Nelson Magazine - September 2023

Going UP now

guy

Planning your perfect day

130 years of women’s suffrage

Spy

TO AN

Stockists of La Bottega Di Brunella, Magnolia Pearl, Meg By Design & Beacon Hill’s Closet

A Bundle of

Activities…

Meet our wonderful Gina, the full-time Activities Coordinator at Coastal View Lifestyle Village

Gina’s role is to fully focus on organising an exciting range of activities and events for village residents – including, yoga, step classes, aerobics, walking groups, card games, mahjong, films, documentaries, brunch club, day trips, and local events within the region.

Gina leaves no stone unturned to make life exciting and interesting.

For more information call Breffni on 027 410 9668, or Al on 027 436 1735.

coastalview.co.nz | 50 Clarence Drive, Bishopdale

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We’ve come a long way since Kate Shepphard and her allies won us the right to vote. Three of our Prime Ministers have been female, and Jacinda Ardern even welcomed her first baby in office! In 2018 our parliament unanimously passed the Equal Pay Amendment Bill that guarantees equal pay for workers, regardless of gender. Last year our country cheered on the Black Ferns in their World Cup final like they were the All Blacks, and last month football fever spread through our country when we co-hosted the FIFA Women’s World Cup, with record breaking numbers filling the stands. Locally, Richmond Volunteer Fire Brigade has its first female station officer in its 145-year history and the new Appleby Volunteer Fire Brigade’s chief is a woman. New Zealanders aspire to a truly gender-equal country in which everyone can reach their full potential, and our journey so far is one to be proud of. But we mustn’t stop. We still have a long way to go.

This September marks 130 years since New Zealand became the first country to allow women to vote. In this month’s edition Judene Edgar speaks to seven local women about who they admire the most from Nelson Tasman’s history. We also speak to a number of female founders who share their story about how they started and how they’re going in business.

Sarah

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

Felicity Connell, Judene Edgar, Britt Coker, Matt Lawrey, Marissa Kelaher, Kate Dyer, Mackenzie Charleton, Gordon Preece

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

issuu.com/nelsonweekly

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Dame Suzie Moncrieff, the work she has done in Nelson over the years is just outstanding. She gave everyone great memories and really helped retail in Nelson.

Who is a New Zealand woman you look up to?

Jacinda Ardern, I think she’s a role model for kindness, sensitivity, inclusiveness and inspirational leadership.

A wāhine toa I look up to is Jazz Thornton, her background is extremely powerful and the way she has used it to fiercely advocate for better mental health services has been remarkable to witness.

I love seeing women represented in the arts, whether it be writing, visual arts or music. I think there are some great women out there doing some really great things – too many to name!

Tahunanui Beach at sunrise.

Congratulations to Quilah Bruce who won two custom-painted Folk.

New Zealand’s sexiest and most successful comedy of all time is about to get its gear off again and is visiting the Theatre Royal on 4 October.

To be into win a double pass email your best photo to editor@nelsonmag.co.nz

Quilah Bruce

Woodi Moore

Jolie Degaia

Colleen Walker

Gordon Preece

Addressing the cost of living and delivering better education

With the skyrocketing cost of living, many families in Nelson are doing it tough. Since my first public meeting on the cost-of-living crisis back in April, addressing the cost of living so that you can get ahead has been the number one focus of my campaign. That’s why I am advocating for policies to reduce wasteful spending and get inflation down, and programs like FamilyBoost, which will give parents a tax rebate of up to $3900 each year to help cover childcare costs.

Many parents in our community have also voiced concerns about education. I support policies that back teachers to lift achievement for all Kiwi kids, and I’m hosting a public meeting to discuss how we can get our education system back on track. Erica Stanford will be joining us to answer your education questions.

Public Meeting on Education with Erica Stanford

Tuesday September 19, 5.30pm Trafalgar Centre, Nelson

blair.cameron@national.org.nz

/BlairCameronNelson

Richmond’s edible walk

Headliners

What made news in our region...

Roger Jones, a 74-year-old retiree from Richmond has taken on the enormous task of creating Richmond’s very first edible walk along the Great Taste Trail, starting at Three Brothers Corner. Roger says he came up with the idea over a year ago after seeing the edible walk by the railway reserve in Stoke. “I just wondered why there was nothing like it in Richmond and thought if no one else is going to make it happen, then I’d do it myself.” Twelve months later and his vision has been realised with the first fruit tree going in the ground last month.

First female officer for local fire brigade

Amy Little has broken new ground in the Richmond Volunteer Fire Brigade, becoming the first female officer in its 145-year history. After ten years of training and moving through the ranks, Amy and fellow firefighter Bryan Parks are now station officers. The role means they are taking on more responsibility in the Richmond brigade, which has a team of 32 that includes just seven women. Amy, a police officer, was 23 when she joined the brigade and Bryan, a self-employed trader, describes her promotion as “monumental in our history”.

Pāteke couple make Natureland home

Natureland visitors may be lucky enough to lay eyes on a new couple that have recently arrived at the park. The brown teal/pāteke is a small dabbling duck endemic to New Zealand, historically distributed throughout the lowland freshwater wetlands. Natureland has become the latest partner in the Pāteke Recovery Programme and is now home to a young male and female in the walk-thru aviary. The ducks are the country’s rarest mainland waterfowl and are not often seen in the wild, Natureland’s Alix Rimmer says the nocturnal ducks are somewhat elusive and shy.

Soft plastic recycling is back

It’s been five years since locals in the region have been able to recycle soft plastics, but with eight new collection points across Richmond, Nelson and Motueka, that’s all changed. Soft Plastics Recycling Scheme manager Lyn Mayes says the scheme is possible due to Future Post’s new processing plant in Blenheim. Future Post takes bread bags, frozen food bags, courier envelopes – essentially anything made of plastic that can be scrunched into a ball, and turns it into fence posts. Each post takes around 8000 pieces of soft plastic to make and the finished product is in demand, particularly from wineries around the Top of the South.

New scope for bus interchange

The planned bus interchange at Millers Acre could cost up to $5 million - $3 million higher than the price originally estimated in 2022. An expanded scope and rising construction costs are the main drivers of the increase. Nelson City Council’s group manager of infrastructure, Alec Louverdis says following the support of council, the planned eBus hub has evolved into something bigger and more useful for our city. The site will have space for six eBuses and the ability to cater to intercity buses. Funding is yet to be confirmed by Waka Kotahi, however, the aim for the project’s completion is later in the 2024/25 financial year.

New restaurant inspired by ‘ugly’ dogs

The ugly mutt, dirty dog, salty pooch and dirty hound are just some of the names on the cocktail menu at a new restaurant in Richmond, The Ugly Dog and Kitchen. Inspired by her “ugly” dogs, owner Olivia Anderson has incorporated them into the name of her restaurant on Queen Street. The pooches, named Manny and Missy, aka ‘Phat Dog’ and ‘Little Dog’, are Chinese Crested dogs, known for their unique and almost hairless appearance.

Things we love

The recently completed mural at The Broads playing fields has transformed the area. The mural is described as a celebration of the Māori language and the values, or ngā pou, of Nelson College. The playing fields are owned by Nelson College and the mural on a large concrete wall by local artist, Nerys Ngaruhe features the school’s colours and the words manaaki (care), pono (integrity) and kairangi (success). The three te reo terms are translations of the school’s original Latin motto ‘Pietas, Probitas, Sapientia’.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

“It never all went like clockwork, but I’m still alive so the scary moments sort of become the exciting moments.”

Stew

Darling

Pages 22-25

Getting to know... Annie Pokel

As Nelson Art Festival’s Head of Creative and Communications, Annie Pokel is a busy lady with the upcoming Arts Festival kicking off next month. She talks to us about always saying ‘yes’, her favourite place for dinner and winter swims.

At the weekend you’ll find me...

By, and ideally, in the ocean! Māmā Moana does wonders for my soul so I try to get in as much as I can. This year, I promised myself to swim through winter and so far, I’ve been swimming every weekend.

I will never shut up about...

Art and how much we all benefit from engaging with art. I cannot wait for October to see Whakatū come alive with amazing artists and creativity from all over Aotearoa for this year’s Nelson Arts Festival. We’ve got some amazing things planned, and it makes my heart jump with joy to witness how people are moved and excited by an exhibition, a performance or a seemingly small art activation that crosses their path in the streets.

At a party you’ll find me...

Either in the kitchen chatting and laughing away with someone for hours (best place to be at every house party!), or dancing.

My real-life superpower is...

May I have two? My enthusiasm and my empathic ability to make connections. I’m a real ‘yes!’ person and for the most part, I think that is a great way to be – exploring new ideas or getting stuck into a project someone I care for is passionate about. Plus, I enjoy meeting people and believe there is something special and wonderful about everyone that I’d like to find out about. My favourite thing to happen is when I can connect two people with bright ideas and talents, and then witness how they connect and go off to do great things together or enable one another.

My most irrational fear is...

Swing bridges. They freak me out.

I’m going out for dinner to...

Arden. Definitely my fave place for kai and company – many a project has been started here over a negroni or two!

My simple pleasures are...

Sitting in the sunshine with a cup of coffee and either a good book or a friend to chat away with. Sneaking out for a swim at lunchtime. Driving somewhere with my best friend and the music turned up. Walking with Pixie. Feeling the wind on my face when riding my bike downhill. The smell of freshly mowed grass.

I hope in ten years Nelson will be...

A most liveable, community-oriented city that is leading the way with urban regeneration, a flourishing arts and creative sector and a vibrant, green, car-free CBD full of public art and places to come together and connect with others. I hope that in ten years, the Free Range Arts Collective living sculpture project my friend Katie Pascoe and I are currently working on, HeartWood, will be a thriving micro-forest sculpture in the heart of our city, and that Whakatū will be bursting with visitors to experience all the amazing cultural and creative events our city continues to offer.

Walking with Pixie at Tahunanui Beach.

THAW, at last years Nelson Arts Festival.

Free Range Arts Collective project planning at Arden.

on the couch

with George Molnar and Louie

We sat down with George Molnar, the visionary and founder behind Bays Joinery, a company that has been impressively operating for over thirty years and has earned itself top honours both in the region and nationally. With a dedicated team of over fifty members, they bring joinery projects to life.

What’s the secret to your success?

Success comes down to a mix of respect, gratitude, and always being there when needed. Ever since a young age, I loved to design and build things and was very inquisitive. I completed my joinery apprenticeship at 21, and purchased the small business I was working for – that’s when the Bays Joinery journey began. Today I am recognised as an NKBA Elite Designer, standing as a distinguished industry leader with a very strong and experienced design and manufacturing team behind me. I am grateful for our team, as well as my supportive family who have been with me every step of the way. You were a footballer in your youth. What lessons did you take from your sport into your career?

Football is the greatest game in the world. I started playing when I was three and still love the game. I reached the highest level in New Zealand playing in the National League which taught me the value of teamwork and dedication. I learnt I had to work very hard to make the team to stay there. I have transferred these skills into my daily business including building a winning team. I still love a challenge and working under pressure.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

My creative journey begins with an open client conversation. Solutions and final designs percolate and evolve as I go through the design process which is a real collaboration between the client and designer, a dynamic I love.

As the creative and business head of your company, how do you balance your time between the two?

I prioritise constantly between overseeing operations and design creativity. I’m up against designers who only design and the bottom line isn’t their job – HR, paying bills, and running a manufacturing team, when you’re the owner you never forget. Business itself is creative and to do well you have to think creatively. I feel proud of the culture I have built here and have an amazing team who back me every day. One thing remains steadfast – our clients come first. A lesson I grasped early on is that the most valuable client is the one right in front of you.

What’s next for you and Bays Joinery?

I still have so many ideas and am constantly challenging myself, my brand, and my sense of style to make each project the best it can be. My dedication to our clients’ projects and unwavering passion for this industry remains as intense as ever. I am looking forward to further sharing my knowledge and growing our team. We thrive on the excitement of meeting new clients, immersing ourselves in fresh plans and projects. We are committed to maintaining our industry-leading status and ensure that every client’s experience is nothing short of exceptional.

I am very proud of our stunning design studios and welcome you all to visit and get inspired. We look forward to seeing you soon.

baysjoinery.co.nz

Alyahna Sanson-Rejouis Going UP now

At just 15 Alyahna Sanson-Rejouis has written three-dozen songs in three different languages, busked in New York, performed in front of 7,000 people at Opera in the Park and her band JOLA BURNS is in the national finals for Smokefree Rockquest. Like the title of her latest song, the Nelson College for Girls student is Going Up, Now.

Words: Felicity Connell |

Giano Currie

or young Nelson singer-songwriter Alyahna Sanson-Rejouis being creative is something that comes naturally. “I’ve always sung, danced and skipped, ever since I could walk,” she says. She’s taking that natural talent, and through hard work and determination, aiming to make a career in music.

Now 15 and in year 10 at Nelson College for Girls, Alyahna won her first song-writing competition in 2020 when she was 12, taking out the solo/duo category in the national Smokefree Tangata Beats competition with her original song in te reo Māori, Manawa Ora Further success came in 2021 when Distorted, the fivepiece Year 8 band that she was the lead vocalist for, won the Nelson Bandquest regionals and went on to come third nationally. One of the songs she penned for the band, Te Pai Ki Roto I A Koe, won best original song for primary and intermediate musicians.

