilson.com

Flowers crafted with passion

Nurtured from seed to bloom we create bespoke florals from our field that are inspired by your love story for the day you weave your hearts together forever.

In Full Bloom

P: 021 296 3621 E: kiminfullbloom@gmail.com W: kiminfullbloom.com

Congratulations on your engagement

The act of bringing two people together to make an official lifelong commitment to each other is a true blessing. I would love to bring your day to light by delivering a personal authentic ceremony.

Lisa Dudley

P: 022 162 5456 E: celebrantlisadudley@gmail.com

The perfect wedding day smile

Wedding season is here, get professional teeth whitening at a great special price. Just $169 for your 60-minute treatment (RRP $599).

SparkleWhite Teeth

P: 027 246 2449 W: sparklewhite.co.nz

Life, captured beautifully

Your job is to enjoy every second of your special day; my job is to capture how it looks, how it feels, and how much it means. Mention this ad for a FREE engagement shoot.

Photos by Francesca

P: 027 479 5857 W: photosbyfrancesca.co.nz

in Nelson

Summer is the time to sparkle. Whether it’s a dinner party, a holiday away or even a wedding, make sure you sparkle with the help of these incredible local jewellers.

1. 9ct yellow gold and pearl earrings, $950, Erika Heidi Jewellery Design | 021 060 3972 2. Pear shaped diamond and tourmaline rings set in 9ct gold bands, $3399-$5499, rocs.co.nz 3. Lab-grown diamond tennis bracelet in white gold, $8599, jenshansen.co.nz 4. The perfect match for your summer style, these statement Jellyfish earrings are all about detail and colour. Silver - $220, gold - $240, louisedouglas.com

Erika Heidi Jewellery Design

Summer living

Anna

Ange

Ange

Tamara wears Diamond Area dress, $429.99 from Moochi

Tracee wears Holiday floral bree top, $59.99 and wide leg pants, $79.99 from

Helen

$469.90

$189.99

Models | Anna Lillico, Ange Holland, Ange Leonard, Tamara Allen, Tracee Barnes, Helen Lynch

Hairstylists | Lily Orben and Hannah Fitzgibbon, Aboki Hair

Makeup Artists | Dani Lester and Miki Pumphrey, Life Pharmacy Prices Stylist | Angela Leonard, Morrison Square

Photographer | Aimee Jules Photgraphy

Location | Special thanks to Richelle Petersen for use of her home in Redwood Valley. All clothing from Morrison Square, 244 Hardy St, Nelson.

From left to right:

wears Gypsy Swing Serena chiffon tiered dress, $159.99 from The Rock Box

wears Alicia lace insert dress, $189.99 from Portmans

wears Among the Brave floral fluted cross over midi dress $179.90 from Flo & Frankie

Dotti

wears Hallie halter midi dress,

from Jacqui E and Jimmy Choo Eleni sunglasses,

from Sunglass Style

Ange wears Ivy & Jack linen strappy tie back dress, $189.90 and Sophie So Shady woven natural hat, $49.90 from Flo & Frankie. Tracee wears Allure kimono sleeve linen blend jumpsuit, $89.99 and Daisy Brit hat, $35.99 from Dotti

Tamara wears Leashed khaki dress, $349.99 and Sashay hat, $149.90 from Moochi Anna wears Friends of the Fox Juliette high neck maxi dress, $159.99 and Bon Voyage wide brim hat $159.99 from The Rock Box.

Helen wears Bree poplin dress, $179.99 from Jacqui E and Isabel Marant sunglasses, $439.90 from Sunglass Style Ange wears Ray lace tee, $69.99 and Making Waves black shorts, $99.99 from Portmans and Skechers skinny light nickeltin sunglasses, $99.90 from Sunglass Style.

ON THE STREET

Local ceramic artist and painter Sophie Holt is anything but boring with her style (and art).

Sophie shares her love of colour, glitter, handmade and second-hand finds with us.

What are you wearing today?

I’m wearing tights from Farmers, Dr Martens, dress is from AS Colour. My earrings I got from the Little Beehive Co-op and the maker is LoverLover. My coat is a collaboration between my good friend Paula, who is an amazing sewer (the Seamstress), and myself. I’ve always loved creating my own style if I can’t find it in the shop. The idea of the coats was that you become the canvas as each one is hand-painted with an original artwork. I love making them, and seeing people wearing them is such a fabulous feeling.

What is your style?

I don’t think I have one, if I see something I love, I wear it.

Where do you buy most of your clothes from?

Anywhere and everywhere, it depends on my budget. I love op shops! I have a lot of Nina’s work (Kingdom of Klah), Trouble & Fox in Nelson is always a good spot too.

What is most of your wardrobe made up of?

Lots of colour, glitter, sequence and studio clothes.

What is your approach to shopping?

These days I buy mostly what I need, trying to be mindful of fast fashion.

What is your all-time favourite purchase?

I got these second-hand shorts at a market in Ōtautahi, I wear them so much. They are black, white with yellow lightning bolts, it looks like they were handmade. Just perfect for summer. And I would say my sequins skirt I got in another second-hand shop in Motueka. When you find the perfect second-hand treasures it’s extra special.

What has been your worst clothing disaster?

I think in my teens I made a few, don’t we all? I always explored how I could be a little extra different and, unfortunately, that didn’t always work out for me.

What wardrobe item should everyone invest in? Good bras!

Do you have a style rule you always obey?

No, there are enough rules in life already.

If you could raid one person’s wardrobe, who would it be?

Maybe the Met Gala when the theme was camp. I would love to wear it all. And one person I love the style of is @luinluland, her wardrobe is my dream.

Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…

Boring clothes (except when I’m in my studio working).

Tessa Jaine

Be kind to yourself

Sarah McGuinness is a wellbeing disruptor, burnout awareness advocate and Founder/CEO of Revolutionaries of Wellbeing. ROW helps wellbeing leaders to be change makers and to create better workplaces, together.

She draws on her honours degree in psychology and degree in communication, training in health behaviour, coaching, fitness and facilitation, plus a 15+ year career in the corporate sector specialising in leadership and organisational development in Australia and New Zealand. She is a passionate mental health and wellbeing champion and is one of Nelson’s own, growing up here and attending Nayland College before embarking on her career. She kindly wrote this piece for Nelson Magazine about the importance of looking after yourself.

There’s no doubt that life has thrown us some curveballs recently. The pandemic continues to impact many aspects of our lives, from the cost of living to business impacts, to our health and wellbeing. It’s no wonder many of us feel tired. It’s quite telling that more and more retail stores have a ‘please be kind to our staff’ notice on the door. This time of year is typically pressured, but the impact of Covid lingers and people are desperately trying to hold it together to get through.

Of course, many challenges to our wellbeing predate the pandemic. So why does looking after our wellbeing suddenly feel so hard and what can we do about it? And with the number of articles on the web and experts and influencers you could consult, surely wellbeing can’t be that hard…. right?!

Well, as you’ll know – it’s not quite that straight forward. We don’t exist in a vacuum. In our quest for wellbeing, it’s easy to think that we’re at fault for somehow not being able to keep up with what’s expected of us.

As a society, our values have shifted, and we have prioritised work as being essential to prosperity. We value constantly ‘being productive’ over being at leisure. Leisure time is often positioned (and marketed) as a luxury.

Work has become more accessible with technology; we have less boundaries between work and home life. In this Covid world, this has become even more blurred as more people work, live and manage life from home.

We also live in an almost infinite world. It will almost never be possible to stay on top of the emails, current events, and social media. The brain can only cope with so much information and it is easy to become overwhelmed.

We’re also balancing our commitments to generations older and younger than us, financial responsibilities, biological changes associated with ageing, social pressures, and more.

Of course, not all these things are negative. Many are positive experiences. The difference is the sheer amount that we’re juggling.

And I say this as someone who has been there, done that and got the scars to prove it. I burnt out spectacularly in 2020 and spent 2021 recovering. It was a long, slow journey to get well, and I learned the hard way why being proactive about your wellbeing is so important. It’s easy to fall into the busy trap, but much harder to climb out of if you leave it too late.

So what does good wellbeing look like? In our work, we like to ask, “What does a good day at work look like for you?” Or, if you’re not working, simply “what does a good day look like to you?” When we ask people these questions, they tell us things like “I have control over my day”, “I spend time with great people”, “I have purpose”, or “I feel calm and not stressed”.

These are the things that make people feel better. It’s what it means to be well. You can ask yourself that question: “what does a good day look like to me? What would I be doing, or what would I be thinking or feeling?” You can also try this exercise asking yourself: “how satisfied are you with life right now on a scale from 1 to 5?”.

This is a great question for thinking about the different parts of your life (work, social life, relationship with loved ones, opportunities for learning and growth, time to do what you love (e.g. hobbies) and so forth), and your life overall.

We can be doing well in one area of life, say relationship with loved ones, but be under financial strain at the same time and this can impact our overall wellbeing. These different areas are distinct, but inter-related. For example, your mental wellbeing can be affected by a physical illness or injury that is preventing you from living your life to the fullest.

The life satisfaction question exercise is beneficial for two reasons: firstly, it allows you to purposefully reflect on the different aspects of your life and how you’re travelling. Secondly, it’s great at keeping you accountable and honest. Self-knowledge is a great starting point to understanding what’s truly driving your positive or negative wellbeing. Life satisfaction is a key part of wellbeing. It’s a long-term evaluation of life and perhaps not surprisingly, there is a link between lower life satisfaction and wellbeing challenges like burnout.

Wellbeing is a continuum, one that we move up and down every day based on all that’s happening around us and our responses to those things. It’s also not just about the absence of a negative (i.e. stress, anxiety, etc); it’s about creating the conditions that allow you to flourish and be at your best. But to do that, we need to start from a place of self-knowledge and self-care.

Here are our broad self-care tips:

1. Proactively develop a sense of who you are – take some time over summer to reflect on the year that’s been, and where you’d like to be this time next year. You can use the questions about a great day or life satisfaction to give you a guide. Consider what’s important to you, and what you’d like to stop, start or continue doing.