In 2022 the Year 9 all-female band Yellowstone she is currently in at Nelson College for Girls, gained the top spot in the regional Smokefree Tangata Beats event with an original song she wrote in te reo Māori, WareWare

Also in 2022, JOLA BURNS, the pop electronica duo she’s formed with her cousin Kahu Sanson-Burnett, were national Smokefree Rockquest semi-finalists. She’s also been recognized through the Play It Strange Youthtown songwriting competition, with her song Crystal Tears a finalist in 2022, and the waiata Te Mana a finalist in 2023.

While music has always been part of her life, it was participating in kapa haka at primary school that helped give her the confidence to be a performer.

Alyahna went to Te Pouahi, the bilingual unit at Nelson Central School for six years and was involved in kapa haka there. “That was the start of singing and performing on stage for me. We went to three national Te Mana Kuratahi competitions, all in different cities, and performed in front of thousands of people. That experience gave me the confidence to be on stage. Because you're in a group of people, it's not as scary as having all the attention focused on you! And then I realized that I could actually sing. I started doing solos and it pulled me out of my shell a bit more,” Alyahna says.

“I was also in a band at primary school. Obviously, we weren't incredible, but it was super fun and a great experience. But I didn’t have my first formal singing lesson until I was 12, and later that year was when I won Tangata Beats. So, for the past three years I’ve been focused on being a songwriter and musician.”

As part of her prize package for winning Tangata Beats, Alyahna was flown to Auckland to record her song Manawa Ora with audio engineer/producer Christian Tjandrawinata and singer and vocal coach Bella Kalolo.

“It was my first time in a proper recording studio, and it was quite daunting. Before that I'd worked with my singing teacher Dayna Sanerivi and my cousin Kahu who have recording gear set up in their houses. But being flown to Auckland to record, that was just completely next level. It was kind of scary but fun at the same time. We spent the whole day just recording and playing music. Having Bella as a vocal coach was incredible. The whole process was amazing, getting tips from her and Christian about how to make my song the best it could be. They were able to make it so natural and easy and super fun, and I was in full control about how I wanted the song to sound. It started my love for recording because now any chance I get, I want to record.”

And while she loves the process of recording, she’s still passionate about performing live. Over the past couple of years you may have seen Alyahna perform, either as a solo artist under her stage name Imani-J (a play on her middle names Jola Imani) or in JOLA BURNS, her duo with cousin Kahu. She’s performed at the Ciderfest, Taste Tasman, Tahuna Summer Sounds, Rock the City,

Kai Fest, Te Ramaroa, and the Nelson Arts Festival, as well as COMMOTION Youth Music Colab. Her biggest gig so far – performing as JOLA BURNS to over 7,000 people at Nelson’s 2023 Opera in the Park.“Opera in the Park was our biggest performance and our biggest audience, but I wasn't nervous. It didn't really hit me until I got on stage. The whole night before and at the sound check, I was just in awe. I wasn't really focusing on the fact that I actually had to sing in front of all these people. And then I was backstage, and they introduced us, and I was like, ‘oh, I'm actually playing!’ When I got on stage, I saw just crowds and crowds of people – so many people. But as soon as I walked on the stage and started singing, I felt fine. And that massive crowd was a bit of a taster to the kind of audiences I could play to.”

Even when there’s no paid gigs on offer, Alayna still finds the opportunity to perform. “I do some busking –usually in town or at the market. Kahu and I also set up at the annual Founders Book Fair. It helps keep people entertained when they’re waiting in line.” she laughs. During a recent trip to the USA to visit relatives, Alyahna tried her hand at busking for an international audience. “It was more successful than I thought it would be. Everybody was so supportive. And now I can say I've busked in San Francisco and in New York City – how cool is that.”

While the band Yellowstone is currently on a hiatus, Alyahna is keen to keep performing as part of a band.

“All three acts that I'm in are very different. When I play as Imani-J by myself, it’s acoustic guitar or piano with a singer songwriter, ballad-y kind of feel. And then with JOLA BURNS it's electronic, dancey, upbeat and really fun. And the band is more pop rock.”

Her musical influences are also wide-ranging.

“I've always loved Billie Eilish. I saw her concert in Auckland, that was incredible. I love her music and I love all the things she stands for. I also like oldschool artists like Sade and Amy Winehouse - I take little bits of their style and incorporate them in what I do. In terms of overall career, someone who I find inspiring is Zendaya. She does everything - acting, modeling, singing, and dancing.”

Alyahna writes songs in te reo Māori, French and English, and she finds the creative process differs, depending on what language she’s writing in.

“When I write in te reo Māori, I will generally write

all the lyrics first because then I can have a cohesive idea of the song. Because te reo Māori is not my first language, it can be harder to make it flow and make it more natural, and I find it easier to match the melody with the lyrics. I also think the feel of the song is really different because te reo Māori is a very poetic language, so what I write in te reo Māori wouldn’t make sense directly translated in English. It's also super important to have someone who's a fluent te reo Māori speaker go over and double check that you are saying what you want to be saying. When I write songs in English, the lyrics, the melody and the chords just kind of all come at once. So, for me, there's definitely a lot more thought and process that goes into writing in te reo Māori.”

Alyahna has 34 songs registered with APRA/AMCOS, New Zealand’s music licensing and royalties’ organisation, and at least five more songs on the go.

“I’m constantly writing down lyric ideas on my phone and I have long lists of words and thoughts that inspire my song writing,” she explains. “Writing lyrics is my way of commenting on what’s happening around me, and then anything that comes to mind! I write songs for myself as well as about and for other people, like when I wrote a song for my granddad for his 80th birthday. It’s really satisfying performing my own songs because I know everything about them.”

Alyahna has also collaborated with other local singersongwriters. “I love songwriting with other people because you get to bounce off other people and explore their ideas. The song you get is so different to anything you would have created on your own,” she says. Music isn’t Alyahna’s only creative outlet – she loves to dance as well.

“Contemporary, jazz, ballet, hip hop, musical theatre – basically all the styles you can think of! I’ve just started entering dance competitions this year, and it’s been super fun. Dance and music are my thing – I feel they go hand in hand, and I want to keep doing both as I grow up.”

Alyahna’s nine-year-old brother is also a budding musician, who drums and plays guitar. “We just muck around together, singing fun stuff, with him on drums and me on guitar. He sings my songs around the house, and I can hear him singing at my gigs –it’s pretty cute.”

Between family, school, music and dance, Alyahna’s schedule is pretty packed, but she still makes time to enjoy the Nelson lifestyle.

“Everything is so close, and there’s a good mix of things to do. I have a lot of freedom and I'm able to just really enjoy every moment. I can walk into town or catch the bus out to the beach - I love summer! Her advice to others considering music as a career –take all the opportunities that you can.

“I'm still figuring this all out myself, but I think putting in the work helps – writing lots and gigging lots. Every opportunity that you get asked to play, take it, because each gig leads to another gig. Sometimes being as young as I am can be an issue with gigs at wine and food festivals, but my mum comes everywhere with me, so I can do those types of gigs. Having her support is awesome. She stands up for me and teaches me to stand up for myself.”

“I’d also advise young creatives to enter any competitions that you can – even if you don’t win, there are so many positives that come from taking part, and you never know what’s going to happen. Winning Tangata Beats and recording Manawa

Ora kickstarted my whole journey – I got amazing coverage and gigs just after that one experience.

I’m really grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had and the support I’ve received. Events like Smokefree Rockquest and Tangata Beats, and Play It Strange, and the people who run them, are so good at encouraging you and boosting your confidence.”

2023 has brought more national recognition, with Alyahna’s song Peace Inside Your Arms making the finals of the Play It Strange Peace Song competition, meaning her song will be professionally recorded and will appear on the 2023 Peace Song digital album available via Spotify. JOLA BURNS have made it through the first online entries stage of Smokefree Rockquest 2023 and will be submitting three songs for the national final selection round.

“For me, I'm keen to continue to play and release my music. If I could make a career in music; I would be so happy. That’s the goal.”

With her talent, quiet confidence and strong work ethic, you’ll definitely be hearing more from Alyahna in the future. Right now, you can listen to Manawa Ora and Crystal Tears on Spotify by searching Imani-J, and look out for JOLA BURNS’ debut single, Going Up Now, released on 4 August, with a further five singles to be released before the end of the year.

@imanijmusic @jolaburnsmusic linktr.ee/jolaburns

Every opportunity that you get asked to play, take it...

If you want to become a spy, it’s 95% boredom, 5% danger. Sure, you might get shot at occasionally if that appeals. You may drive your car into a mine field, interrogate prisoners with kindness, you may brief the Prime Minister, infiltrate enemy lines and lie to your neighbours about your job, but if you’re in it for the detonating pens, or an Aston Martin that shoots missiles, you’re going to be very disappointed. Britt Coker interrogates ex-Military Intelligence.

Tessa Jaine

Stew Darling has lived in New Zealand for the last 10 years, and Nelson since 2021. He runs high-performance leadership courses now (though he dislikes the word ‘leadership’), tapping into previous experience as a spy, to help people and businesses develop their lives using some key traits he finetuned as an intelligence officer. How does someone become a spy? Just as life is for many of us, the path for Stew was shaped by a defining moment in his childhood.

“The minister said to me at my father’s funeral, ‘you’re the man of the family now,’ and I thought, what the hell does that actually mean, I’m 10 years old? But what it did instil in me was a driving force to just get stuff done. Make it happen, no matter how challenging it was, make it happen.”

That determination landed him in ‘spy school’ after initially starting his armed forces life aged 18, in the Royal Air Force (RAF). He switched codes, recognising a greater compatibility between the army’s model and his personality type.

“I didn’t really fit in with the gentlemanly conduct that we would expect in the role of a RAF officer. I was far more operationally focused, I was far more of a dominant problem-solver, so really those character traits and my life history until then was recognised as something that could be honed, perfected, shaped, in order to make me the spy that I became.” He thrived in the army, and they saw that too, which brought him to the day his job title changed. “It was a retired Colonel who leaned out of the window of his office on the third floor and said, ‘You need to come up and see me young man’, which is what I did. I sat in his office and he said, ‘This is what we’ve got mapped out for you, do you want to play?’”

And what was your response?

“Yes, totally. I mean, I was brought up in the 1980s with the Bond films as they were, and you look at that and think how cool would that be? I’ve just been asked to join that cohort of people. So definitely, ‘yeah, let’s get on with it.’” And he did. It’s not that easy, thankfully. First there is a series of tests to undertake to see if you’re cut out to be a spy. Less than 0.1% make it. And then obviously he was given a Swiss army knife on wheels, just like the one James Bond had. “I remember being taken by Q, my Quartermaster, into the garages and he handed me the keys to a shitty little green Toyota. And that was my first ops car, so it was a long, long way from an Aston Martin.”

Stew’s subsequent career in espionage spanned over 20 years and multiple key operations where that strategic brain of his eventually saw him as a Colonel. “Running undercover operations across the Balkans, Iraq, Afghanistan and running the strategic imagery campaign for the second Gulf War in 2003. I also spent three years in Canada running their military covert operations programme for them as they developed their skill set.” Sometimes he had to update Prime Minister Tony Blair on behind-the-lines operations-but not 95% of the time.

“To be brutally honest, it’s probably 95% officebased, 5% James Bond. But as much as the guns and fast cars is the fun stuff, the importance is still the gathering of the information, the analysing of the information to create intelligence to answer the needs of the operation.”

“It never all went like clockwork, but I’m still alive so the scary moments sort of become the exciting moments. Yes, I drove into the middle of a mine field once and had to figure my way out of it. Yes, I’ve been shot at, but they missed. Yes, I’ve run some pretty hairy operations, but they resulted in mission success.” He had met his wife Liz before the spy job came along, and she was in the army herself. So Stew didn’t have one of those classic courtship dilemmas of wondering when he should casually mention that he was involved in espionage. They had kids just like normal people do and lived in normal suburbia and appeared to be a normal family. Liz never knew any details about his assignments, she’d just see that spy-on-duty bag that he stored in the garage suddenly sitting in the hallway. She didn’t know where or when or for how long, just that he was being deployed. The kids found out eventually too, but not the rest of the village.

“My job was what it was and we didn’t talk about it, we had stories in place to make sure that we could hold a conversation about what they thought I did versus what I actually did.” What everyone thought he did, was work for the Scottish Tourist Board. “I’m from Scotland and I think Scotland’s lovely, so it was a fairly easy one to tell. Where we get caught in lies is when our story isn’t deep enough.” Stew was trained in interrogation.

“When we interview people for jobs, where we fail in many of these interviews is that we don’t ask sufficiently deep probing questions because that’s where people haven’t figured the answer out. Having a cover story means that your story has got levels of depth to it so that as people ask more questions they sound true.” Tips for interviewers and interviewees there.

Big screen spies are always fluent in the local language no matter which foreign city’s narrow streets they end up speeding down on a motorbike. In foreign lands, Stew used interpreters. However, he still made sure he knew enough of the local language to determine his interpreter was neither lying nor accidentally mis-conveying the information he was asked to. As well as those tense scenes with subtitles, you’re probably wondering about the quintessential interrogation involving a one-way mirror and wellused set of thumb screws.

“This will sound counter to any Hollywood interrogation scene that you see, but interrogation is all about compassion. If we place someone in an interrogation facility and we take away the freedom they are likely to be rather upset with us, so we’ve got to find a way to create that bond, some common interest that gives them what they want, but also gives us the information we need. Of course, it’s time sensitive so you’ve got to be able to get to that point quickly and that’s a skill that you develop over years, but being compassionate with the person is a far

“It never all went like clockwork, but I’m still alive so the scary moments sort of become the exciting moments.”

faster way of getting the information than the way the Hollywood suggests, of being unkind.”

Here are Stew’s three key pointers for spy success should you be looking for a more exciting career [5% of the time].

“You’ve got to be unreasonable, I mean in the positive sense. You’ve got to think outside the box unlike other people, because that’s what keeps you alive. The second step is that whenever you look at a problem you have got to raise your standards because when you get sloppy, things go wrong. Thirdly, when you sign on the dotted line to join any armed force you accept the fact that you may be expected to make the ultimate sacrifice, that you will give your life in order to make the operation work. When you are comfortable with the ultimate sacrifice, you are far more capable of being part of, or being the captain of your team.”

Even spies have a shelf life, and when Stew reached his, he and Liz immigrated to New Zealand. Stew’s brain is hardwired to solve problems and the shift created one.

“No one teaches you to be a civilian, when you leave the military you’ve just got to figure it out and really, it’s taken me the best part of these ten years, being successful in business but really not being successful in me. That led to me going all the way back to “you’re the man of the family now” statement and that was the birth of Unstoppable: a guide to living beyond our limits [a self-penned book in pre-publication] which uses the three critical steps that I used to be successful in covert operations and I now help people and businesses develop their lives and their businesses.”

Another problem Stew has needed to solve was a close relationship with alcohol. He stayed away from it whenever he was on assignment, but back at home, he and alcohol reconnected as old friends

do. He admits to having been a high-functioning alcoholic, being able to perform well without being compromised, but he knew it wasn’t good for him.

“I had a conversation with the Liz one day and she said, ‘you know sometimes I have an extra couple of glasses of wine just so they are not there for you.’ And that really hit home. I set myself a goal of not drinking for 333 days, and I didn’t. My goal was never to not drink again, it was to create a healthy relationship with alcohol.”

To recap, once Stew identified alcohol as a problem, he just quit. Most of us can’t do that. Or won’t do it. We ease ourselves off things, use nicotine patches, hypnosis, self-help books, support groups. Our will power is simply not strong enough to be able to cold turkey anything we are addicted to. But a combination of nature and nurture means Stew is not like most people in that regard. I wonder how this makes him feel.

“Lonely. I look at the world and think we are being so mediocre, we are accepting mediocrity as a standard and we are rewarding it. But I know the human person can go so much further than we are giving ourselves credit for. Just imagine the world that we would live in if everyone took one step towards their dreams. Just one. Imagine the industries that would go out of business. Prisons would be empty. Imagine the new businesses that would be grown if we just believed in ourselves a tiny bit and were unreasonable with ourselves a tiny bit more. That’s the world we could live in. I can be a part of creating that world; I’ve run away from it for too long and now it’s time to reengage. So when I say lonely, it’s only because I think f*ck we could be so amazing if we just took that one step and that’s now my mission in life, to help people do that.”

LEFT: In Iraq awaiting a helicopter flight to travel to a job.

RIGHT: In ceremonial dress attending a friend’s wedding with wife Liz. Supplied.

The Lawrey Story

Would you like more fun in your life? Do you seek more spontaneity, laughter and love? Would you like to meet new people? If the answer to all of these questions is ‘yes,’ then Matt Lawrey reckons you should get a dog.

Nelson loves dogs and, from what I can tell, the dogs love Nelson back.

If the region’s canines had a spokesdog, that dog would tell you that Nelson’s enviable climate means that Nelson pooches have a greater chance of being taken for a walk than their peers in many other parts of the country. They’d add that there are lots of great places where they’re allowed off the lead, including the legendary dog beach at Tāhunanui, and that an increasing number of pubs and cafes are making them feel very welcome. They’d also tell you that, even when the weather turns foul, Nelson’s a great place to be a dog thanks to our wonderful indoor dog-walking facilities, otherwise known as Bunnings and Mitre 10.

There are around 12,000 registered dogs in Nelson and Tasman, which means there’s about one dog for every nine people. We have one of them. Her name’s Rosie. She’s a young rescue dog from Auckland and we believe she’s a ‘Staffadore’ (Staffordshire Bull Terrier – Labrador cross, AKA a ‘Laffy’). Rosie recently joined our family via the animal rescue service PAWS, she’s lovely natured, has a lot of learn, and is full of beans. Our old dog Monty died in October last year and, after a sufficient period of grieving, we found ourselves missing having a hound in the house and ready to once again commit.

There’s no question that owning a dog can be a significant emotional, logistical and financial commitment. They’re also a pretty big responsibility. For my money, though, they’re worth it. I just feel more settled when there’s a dog in the house. They actually force you to be less of a control freak because they do things that you cannot control. Take Rosie, for example. She moults so much our entire home now looks like its covered in white mist. She’s also continuing Monty’s work of customising our beautiful rimu floors with her claws. Recently she slipped her lead, while tied up outside New World, and went for an hour-long jog around the city before being intercepted on Waimea Rd - thanks again to the folks on the Nelson Community Facebook page for helping us to find her. Then there was the time she chundered in our friend’s new car…

Yes, dog ownership comes with challenges but, as has been widely documented, they are also a great way to meet people. We can’t go 10 metres from the front door without getting into a conversation with someone about Rosie. They also force you to

stretch your legs, which can be good for your mental health and your waistline, and they can be a welcome distraction from the madness of the world. Case in point, National’s transport policy. Every time I think about it, I pat Rosie. As a result, we have a very happy dog and a much less stressed me.

Best of all, though, is the way dogs enhance family life. Kids get so much out of having a dog in the house. Dogs give children opportunities to learn tenderness, empathy and responsibility. Dogs teach them about the values of companionship and unconditional love. They also increase the chances of kids spending time in the outdoors. One of the reasons I think my wife and I were so upset when we had to have Monty put down is that we were both so grateful to him for everything he had done for our boys.

Now we’re grateful to Rosie for all the good things she’s bringing into our lives. We’re also grateful to NCC and TDC for their dog-friendly policies and to all the businesses welcoming dogs, especially those ones putting water bowls out. Finally, we really appreciate living in a community that increasingly seems to understand that, the better a place is for dogs, the better it’ll be for people as well.

Rosie the ‘Staffadore’ is keeping Matt Lawrey and his family on their toes.

Next revolution excellencerestyled and reimagined

By Diannah Porter

My job calls for me be on the road a great deal, I have been attached to my existing faithful four door sedan for years. A drive in the new Subaru Crosstrek however, has been an absolute revelation. Despite being an SUV, it actually has the driveability of a sedan which I really like. Any car of mine has to be an extension of my office and this one is roomy enough to fulfil that role while not being over the top in size. Having the all-wheel-drive ability allows for a whole lot of new possibilities for holiday adventures. It sits on the road beautifully, so long distances would be enjoyable.

I have worked in the automotive industry for fifteen years and driven, appraised and sold all manner of vehicles and I can honestly say the Crosstrek exceeded my expectations. It is so manoeuvrable and general drivability around town is superb. A vehicle that is super easy to park is an absolute must and the Crosstrek delivers. The touch screen infotainment system with its centralised vehicle information, control switches and entertainment options is simple to use and the latest wireless charger features are second to none. Safety is an important feature for me with having a six-year-old. Having

multiple cameras that cover 360 degrees visibility is very reassuring and having nine airbags, including side ones, is an absolute must in any car for me. I can see how the new pedestrian and cyclist safety technology could be invaluable around Nelson city’s shared roads too, ensuring everyone’s safety. Although the Crosstrek is very practical, it has a premium, high-quality, stylish feel. That combined with the superior Subaru build reputation has won me over, especially at the price. The Crosstrek is exceptionally good value for money.

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Celebrating 130 years of women’s suffrage

2023 is a special year for wāhine/women and kōtiro/girls in Aotearoa New Zealand as we mark the 130th anniversary of the enduring legacy of women’s suffrage: 19 September 2023. Seven local women who continue the fight for women’s rights and are making their place in history, were asked which wāhine or group of wāhine they admired most from Nelson/Tasman’s history.

Words: Judene Edgar

Much of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union’s (WCTU) work still goes unrecognised in 2023. Despite the Nelson branch now being closed, nationally they hold conventions, and have an informative website illustrating achievements, and providing advice and education.

WCTU started in New Zealand in 1885 with Kate Sheppard as a founding member, and is now the oldest surviving national organisation of women in New Zealand. The Nelson branch also started in 1885. Three national Presidents originated from Nelson, Catherine Polglase (1969 – 1990), F Rankin (1961 – 1965), and Constance Toomer (serving twice 1951 – 1958 and 1966 – 1969).

They were key players in the 1893 suffrage petition, getting women enrolled to vote speedily followed, establishing National Council of Women in 1896 and the first kindergarten. They led the way for female enfranchisement so women were in strong positions to directly influence change and laws.

WCTU has majorly influenced NZ life, locally and nationally, during those 138 years, campaigning for social change with a “do everything” policy. They focused on social issues like women’s right to vote, homelessness, shelters for abused children and youth, education, soup kitchens, legal aid, prison reform, equal pay and more.

Gail Collingwood QSO, Nelson City councillor 1995 – 2013 and deputy mayor 2001 – 2007

The Women’s Christian Temperance Union founded in 1885 is the oldest surviving national organisation of women in New Zealand. Nelson Provincial Museum, F N Jones Collection: 321301.

My rōpū of wāhine toa in the 19th-20th century would be the first refugees who resettled in Nelson. They were from Vietnam and Cambodia.

From the 1990s to the present time, others followed from Burma, Bhutan and Nepal, and more recently, Colombia, Rohingya, and Ahmadiyya Muslims. These indigenous women stayed strong for their families, escaping persecution from their own countries and overcoming the barriers of resettlement and integration. These women came from totally patriarchal societies where women's place is in the home, kitchen and to care for the children; where a work career, let alone voting, is not an option.

These wāhine rōpū, much like the Maori whaea and kuia, are the story-tellers, often serving as important cultural bridges between their communities and predominantly Euro-centric culture of Nelson/ Tasman. They are the heart of their whānau and play pivotal roles in nurturing and supporting their communities. Much like any ethnic migrant women of the 19th and 20th century, they were caregivers, educators, healers, and providers, ensuring the wellbeing of their families and helping to strengthen the community fabric; and actively advocating for the rights and well-being of their people.

Born over three decades after women in New Zealand were given the vote, Elspeth Cantile Kennedy challenged the patriarchy and took no heed of the life women were expected to live.

I met Elspeth towards the end of a successful career –still sassy, formidable, and scarily smart. A trustee of the Nelson Tasman Hospice Trust and chair from 1998 until 2014, she was instrumental in establishing the Nelson Hospice in 1999.

Born in Invercargill in 1931, she was running her grandfather’s coal business at 17 and then worked at Invercargill City Council where she became credit manager by age 20 (at the age of 20 I was avoiding university lectures in favour of clubbing)! At 22 she trained at Trinity College London, moving to Nelson to teach singing at the Nelson School of Music.

Skip a few life-filled decades, in 1979 Elspeth was working in a Wellington sharebroking firm. Three years later she became the first woman in New Zealand to become a member of a metropolitan stock exchange. Ultimately, she became the first New Zealand woman to establish her own brokerage firm, receiving New Year Honours in 1990 and 2009. Respect.

Ali Boswijk, chief executive of Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce and co-chair of the Regional Skills Leadership Group

Marie Lindaya, chairperson, Multicultural Nelson Tasman and trustee, Volunteer Nelson

My suffragist heroine is Mary Anne Müller who, despite her geographical isolation, was lobbying for universal suffrage and equity in property ownership thirty years prior to the groundswell led by Kate Sheppard and the WCTU.

Mary Anne employed astute strategies to advocate for social reform. She ‘hid in plain sight’, conducting her life as a conventional, middle-class, wellconnected matron, using those connections and social interactions to educate influential politicians about the need for legal reforms.

Mary Anne’s alignment with Nelson Examiner proprietor Charles Elliott facilitated the wide

circulation of her many letters and articles, published under the signature of Femmina. Her nom de plume “Femmina” was an inspired choice as it represented a collective voice with which any woman could identify.

In 1869 she wrote New Zealand’s first pamphlet on women’s rights to vote. Titled ‘An Appeal to the Men of New Zealand’, she argued that women should not be discriminated against in law or politics on grounds of their sex.

In 1893, after the passage of the Electoral Bill, she wrote to Kate Sheppard: “It is as though you gathered up the dark threads of my life’s efforts and wove the web in bright sunshine.”

Iwas raised on Te Āwhina Marae in Motueka by women who were united by a common purpose of weaving together manaakitanga (service), aroha (love) and intellectual integrity, to uplift and support the well-being of our community. They were women who had whakapapa to Te Tauihu and women who came to support our industries of the time - tobacco, hops, horticulture, and fisheries – who eventually married and had their children here.

They kept our home fires burning through the practices of tikanga (customary practices), kept our families safe and fed by being involved in movements such as the Māori Women's Welfare League, Te Kōhanga Reo, and Te Ataarangi, and who ensured that our spiritual well-being and culture through whakamoemiti (prayer) and waiata (song) was, and is, alive and well. They were lobbyists, advocates, and supporters for the return of our lands and equity for all Māori.