And here are some tips for right now:

2

. Be deliberate about what you do next – just like we don’t expect an Olympic athlete to be race-ready every day, consider when you’ll need to be ‘raceready’ during the year (eg when there might be times of high pressure) and when you can schedule in times for recovery.

3. Much of wellbeing is mundane and boring, it’s the micro decisions we make every day. Consider the tiny decisions you could make each day that will make even the tiniest difference to tomorrow. It might be eating an extra vegetable, or calling a friend, or sitting outside for lunch.

4. Respond to setbacks as opportunities for growth. Make a date with yourself when something doesn’t go well. Consider, what happened? What influenced how I feel and what I’m thinking? How did I behave? Was it ok or could I have done something differently (with the benefit of hindsight)? What positive do I need right now to feel better? Who can help me? What do I need to do? When you’ve answered those questions, you’re ready to put your new mini-plan into action.

5. Acknowledge what you’re already doing. Often, we end up looking for the magic answer to our wellbeing challenges, but there will be many things you’re already doing that will be making a positive difference to how you feel. Keep doing them too. After all, you’re the expert in you.

6. Be right here, right now. Practicing mindfulness is probably the last thing you’d think to add to your festive to-do list, but it can be a helpful calming tool if you feel overwhelmed at any point. Mindfulness is about living in the moment and taking note of what’s happening. Examples include using your five senses to enjoy the foods on offer, watching the sun on the water at the beach, and being present with loved ones. A great way to pause is to take a really deep breath, exhale and let your shoulders drop.

7. Know that good enough is great. There can be a lot of pressure at this time of year, especially when hosting or staying with family and/or friends. Unfortunately, there’s no quick fix when it comes to dealing with difficult people but what you can do, is focus on you. Be clear about what you can control and what you can’t, and what’s important and what’s not. By February, many things that are stressful now will be long forgotten so give yourself a break and know that good enough is great.

8. Be with people who love you in all your glory. There’s almost nothing better than spending time with people who love you for who you are and can make you laugh until your sides hurt. Find time to be with those people and find ways to help each other take care – be it a walk together, joining a festive activity or simply sitting down over a cup of tea to catch up on life. There are lots of other great people you can talk to in your community too.

9. Celebrate the goodness. When you get a chance, write down a list of all the good moments from recent years. It might be a list of big things, small things or both. The idea is to come up with 10 to 20 things that make you smile and feel buoyant. And those things can be personal and professional. My highlights include all the awesome people I’ve worked with around the country and of course, the time I’ve spent with my family and friends.

10. Support the community. There are many families that go without in some way. Donate your time or items to organisations that support families or individuals in need. Or if you know of someone, reach out to them in whatever way feels comfortable to you and to them. Check on neighbours and colleagues too. To quote the Mental Health Foundation, “Seeing yourself, and your happiness, linked to the wider community can be incredibly rewarding and creates connection with the people around you.”

Take care, stay safe and wishing you a happy summer ahead.

Self-care for the New Year

Too often we tend to put others needs in front of own, ensuring their health and happiness are being met. But what about ourselves? Self-care is important for our own well-being, increasing emotional resilience, self-esteem and overall health. The benefits of self-care are vast, including reducing stress and anxiety, protecting mental health, and can lead to better relationships in the long-term. Understanding our own mind and body enables us to be the best version of ourselves, protecting our own mental state and physical being, to be in a position to help those we care about. Focusing on ourselves encourages a feeling of self-worth and balance within the psyche and promotes a sense of calm, important to navigating everyday life stresses.

In a world fraught with anxiety and depression, it is vital to take some time out for yourself, whether it be in an emotional, spiritual or physical sense. Take time to reboot and do the things you love most, go for a walk with a friend, book a massage or a good-for-the-soul therapy session, meditate, tend to the garden, or treat yourself with a pamper pack. Allow yourself to indulge in life’s simple pleasures and celebrate you.

“It is almost forty years ago that my parents established Kimi Ora Eco Resort as a very special place for people to relax, unwind and eat well,” says Angelika Mant. Only minutes from Kaiteriteri Beach and close to Motueka and Nelson, Kimi Ora feels like a world away with its bush-clad twelve hectares and abundant native bird life. “It offers a chance for our guests to relax and recharge from the stresses of life. We offer an indoor heated pool, an outdoor pool, spas, sauna, steam room and an infrared sauna. Our Wellness and Beauty Spa on site offers exquisite pampering with a range of body spa treatments.” The Views Restaurant has fresh and delicious vegetarian meals which include vegan and gluten free options.

Optimal health and well-being

Morgan Spittal, a registered nurse and a holistic health practitioner, is passionate about lifestyle medicine. She believes that being conscious and mindful of your health and wellness is the ultimate act of self-care. “I focus around five essential wellness pillars; nutrition, movement, sleep, stress reduction and relationships,” she says. “The relationship pillar has a focus on the relationship we have with ourselves, through self-care and self-compassion.”

Morgan offers bespoke coaching sessions and programmes to provide her clients with the tools to kickstart their health journey using practical tools and resources. She also facilitates group workshops and offers a free discovery call to people who are eager about the possibilities of moving from stress and poor health to optimum well-being.

Boutique natural skin care

Building her business on a long-time passion for plants, herbs and botanical ingredients, Botanical Skin + Body owner Amy Burke uses nature’s best ingredients to create quality natural products, suitable for everyday use.

Founded in 2012, Amy extensively researches her formulas for their function and purpose, forming a beautifully handcrafted range of body and skin-care products. “Natural is a big part of our process, but so is function and feel. We believe that skincare is a very personal thing, so we work hard to incorporate scent, feel and function to make your experience just that little bit more indulgent.”

“Self-care is a way to find your centre or balance. By knowing and understanding our centre we can navigate life with care and harmony.”

021 130 2178 | botanical.co.nz BOTANICAL SKIN + BODY |

Putting ourselves first is vital for our own well-being, says Bliss Beauty & Wellness owner Bridgette Gordon. With a passion for beauty therapy since she was young, Bridgette says the industry is about so much more than appearance. “It’s about people taking time to practice self-love. By investing in something for only themselves they are telling their subconscious that they are worth it.”

“You could say beauty therapy was always in my blood. As a little girl I used to give my mum and her friends pedicures

Relaxation is the key to better health

Self-care is looking after yourself by staying healthy –physically, mentally and emotionally, says Harmony Balance 4 Health owner Yvonne Harvey. “Taking time out for yourself helps towards eliminating stress that may cause many aliments within the body.” Yvonne understands that each person is unique, so tailors her treatments to suit each individual’s needs, no matter the age.

Enhancing harmony and balance to help provide quality of life, Yvonne’s treatments include reflexology lymph drainage, facial reflexology, ortho-bionomy, relaxation massage and Indian head massage. “I love seeing people walk away from my clinic floating on a cloud and smiling – it gives me the satisfaction of knowing I have given the right treatment for that individual person.”

027 316 6626 | harmonybalance4health.co.nz Crystal Affinity, 16 Bridge Street |

and massages. I have always found joy in doing for others, so when it came to choosing a career path, beauty was an easy pick.” Bridgette studied a two-year diploma in Beauty and Body therapies and consequently found her dream job at one of Nelson’s busiest day spas. “I went on progress my skill set, experience and clientele, working there for eight years and even managing that spa, which I enjoyed very much. Eventually it was time to challenge myself in a new way. I wanted to step out build my own path and it was time to do that for myself. Bliss Beauty & Wellness was born.”

“For me, self-care can be summed up with a quote, ‘You can’t pour from an empty cup’. Basically, we are no good to anyone else unless we practice putting ourselves first and doing things that recharge us.” Self-care comes in many forms, says Bridgette, knowing when to press pause and look after yourself is paramount to combat burnout and stress-related disease. “I feel that now more than ever people are realising that wellness encompasses mind, body and soul, not just the physical, and I’m excited to broaden people’s perspective on this by introducing them to a holistic approach to wellness alongside some other amazing practitioners with Bliss in the future.”

Bliss Beauty & Wellness offer a range of products and treatments to suit everyone’s needs, including facials, massage, pamper treatments and wellness sessions.

027 911 2085 | blissbeauty.wellness@outlook.com 39 Parkers Road, Tahunanui |

Ensure some ‘me time’ for better health and well-being

Self-care at the movies

Self-care can take many forms, and going to the movies is an excellent option to escape reality, relax and be completely immersed in an experience without distraction. This even has a name – cinema therapy. Laughing is good for your heart, while sad movies produce endorphins which are excellent for your brain chemistry. Nelson’s locally owned and operated independent nine screen State Cinema complex is designed specifically to enable full immersion in the movie experience. With comfortable armchair seating, the highest quality audiophile sound, large curved screens, real Italian pizza, beverages, espresso and fine wine on site, there can be nothing better than taking time out to improve your health with a movie fix. Presenting the most diverse range of movie titles in the region, there’s always a movie for you.

03 548 3885 | statecinemas.co.nz

91 Trafalgar St, Nelson

Committed to creating luscious natural skincare right here in Nelson, Bay Soaps founder Stacey Hickey is passionate about developing products that are ethically made. “We can confidently say we use no fragrance oils, animal products or palm oil. It has always been important that we listen to what our customers want when developing products and that’s definitely a passion of mine.” As a committee member of the New Zealand Soap Makers association, Stacey believes self-care can be easily incorporated into your daily routine when you choose a natural handmade product that promotes skin health. “We encourage self-care using ingredients such as nourishing oils, butters, clays and essential oils to promote health and well-being.”

hello@baysoaps.co.nz | baysoaps.co.nz

Awaken your full health potential

Cranio Nelson owner Jonathan Chambers is a long-term practitioner and teacher of yoga, meditation, mindfulness and qi-gong. He has taken this exploration inward to develop an intimate experiential knowledge of how body and mind respond to the many and varied challenges of life. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy is a powerful holistic therapy, founded on thorough anatomical understanding. It employs deep listening to tune into the subtle interplay of body, mind, environment, and the essential forces of life itself, helping to awaken our innate capacity for healing. “Self-care for me is primarily about discovering and nurturing a sense of integrity – that feeling of wholeness and purpose we find when all aspects of our being come into alignment. From here we can engage with life fully; and relate to its wonders and challenges with a healthy body, clear heart and open mind.”