I thank and honour those women who have shaped many of us today to believe in ourselves and each other, to love unconditionally, and to serve with integrity - both here at home and around the globe – Ruiha Bailey Manifold, Tiny Bailey Takao, Joyce Te Tio Stephens, Mere Kingi, Sarah Burrows, Priscilla Kelly, Āwhina Grooby, Phoebe Pene and Arohanui Fransen.

Miriana Stephens, general manager of AuOra, director of Wakatu Incorporation and trustee, Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua

Mary Gavin QSO, president, Nelson Historical Society and life member of the National Council of Women Nelson Branch

One of my local heroes is Pérrine Moncrieff, the famous conservationist who saved the ecological treasure we now know as Abel Tasman National Park.

In 1941 when she began her campaign to establish 15,000 hectares of Crown land as a national park the odds were stacked against her. With war in the Pacific threatening, New Zealand was more concerned with security than protecting our precious ecology. But Moncrieff worked hard to get politicians on-side, arguing that the land was useless for farming or milling. Her hard work paid off. On 19 December, 1942, Abel Tasman National Park was finally established, 300

years after Abel Tasman’s first encounter with Ngāti Tūmatakōkiri.

Moncrief’s fight to preserve our ecological heritage also puts me in mind of another local women who fought equally hard to preserve our cultural heritage. Rose Franks saved the magnificent Tyree Studio Photographic Collection from destruction, and it is now a UNESCO-inscribed treasure cared for by Nelson Provincial Museum. It is the foresight of these women that inspires me on the journey to build a new Archives, Research and Collection Facility for our region and preserve our Regional Heritage Collection for future generations.

Awāhine that I admire is Hūria Mātenga. Hūria was born in the early 1840s at Wakapuaka; the descendant of several great leaders and warriors. With whakapapa to iwi from both Tainui and Tokomaru waka, Hūria was a landowner in Taranaki, Porirua and Nelson.

She came to national attention in 1863 for her role in the rescue of members of the Delaware shipwreck alongside her husband and others. Caught in a storm, the boat was thrown onto the rocks at the foot of the Wakapuaka cliffs. Despite swimming into the stormy seas to help rescue the crew, Hūria was much more than this one heroic act.

While there are many stories to tell of Hūria, the one that I would like to highlight is during the 1882 incarceration of pacifist leaders Tohu Kākhi and Te Whiti-o-Rongomai from Parikaka. Hūria visited them frequently and provided them with food and support.

Known for her courage, strength, beauty and leadership, as well as her manaakitanga and weaving, Hūria was wellknown and respected. When she died in 1909, over 2,000 Māori and Pākehā from all over New Zealand came to farewell her.

Lucinda Blackley-Jimson, chief executive of Nelson Provincial Museum and trustee of Museums Aotearoa

Olivia Hall, executive director of Te Pūkenga, lead chair of the National Iwi Chairs Forum and chair of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua

Te Kura Tamawāhine o Whakatū

International students from NCG and Nelson College enjoyed an enriching cultural experience at Whakatū Marae; an uplifting powhiri, ngā taonga tākora, an introduction to tikanga, and Te Ao Māori through story-telling and waiata.

A huge congratulations to Clara Gardiner, selected for the New Zealand Under-18 Womens’ Hockey Squad for 2023/24. Clara is an amazing young athlete, and at only 15-years-old is one of the youngest selected. Clara is a key member of the Nelson College for Girls 1st XI hockey team that compete in Nelson Hockey Division Two, and who made it to the finals.

Book Week at NCG has been packed with opportunities for all the students to engage in reading and embracing all things literary. The week kicked off with an author visit, followed by students turning their hand to the ancient art of bookbinding. Book character dress-up day, scavenger hunts, an escape room and the Book Tower Challenge completed a great week.

Fifty students of all year levels from both NCG and Nelson College committed to some hard mahi last week, working together to improve their local environment – Te tiaki taiao. In just one hour, students planted 80 trees from Nelson College’s nursery on the bank above the top field at Nelson College. Following the planting, manaakitanga was shown with a sausage sizzle to celebrate the tree planting event – a big thank you to Mitre 10 Mega Nelson for the sausages. A fun and enjoyable bonding event shared by the two Colleges furthering friendship and collaboration whilst improving the local environment.

Female founders

Carving careers, breaking barriers, and empowering their communities, we talk to inspiring local businesswomen who, with unwavering determination, have risen beyond challenges and created pathways for success. Their entrepreneurial spirit fosters innovation and inspires others.

Through resilience and hard work, they’ve shattered stereotypes in their respective industries, proving that gender is no limitation to achievement. These women exemplify how dedication, passion, and vision can transform dreams into reality, leaving a lasting mark on both their industries and the aspiring individuals they encourage to follow in their footsteps.

Kate Bradley RE/MAX Elite Nelson

Starting out in Real Estate 31 years ago, in what was then perceived as a predominantly male-dominated industry, was no walk in the park, says Kate Bradley.

The owner and director of RE/MAX Elite Nelson started her career in real estate with United Realty in Nelson after seeing an advertisement for a salesperson. With a school-age son she had asked herself the question, ‘What do I want to do with myself now’. Upon being offered the job, she says, “I was so thrilled, I didn’t have any school qualifications, school was not my forte’! The fact that I could have a career was very exciting for me.”

Years later, after working for several well-known and reputable companies, with great mentors and advisors, the opportunity arose to own a RE/MAX office in the region. Kate jumped at the chance, saying, “I always knew that if RE/MAX ever came to Nelson, that is where I wanted to be. So here we are 13 years later. It has been a ride! It’s a great career to be in, there are ups and downs with the market but if you have a passion for people and the industry it is a great lifestyle. Nothing is as rewarding as having repeat referrals from families that you have worked with before, being the realtor for three generations of families and helping them into and out of their homes.”

Looking back over her time in the industry, Kate says she has enjoyed a wonderful career. “I’ve been doing it for 31 years so far and I really love the people, the vendors, the purchasers, the people that I work with and the people that we get to meet. But I’m not finished yet! My words to live by would be: Stand tall, stay positive, work hard and make it happen.”

027 432 1195

remax.co.nz/office-profile/remax-elite-nelson

“My words to live by would be: Stand tall, stay positive, work hard and make it happen.”

Female founders

Introducing

Alison Blanchett-Sax

Smart Business Centre (Nelson) Limited

No stranger to working in a predominantly male industry, Alison Blanchett-Sax is fiercely passionate about business. Training to be an accountant, and achieving chartered accountant status in 1994, Alison branched out on her own in April of 2000 with a goal of supporting local businesses and reaching people on a more personal level. Focusing on small to medium businesses, Alison’s motivation was to help empower her clients to understand their unique situation and advise on the right tools to maximise their efficiency - eventually helping them to be successful. For the last few years Smart Business Centre has expanded to include training for clients, especially on Xero accounting software to encourage clients to understand their business more.

“It was initially difficult starting out, being a female, in what was then a more male-dominated profession. Even back in 2000 there weren’t many female accountants who owned their own accountancy business. But I didn’t let that slow me down. I saw it as a challenge to get noticed and prove myself locally.” Starting out from her home with just a computer and a printer on a kitchen table, Alison says it is great to be recognised and respected for her knowledge and accomplishments in an industry such as this. “Now the business has grown with multiple offices, one in Stoke and one in Nelson, and wonderful staff where we are working alongside clients to help them achieve their dreams.”

business to where it is now, and being able to achieve some form of a work/life balance. This only can occur due to a fantastic team behind me at work and home.”

“Even back in 2000 there weren’t many female accountants who owned their own accountancy business. But I didn’t let that slow me down. I saw it as a challenge to get noticed and prove myself locally.”

The former World of Wearable Arts model, theatre performer and national ballroom dancing champion is a strong advocate for embracing all that life has to offer. Quoting Yoda, Alison’s advice to her younger self would be, ‘Do or do not, there is no try’. “Give it one hundred percent, don’t be afraid, take the chance, you never know what might come of it. Set goals, it doesn’t matter how big they are, just aim high. Also listen, you can learn a lot from other people’s stories and experiences. Share your vision, sometimes it can take more than yourself to achieve your goals. Collaboration can be a very useful experience”.

In reflection upon 130 years of celebrating women’s suffrage, Alison leaves us with some sage advice.

“Every woman has the responsibility for paving the way for other women who wish to follow in their footsteps. The more we succeed and shift the goal posts, the more we show respect for all the women who have gone before us.”

Success isn’t measured by the bottom line of your profit and loss account, says Alison. “There are many ways to measure success. For me, it’s supporting my family with their endeavours, while growing my

03 547 7995 sbcnelson.co.nz

Racquel Thomas

Racquel Thomas Painter

Honest, personable and extremely hard working, business owner and painter Racquel Thomas is living her dream and inspiring others with her zest for life.

Racquel jumped headfirst into the industry after raising her family, taking the literal bull by the horn, completing her apprenticeship and establishing her own business in January 2022. “I started quite late in the piece, at 37 years old. Of course, at the time I thought ‘am I too old’ but figured ‘bugger it, I’ll do it anyway’. Learning a trade in my late thirties was a bit scary, but I would never look back, not even for a second!”

Racquel says it was sheer determination that got her through the initial years. “When I first started, I was quite vocal about my plans. I would tell everyone that I was going to open my own business. If I verbalised it, then I had to follow through.” Racquel’s outlook on life is inspirational and daughter Emily has followed in her mother’s footsteps. “I am proud of what I have achieved, and even prouder of my daughter. I have more life in me now than I did 20 years ago. I spent so much of my younger years trying to fit into this box of what other people said was acceptable.”

look back, not even for a second!”

When asked what success looks like, Racquel’s reply is simple. “I feel like I am succeeding now. Every time I answer the phone and secure a new project, I feel I am winning. My day-to-day life is my success. I can be quite hard on myself and tend to dismiss things that I should be celebrating, this has been a work in progress. I believe everyone needs to have more faith in themselves. Give things a go, even if it doesn’t work out. Give it your best shot. Take the power back. Be unapologetically real. Follow your dreams. Do what is good for you. And above all, don’t make yourself little to fit into others’ expectations.”

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722 602

Racqueltpainting

Janelle Johnson Gardiner

Nurture@Home and Abyss Dive

Instilled with a strong nurturing sense from a young age, Janelle is the owner operator of two businesses. A trained early childhood teacher, Janelle’s drive for quality and passion for her roles has helped her to push through any challenges that have come her way.

“I have been in the ECE sector for 29 years with the last 14 in home-based ECE, and my hubby and I started our part-time scuba diving business ten years ago, inspired by our love for diving and being able to share this with others.” Keeping up with strict and ever-changing regulations in both sectors is a continual challenge says Janelle. “It’s my ongoing passion for making a difference in the lives of others and seeing others shine that keeps me going. Whether it’s young children in home-based care or nervous first-time divers who go on to become instructors, it’s neat to know their beginnings were with us.”

For Janelle, creating a company that values a culture of kindness is the epitome of success. “Through learning and growing I have achieved something that I set out to do, each day making a little difference by positively impacting others. Surrounded by a team who all love what they do helps to knowing that my contributions positively impact Nurture@Home and Abyss Dive. Also creating businesses built from the ground up that have a positive reputation in the community supports me to feel successful.”

She believes that embracing change has stood her in good stead throughout her career. “Everything happens for a reason, and if it’s meant to be it will all fall into place. Go with your gut instinct, take risks, learn from ‘mis-takes’ and believe in yourself. You’ve got this and you can do it! Thanks to all the women who were crusaders for women’s rights, campaigning many years for a movement that gave women the right to vote, and expand opportunities for women to govern.”

“Learning a trade in my late thirties was a bit scary, but I would never

“Go with your gut instinct, take risks, learn from ‘mis-takes’ and believe in yourself.”

Kate Burton

Beacon Light PBM Therapy and Pilates Nelson

Trusting the process’ is a personal mantra for local businesswoman, Kate Burton. Strongly invested in health and well-being, and deeply motivated by her daughter’s own wellness journey, the Pilates Nelson studio owner has expanded her business and brought a specialised Light Therapy service to the region. “Seeing the positive change in my daughter was inspiring. Taking the initial risk of financial outlay for a new business was a big step out of my comfort zone. Also finding the time to set up Beacon Light PBM Therapy whilst teaching and managing our busy studio was a challenge.”

Loving her role, Kate says she was a ‘late bloomer’ when it came to finding her path in life. “It wasn’t until I found my true passion with Pilates teaching that I uncovered my potential, therefore I believe that good things take time to grow.” Building a family business and balancing it with downtime to enjoy the good things in life is a perfect combination for Kate. “And to work in an industry that promotes preventative healthcare. My greatest satisfaction is in seeing people regain confidence, and the support Pilates practice brings when facing life’s challenges like recovering from illness, injury or grief.”

Karen Botica

Tasman Insurance Brokers

On the back of so many natural disasters, insurance has become a confusing minefield for businesses and families alike. Having worked in the industry for over thirty years, Karen Botica saw a strong need for a locally owned insurance brokerage that would provide a one-stop shop for the complete range of insurances available and established Tasman Insurance Brokers Ltd three years ago.

“The insurance industry has been a male-dominated one for so long and a hard nut to crack,” she says.” Fortunately, Karen has seen every side of it and knows how to offer a service that identifies the right type of insurance for each client, balancing their needs with their budget in an empathetic way.

Kate’s mother Minette is a constant source of inspiration for her. “She brought a baby and three children under 10 halfway around the world to build a new life for us. When my youngest sibling started school, my mother took herself to university and started a career in law. We are who we are because of those that came before us, so true to the suffrage movement and we, like our mothers and grandmothers, will uplift our children and strive for equality for all humankind. Be kind and respectful of everyone’s life journey and try not to take things personally. Be grateful for everything, because blessings often come in disguise. Breathe!”

027 366 2213

beaconlight.nz

“With the rise in prices, it is a balancing act. We are not here to sell insurances that are not needed and are upfront and honest about that. We give clients the best feedback, advice and information to protect them from risk. This includes cover for industrial, commercial and business needs (including specialist liability, marine and cyber covers) to domestic requirements.”

Karen says establishing her own successful business is one of the most satisfying things she’s done. “It’s very fulfilling to know we are helping people avoid potentially disastrous situations and assisting them when they need to make claims. If I could say one thing to my younger self I would say ‘feel the fear and do it anyway’.”

“New Zealand women still have a way to go to achieve parity with men. Negative things will happen but they need to back themselves more.”

At the core of this business is a personal, kiwi-style, down-to-earth approach. “We listen carefully and will recommend the most appropriate insurances while making the process as simple and straightforward as possible,” says Karen.

03 545 1759 tibrokers.co.nz

“It wasn’t until I found my true passion with Pilates teaching that I uncovered my potential.”

“If I could say one thing to my younger self I would say ‘feel the fear and do it anyway’”

Kathy Basalaj Designer Permanent Makeup

Creating her own destiny, Kathy’s cosmetic tattooing business was born from a love of the outdoors and a lack of options for the service.

Kathy’s inspiration to open her own business was because she had an active, outdoor lifestyle, windsurfing, skiing and also teaching skydiving. “I decided to have my eyeliners done and loved it, but no one was doing it in Nelson. One of the challenges I have faced included developing a product I thought would be good in an environment where not much was known about it. It was often assumed to be the same as body tattooing, which it is not. The industry has evolved over the years with many different techniques and products now available.”

Building her business up to where it is today, Kathy has her own take on how success is measured.

Jane Pascoe-Gregory

Jane Pascoe Movement

Adancer, a teacher and a mindfulness advocate, Jane Pascoe has held a deep passion for movement and enriching other people’s lives since a very young age.

“I have been a dancer all my life. As a teenager, I chose to follow that passion into teaching, which over the last 20 years has evolved to the wellness space and many different movement modalities including yoga, barre and Pilates.”

Movement and nurturing are at the very core of what Jane Pascoe does, along with helping to enhance the well-being of her clients. “Hearing the impact my classes and retreats have had on people, launching retreats and experiences that create such a positive shift in people’s lives have been some personal highlights during my career. I have also recently launched a new ‘Experiences’ page on my website and I’m so excited for what’s to come.”

Facing any challenges head-on, Jane says one thing she has learnt over the years is that she doesn’t need all the answers before starting a new project. “I have learnt to have faith in my ability - and what I don’t know... outsource!”

Kathy lives by the words of ‘treating others how you would like to be treated’, “A common sentiment but a true one.”

“As we are celebrating 130 years of women’s suffrage, I would say it’s great to see women being able to make their own way in life, creating their own businesses and building their own dreams without being dependent on anyone else. Saying that, I do now have a wonderful and supportive husband!”

“Success for me is creating a business which has enabled me to provide for my two sons on my own. Many clients I still see after over 25 years and I treasure those relationships. I love that I get to enjoy interesting conversations and help someone feel great about themselves. It is what drives me and makes my job fun and rewarding. Also, I have been able to pass on some of my knowledge to mentor and help other women set up and start in their own business. It doesn’t get much better than that!” 027

“Success is feeling a sense of fulfilment from what I do and building a good reputation in the community. My mother and mother-in-law are huge inspirations to me, as is Peta Spooner, my mentor and friend. I am part of a wonderful community of incredible women who support me with the aspects of my businesses I’m not so good at and are always cheering me on, I’m so grateful for that!”

Grateful to be able to share her zest for life, Jane’s words of wisdom are to ‘be a student forever and chase those wild dreams’. “Keep going! Take time for adventures. Spend time with people who lift you up and share your excitement for crazy wonderful ideas.”

021 995 009

janepascoe.co.nz

“Success for me is being able to pass on some of my knowledge to mentor and help other women set up and start in their own business”

“Success is feeling a sense of fulfilment from what I do and building a good reputation in the community.”

Female founders

Introducing

Victoria Hall Hall Law

In a world of infinite choices, finding the right career path can be a trialling journey. For Victoria Hall, she found the answer within a second-choice paper at university. “I went with the goal of getting a marketing degree and working in tourism. I only did a law paper as a fill-in, but before I knew it I was in my second year of law, and I never looked back.”

Working as a lawyer in Blenheim initially, then London before returning to her hometown of Nelson in 2004, Victoria became a partner in a local firm in 2009. But a health scare in 2015 around the same time as the birth of her second child resulted in her reconsidering her priorities and particularly how she could create a more flexible working environment that would better support her family. Establishing her own firm, Hall Law in 2016, Victoria has seen steady growth that now sees a team of five onboard. Keeping boundaries between work and home life is an ongoing challenge, says Victoria, but a vital ingredient for a wellbalanced life. “At times I have been so committed to establishing a successful business and helping my clients that I have lost sight of the reason for starting my own firm and the flexibility it was intended to create.”

Taking an extended break from the business earlier this year has helped Victoria to reimagine her goals and rediscover her purpose for starting the business.

“The initial few years of the business I lived in an almost constant state of worry about having too much work or not enough work. That also made it difficult to commit to employing more staff and it always has felt like a leap of faith to do so. However, employing staff has been what has allowed me to work through the workflow peaks and troughs, as they are key

to helping manage the busy times, and they have enabled me to take it easier during the quieter times.”

Personal career highlights are easy to mention, she says, as seeing her team members flourish in their roles, taking on new clients, and having co-director Amy O’Malley on board, are at the top of her list.

“Feeling happy and fulfilled in both my working and personal life is what success means to me. Along with having happy clients and providing our team with an encouraging, flexible and rewarding work environment. All the other women in our team, Amy, Jo, Jessica and Dianna, are juggling work and personal life commitments and doing it honestly, authentically and with a great dose of humour. I couldn’t, and wouldn’t, want to run the business without them.”

Remain true to your authentic self is Victoria’s life advice and ensure your own wellbeing is taken care of. “Don’t lose sight of your goals. Create and stick to boundaries that will support the delicate balance of work and family life. And ensure that when providing the best possible service to your client, you don’t forget to look after yourself at the same time.”

03 929 5543 halllaw.co.nz

“Feeling happy and fulfilled in both my working and personal life is what success means to me. Along with having happy clients and providing our team with an encouraging, flexible and rewarding work environment.”

Anni Eniko Fekete

Beauty Therapy Richmond

Anni Eniko Fekete was captivated by the chiropodist business as a child. “I was born in Transylvania of Hungarian nationality and always went with my mother to her beauty treatment appointments. It was exciting and interesting and I was determined to become a chiropodist. I never wavered from that,” she says.

In 1990 Anni moved to Budapest, Hungary, with her husband and eleven-month-old son and undertook the three years intensive study required to become a registered European chiropodist. “It wasn’t easy with a young child but my mother would help out,” says Anni. In Hungary a beauty therapist treats just the face while a chiropodist looks after feet and hands. It was the latter that appealed to me and, on completing my training, I started my own business which I continued when we moved to Canada.”

Jo Menary Shine Design Store

Born from a profound love of art, jewellery, and fashion, Jo Menary’s business, Shine Design Store, stands as a testament to her passion and perseverance for growing her dream into a thriving and renowned local establishment. Beginning with jewellery in 2001, Jo soon shifted gears into the world of designer fashion, spotlighting ethical and New Zealand brands. Prior to opening Shine, Jo and her husband owned an Ashburton gallery and a stained glass and lighting workshop supplying products throughout New Zealand, for over a decade. Bringing her eye for detail and flair for fashion to the region, Jo is more than a businesswoman and a strong advocate for local charities and organisations; she is a stylist, a confidante, and a beacon of confidence for women. Inspired by her personality and kindness, through Shine, women have been finding their voice and their unique style for over two decades. “I enjoy meeting people in and through my business,” says Jo. “And helping women to feel more confident in their bodies.” Being naturally optimistic, Jo works tirelessly to bring positivity into every day, and she is always there, supporting various local projects that make a big difference in people’s lives.

“I am proud to be a woman with a career that I love,” says Anni. “There is something special about being able to solve people’s foot problems such as corns, ingrown nails, callouses, rough heels and the like because feet are such a vital part of our wellbeing. Trained to provide European pedicures, working on those problems includes pampering each client in a luxurious way to encourage them to feel properly cared for.”

“I always look for the good things in life,” she says. “I have always told our children that if you have a dream and you like what you do you can be successful.”

The family emigrated to New Zealand twenty years ago. “With two children by then, we knew they would have a better life here with more freedom,” Anni says. “Initially I worked out of a local hair salon before moving into the Koru Ultrasound Clinic in Richmond eleven years ago. I also work in Life Pharmacy in Nelson one day a week.” 027 291

beautytherapyrichmond.co.nz

Motivated by many long-standing relationships, this continues to contribute to the success of her store, says Jo. “I have been extremely lucky to have had fantastically strong mentors, and inspiring friends and business colleagues, in my life who are a lot of fun and remain active in the community.” On celebrating 130 years of women’s suffrage, Jo says the motto, ‘Deeds, not words’ really resonates with her. “Suffrage is about equality, which I believe in, and I am very grateful to those women who fought to get us the vote. We need to make sure to respect them and exercise the right to make a change. Life isn’t a straight road, all the twists and turns make life and yourself more interesting and hopefully more wise. Be open to change.”

03 548 4848

shinedesignstore.co.nz

“I am proud to be a woman with a career that I love.”

“Life isn’t a straight road, all the twists and turns make life and yourself more interesting and, hopefully, more wise.”

Alterations

Kelly Bowater

Kelly Bowater Travel Ltd

Establishing herself firmly as the region’s number one travel broker, Kelly Bowater has conquered many challenges over her 20-year career. Stepping into the travel industry in a parttime capacity after starting a family, soon turned into a passion and led to becoming a shareholder in the business. However, life can sometimes take drastic turns, and after many years the partnership was dissolved, as did her marriage.

After some soul searching, renewed determination and strong support from her family and friends, Kelly took a leap of faith and established her own business.

“I decided to bite the bullet and start travel brokering on my own. There have been many challenges all through my career, both big and small, and they all made huge impacts. However, you know it is temporary and you just have to get on with it and do what you can to make it work. One constant that got me through is all the support of my clients, my family and the biking/golf ladies. I just stuck at it and slogged away until we finally got to that ‘light at the end of the tunnel’.”

Diane Lamont

Seamless Alterations and Repairs

Don’t be afraid to take a risk to try something or step outside your comfort zone.” Strong words of advice from business owner Diane Lamont. Making, altering and fixing clothes since her early teens, and with a strong focus on sustainability, taking on a clothing repair and alteration business seemed like a natural fit. “It was daunting but a risk I don’t regret. It’s been the best thing I could have ever done for my personal development.”

Being self-employed often means long hours, says Diane, but by implementing strategies and a plan, a healthy balance can be achieved. “The key, I found, is to not try to do everything at once but break it down into smaller bites. Like many women running their own business, I experience the daily challenge of working in the business six days a week, as well as keeping up with the needs of a busy family, 24/7.”

Kelly measures success by accomplishing the allimportant work/life balance. “Success means a lot of different things to me but mainly it means doing what you love and being able to make an honest living out of it while being able to spend quality time with anyone who is important to you. Having that balance and getting that right is a great victory in my eyes.”

Her words to live by include looking after yourself when times get tough, surrounding yourself with good people, and treasuring those who do right by you.

“Respect is earned, not a give-in, so work hard and look after people and they will in turn look after you. It’s not hard to treat everyone as an equal. We are all human beings and deserve to be treated that way.”

“As a solo parent to three children this has its extra challenges and means I have very little ‘me’ time. I’ve had to learn to schedule in time for myself, which I am still working on getting right!” Finding solace in her garden and learning New Zealand Sign Language, Diane says, gives her some time out from everything, to concentrate on something completely different. Women in New Zealand have more opportunities than ever before, she says. “We have the freedom to learn or work in any industry we wish to. You only need to look overseas to the countries where women are still suppressed and restricted. As women in NZ, we not only need to be grateful for but embrace the freedom of choice in our lives and work that is available to us.”

“Don’t be scared to try something new. Even if it doesn’t work out, at least you tried, and that’s better than wondering what might have been.”

027 885 3777

seamlessrepairs.co.nz

“There have been many challenges all through my career, both big and small, and they all made huge impacts.”

“It was daunting but a risk I don’t regret. It’s been the best thing I could have ever done for my personal development.”

What are you wearing today?

A Fish Named Fred three-piece suit accompanied by a John Lennon shirt from Nelson Tailors Menswear.

What is your style?

Definitely long fashion that stands out and stands the test of time. The shortest fashion I own would be my Workshop jeans which I wear a lot and normally get a good year and a half out of a pair until they are relegated to weekend wear for a year or two.

What is most of your wardrobe made up of?