021 186 0476 | cranio.nz Seymour Ave, Nelson

Located on Hardy Street, Kathy and her team at BKinky are there to help spice up your sex life with a range of adult items suitable for any situation. Priding themselves on delivering highly pleasurable products, Kathy is a firm believer that everyone deserves the very best experience, every time!

“Self-care for me, means getting to know your own body before someone else does. It is really important to know what you like, first and foremost. Forget about that awkward feeling. We have been doing this for a very long time and discretion, for us, is paramount.”

If you are unsure of what you need, just ask the friendly staff, or visit their website chatroom for advice. BKinky ship all over New Zealand and their packages are very discrete.

Beautiful hand-crafted skincare

Give yourself a break and know that good enough is great.

An efficient full-body workout

Bodypulse training is one of the world’s most efficient and addictive full body workouts in just twenty minutes, combining state-of-the-art full body EMS (Electro Muscle Stimulation) technology with personal training. It is specifically designed to help improve energy levels, strength and posture, while being easy on joints, helping to reduce back pain while adding that all-important positive feeling of self-care. “Our team at Bodypulse is here for you. We engage your entire body by stimulating all the major muscle groups at the same time,” says Bodypulse Richmond owner Belinda Koloamatangi.

“Our centrally-located private studio in Richmond has a FREE trial on offer so that you can get a taste of what all the hype is about.”

027 323 7105

Petrie Car Park Richmond |

The power of massage

Tim Young has worked in health care for over twenty years, first as a registered nurse, and over the last twelve years as a therapeutic massage therapist. “Acute and chronic pain are a part of so many people’s lives but my clients will attest to the benefits of a self-care programme that includes regular massage,” he says. Alongside his popular massage treatment options, Tim also teaches stretching to aid strength, mobility, posture and stress relief, along with yoga that is based on healthy and sustainable principles. “Self-care shouldn’t feel like a chore or a bore,” he says. “It is important to choose activities that make you feel rejuvenated and recharged. Keeping them simple will encourage you to continue and reap the benefits.”

Time to heal

Carmen of Soul Oasis is an intuitive healer, intuitive counsellor and spiritual teacher with over twenty years’ experience in providing insight, wisdom and healing to clients from all walks of life, worldwide. Sessions are online or via phone, so you are in the comfort of your own space. Carmen intuitively feels where energy is blocked in your body, then will release it to ease your emotional and physical issues. Each session is unique to your energy and needs. Often people feel changes during the session and feel better immediately. Dealing with your past or current issues in this way builds a strong and beautiful self-care foundation. Confidentiality is assured. It’s time for you to shine!

022 609 0088 | souloasis.co.nz

Soul Oasis |

Coach Seals teaches women the secret to sustainable healthy weight loss for life. A daily chocolate eater herself, she’ll tell you nothing is out of bounds, moderation and consistency are key, while choosing health as your primary motivator. She will enthusiastically remind you that you are the most important person in your life and real self-care involves healthy eating, movement and postive self talk. Women working with Seals are encouraged to respect their bodies and feel grateful for what they do on a daily basis, moving away from critical and negative thoughts. At 46, Seals has 18 years experience taking women from overweight and unhappy to looking and feeling confident and healthy with her personalised 1:1 coaching programmes.

Relax and be inspired

Take some time for yourself and enjoy reading a copy of a home-delivered Nelson Magazine every month. Reading a magazine is a great way to relax, lighten your mind and reduce stress levels.

Treat yourself to one of the many tempting products or services within the pages, and be inspired by local people doing amazing things.

For just $49 (usually $59) you can get 12 editions of the Nelson Magazine delivered to your letterbox, meaning you never miss out on a copy, and if you order before the end of January, you’ll also receive a free six month subscription for a friend.

To subscribe, email office@topsouthmedia.co.nz

A pathway to healing

Stress, anxiety and trauma can result in dis-connecting from and not feeling one’s body. In the long term, this can impact physical, social and psychological well-being, quality of life and relationship to self and others.

Yoga is a practice of re-connection and has been an important part of Jenny’s own healing journey. She offers trauma-sensitive yoga (TCTSY) group programs for participants who have experienced sexual trauma funded under ACC sensitive claims.

Participants have shared that being able to connect with their body in a way that feels safe and empowering has been a valuable pathway to healing and care for the self. Over time, this permeates daily life, such as responding to hunger or the need to rest, from a place of a deep inner knowing, feeling and choosing.

022 500 1648 | findingspacewellness.com

recognising that self-care is not something that you need to invest a lot of time or money in - instead it’s a way of livingas what you do on a daily basis can actually make the most difference, even if it seems small!

They encourage people to think about self-care holistically, considering all of their different needs, including the physical, mental, emotional, relational, cultural and spiritual.

They offer individual in-depth medical appointments, physical and mental well-being check-ups before and after birth, psychological therapy, supervised exercise, Pilates, trauma-sensitive yoga group programs, group classes, educational presentations and courses. They provide collaborative care, and can also refer clients to other practitioners in our Collective, or offer joint appointments where appropriate to help you on your journey.

Collective Care

Haven Health is a collective of healthcare specialists, including physiotherapists, psychologists, psychotherapists and specialist medical practitioners. They provide holistic, evidence-based medical and healthcare options for people across all of life’s different stages. They believe that self-care involves reaching out for help when you are struggling and in need of support. They appreciate that this can be challenging and uncomfortable, so they take the time to listen and work with you at your own pace to create a plan and help you live the life you want.

They believe in empowering their clients to discover their own health and well-being priorities, and find sustainable ways to incorporate these into their day to day lives. This includes

Haven Health is a warm and welcoming practice and can help with a wide range of problems, including pelvic physiotherapy (pelvic pain, painful sex, bladder and bowel control, pre and post-surgery care, prolapse and pessary fitting, abdominal separation; return to sport and exercise after childbirth, ACC birth injuries); pregnancy and postnatal support (perinatal mental health, birth trauma, breastfeeding support, infant sleep, parental burnout and parenting support, attachment and bonding); lifestyle medicine and nutrition (holistic comprehensive medical care, using evidence-based interventions and treatments to manage a wide range of health concerns); and help with persistent pain, chronic fatigue, anxiety and stress, trauma, low mood, depression and a wide range of other health concerns.

info@havenhealthcollective.com | havenhealthcollective.com 127 Hardy St, Nelson

The joy of movement

Jess Hannah Dance & Pilates (JHDP) offers a range of classes in Stoke, Richmond and Brightwater. These include group pilates classes for all levels, alongside dance classes for 3 years through to adults.

Jess is qualified and registered with The International Dance Teachers Association. JHDP’s aim is to offer all students an inclusive, encouraging and kind environment. All students have exam opportunities and involvement in the annual shows. Jess is also a qualified pilates instructor, specialising in mat pilates with small props. JHDP has classes for all abilities including beginners, open, flow and over 55’s. With Jess’s gymnastic and dancing background, she is passionate about the benefits of movement to people’s health and well-being. Enrolments are now open for 2023.

027 921 5339 | jesshannahdanceandpilates.com 40 Saxton Road West, Stoke |

Boutique hair and nails

Nelson’s newest boutique hair and nail studio is the perfect place to rejuvenate and refresh over the holiday break. Located in the heart of Nelson, Poynter and Co’s welcoming and relaxed environment will afford you the time and care you deserve when you want to feel pampered. With over twenty years’ experience, owner and operator Juanita Poynter knows exactly how to make you look and feel amazing! There is also an excellent range of hair products for you to take home that will keep your hair looking wonderful. Poynter and Co also have rental chairs available for hair stylists who work for themselves but don’t want the major risks involved with business ownership. You will very much enjoy working in this creative and supportive environment.

03 922 9119 | poynterandco.co.nz 41 Bridge St, Nelson

The sleep makers

There are not many things as vital to self-care as a comfortable bed that supports the body in all the right places, particularly as most of us spend around a third of our lives sleeping. Nelson is fortunate to have an excellent local bed manufacturer in Nelson Beds. Owners Dave and Christine Bary joke that they “sell sleep” and they are certainly masters of creating the ultimate comfort in beds that are custom-made and built on their premises. Only the highest quality materials are used and they go out of their way to ensure customers get the right bed for their specific requirements. They also make bespoke beds for accommodation venues, caravans, motorhomes, trucks and boats of all sizes, ensuring a good night’s sleep anywhere.

Amber de Garnham takes self-care to a whole new level for her clients and staff in her busy Hair in the City salon. “We are a bit unusual in that we are a completely sustainable salon using only environmentally-friendly products,” she says. “All our packaging is one hundred per cent recyclable and our hair products contain no sulphates, parabens or nasties of any kind. I am so excited by the developments in technology that have enabled the beautiful NAK products we use to work so well and in which every single ingredient is approved for safety,” she says. “Our customers rave about the wonderful effect they have on their hair and how they feel beautiful after every treatment.”

Soothing the senses

Maker of Aurora Candles , Steph Lay, is very conscious of the need to push pause from time to time. “I’ve always been an active relaxer but am learning that sometimes we need to switch off from the busyness of life and take time for ourselves,” says Steph. “Enjoying a book or podcast with a cup of tea and basking in the scent of a moody candle hits all the senses - create a ritual your body gets to know and appreciate. Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive or take much time. It’s about finding those little moments amongst the big moments.” With a range of candles and diffuser fragrances such as CocoVanille, Nelson Pear and Pomegranate, Aurora Candles has a fragrance for every palate.

027 478 3339 | auroracandles.co.nz steph@auroracandles.co.nz |

There are few places in New Zealand that receive as many outstanding reviews for a relaxing get away as the awardwinning Maruia River Retreat. Only two short and easy hours’ drive south from Nelson, it is the perfect destination when your world has become too fast to keep up with and you need to sink back into the bosom of nature and its healing, regenerative powers. Nestled alongside the Maruia River, the property is a two-hundred-hectare, private, pure and untouched nature estate of high ecological significance, and is home to a multitude of precious flora, fauna and wildlife, some of which are unique to the West Coast of New Zealand and include over fifteen rare bird species.