It’s a treasure trove of ‘World’ with some items dating back 15 – 20 years, a healthy array of Workshop denim – from jeans and shirts through to jackets (triple denim’s okay, right?), a smattering of suits from Nelson Tailors Menswear and Strangely Normal, bespoke shirts from Robyn Reynolds, a few eclectic items designed and made by Adrienne Winkelmann’s seamstress and a collection of vintage Swanndri’s, you know the ones, made in New Zealand from really rough New Zealand wool, the best comfort clothing ever. But, when it comes to shoes, there is really only one brand – R.M. Williams. I wear them to death and, with a couple of re-soles, I get between six to eight years out of a pair of R.M. Williams boots.

What are you loving at the moment?

Clearly, the Fish Named Fred suit that Sharon from Nelson Tailors Menswear found for me. It was actually my wedding suit, but I love it so much at the moment I wear it at least once a week.

What are you dressed for today?

You know those mornings when you wake up and you seem to be void of personality – well, let your clothes do the work and before you know it, it comes back.

What is your approach to shopping?

Buy the best you can afford as not only will it look great, but it will outlast items half the price, tenfold. Say no to fast fashion.

Do you have a style rule you always obey?

Be different. Wear clothes that are daring. I don’t know who said this, but it’s so true in my case – ‘Don’t wait till you are 90 to wear what you want to wear’. As a younger adult, I was convinced that I wouldn’t be able to rock a denim jacket. I don’t know what I was thinking, but one day I purchased a Workshop denim jacket, and now I have a fleet of them, all in different stages of fade.

What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?

A pair of R.M. Williams boots. They will take you everywhere for a very long time.

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

Mine!

Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…

Stubbies. I wore them to death when I was a teenager, but they are definitely not an item of retro-clothing I want to be wearing in my middle years, let alone when I’m 90.

Tessa Jaine

Creative digital marketer Christopher Wilson dares to be different with his style. Wearing a coordinating three-piece suit, Christopher shares his fashion loves inspired by city living and his travels around the world.

Foods to fight inflammation

Doctors are learning that one of the best ways to reduce inflammation lies not in the medicine cabinet, but in the refrigerator. By following an anti-inflammatory diet you can fight off inflammation for good.

Inflammation is how our body responds to injury or infection, helping protect and heal damaged tissues.

In the right place, at the right time, it’s a crucial defence mechanism that keeps us alive. However, when this inflammation becomes chronic, it’s a different story altogether. Chronic inflammation occurs when the inflammatory response fails to ‘switch off’, and it can wreak havoc on our health, contributing to a host of diseases and impacting our recovery from illness.

And while inflammation isn’t the only cause of illness, reducing it can potentially help prevent, treat, and even sometimes reverse. And one of the main ways to reduce inflammation lies on our plate.

Food has the potential to either create or reduce inflammation. Research on this comes from using the dietary inflammatory index (or DII, a scientific tool based off almost 2000 scientific papers). The DII has been used in hundreds of studies looking at everything from osteoarthritis to menopause, with the number of studies increasing exponentially. It’s an exciting area of research that’s teaching us a lot about how food impacts on our health.

So, what does it show?

When inflammation markers in the blood are measured, scientists have found that a typical modern Western diet high in processed foods, refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and excessive red meat can promote inflammation. These foods trigger the release of inflammatory chemicals in the body, setting off a chain reaction that can persist over time.

Foods that cause inflammation

Ultra-processed foods

Foods high in added sugar. ie fizzy drinks

Refined carbs (white flour, noodles, white rice etc)

Trans fats (used in ultra-processed foods)

Refined seed oils high in omega 6

Processed meats

High levels of alcohol and red meat can all also worsen inflammation, and from a lifestyle perspective, lack of exercise, stress, and lack of sleep also create inflammation.

Foods that reduce inflammation

Colorful fruits and veges (contain high levels of polyphenols and antioxidants)

Dark leafy greens such as kale and spinach (packed full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that combat inflammation and protect against cellular damage)

Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries (full of anthocyanins and other compounds that have powerful anti-inflammatory effects)

Nuts and seeds such as almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds (excellent sources of healthy fats, fibre, and phytochemicals that quell inflammation and promote a healthy gut)

Turmeric (contains curcumin, a potent antiinflammatory compound)

Extra virgin olive oil (contains oleocanthal, which has anti-inflammatory properties)

Green tea (loaded with anti-inflammatory polyphenols)

Omega 3 fats from oily fish and plant sources (such as walnuts, chia seeds, hemp heart and flaxseed, these help ‘switch off’ inflammation at a cellular level.)

Essentially, anti-inflammatory diets are Mediterranean-style diets - they’re whole food, mostly plant based, rich in flavour, colour and diversity - plus they taste great, too.

Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet doesn’t have to be complicated either.

Emphasize whole, unprocessed foods while minimizing the intake of refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and processed snacks.

Create a rainbow on your plate by including a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables, aiming for 30 different plant foods each week. Incorporate fish, lean proteins, nuts and seeds to diversify your nutrient intake. And opt for whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats over refined grains.

Why not try it - there’s nothing to lose, and everything to potentially gain!

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

Take ca re of yourself

Pause. Reflect. Recharge.

When did you last truly relax?

Experience rejuvenation at Maruia River Retreat. Your luxury wellness escape awaits.

Maruia River Retreat 0275633143

2314 Shenandoah Highway, SH65 maruia.co.nz |

Struggling with health issues or low energy?

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Dentists who care

One Dental is proud to be in the business of putting smiles on patients faces. Don’t let dental concerns keep you from smiling. Book your exam today.

One Dental 03 547 7725

Date night

Until the end of September you can bring in your bestie, sister, partner or whoever you want to share a pamper with. Enjoy a full body massage together in our dual treatment room for only $120 ($60 per person). Text to book this special.

Bliss Beauty and Wellness 027 911 2085 53 Halifax Street, Nelson |

Karen’s studies at the Southern Institute of Herbal Medicine, broadened her understanding of the relationship between herbs and people. She enjoys the process of connecting medicine to the person and formulating individual remedies. Start the process and commit to your health today.

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Improve overall health

De-stress the mind and body, increase circulation flow and energy levels, improve quality of sleep, mood and overall flexibility with a traditional Thai massage.

Harley Botanicals 021 0238 0303 harleybotanicals.co.nz |

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Pyers Thai Therapy 0225 611 668 7a Tahunanui Drive, Nelson pyersthaitherapy.squarespace.com |

Angelic reiki and past life healing

Focusing on ourselves encourages a feeling of self-worth and balance within the psyche and promotes a sense of calm, important for navigating everyday stresses of life. It is vital to take some time out for yourself, whether it be in an emotional, spiritual or physical sense. 1 6

Including a 20 minute back, neck and shoulder massager to help integrate your session.

$99 for the month of September.

575 Main Road Stoke, Nelson onedental.co.nz

The Vibe Hair and Beauty 03 548 0258 35 Bridge St, Nelson vibehairandbeauty.co.nz |

Good gut health

Of paramount importance to our sense of wellbeing, gut health is something that is often overlooked. The gut (formally known as the gastrointestinal, or GI, tract) is the body’s system responsible for digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste elimination. Incredibly complex, many aspects of modern life can affect gut health including stress, processed foods and certain medications. Disturbance in gut function can also indicate a disease process is present. Specialists in gut health possess knowledge and expertise in understanding problems of the digestive system and can identify signs, and provide treatment of gastrointestinal disorders such as indigestion, coeliac disease, crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, cancer and diverticular disease.

The most common physical complaints that the Tasman Day Surgery team hear from their clients are gut related. For example: ‘I have blood in my bowel motions’, ‘I always feel bloated’, ‘I can’t trust my farts’, ‘My motions are no longer like clockwork’, and ‘Is heartburn a pain?’ By booking an appointment, patients can receive an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plans tailored to their specific conditions. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve the chances of successful management and recovery. Their expertise in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of gastrointestinal disorders ensures that each patient receives individualised care.

The team at Tasman Day Surgery are experienced in endoscopy and will provide a comfortable experience with a stay of three hours or under on the day of the procedure. “Endoscopy is a term used for both gastroscopy and colonoscopy,” says director of Tasman Day Surgery, Dr Jane Strang. “Gastroscopy is looking into the stomach and upper part of the small bowel. It is recommended for patients with symptoms such as reflux (heartburn), upper abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss or anaemia (low blood count). Colonoscopy is looking around the large bowel (colon). It is recommended for patients with a persistent change in bowel habits, loss of bowel control, altered-looking blood in the bowel motion and unexplained anaemia.”

Booking an appointment with a gut specialist can provide information on making appropriate dietary choices, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and managing symptoms. Follow up consultations can be made for ongoing care and adjustments to treatment plans and payment options, ensuring optimal outcomes.

If you are worried about your gut health and feel like you aren’t getting any answers, call or email your GP or the Tasman Day Surgery team and start by asking for help. The friendly team are very flexible and accommodating, offering short wait times for consultations and endoscopic investigation. Talk to your GP about a referral or make an appointment with Tasman Day Surgery directly at 341 Lower Queen Street, Richmond by phoning 0800 827 329 or emailing: enquiries@tasmandaysurgery.co.nz

The Tasman Day Surgery team.

Understanding and controlling eczema

Eczema is a common skin condition that affects one in three New Zealanders. Characterized by itchy, red, and inflamed patches of skin, eczema is more than just a superficial annoyance - it’s a chronic condition that can affect quality of life, self-esteem, and overall well-being. Owner of Eunoia Beauty, Kate Dyer, explains.

What is eczema?

Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis. It most commonly starts in childhood but can occur at any age. It is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that causes skin dryness, itching, redness, swelling, cracking, blisters, oozing, crusting and thickening of the skin.

Eczema is not contagious, however, skin affected by eczema may be more prone to infections and other complications.

Eczema is characterized by flares and remissions. Flares are periods when the symptoms worsen and the skin becomes more irritated and inflamed. Remissions are periods when the symptoms improve and the skin heals. The frequency and severity of flares and remissions vary from person to person, but it is common for eczema to flare-up during winter because of exposure to changing temperatures and dry air from indoor heating. Often, people will find that their eczema gets worse on parts of the skin that they expose to the elements during winter, for example, their hands and face.

What causes eczema?

The exact cause of eczema is not fully understood and is likely to be combination of genetic and environmental factors, however, it’s thought to be linked to an overactive response by the body’s immune system to any irritants that has passed through the skin’s barrier. This sets off an immune response that causes the symptoms of eczema.

Some of the possible causes:

Genetic factors: Eczema tends to run in families and is more common in people who have a history of allergies, asthma, or hay fever.

Immune system dysfunction: Eczema involves an abnormal immune system response. Some people with eczema have an imbalanced skin microbiome.

• Environmental factors: Eczema can be triggered or aggravated by various external factors that irritate or dry out the skin.

• Hormones such as changes in estrogen or progesterone levels during pregnancy or menstruation.

How is eczema treated?

The main goals of treatment are to:

Moisturise the skin: Keeping the skin hydrated is essential for preventing dryness and restoring the skin barrier function.

Avoid triggers: It is helpful to identify and avoid the factors that cause or worsen eczema flares.

Limit itching: Itching is one of the most bothersome symptoms of eczema and can lead to secondary infections.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for eczema. Treatment for the condition aims to heal the affected skin and reduce the occurrence of symptom flare-ups.

eunoiabeauty.com

Planning your perfect day

Sophie Milson

Wedding of Dayne and Jenny Payton.

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.

A special occasion deserves a special

Welcome to one of the most iconic and flexible wedding locations in Nelson Tasman, Founders Heritage Park.

• Close to Nelson city centre and accommodation

• Flexible for a variety of budgets, sizes and styles

• On-site parking.

Old St. Peter’s Church

Built in 1873, Old St. Peter’s features a vaulted ceiling and beautiful stained-glass windows. A perfect venue for an intimate service regardless of your denomination or faith, comfortably seating 70 people.

The Granary

A polished wooden floor, vaulted ceiling and antique bar mean this character venue oozes charm.

• Wedding ceremony or party –max 290 guests

• Celebration dinner – max 150 guests

The Energy Centre

Constructed from two vintage gasometers, the Energy Centre is our biggest indoor venue. The hexagonal shape and high ceiling lend it well to draping and theming.

• Wedding ceremony or party –max 500 guests

• Celebration dinner – max 280 guests

Your wedding, your way

setting

Bring the people you trust most to create your perfect day. Your friends and whānau are welcome to be your event team. Alternatively, if you prefer to relax and let the professionals do their magic, we 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.

Jaycee Room

Ideal for smaller weddings, a carpeted venue with new kitchen, dancefloor and indoor-outdoor flow onto a paved patio and the Village Green.

• Wedding ceremony or party – max 70 guests

• Celebration dinner – max 50 guests

Marquee Sites

Choose the Bristol Green next to the impressive Bristol Freighter aeroplane, or Village Green in the heart of the park. Maximum marquee size 15 x 25m.

• Wedding ceremony or party – max 376 guests

• Celebration dinner – max 260 guests

Full Park

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).

• Wedding ceremony or party –max 500 guests

• Celebration dinner – max 280 guests

Contact us to discuss how we can be involved in your special day or make an appointment for a viewing:

Email: founderspark@ncc.govt.nz venues.nelson.govt.nz/our-venues/founders-park

Nelson Wedding Photography

It all starts with a ring

An engagement ring is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make, and it’s hard to know where to start. Before you get down on one knee, Nelson Magazine has bought together a page of some of our favourite jewellers to help you on your way to getting that all important “yes.”