Changing health, changing lives

Alison Singleton of The Natural

firsthand the power of information about food and other product sensitivities to change lives. Trained initially in the medical science field, it took the birth of her son and his autism diagnosis to catapult her into specializing in complementary medicine after finding traditional medical approaches didn’t help. Nowadays her scientific training combines with that in the kiniseology and nutritional fields to provide exciting and life-changing solutions for adults and children with a wide range of chronic health problems, including food allergies and eczema. “To be able to find solutions to problems that have left patients feeling hopeless and overwhelmed, often for years, gives me so much joy,” says Alison. “The simple, non-invasive treatments I work with provide transformative, powerful change.”

027 726 7324 | thenaturalhealthclinic.co.nz 2/32 Oxford Street, Richmond |

forest bathing in the river hot tub and forest sauna under the stars, superb spa treatments, along with delicious, nourishing meals created lovingly from local and homegrown produce. For those who are feeling energetic, there are options of white-water rafting, kayaking, visits to the Maruia Falls and exploration of the nature trails around the Shenandoah area.

Whether guests choose the opportunity to visit the Maruia Retreat for a romantic couple’s getaway, time out alone or with friends and family, every care is taken to provide them with an experience of healthy, blissful luxury that they will never forget.

Throughout the year a range of special self-care retreat packages are offered also, sometimes led by visiting teachers. Upcoming ones include a two-night mini retreat complete with breakfasts, lunches and three course dinners along with daily yoga classes, sound-healing, gong bath sessions and nature walks. There are also popular writer’s courses and introduction to yoga retreats. Maruia River Retreat has been described variously as “peace on earth,” “truly magical” an “untouched paradise” and a place where mind and soul can be “recharged, reinvigorated and revitalized.” It is a place where you will quickly be enveloped with the feelings of serenity, peace and happiness, enabling you to face the world again, thoroughly refreshed.

Health Clinic, knows

Making change stick

Do you struggle to change old habits, even though you desperately want to feel better? Find yourself starting new diets or exercise routines, only to give up when life gets too busy? You’re not alone - creating change and sticking with it is one of the areas of health people find hardest. But it’s also crucial, as Dr Marissa Kelaher explains.

What we do in the long term is what really impacts our well-being. And did you know it’s not actually willpower that you really need? It’s learning how to make change manageable and turning it into habit.

When most people decide to improve their health, they tend to make extreme changes, then rely on motivation and self-discipline to keep going. Sadly, this isn’t helped by all the detoxes, crash diets, and myths around.

But in reality, it rarely works, and is why restrictive diets simply aren’t sustainable. Motivation is great when you start off, but eventually it fades, life gets hard, and you give up, then feel even worse than when you started.

This is due to how our brain works:

When we rely on willpower to change we use part of our brain (the prefrontal cortex) that’s energy intensive.

It’s also used for all those day-to-day parts of life (planning, decision making, multitasking, etc.

This means that when we get tired, stressed, busy, or overwhelmed, our brain decides to prioritise the things we need for survival such as paying bills and getting the kids to school, and our willpower fails.

In contrast, habits use a different part of our brain that uses very little energy - it functions on ‘autopilot’ - meaning that even if we’re tired or stressed, it’s far easier to keep change going if it’s been made into a habit.

So, the more we make new behaviours into habits, the more likely we are to keep going with them.

Rather than beating yourself up next time you fail to make a change, try taking the following steps:

1. Think about WHAT you want to change, be specific.

2. Think about WHY you want to change, this needs to be something important to you.

3. Make a clear goal of exactly what you want to do and when.

4. Think through each step you need to take, and any potential challenges.

5. Don’t try to change too much at once - small gradual steps are far more effective.

6. Make yourself accountable (grab a buddy!) and reward yourself when you succeed.

Nutrition is a great example - using the previous steps, try to be specific on exactly what you want to change (i.e. cut out sugar), why you want to do it (i.e. to have more energy), make a set goal (i.e. cut it down by 50% each week), then plan out each step to get there (take one thing at a time).

It means the change is both achievable and sustainable.

This is the SMART goal structure: Specific (what do you want to change)

Measurable (how will you change it) Attainable (is it realistic) Relevant (why is it important)

Time-based (how long will you try)

It sounds so simple - but it really does work. The new year is a great time to give it a go!

Dr Marissa Kelaher is a GP and lifestyle medicine doctor. She runs health courses and offers one-on-one consults at yourlifestylemedics.com

Caring for patients and their whānau

Pivotal to supporting the development of Tasman Day Surgery, general manager

Lynda Wakefield, is a registered nurse with 30 years of experience. She is passionate about providing a caring, quality service and supporting the needs of not only the patients, but also the needs of their whanau. Previously involved with orthopaedic, general surgical and obstetric nursing, Lynda led

Nelson Hospitals medical ward as clinical nurse manager and has specialised recently in endoscopy, particularly screening, surveillance, and acute services. Her team members credit Lynda’s dedication to her role as a contributing factor to the success of the hospital. “We have a really wonderful boss in Lynda. She has worked so hard to help get Tasman Day Surgery off the ground and continues to work hard, going above and beyond to get everything organised here.”

What drives your passion for your role?

Making things happen for people. It is such a great feeling to be able to book someone in when previously they thought they would have to wait months before getting an answer or a procedure. Helping to relieve some of the stress for our clients and their families, is what I love doing.

What does Tasman Day Surgery offer, that people may not be aware of?

We welcome questions and suggest a referral from people’s GP, working with their GP for the best possible outcome. People can come direct to us for a full range of services, they just need to give us a call. We can take care of their needs from start to finish. We offer a huge range of services including

endoscopy and day surgeries, along with multiple procedures, and infusion services, any minor day surgeries including skin lesions, along with using state of the art equipment within a purpose-built facility. We also offer an infusion service for nonfunded immunotherapy and chemotherapy patients, maintaining the highest quality of care. For those coming through the private sector or via health insurance, we can offer an alternative for patients, closer to home, without the need for travel to the bigger cities.

Do you have any exciting news about the future of Tasman Day Surgery?

We have a few things in the pipeline. I don’t want to say too much now, but definitely watch this space!

Developed

simple philosophy of providing high quality, patient centered day stay care to our community in the top of the south.

Tips for healthy skin

The skin is considered to be the most important organ in the body, providing internal protection and acting as a barrier to keep external aggressors out. When your skin is healthy, it can most effectively carry out its three most important functions, protection, regulation, and sensation. Owner of Eunoia Beauty, Kate Dyer, shares her top suggestions for maintaining healthy-looking and feeling skin.

Protect your skin

The most crucial aspect of maintaining the longterm health of the skin is shielding it from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. It is well known that UV exposure can harm your skin, causing cumulative damage to the structural components of the skin over time. It’s recommended to frequently reapply a sunscreen that is broad spectrum for UVA and UVB if you will be outside in the sun, even if your moisturiser or makeup contains sunscreen.

Get enough sleep

It’s not called “beauty sleep” for no reason, as this is the time the body needs to repair and regenerate skin cells. According to one study, people who didn’t get enough sleep had increased visible signs of ageing and decreased skin barrier function.

Wash your face before bed

In addition to the makeup and sunscreen you may be wearing, the skin is accumulating oil, dirt, and pollutants throughout the day. To allow the skin to properly regenerate, it is a must to thoroughly wash your face before bed. Even though washing your face is good for you, stick to 60 seconds, twice a day as overwashing can dry out the skin’s protective moisture barrier.

Consume a nutritious and varied diet

A healthy diet can improve the condition of your skin and improve your general well-being. According to research, poor eating habits and an imbalance in nutrition are important causes of skin aging.

Maintain moisture in your skin

All skin types benefit from the application of a well-formulated moisturizer, as they function to prevent water from evaporating out of the skin. To ensure that the moisturising ingredients are properly absorbed by the skin, moisturizers work best when applied while the skin is still damp.

Apply skincare in the correct order

Just as significant as the products themselves is the order in which you apply your skincare. Essences and serums should be applied first because they contain the most potent ingredients. Start with the skincare product with the thinnest consistency, as this will usually be water-based. The product that is thicker, creamier or contains oils should go last. This is because applying oil-based products first will prevent water-based ingredients from penetrating the skin, negating their effects. Moisturiser and sunscreen should always be the last steps of your routine.

eunoiabeauty.com

Living on the Tāhunanui hills you’re almost guaranteed a stunning view, but for the homeowners of 5 Albert Road it’s not just the view that’s stunning, but the home itself. Nelson Magazine finds out more about this home, which has just gone on the market, that has plenty to look at both inside and out.

What four words would you use to describe your home?

Clever design, spectacular view.

Best money spent?

The house! Luckily for me the previous owners who built this home in 2014 spared no expense, I’m extremely grateful to them for that.

ABOVE: Angela is wowed by the view every morning.

Who inspired your homes look?

The current interior look is thanks to Ana Stevenson. Her company Openhome Ready helped me furnish the interior of 5 Albert Road for market.

When it comes to homeware, do you save or splurge?

Splurge. If you’re living with it, you should love it.

George Guille

What is one thing you would change about your home if you could?

I wouldn’t change anything about this house… but life always changes. I know that Simone Henbrey will find this special home a new owner who will enjoy it as much as we have.

What’s your favourite room?

The upstairs lounge. I love the high stud and the simple striking architecture of this space. Huge picture windows and doors flood this whole space with natural light and draw in the incredible view… it feels like you can almost touch the boats as they come through The Cut. The open plan design of this room includes the kitchen and dining which all open directly to the sheltered outdoor living area, making it a very social space, brilliant for entertaining. And it’s so comfortable and easy to live in, very warm and sunny in winter, and easily controlled in summer with high electric windows creating cool airflow.

What piece would you never part with?

My pair of 19th century antique gothic griffins. I was looking for something special to guard the entrance to the house and fell in love with them instantly while browsing on First Dibs. They are cast iron, and heavy… I shipped them here from the UK.

Do you have any tips on how to keep your living area orderly?

If you can, have a second living area that’s designated for the children. The huge room by the downstairs bedrooms makes a fantastic guest room, home gym, or in this case, a perfect separate lounge. Opening directly to the deck and garden, the children can enjoy this space for hours which helps maintain order upstairs.

1. The ocean view is enjoyed from almost every window. 2. Angela’s family have created many memories pool side. 3. The home was designed by award-winning architects Kerr Ritchie and is practical and thought out.

Have you done any renovations?

Not necessary… Designed by award-winning Queenstown-based architects Bronwen Kerr and Pete Ritchie, this house was already perfect. I simply enjoyed choosing luxurious soft furnishings, adding curtains, carpet, large rugs, and wallpaper to soften and personalise the spaces.

Where do you shop for homewares?

I prefer timeless homewares that are unique and original. They also need to be robust and high quality to withstand the rigours of everyday family living. For example, my outdoor furniture from ECC and Dawson and Co. Both are family-owned New Zealand companies who source their pieces from some of the world’s leading designers.

Best memory in your home?

The happy family memories of the pool. My son learnt to swim in the pool, and we use it virtually every day. It’s magical when it’s softly lit at night… and it’s glorious by day. I have loved sitting on the deck listening to them laughing and playing below. And the views. I’ve always had a view, but the view from this house is something else, you just can’t tire of it. I don’t even draw the curtains… I have loved being wowed by this view from the moment I open my eyes, every single morning.

Unique glass art for everyday use at affordable prices. It’s what we have been making as a family, for the past four decades.

HÖGLUND GLASSBLOWING STUDIO

52 Lansdowne Road, Appleby, Richmond. Ph 03 544 6500 www.hoglundartglass.com

Hillside perfection

Building on hills has been in New Zealander’s blood from the early days of settlement. This is not surprising considering the magnificent views to be had and sense of spaciousness and privacy that hillside living provides.

In 2014 Ann Richardson and her late husband were excited to find a section in Mount Street, very close to the city and with spectacular views north to Tasman Bay and to the surrounding hills. “Being so central and only five minutes’ walk to the city centre in what we knew was a warm and friendly neighbourhood was extremely appealing,” she says. “Tony Karsten, the architectural designer, has designed five houses on the subdivided slope. I was told there were no geotechnical problems with the land which, originally formed by a glacier, is very stable.”

Having spent many years working in the building and design industry herself, notably on the joinery side, Ann knew they needed a competent builder to take on the job of constructing their dream home on the hillside section. “I had worked with clients on a number of houses Russell Bruce of Bruce Design

& Build had built and I knew how good the quality was,” she says. “When you are installing joinery, it is always obvious when corners have been cut and angles aren’t quite true, but Russell’s construction was always of the highest quality and his customers were delighted with the company’s building process and the finished results.”

Ann’s choice was vindicated. The house went on to win a New Zealand Architectural Design Award, and the kitchen, Best Kitchen in its category in the Master Joinery Awards.

Seven years on from the initial build it is, remarkably, a home that still looks brand-new, inside and out, thanks to the quality of materials used and the attention to detail in all aspects of the construction and finishing.

“Through my many years in the industry I had seen the pitfalls of using inferior materials that wouldn’t last the test of time and I was delighted to find a builder who understood that in order to achieve a great and lasting result, you simply must use quality materials,” says Ann.

Greg Monahan – Whistling Frog Media

Words: Adrienne Matthews

Despite being so close to the city, the home is remarkably quiet to live in thanks to the use of Noiseline Gib® used on the inside of the exterior walls.

The views from most rooms are spectacular with floor to ceiling windows and bi-fold or sliding doors opening out onto sheltered patios from the spacious living area, kitchen and two of the four bedrooms.

All internal doors have a solid core which adds to the excellent noise insulation and are sprayed with miratone spray lacquer to make them easy to clean.

“These are the type of extra touches that add so much quality to the finish and allow it to be easily maintained to a high standard,” says Ann.

The kitchen island is a highly-polished piece of Mongolian granite and the cabinetry in both main kitchen and walk-in pantry is high-spec with softclosing for ease of use.

The oak flooring in the entrance, hallway and kitchen is a lovely feature that echoes the exterior’s part wooden cedar cladding and is also easy to keep pristine.

Essentially built on two levels, there are also a few steps up to the master suite which dazzles with views on three sides, a large walk-through wardrobe with superb cabinetry and, as elsewhere throughout the bedrooms, directional reading lights in the ceiling.

Both the master bathroom and guest bathroom have programmable underfloor heating and heated mirror demisters for extra comfort. Ann searched far and wide to locate the beautiful Spanish tiling with its mixture of patterns which is a feature on the bathroom floors.

“It was clear from the start of the building process that Russell was highly experienced with hillside builds and his expertise in this area is now seen all over the region with many new builds on slopes being constructed by his team,” says Ann. “His staff were a dream to work with from start to finish. Nothing was ever a problem, and they welcomed my experience and input into modifications of the interior.”

“Bruce Design & Build’s fixed price contract meant there were no budget blowouts or unexpected surprises which gave me great piece of mind and I particularly appreciated the close monitoring of every aspect of the building process by a very experienced foreman who made sure everything was exactly as it should be,” she adds.

“I particularly appreciate that Russell works with top architects, so you get the benefits of great design along with an experienced operations team who, behind the scenes, make sure that every detail is carried out to perfection,” she says. “I couldn’t have been happier with the finished result. The home is beautiful to live in. It feels airy and light with all day sun on both levels and is spacious while having room for everything needed for easy and comfortable living.”

New year, new you?

Hopefully everyone had a very merry Christmas and the new year is well underway, relaxing on a beach somewhere enjoying some sunshine.

It is well known that this time of year is the time for resolving to make some changes to yourself and often these are in the health and financial areas, which are proven to be interrelated. Here are some key tips that you might want to consider if this is the year you want to get on top of your finances.

TRACK YOUR SPENDING

The best way to control you spending is to understand where it all goes. I would suggest getting three months’ worth of bank statements to track spending, then categorizing expenditure into food, clothes, rent, entertainment etc. to get an understanding of how much you spend in an average month. Once understood, you can elect areas to focus on savings.

REVIEW YOUR COSTS

The new year is a good time to review all your providers such as phone, electricity, car/house insurance, life insurances (a good insurance broker can assist on insurances) to make sure you’re getting the best bang for buck. Are there any new deals you can take advantage of?

PLAN YOUR MORTGAGE

Get a handle on how much you owe to who, and at what rate. From here diarise when it’s time to re fix your mortgage. Prepare to shop around. Using a broker is a solid idea to come up with a strategy long term.

KIWISAVER AND SAVINGS

Check your investment strategy (is it growth or balanced?) and make sure it coincides with your investment timeframe. Double check your tax rate and make sure your provider is doing the best job for you.

GET ADVICE

Seek out independent advice, making sure financial decisions are all coordinated to your long-term financial objectives. By having everything working together you will achieve powerful longterm results.

Mark Sheehan is an award-winning Certified Financial Planner and Financial Advisor offering independent advice in Nelson since 2008. Ph 03 545 8928 sheehanfinancial.co.nz

Advice is of a general nature and not intended as personalised advice.

NV Design - Experts in exceptional outdoor spaces

NV Design offers beautiful and functional landscape design solutions for both residential and commercial clients. With a blend of hands-on landscape construction experience and landscape architectural flair, NV Design looks at the big picture to ensure your landscape design is not only aesthetically pleasing but is practical for your specific outdoor environment.

Nigel Monk, a horticulture and landscaping expert, started his own business in 2003. Since then, the company rebranded to New Vision Landscapes (NVL) and has quickly grown to become the largest privately-owned landscape design and construction business in the Nelson-Tasman region.

With more than 20 years’ experience in landscape design, Nigel now manages the sales and design division using his extensive hands-on landscape experience and plant knowledge to provide clients with tailored landscape designs that will enhance their property to its full potential.

“It’s really important clients are aware from the start whether their dream outdoor space is achievable on their specific site to ensure a great outcome,” Nigel explains. “The NV Design team works closely with NVL and NV Pools management, so our clients get an idea of project cost, challenges, necessary consents, plant availability, and completion time frames during the early stages of the design consultation process,”

Nigel continues.

The NV Design team recently welcomed landscape architect, Jess Mills who brings with her a passion

for sustainable and permaculture landscape design. Nelson-Tasman’s focus on environmental maximisation is a key reason for Jess making the move to Nelson from Christchurch and she is loving the change.

“What appeals to me about working for NV Design is the ability to work throughout the full landscape lifecycle. I have direct access to the landscape construction team which helps hugely with my design work,” explains Jess.

The NV Design team is further supported by Jule Kley who coordinates design enquiries, maintains the design schedule, and is the contact point for clients throughout the design process.

“The support I offer our designers ensures they can focus on what they do best, which is creating stunning outdoor spaces. I enjoy liaising with our clients and hearing the fantastic feedback we get on our communication,” Jule says.

Nigel summarises what makes NV Design unique, “not only do our clients benefit from the team’s range of speciality skills, but they also have access to an incredible pool of landscape experience throughout the entire New Vision group”.

All these layers of knowledge and support result in NV Design delivering their clients with exceptional outdoor living spaces.

nvl.co.nz/design

Jess Mills, Nigel Monk and Jule Kley.