1. The Jens Hansen Marquise diamond ring, yellow gold, from $3290 jenshansen.co.nz 2. The Jens Hansen diamond solitaire in white gold and platinum, from $3990 jenshansen.co.nz 3. Designed to mix match and stack, the Evergreen Collection embraces the love, trust and commitment to cherish forever. Priced from $495 louisedouglas.com 4. Stylish wedding Jewellery, unique custom-made ladies and gents’ rings from our studio in Richmond. Rocs.co.nz

Waterfront wedding reception

There are few more beautiful places to hold a wedding reception than by the beautiful Mapua waterfront at The Apple Shed Kitchen and Bar. With the magnificent backdrop of the Waimea Estuary from the historic wharf, a perfect location for photo opportunities, the Appleshed’s talented staff will create a wedding feast to remember for between 50 – 80 guests.

Renowned for their fresh, seasonal and flavourful food, they will work with you to design a menu to compliment your special day. Their fully stocked bar has a superb selection of wines available and, as a nod to the building’s origins as a fruit storage shed, an ever-growing selection of ciders, including their own ‘Apple Shed Cider’. With consistently high reviews for food, beverage selection, service, ambience, value, the friendly staff will help ensure your special day is everything you dreamed of. Be sure to book early as this is a popular venue.

Our venue, your way

Nelson is blessed with a wide variety of council-owned parks and facilities to suit your wedding ceremony and function needs. If a heritage wedding is your style, Founders Heritage Park and beautiful Melrose House are superb options. Sporting venues such as the Trafalgar Pavilion and Saxton Field, complete with views of their lush sports fields, can cater for weddings of any size as can the premium Trafalgar Centre. Nelson City Councils community venues include the modern Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre in Stoke. The most popular parks for weddings are Isel Park, Broadgreen (particularly when the roses are in bloom), Queens Gardens, Miyazu Gardens and Fairfield Park, all with superb backdrops for your wedding photos. The exquisite Chinese Gardens within Queens Gardens are a lovely choice for very small weddings. All NCC venues are in demand so make sure you book early to secure the location for your very special day.

An exceptional wedding day experience

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

From the ceremony to photographs in the house and grounds, Melrose House is a `grand’ Victorian house, its beautiful architecture and park-like setting make it a perfect wedding venue. The bridal party and guests will enjoy exclusive use of the house during your special day, including the upstairs room. The gardens with magnificent heritage trees, garden beds, sweeping lawns and woodlands are well-hidden from the street to ensure a peaceful private 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 menu to suit your catering requirements. Contact the friendly team to arrange a tour and discuss plans for your special day, at Melrose they want your dream of the perfect wedding to become a reality.

Views from The Apple Shed Kitchen and Bar.

How to choose your wedding rings

Your wedding band is the most significant piece of jewellery you’ll ever own. It’s a symbol of eternal love and commitment and the ring you’ll wear every day. It needs to complement your lifestyle, occupation and personality, plus it’s important you love it. Jens Hansen’s jewellery specialists collaborate with couples all over the world - in person, on Zoom and via email - helping them figure out exactly what they want. Classic or custom, sparkly or simple, traditional or modern, engraved or plain… with so many options couples can experience decision gridlock. Save yourself from stress and watch a short video simplifying the process. Jens Hansen creative director Halfdan Hansen shares the scoop on selecting your wedding rings so you get it right the first time. Just put your phone on camera mode, point it at the QR code on the Jens Hansen ad and it’ll link you to the video. Then go have fun choosing your rings!

Your love story, our cherished history

Nestled amidst seven acres of picturesque woodlands and gardens, Fairfield House is an exceptional historic venue offering an enchanting setting for your wedding. It seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces to cater for every part of your special day, from the ceremony and reception to photography and dancing. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by the beauty of nature, making a grand entrance via the woodland path into the open meadow framed by majestic old trees. The west courtyard, a charming outdoor haven, sets the stage for a romantic summer evening reception or dinner. Or dine in the stunning ballroom before dancing the night away in the gallery. Connecting all spaces are wraparound verandahs, perfect for sunset toasts and conversations. Fairfield House invites you to craft a day that mirrors your unique tastes and desires. Discover the magic of Fairfield House.

Your wedding taken care of

Appleby House and Rabbit Island Huts are your one stop wedding shop with their amazing team of local vendors based on site. They can plan, organise and set up the full package for your wedding with the help of GK Events Hire and Pop Up Events. Pop Up Events offer a range of co-ordination packages to take any stress out of your big day, that includes everything from arranging logistics, celebrants, decorating, bartending, hire items and cleaning to anything else required. Stylish Appleby House and the quirky Rabbit Island Huts on site have created a fabulous, versatile local venue close to Rabbit Island, available to wedding groups who also require accommodation. GK Events hire a range of unique, handcrafted items that will take your wedding to a stylish new level. These three outstanding businesses can work separately or together to create your perfect wedding and ensure it runs like a dream.

Looking for the dress of your dreams?

…a dress that will celebrate the love between you and your intended, that will create a moment in time to look your very best? Jill Alexander is a Nelson based fashion designer. She trained in London and has over 40 years of experience creating beautiful dresses for brides and their guests. Your dress can be designed by her working together following your vision. She can draw up designs for you to consider at your first complimentary consultation. Jill is happy to work with all budgets, from beautiful simple dresses costing $1,000 or the more typical $4,000 wedding dress. If your budget is tight and you find a preloved dress or on an online purchase that needs some alterations, she has ample experience in fitting and alterations as required. Contact Jill today through her website madcatdesign.co.nz to make an appointment.

Turn heads with a tent

Looking to get married in a beautiful outdoor setting, in the back garden or at the beach?

Whatever the location the team at FlexiTenz know how stressful it can be to get this organised. Let them worry about keeping you and your guests covered from whatever the elements have in store for your special day.

Not only do they supply the most flexible and stylish cover solutions, they also know how to complement their tents with lights.

FlexiTenz work in a collaborative way with clients and the team is always prepared to go the extra mile so your bespoke installation looks exactly what you have envisaged.

Wedding of Jessie and Kane. | Francesca Beckett

Fairfield

HISTORIC HOUSE & GARDENS

The Playhouse Theatre, your unique and enchanting Tasman wedding venue

The moment you walk through the archways you realise you’re in a magical place, full of artistry and surrounded by lush beautiful gardens. Let us take care of you, and make your special day memorable for all.

p 03 540 2985 w playhousecafe.co.nz

Wedding Feature

Capture your day

Snaps’ Glam Booth is taking the local wedding scene by storm, providing an opportunity for everyone attending your wedding to have picture-perfect photos taken in a fun, easy-to-use and exciting way. Thanks to the latest technology, your booth’s professional studioquality lighting will make guests shine like a star, while the customizable backdrop lets you create the perfect ambience for your special day. And that’s not all! The quality of the images taken is outstanding and includes skin-smoothing and glow features for an airbrushed, super glamorous look. An all-in-one photo, GIF’s, boomerang and even a video guest book, it also allows instant text and email sharing and will provide you with digital copies to preserve the memories of your wedding day forever. Providing the ultimate celebrity style ‘selfie’, the Glam Photo Booth will completely wow your guests while adding to the joy and spontaneity of your unique and very special celebration.

A unique setting in the heart of Nelson

Much loved Founders Heritage Park is one of the Nelson Tasman region’s most magical wedding venues thanks to its range of facilities, versatility and close proximity to Nelson city centre and accommodation nearby. A wide range of budgets, sizes and styles of weddings can be catered for. With its lovely mature gardens, charming streetscapes and character buildings, Founders is the perfect setting to create a day rich with memories. Venues range from Old St. Peter’s Church to The Granary, Jaycee Room and the large Energy Centre. There is ample room for marquees if required and plenty of off-street parking. While Founders remains open to the public during normal business hours, the whole site can be hired out for exclusive use during the evening.

You and your whānau are welcome to undertake all aspects of organising the big day, but if you want to relax and destress, the Founders team have people who can work alongside the best creative wedding professionals in the region to come up with fabulous options for you. With their access to experienced event organisers, theming, entertainers, sound and lighting, floral artists, caterers, marquee and equipment hire specialists, the sky is the limit on what your day can become.

Drinks sorted for your special day!

A Kiwi wedding isn’t complete without something cold and refreshing in hand, and with wedding season fast approaching, it’s time to think about what you and your guests will be marking the occasion with. What better than a locally-brewed, freshly poured, award-winning craft beer, cider or seltzer? Sprig + Fern Brewing Co. offer keg hire for special events, making them an excellent choice for the big day. They’ll provide you with all the equipment and easy setup instructions, so you can go from pickup to pouring in no time at all. Or, for the classic ice bucket option, they offer 330ml bottles and cans in a range of styles, from pilsner to porter, plus their popular ciders, seltzers and non-alcoholic options. Whether you’ll be busting a move with a berry cider in hand or toasting with a Tasman Reserve, Sprig + Fern are keen to talk about catering your special day.

An enchanting wedding venue

The Playhouse Theatre is truly a one-of-a-kind wedding venue with its famous hand-crafted artistry and lush gardens that provide a unique ambience. Whether you are planning a small intimate wedding or a much larger event, they will work with you to ensure that your ideas for your special day are brought to life exactly as you would like. With a restaurant that can seat up to 110 people, several areas for ceremonies and exquisite backdrops for photos, the Playhouse is an ideal wedding venue. The Playhouse offer onsite and off-site catering and can create any menu desired, from a five-course degustation to a simple kiwi barbecue. The use of the stage, full PA, lights, DJ booth and projector system are provided at no extra cost. Thanks to years of experience working with other wedding professionals, they can connect you with the likes of bands, photographers and any other service you need.

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!

Wedding of Sophie and Fin. | Sophie Milson

Your Perfect Match

Bespoke bridal bouquets

Whether it is one bouquet or a large wedding ceremony, my values remain the same. Be assured, I’ll put all my creativity, passion and perfectionism in every piece of work I create for you. Finalist in the New Zealand Wedding Industry Awards three years running.

Kat’s Floral Design

021 126 7863 | katsfloraldesign.co.nz

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). Contact Rose Askin today.

Sparklewhite Teeth Nelson (NZCTWA registered) 0272 462 449 | sparklewhite.co.nz

Award winning photography

Always feel awkward in photos? You haven’t met me yetI’ll show you how much FUN it can be! Mention this ad when booking to receive a FREE engagement photoshoot.

Photos by Francesca

027 479 5857 | photosbyfrancesca.co.nz

Individually hand poured with love

Made locally in magical Golden Bay. Add these stunning icicle candles to your ceremony or reception tables for a beautiful ambience on your special day.

Living Light Candles

219 Trafalgar St, Nelson Central Arcade livinglightcandles.co.nz

…and now, for something completely different

Celebrate your individuality, with bespoke design from a master goldsmith.

Let’s create some timeless magic together

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

Christine Hafermalz-Wheeler, The Artist Goldsmith

021 817 209 | TheArtistGoldsmith.com

Sophie Milson Photography sophiemilsonnz@gmail.com sophiemilson.com

Find your dream dress

Visit Bay Bridal and try on wedding, bridesmaid and mother of the bride gowns to find your perfect fit. Open Tuesday to Friday for walk ins and Saturdays via appointment. Book ahead today!

Bay Bridal & Ball Gowns

265 High St, Motueka baybridal.nz

Looking for a wedding car?

To make an entrance to remember, just ask, we enjoy and specialise in the “little extras” to impress. You can book our professional wedding cars with confidence knowing our experienced chauffeurs and luxury limousines will add style to your special day.

Executive Limousines

03 545 1765 | executivelimousines.co.nz

DIY Bridal Bloom Box

For the capable Kiwi ‘Bride to be’, we offer an elegant box of blooms for you to arrange your way, for your special day.

Nelson Flower Company wholesale@nelsonflowers.co.nz nelsonflowercompany.co.nz

Creators of handmade jewellery

Over the years we’ve made many wedding bands, including rings, that are tailored to snugly fit the shape of your engagement ring. For unique and meaningful wedding rings to celebrate your union, visit Jewel Beetle.

Jewel Beetle

56 Bridge St, Nelson | jewelbeetle.co.nz

Cakes made with love

Linda’s promise to you is your cake will be freshly baked, handcrafted and iced with your selected fillings and finishings for your special occasion.

Cakes for All Occasions

info@cakesforall.co.nz | 027 497 9775

Honeymoon Luxury Nature Retreat

Experience a relaxed luxury honeymoon at Maruia River Retreat. Celebrate the beginning of your life together in serenity with private villas with hot tub and sauna, gourmet meals, nature trails and more.

Maruia River Retreat

maruia.co.nz | 027 56 33 143

Creating the ultimate living experience for you starts from the floor up

Brooke Interior Designer for HUBBERS

With a background in fashion design Brooke’s creativity and natural eye for style is fuelled by her passion for creating minimalistic spaces that are not just aesthetically pleasing but practical and functional. She shares some simple steps to help guide you through the process of staging a room.

How do you start a project?

When starting a project, I love to go to the site and experience the different rooms or spaces that I’m staging. Sitting in them, having a good look around and getting a sense of the feeling of a space. Looking at every elevation, where does the sun rise and set? Where is the light filtering in? What does the space feel like at different times of the day? Understand the purpose of the space you are staging, is it a living room meant for relaxation and entertainment? A bedroom for rest and rejuvenation? By Identifying the function of a space, this will help you make clearer design choices.