Home Style

ENHANCE YOUR LIVING THIS SUMMER

1 2 3 5 6 8 9

4 7 1. Broste Copenhagen champagne coups, set of four $139.95, Villarosa Maison, 62 Montgomery Square, Nelson, villarosa.nz 2. Nouveau Cantilever umbrella, steel frame, 3m, $249, Mitre 10 Mega, 99 Quarantine Road, Annesbrook, Nelson | 3. Natural bug repellent candles, fragrance blend of cedarwood, lemon and essential oil of citronella, Living Light, 219 Trafalgar St, Nelson Central Arcade | 4. Living colour indoor flowering gerbera, 1.5 litre assorted colours, $7.49, Mitre 10 Mega, 99 Quarantine Road, Nelson 5. The wave outdoor single seat and footstool, available in black, white and natural, storeycollection.co.nz, 65 Collingwood Street, Nelson | 6. Houe Click outdoor dining chair with interchangeable lamellas, 13 colour choices, $499, lynfords.co.nz, 675a Main Rd, Stoke | 7. Tivoli Audio model one(R), a modern-day icon of acoustic and industrial design. The addition of Bluetooth allows you to stream your own music, $499, Beggs Musicworks, 264 Hardy St | 8. Handcrafted glass birds from $65, Höglund Glassblowing Studio, 52 Lansdowne Rd, hoglundartglass.com | 9. French Laguiole steak knives, set of six, $115.95, Villarosa Maison, 62 Montgomery Square, Nelson, villarosa.nz

Gallery Showcase

Our region’s best creative talent

Nelson Classic Car Museum Museum Store

1 Cadillac Way, Annesbrook Open 7 days, 10am-4pm 03 547 4570 nelsonclassiccarmuseum.nz

Christine Hafermalz-Wheeler

The Artist Goldsmith Central Nelson By appointment, come and play! 021 817 209 theartistgoldsmith.com

RED Art Gallery & Café

Gallery open weekdays 8.30am-4pm, Sat 9am-3pm and Sun 9-3pm 03 548 2170

redartgallery.com

Bill Burke Gallery

15B Ajax Avenue Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-12.30pm 027 847 0620

billburkeartist.com

Private tuition available

View paintings at Wall to Wall Art Gallery 112 Bridge St nicolareifnz@gmail.com nicolareif.com

Paul Deacon & Nicole Russell

112 Bridge Street View paintings at Wall to Wall Art Gallery 03 548 3961 nicole@nicolerussellart.com

Protean Art Gallery

20 Tahunanui Drive Wed-Sun, 10am-4pm Mon and Tues by appointment 027 548 5003 proteanart.co.nz

Jonty & Mike Ward Studio Gallery and Store

3 Morrison St, Nelson 022 035 9175

mikewardofnelson@gmail.com

Coolstore Gallery

10 Aranui Road, Mapua Wharf Open 7 days, 10am – 5pm 03 540 3778

thecoolstoregallery.co.nz

Lisa Grennell BVAD – Artist

13 Cheshire Place, Stoke Studio visits by appointment only grennell.lisa@yahoo.co.nz lisagrennellartist.co.nz

The Suter Art Gallery

208 Bridge St, Nelson Open 7 days, 9.30am-4.30pm 03 548 4699

thesuter.org.nz

Cathy Jones 4 Art

1/47A Washington Rd. Open Wednesdays 12pm-5pm, and by appointment 027 546 9499 cathyjones4art.weebly.com

Nicola Reif (IAPS-MC, DPANZ)

Handmade jewellery a labour of love for talented goldsmith

After escaping East Germany in the 1950’s, it was in her father’s workshop in Stuttgart, amid basket weavers and handcrafters, that Christine Hafermalz-Wheeler - creator of unique, handmade jewellery - first learnt to craft with her hands. As she grew, a visit to a goldsmith’s studio became a turning point in her life. Christine had found her calling, “The smells and sounds of metalwork combined with the experience of creativity were very familiar when I first saw the studio. I instantly knew I had found my happy place.” Later, setting up as an artist at the age of eighteen, Christine ran a gallery in the heart of Stuttgart city. The talented creator has since had her work exhibited in Beijing’s Capital Museum, the SOFA Expo in Chicago, England’s Highclere Castle (better known as ‘Downton Abbey’) and in the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

She says, a full fifty years after completing her apprenticeship the sensory excitement of working with precious metals and glorious gemstones remains undiminished and she still enjoys the ‘absorbing energy of her bench’. The common denominator in Christine’s work is gold and silver, with both holding properties, surface structure, texture, strength and softness, that allow the use of many different techniques. “Being trained as a metal worker, these are the framework for my creativity. The possibilities are endless. By preparing the metal for each and every piece, I achieve a variety of approach to each stone that has inspired my imagination.”

Currently working from her Nile Street-based studio and gallery, Christine – The Artist Goldsmith says each space she has worked from during her time as an artist has helped to develop her work. “Over the 50 years we have moved studio six times, twice between countries! Each location has offered a

different slant to my creative influence and to the marketing of my work. I am loving the natural environment of Nelson Tasman and am finding much inspiration from the ease of living here.”

“Two fabulous art initiatives in the region are Clay Week and Jewellery Week. Both putting ‘hand-made’ back in focus when so much has migrated to digital,

and reminding us of the very human essence in creating with hand tools. In 2019 we experienced an ivory carving in Germany that is dated at 32,000 years old! The creative process was identical to today and we stood in the cave where it was formed, sensing a strong bond - over extensive time - to the early hominid carver.”

Christine loves to rework precious pieces into more functional and bespoke items that can be incorporated into everyday wear. “Precious metals hold value and can be re-used with ease. Most jewellery boxes have a collection of outmoded memories and associations that deserve working into a personal heirloom, suited to today’s living. Bring it all along and let’s see what we can do!”

Christine Hafermalz-Wheeler, creator of unique, handmade jewellery.

Glass-blowing gallery and studio a must visit

There is something awe-inspiring about glass; the rainbow of colours available, the way it swirls and transforms as it is blown or cast, the variety of objects it can be made into and its sheer versatility. Those working in today glassmaking industry are part of a long history that dates back to over 3,600 years ago.

The Höglund glass family business in Appleby was established by Marie and Ola almost forty years ago and their own history in the industry goes back to Ola’s father Erik who worked at the famous Boda Glassworks in Sweden.

Meeting each other at high school, Marie and Ola developed their own passion for the craft. “We did our glass training at Kosta Boda and Orrefors Glassworks and then, as part of a Swedish government aids project, moved to Swaziland in 1978 to establish a glass-blowing factory, teaching local people the skill of glass-making.”

Three years later the couple visited New Zealand and were captivated by the creative hub that they found in Nelson. They soon set up a glass-blowing studio here, first at what was then Craft Habitat, and then at their current site in Appleby.

In turn, the couple’s two sons caught the glassmaking bug, training as glass artists themselves. Ossian and his wife Annabel live and work at the Appleby studio with Ola and Marie while Oliver has his own studio creating designer lighting in Australia under his SØKTAS brand.

Alongside the very popular vases, birds, oil bottles, paperweights, perfume bottles, platters, candlesticks, goblets and bowls that the Höglund family is so well-known for, Marie and her store manager Mel specialise in making a wide range of one-off jewellery pieces which, under $100, are very affordable.

They include pendants, earrings, cufflinks and rings. Some are made from blown glass and others from dichroic glass, a technique that blends ultra-thin layers of coloured glass, forming unique, crystalline effects that are as unpredictable as they are exquisite.

“Ola and I love the glass-making process just as much now as we ever did,” says Marie. “Glass is such a beautiful medium to work with and it is wonderful to be living and working on this site as an extended family, passing on a legacy to the next generation, our grandchildren.”

Höglund Glass iS recognised internationally for the high-level skill of its creators, the variety of techniques used and its collectible nature. Fortunately, the family are expert in packing glass for travel and every day pieces of all kinds take off to purchasers around the world.

“It is a real joy to be able to make beautiful items that bring as much pleasure to others as we receive in creating them,” says Marie.

Marie Höglund at the Appleby glass-blowing studio.

The Veggie Guy

Nothing says summer quite like the delicious, sweet, juicy flavours of stone fruits.

Apricots, nectarines, peaches, plums and cherries are plentiful right now. Perfect for lunchboxes, pop them in the picnic basket, or combine them for a heavenly fruit salad. And make sure you can enjoy them all year round by freezing, preserving or making some jam.

theveggieguy.co.nz

Rabbit Island Coffee Co.

A fully functioning specialty coffee roastery, offering an emporium of carefully curated NZ and local artisan treats that will satisfy your senses. Located at Mapua Wharf, Tasman. rabbitislandcoffee rabbitislandcoffee.co.nz

Hop Federation

Simon and the team have been brewing since 2013, creating beer that’s hop-forward, fresh and well known for exceptional quality.

Visit their Riwaka tasting room for beer, wine and cider yearround. Or find your nearest stockist and buy online at hopfederation.co.nz

hopfederation.co.nz

Tasteology

Tasteology is an artisan store located in the historic Upper Moutere Village. A one stop destination for deli foods, lovely crafted gifts, local wines as well as takeaway coffee and delicious baked treats. Open seven days 9am to 4pm.

Solander Gourmet Seafood

Wild Australian king prawns are the perfect balance of delicacy and indulgence. With a meaty texture they are perfect for the grill or on the BBQ topped with garlic butter. The very best seafood available in Nelson and NZ, accessible to you via online order. Select from the finest seafood and other gourmet products, to ensure that your dining experiences are healthy, delicious, and incredibly well priced.

Gostoso Cuisine

Empada is a traditional Brazilian pie with home-made pastry and delicious fillings, made by Davi. Try one for yourself at the Nelson Farmers Market, every Wednesday, 8am - 1pm.

1381 Moutere Highway

gourmetseafood.co.nz

Facebook: Gostoso Cuisine Instagram @gostoso.snacks

McCashin’s Tap Room

Summer is here. Come on in with your family and friends, enjoy the outdoor garden area with a mouth-watering menu including platters, pizzas and seasonal plates to savour. McCashin’s Tap Room is your local friendly meeting place with fine beverages made on site at the brewery. Plenty of room inside and out for summer fun.

660 Main Rd, Stoke 03 547 0329

mccashins.co.nz

Red16

Off the beaten path while still being centrally located, Red16 is the perfect place for dining out.

Specials include tacos and margaritas on Tuesdays, burgers and beers on Wednesdays, plus the very popular Open Mic Night every Thursday.

The full menu is available from 3pm to 10pm Mon to Sat, with a wide array of drinks available until late.

19 New St, Nelson 022 188 7262

Ben & Maxxi

Perfect for when everyone wants something different for dinner. Taking Asian fusion to all new levels, try their satay chicken pizza or satay chicken burger. Partnering with neighbouring restaurant The Lemongrass, both menus are on offer in each restaurant, giving you more choices than ever.

Dine inside or enjoy the summer sunshine in the al-fresco dining area.

294 Queen St, Richmond 03 541 0665 benandmaxxi.co.nz

Mapua Village Bakery

No matter what you fancy, they’ve got you covered with a fantastic menu full of all your favourites — homestyle baking, a huge pie selection, the famous big breakfast that is available every day until 2pm, and delicious fresh salad rolls to take away and enjoy on your spring picnics.

While you are there, take a break and enjoy the homestyle baking, huge pie selection, fresh salad rolls and a supreme coffee to add a bounce to your day.

68 Aranui Rd, Mapua 03 540 3656

mapuavillagebakery.co.nz

The Indian Café

With three great locations you can enjoy Indian Cafe’s delicious food no matter where you are. Head in and find out why Indian Café is the favourite choice for anyone looking for the highest quality food and a memorable cuisine experience.

All venues offer intimate restaurant dining and courtyard settings and takeaway options.

94 Collingwood St, Nelson | 03 548 4089

266 Queen St, Richmond | 03 544 8979

201 Songer St, Stoke | 03 547 0008 theindiancafe.co.nz

Anchor Restaurant and Bar

Top quality food is best served with amazing ocean views! Blessed with a fantastic spot on the water, you will feel welcomed and won’t want to leave.

Specialising in local seafood and steaks, there are also delectable choices for non-meat eaters, people with special dietary needs and kids.

62 Vickerman St, Port Nelson 03 546 6614

anchorrestaurant.co.nz

ViaVio

•

•

•

Rosé

Cut the Mozzarella in small cubes.

In a bowl mix the chopped tomatoes, with salt, pepper, oregano and extra virgin oil.

Unroll puff pastry, cut into 16 evenly shaped triangles by cutting the dough in 8 same sized rectangular (top to bottom) and then cut them diagonally to get triangles.

Put the triangles on a greased baking tray. Place a few cubes of mozzarella and a spoon of tomatoes and sauce over each triangle.

Roll up each triangle to form a croissant, sealing in the ingredients inside, starting from the wider end to the tip.

Brush the croissants with egg yolk.

Bake for approx. 20 minutes or until golden brown at 180 C°.

Enjoy your Mozzarella Croissant warm or at room temperature.

Tasty variants: Mozzarella and ham or mozzarella and mushroom.

Serve with Waimea Rose 2021, available to taste and purchase at Gravity Winery & Cellar Door or online waimeaestates.co.nz

Every mum’s dream cafe

Brazilian-born Nani Denardin and Kiwi husband Mike Walker fell in love with The Prince Albert on Nile Street. Since purchasing it ten years ago, they have worked tirelessly to upgrade the business and its facilities while honouring its heritage status.

Managing the pub and accommodation alongside their second business, the Bridge Backpackers, has been no mean feat, especially in the past few years with Nani’s cancer struggles and the stresses and pressures of the pandemic. They’ve got through the other side though, stronger than ever.

Not to be floored by any adversity, the bubbly and determined Nani has recently added a beautiful renovation to the pub’s former function room, transforming it into a bright and airy café with outdoor seating and a handy “take-away window” where customers can simply order from the footpath through the window and go about their day.

“The feedback has been fantastic,” says Nani. “I have always dreamed of having a hospitality venue that brings the community together, a stylish place that parents and children can enjoy, friends can meet for a chat, cyclists and walkers can pause to get their morning coffee fix and everyone gets to enjoy great food.”

Taking inspiration from her travels, she has accentuated with elegance the heritage aspects of the space, like the large sash windows and ceiling pendants, while introducing a fresh, contemporary feel. Her passion for plants is clear in both indoor and outdoor areas, blended with trendy furniture and providing a unique experience.

It is a lovely place to relax with every detail thought of. There is a fenced space for children to play safely with toys, high chairs, changing table and healthy kids’ menu options, every mum’s dream.

Trained in gastronomy, Nani is very particular about everything the café serves. Among the popular choices for breakfast are the Açaí Bowl, a vegan sorbet-like smoothie, and the head chef Rodel Gozo’s signature dish, Pulled Pork on Waffles.

Lunch delights include Seafood Chowder, Croque Monsieur, a French-inspired hot sandwich and a fresh Italian Bruschetta, topped with tomato, feta cheese and fresh basil. Vegan options are also a hit!

Ice cream is on hand for those after-school treats and there is always scrumptious cabinet-food available. Havana coffee is served and the cafe is licensed so patrons can enjoy a mimosa for brunch or a glass of local wine with lunch. If you are lucky, there may be a few of Nani’s exquisite, hand-piped, organic cupcakes to purchase.

The Function Room Cafe is a dog-friendly establishment and even dog biscuits are available to purchase for diner’s furry friends, with pooches welcome to stay inside the cafe too.

Parking is not a problem as the Function Room has plenty of additional parking spots with easy access off Tasman Street.

The Function Room

113 Nile St, Nelson | Open Monday to Friday 7:30 am to 3:30 pm

What’s On

For updated information visit itson.co.nz

5 January

BAY DREAMS

Festival favourite ‘Bay Dreams’ is back with a fresh look and a new purpose. Featuring a diverse lineup of long-awaited international and local talent. Set to be one of the highlight festivals of the summer.

7 January

PAUL MADSEN’S ABBA TRIBUTE

Take a chance on me and become a Dancing Queen at the Waterloo (otherwise known as the Playhouse). $25, two course buffet, $45 for show. Dinner from 6pm, Show from 8pm. Tickets at eventfinda.co.nz

13 & 15 January

SUMMER HARNESS

RACES

Join us for all the action on and off the track. Family fun and entertainment. $5 per adult. Under 18’s free.

7 & 8 January

CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE SHOW

Nelson Classic and Vintage Motorcycle Club present their annual show of club members bikes. Come and see British, European, Japanese, American models. Adults $5, children free.

30th Dec - 8th Jan

MAPUA ART GROUP ART EXHIBITION

View art by talented local members including well recognized artists. Open daily 10am until 5pm. Free entry, all artwork is for sale.

14 January

ART IN THE PARK

Come and enjoy the atmosphere and view creations painted in oils, watercolours and acrylics. You will also find mixed media works, ceramics, pottery and glasswork. 10am-4pm

Jubilee Park, Richmond

Queens Gardens, Nelson

Richmond Park Showgrounds

Trafalgar Park

Mapua Community Hall

The Playhouse

14 January TASTE TASMAN

Beer, cider and food festival with live music from The Feelers, Assembly Required, Reece Milton, Imani-J & Kahu S-B. Tickets at tastetasman.co.nz

Rutherford Park, Nelson

21 January

GOLDEN BAY A&P SHOW

Horses, cattle, sheep, goats, baking, flowers, handcraft, photography, music, side shows, wood chops and more. All day free entertainment for kids. 8am-5pm. $10 pre-show tickets NBS Nelson, Richmond, Motueka and Takaka. Gate sales $15. Under 15 free.

22 January

BOSSA VIA

Bossa Via is the way of bossa nova, Bossa Via’s sound is tasteful, laid-back with cruisey smooth dancing vibes.

Perfect for a summer’s afternoon in the beautiful Fairfield courtyard. Bar and a selection of local tasty foods available. 4pm.

Fairfield House

10 – 12 Feb

BETTER HOME & LIVING SHOW

The show will inform and inspire anyone wanting to improve their lifestyle in a sustainable way by showcasing tomorrow’s ideas, today. Featuring the latest trends and innovations for indoors and out, massive show-only specials.

19 – 22 January

NELSON BUSKERS FESTIVAL

Daily and dusk family shows 10.30-2.30 and 6pm. Plus two evening variety shows at the Boathouse (R18, tickets at eventfinda). Line-up from Northern Ireland, Estonia, Italy, Aotearoa and Mexico.

Upper Trafalgar Street and Mapua Wharf

21 January

DREAM11 SUPER SMASH

See Blackcaps and White Ferns in action for the Central Stags, Hinds and Otago in a fun T20 doubleheader. Food trucks, giveaways and mascots will be a big hit with the kids, tickets from just $5, and free for under-fives. Tickets from cdcricket.co.nz

28 & 29 Jan

FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE

Landslide is a five-piece live band, who have been celebrating the music of Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks for the past eight years, covering classics from Fleetwood Mac and also Stevie’s solo hits! Dinner from 6pm, show from 8pm.

The Playhouse

On now – 12 February BIRD IN SPACE

Artists Craig McIntosh, Shaun Waugh, Lonnie Hutchinson and Areta Wilkinson create meaning through reduction, simplification of form, and repetition, both physically and conceptually.

Saxton Oval

The Suter Art Gallery Trafalgar Centre

Recreation Park, Takaka

The Suter Art Gallery

Various locations

Don’t miss your chance to see BLACKCAPS and WHITE FERNS stars in action for their regional teams when our own Central Stags and Central Hinds square off against the Otago Volts and Otago Sparks on 21 January in the quest for the New Zealand T20 trophies.

With family-friendly pricing from just $5, this is an amazingly good value day out at beautiful Saxton Oval with two fast and exciting T20 matches included in your ticket and played back-to-back. Get ready for fireworks as the Hinds take on the defending champions Sparks followed by the star-studded Stags and Volts.

Ross Taylor, Ajaz Patel, Blair Tickner, Hannah Rowe, Will Young, Rosemary Mair, Doug Bracewell, Claudia Green and Josh Clarkson are just some of the big names in the Central squad. And the Otago Sparks is home to WHITE FERNS star Suzie Bates while BLACKCAP Glenn Phillips brings the razzle dazzle to the Otago Volts.

Everything you need is at the ground — gourmet food trucks, ice creams, coffee cart, merch tent for kit and souvenirs to keep, plus there are heaps of cool, fun, free giveaways and activities that the kids will love! And, our ever popular and fun-loving roaming mascot The Stag can’t wait to meet them and pose for a photo.

If you haven’t been to the cricket before, this is a fantastic way to start. It’s fast, easy-to-follow action, big screens and non-stop, affordable entertainment. Each game’s three-hour entertainment package is also perfect for the attention span of younger fans. Two games, one day only, Saturday 21 January 2023.

Book online and save on gate prices now at www.cdcricket.co.nz and we will see you there!

The big hits and excitement of Dream11 Super Smash are back in Nelson for the first time in four years!

Trudi Wilson, Ngaio Aida and Siorche Harris

Jess Valler and Sophie Scotson

Sapphire Carter-Oliver and Linsey Reibsome

Santigo Paolini and William Samuels

Laney Ogle and Amie-Jo Trayes

Clare Robinson, Jane McSpirit and Alison McAlpine

Mackenzie Charleton

Sarah Board

Kirsten Ammann

Boathouse

Mackenzie Charleton

Ray Salisbury

Brightwater

76 Teapot Valley Road

Sitting pretty on the top of the hill, this home will certainly not disappoint. From the second you drive down the tree lined driveway, you will be immediately impressed by the architecturally designed 350m2 home with its warm timber features and bold South Island schist cladding. Recently renovated, including a new designer kitchen complete with butler’s pantry and new flooring the home is open and bright, opening out to the sunny patio and large flat lawn beyond. 10.44 ha of rolling to hill grazing offer plenty of scope to run a few head of cattle, have some horses or lease it out, plenty of work has been done out on the land!

Toby Randall

M 027 233 9170 toby.randall@harcourts.co.nz

Price by Negotiation over

Enjoy the space and ambiance in Beulah Ridge, a subdivision situated amongst an Olive Grove. This delightful private residential home on 3917m2 consists of three double bedrooms with the master featuring an ensuite and walk in wardrobe. The open plan kitchen, dining, living areas flow out to a large sunny conservatory where you can sit back and relax. This area then accesses the courtyard and grassed area, which blends into the surrounding olive grove - perfect for an alfresco area and entertaining. Blissfully peaceful and extremely private, and must be viewed to appreciate what is on offer here.

Wendy Perry M 027 249 1701 wendy.perry@harcourts.co.nz

Wakatu

14 Pinnacle Place

Up Where You Belong

Price by Negotiation

harcourts.co.nz/NN25548

“Pinnacle’’, the highest point of development or achievement, the culmination! With number 14 you can reach your very own pinnacle. Reward yourself for all your hard work and achievement by purchasing this fabulous large home, then sit back and enjoy the many benefits. A choice of outdoor entertaining areas commanding full sweeping views of Tasman Bay and the mountains, with picturesque sunsets and moody storms. This contemporary home will win you over with its multiple living spaces which are perfect for entertaining friends and family.

Rateable Value $1,530,000 (2021)

Mike Rollo

M 027 435 2927 mike.rollo@harcourts.co.nz

Washington Valley

4 Chamboard Place

High on the Hill.........

Price by Negotiation over $685,000

Is this lovely family home, nestled quietly on a well groomed and maintained section, close to all the amenities of Nelson. Enter and take note of the sizable kitchen, and walk into the large lounge, opening out to a covered deck, with an outlook across the nearby hills. Discover the good-sized bedrooms upstairs and you’ll be surprised at the large rumpus room downstairs accompanied by a double garage and good off-street parking. Outdoor living is also well taken care of, with space created for a swing, jungle gym, trampoline, play hut, barbecue and room for a vegetable garden.

Michael Mokhtar

M 027 443 2703

Stepneyville

12/309 Wakefield Quay

Waterfront Wonderland!

$1,250,000 View: harcourts.co.nz/NN25739

Be excited, be very excited! High demand for waterfront apartments have seen off market sales and properties move faster than you can blink! Here is your opportunity to buy this premium sun filled property in The Waterfront apartments situated opposite the Yacht club and boat ramp at the helm of the harbour action! Enjoy the convenience of a short seaside stroll to award winning restaurants and cafes, A leisurely walk will see you at Tahunanui Beach or nip across the road for a dip over the sea wall with the locals - this is the good life for young and old!

Caroline Fletcher M 027 453 5885

Stoke

39 Exeter Street

Almost New and Ready For You

Price by Negotiation

View: harcourts.co.nz/RC6359

This stunning 2019 build is in as new condition and from the moment you step inside, you will be impressed with the attention to detail and the clever layout. Open plan, the living and kitchen areas allow ample space to relax, but also allow the chef of the home to be part of family conversations. Sliding doors provide easy indoor/outdoor flow to the outdoor entertaining area ensuring BBQ’s will be a summer focus. The internal access double garage provides secure storage for vehicles and bikes, with plenty of further off street parking available on site. Don’t wait for a new build. Contact Steve or Sophie today!

Sophie Haley

M 021 277 9309 sophie.haley@harcourts.co.nz

Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Steve Thomas M 021 774 609 steve.thomas@harcourts.co.nz Licensed

Redwood Valley 38 Martin Conway Road

2 9028m² 4 3 2

Price by Negotiation View: harcourts.co.nz/RC6376

Scandi Lifestyle in Redwood Valley...

You’ll enjoy entertaining family and friends at this lifestyle haven, whilst being able to take in the incredible views out across the valley. The ‘Scandi’ feel in this architecturally designed home is apparent on entry, with light and bright living areas nestled below the vaulted cathedral style ceiling, as well as classy fixtures, with concrete floors giving the house an edgy industrial feel. A big drawcard here is the separate sleepout with bathroom, which is ideal for extended family or possibly even an Airbnb option. Enjoy the benefits of living in a rural setting as well as being situated close to Richmond and Mapua.

Matt Goodman

M 027 456 7788

matt.goodman@harcourts.co.nz

Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Mapua 374 Pomona Road

3605m² 4 2 1 1 2

Price by Negotiation over $1,448,000

View: harcourts.co.nz/RC6383

The Perfect Package of Space, Style and Comfort

What a location! A little bit of country yet so close to both Motueka and Mapua. The views out to the Western Ranges and overlooking the surrounding area is simply stunning! The entertainers kitchen includes a walk-in pantry, dual ovens, and Swamp Kauri bench tops. The living areas flow out onto an alfresco area providing an entertaining space all year round, and not forgetting the spa. The restful lounge with wood fire has an amazing view to tie it all together. Zoned underfloor heating driven by a heat pump is in all the living spaces and the two bathrooms plus the fourth bedroom. This property is worth viewing from the inside-out!

Wendy Perry

M 027 249 1701

wendy.perry@harcourts.co.nz

Ruby Bay 78 Stafford Drive

2 809m² 3 1 1

Price by Negotiation over $795,000

View: harcourts.co.nz/RC6363

Delightful Family Home - 430m to the Sea!!

Hello, all you sea/beach lovers, this delightful family home is just around the corner from the delights of the sea, optimising all day sun. This refurnished home is now double glazed, featuring modern kitchen, open plan living, with a very sunny sheltered veranda for all day (and night) barbeques, 3 good sized bedrooms, and a double garage, on a very well maintained section for children to play safely and completely fenced for security. The attractions of Mapua, restaurants, school, supermarket and shops are also within an easy drive, 5 minutes away. Come one, and all, don’t miss out on this opportunity.

Michael Mokhtar

M 027 443 2703

michael.mokhtar@harcourts.co.nz

Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Wakefield

1373 Eighty Eight Valley Road

Profound Architectural Award-Winning Country Home

It will come as no great surprise to you that this stunning home won Master Build of the year “GOLD” award in recognition of what can only be called a masterpiece. A clever balance between country living, privacy and contemporary design makes this property very unique and sparsely found. Out on the land you will find a sun soaked 2.95 Ha of flat fertile land with established trees including a shelter belt of trees around the boundary creating a private sanctuary. Across the courtyard is another spacious 80m2 building offering a generous double bedroom, second bathroom, and open plan lounge area that could be used for a raft of options.

Toby Randall

M 027 233 9170

toby.randall@harcourts.co.nz

Kaiteriteri

20 Anarewa Crescent

4

Price by Negotiation over $1,699,000

harcourts.co.nz/RC6346

Something Special in Stephens Bay, Kaiteriteri!

Presenting something special in Kaiteriteri, overlooking Tapu Bay. Here is a fantastic opportunity to purchase your forever home or family bach, bathed in sunlight with amazing views across the bay to Nelson and the Ranges. This tastefully renovated double-glazed home provides quirky living space with heatpumps and gas fireplace. The large master bedroom has gorgeous sea views to wake up to with a lovely ensuite, heat/cool pump and built-in robe. There are plenty of outdoor areas to sit in the sunshine, or in the shade on the warmer months. Kaiteriteri is an iconic holiday destination. You’ll love making memories here.

Presenting something special in Kaiteriteri, overlooking Tapu Bay. Here is a fantastic opportunity to purchase your forever home or family bach, bathed in sunlight with amazing views across the bay to Nelson and the Ranges. This tastefully renovated double-glazed home provides quirky living space with heatpumps and gas fireplace. The large master bedroom has gorgeous sea views to wake up to with a lovely ensuite, heat/cool pump and built-in robe. There are plenty of outdoor areas to sit in the sunshine, or in the shade on the warmer months. Kaiteriteri is an iconic holiday destination. You’ll love making memories here.

Wendy Perry

Duncan Bay 193 Duncan Bay Road

Duncan Bay 193 Duncan Bay Road

Fisherman’s Retreat

Fisherman’s Retreat

1 954m2 3 2 1 1

M 027 249 1701

wendy.perry@harcourts.co.nz

249 1701 wendy.perry@harcourts.co.nz Licensed Agent REAA 2008

M

With 2641 salespeople across 202 offices in New Zealand, Harcourts have the reach needed in this current market to get your property sold! If you have been thinking about selling or simply want to know what your property might be worth in today’s market, contact us today.

to request your FREE Apprasial Now! Or call Chris Davies Sales Manager 021 648 902

Sarah Archer

Price by Negotiation

View: harcourts.co.nz/NN25778

M 027 362 8985 sarah.archer@harcourts.co.nz Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Price by Negotiation View: harcourts.co.nz/NN25778 Sarah Archer M 027 362 8985 sarah.archer@harcourts.co.nz

This property has a superb sea view from either downstairs, or upstairs from the main bedroom, which has its own luxurious ensuite including a spa bath. Wonderfully retro and with the splashes of colour this holiday or permanent home is bursting with character. The kitchen has been modernised and been given a fresh coat of paint. An excellent covered outdoor living area will enable alfresco dining plus a bonus sunroom to use in all weather. To complete this property there is a large secure boat shed, directly to the road. Only a few hundred metres to the boat ramp and the wharf. The water is warming and the snapper are coming in!

Licensed Agent REAA 2008 1 954m2 3 2 1 1