Balancing a room

Start by planning out the room’s balance and symmetry. Strive for visual balance and symmetry when arranging furniture and decor, this can create a sense of harmony. You can balance a living room with a symmetrical set of couches in the space, keeping in mind the visual weight of the elements and how they are distributed and repeated for a cohesive flow. Don’t shy away from asymmetry as this can add an interesting touch if done intentionally, for example, one square rug in the room, and the other rectangle.

Furniture tips

Choose furniture that complements the style you’ve chosen. When furniture shopping I always go for pieces that are comfortable, serve a purpose, and functionality. I make sure the pieces are appropriately sized for the space and arrange them in a way that promotes flow and conversation. We want the space to be intimate and the furniture to have a sense of place. Identify a focal point, a sofa is a key piece in a living room as it carries visual weight compared to everything else in the room. A great way to keep your room feeling open is choosing a lounge suite with legs which will create negative detail so your eye can travel beyond the piece of furniture.

Remember, the key to staging a stylish interior space is to maintain consistency in style, declutter for a clean canvas and thoughtfully arrange furniture and decor to create a visually-appealing and inviting environment.

HUBBERS

8D Champion Rd, Richmond

03 544 8484

hubbersflooring.co.nz |

SOREN LIV - FURNITURE FOR DESIGNERS

Exclusively available through HUBBERS

New Zealand’s premier supplier of designer furniture

Offering a vast range of furniture for dining, living, bedroom and outdoor, Soren Liv cover a wide range of styles, designs and price points. Traditional, contemporary, Art Deco, modern and classic designs from around the world combine with Soren Livs ability to supply quality solid timber furniture from their own specialist manufacturing facility.

My HOME

Tucked away in a forest of natives up the Lee Valley sits Bird’s Nest Studio and home of pastel artist Nicola Reif and her husband Kurt Reif. Nicola shares her love of plants, pets, and art.

Where is your home and how long have you lived here?

Lee Valley Road, Brightwater. We left Australia in 2006 and have lived here for 17 years.

What four words would you use to describe your home?

Peaceful, nature, green, family.

What inspired this look?

Nature and slightly Scandinavian.

What’s your decorating style?

I’m not sure I really have one, but I love art, plants and the colour blue, it always seems to creep in.

Where do you shop for homewares?

We like to purchase well-made, timeless furniture and New Zealand-made, or support local artisans if possible. We love furniture from Global Living in Christchurch, they have the most beautiful pieces.

I love to buy original art, from paintings to ceramics. There’s nothing better than finding a treasure from a New Zealand artisan. As you can see, I also love houseplants, and luckily my sister has the best plant shop, Moss n Myrtle in Motueka - well worth a visit.

What piece would you never part with?

Oh, that’s hard, can I have more than one? A painting purchased from Charles Bridge in Prague, amazing memories from an amazing trip. A Tony Allain painting, I purchased it after watching him paint it in a demonstration. My ceramic sculpture of a badger and squirrel from Kylie Matheson, a swap for a painting of mine. Our heirloom rocking horse made by my Dad, it has a time capsule of our family inside. It will stay in our family. And, we both agree on our kitchen table, so many great memories are formed at the table.

Tessa Jaine

ABOVE: Nicola Reif with one of her three cats, Ragdoll Iggy and dog Luna.

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

Both. Splurge on beautiful furniture from Global Living. Smaller items are often functional and spur-of-the-moment purchases. We splurged on all of our living and dining room furniture. Saved more on bedroom furniture and smaller items.

What’s next on your interiors list?

It’s time to replace the carpet and some of the curtains. But we would really love a new bathroom and to update the kitchen. We’re not sure we will get that done, as a move back to Australia may be on the cards.

If money was no object what would you get for your home?

Oh, so many options. A new bathroom and ensuite, plus an updated kitchen.

If you had a day to refresh your home what would you do?

Paint the inside.

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

I’ve always wanted to paint our high roof in the living room a warm white. But it’s a big job.

1. Nicola works in oil pastel on a hummingbird in her studio. 2. Nicola is joined by Maine Coon cat Biscuit at her ‘Bird’s Nest Studio’ in the garden. 3. A painting titled ‘Colour burst Kea’ by Rachel Walker sits above the fireplace and the family’s heirloom rocking horse. 4. Luna in the garden that runs alongside the beautiful Lee River.

Have you done any renovations?

Recently we had the exterior painted, and the best bit, we had the deck renovated. We have added a separate studio for my art, having my own space has completely transformed my art. We have also replaced the fire and central heating and put in a big oven for my husband who loves to cook. A lot of the work that we have done has been outside, there’s always work to do when you live on a lifestyle block.

What’s your favourite spot in the house?

Without a doubt, the deck. It’s nice any time of the year as it’s covered and has drop-down clear walls and heating. It’s so nice to sit out there and listen to the soothing sounds of the river.

Best budget tip?

If you can, purchase well-made furniture that will stand the test of time, it will save you in the long run.

Best money spent?

I have to say creating our outside room on the deck. Did any of your purchases cause a debate? No, we are pretty like-minded when it comes to the house and property.

What should every home have?

Love… and a cat (preferably a Maine Coon).

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

If you have pets, you know you have pet hair, or sprinkles of love as I like to call them. Purchase a Dyson vacuum, powerful and easy to whip around the house and furniture.

What do you love about the neighbourhood where you live?

It’s so peaceful and there’s nothing like the sound of the river. It’s full of nature and so many birds live here, from falcons to tomtits, it’s where I get the inspiration for my art.

Best memory in your home?

They are all good, even the bad ones make up the sum whole of our family.

It’s where we have raised our boys and the place they call home.

Elevate your home's value with custom joinery

BEC DEACON - Designer

COURTNEY BAILEY – Head of sales and design

Looking to maximise the value of your home? Whether you are looking for short term property gains, or to build long-term value into your family home, quality custom joinery holds its own in delivering added value as a solid home improvement investment.

While the allure of a fresh coat of paint or new flooring is undeniable, the impact of custom joinery on your home's value goes beyond aesthetics alone. Custom joinery offers a unique blend of functionality and style. Whether it's a modern kitchen designed with busy family life in mind, or a sophisticated living room adorned with custombuilt bookshelves, these additions provide a bespoke touch that resonates with potential buyers. They not only enhance the overall appearance, but can also significantly improve the practicality and experience of spaces right throughout your home.

Just as an architecturally-designed home can standout from the crowd, thoughtfully designed, bespoke joinery can contribute significantly to setting your property apart in a competitive market. Moreover, the durability and craftsmanship of custom joinery signal quality to prospective buyers. Unlike off-the-shelf options, custom joinery is constructed with precision using high-quality materials, ensuring longevity that speaks volumes about the care put into the home's design and construction.

However, there are some key considerations if you are investing in custom joinery with your home’s sale value in mind. Functional utility is crucial, so incorporating clever storage solutions or multi-purpose pieces can elevate appeal. High-quality materials and impeccable craftsmanship not only lend an air of luxury but also assure buyers of long-lasting value.

Flexibility is another factor – designs that can adapt to various uses or layouts can attract a wider range of buyers. Depending on the home, design may be best integrated with the overall aesthetic of the home, ensuring a harmonious and cohesive look that appeals to potential buyers.

Sustainability features such as using eco-friendly materials and efficient design can resonate with environmentally-conscious buyers and further boost the property's attractiveness. And lastly, it’s important to remember that while uniqueness can add value, individual style choices can be very individual! An experienced, knowledgeable designer can help you navigate these considerations, making decisions that will provide results for you to enjoy and reap maximum long-term value from.

Investing in custom cabinetry isn't just an expenditure; it can be a strategic investment that can yield substantial returns. The allure of a welldesigned and organized space, coupled with the assurance of lasting quality, can sway buyers and elevate your home's value significantly.

Home Style

ENHANCE YOUR LIVING

(Other fabric/leather available, POA) - lynfords.co.nz, 675a

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1. Nourishing wild plum hand cream and body lotion with dancing notes of juicy plum and fresh green leaves, Living Light, 219 Trafalgar St, Nelson Central Arcade | 2. Freshen up for Spring with new curtains, wallpaper and paint, Guthrie Bowron Nelson, 45 Vanguard St, Nelson

3. Dawn Clayden vase, multiple sizes from $299, Karen Jordan Style, 151 Trafalgar Street, Nelson | 4. ECM Mechanika VI Slim, cafe quality espresso brewing in a compact format, $3199.99, thecoffeecompany.co.nz, 130 Hardy Street, Nelson | 5. Nouveau striped hammock multi-colour $34.98 Mitre 10 Mega, 99 Quarantine Road, Nelson. | 6. ivoli 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, beggsmusic.co.nz, 264 Hardy Street, Nelson | 7. Hop Kiln, Brooklyn, 1973 by Toss Woollaston, Atkins Gallery, atkinsgallery.nz, Founders Heritage Park | 8. NZ-made Vincent armchair in Hinterland Natural fabric, Special $1699, Save $200.

Main Road, Stoke | 9. Finial antique silver lamp base with linen lampshade from French Country storeycollection.co.nz, 65 Collingwood St, Nelson

Gallery Showcase

Our region’s best creative talent

Protean Art Gallery

20 Tahunanui Drive

Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10am-4pm 027 548 5003

proteanart.co.nz

Nelson Classic Car Museum

Museum Store

1 Cadillac Way, Annesbrook

Open 7 days, 10am-4pm 03 547 4570

nelsonclassiccarmuseum.nz

Christine, The Artist Goldsmith

Allow us to refresh your jewellery in our Nelson studio. 021 817 209

theartistgoldsmith.com

Peter Copp

Moutere Bee Hives

Clayridge Gallery

77 Pine Hill Rd, Ruby Bay 027 491 5187, Please phone before visiting petercopp.co.nz

Refinery Artspace

Mothers - Sharon Duymel

Beauty Has No Borders - Santalma

Black Enough - Hope River

11 September–14 October

acn.org.nz/the-refinery-artspace

Natalie Kere Art

Wahine Matike ‘The Tāniko Series’ 027 667 7911

nataliekereart.com

The Suter Art Gallery

208 Bridge St, Nelson

Open 7 days, 9.30am-4.30pm 03 548 4699

thesuter.org.nz

Lisa Grennell BVAD – Artist

13 Cheshire Place, Stoke Studio visits by appointment only

lisagrennellartist.co.nz

Stacey Whale

The modern artisan of fine jewellery 1381 Moutere Highway, Upper Moutere Opening hours change, please check website. 027 975 9204

staceywhale.com

Nelson City Framers & The Gallery

Yes we can frame that for you, we can frame almost anything!

42A Halifax St, Nelson, Mon-Fri 8:30 –5pm, Sat 10am - 1pm nelsoncityframers.nz

Arty Nelson Gallery

126 Trafalgar St

Open Mon – Sat 10am - 4pm Sun 11am - 2pm 021 022 90996

The Coolstore Gallery

10 Aranui Road, Mapua Wharf

Open 7 days, 10am – 5pm 03 540 3778

info@coolstoregallery.co.nz

thecoolstoregallery.co.nz

Punching above its weight

Nelson Tasman is fortunate to have The Suter Art Gallery Te Aratoi o Whakatū, which many people don’t realise is also free to visit.

Curator and collections manager Dr Kyla MacKenzie sings its praises, “It has an outstanding permanent collection and I have long been familiar with its reputation for punching above its weight in the regional art scene with the quality of exhibitions that take place here. To have added facilities such as the theatre, café and gallery store onsite is such an asset to the community.”

Three galleries allow a wide range of work to be shown. One showcases rotating exhibitions of pieces from the permanent collection with different themes. Currently ‘Night Life’, including some works on loan, celebrates the diverse ways artists see the night. “The night is a very potent, universal theme, and often used for symbolic value. The artworks exploring this subject range from the profound to the whimsical, the sumptuous to the spooky,” says Kyla.

The other galleries offer a mixture of individual and group shows. Currently these are ‘Gathered VoicesHighlights from the Fletcher Trust Art Collection’, one of the most prestigious of the country’s corporate art collections and contemporary artist Kāryn Taylor’s intriguing and colourful two and three-dimensional works. At various times throughout the year The Nelson Suter Art Society holds exhibitions, adding to the rich texture of work on display.

The gallery’s store has become a go-to destination to purchase art and craft. With an array that includes the likes of ceramics, jewellery, art, homewares, books, cards and textiles, it is a popular place to choose a gift.

An exciting development underway behind the scenes is the task of putting photos of the permanent collection online on the gallery’s website so that works can be seen at any time. “This is a great resource that, when complete, will allow anyone to explore the range of art collected over 125 years, with ease,” says Kyla.

For those interested in learning more about art, the gallery offers hands-on learning experiences through its range of educational programmes for all ages. “It is exciting to be able to provide opportunities for children as young as pre-schoolers to learn to appreciate and enjoy art,” says Kyla. There is a Suter Kids Club which runs weekly after-school art classes for kids, adult art classes, one-off workshops and a variety of events from exhibition openings to artist talks.

“We love it when people take the opportunity to join up as a Friend of The Suter,” says Kyla. “Friends get many great advantages such as shop discounts and invitations to exhibition openings.”

A visit to The Suter Art Gallery is not complete without a treat from the welcoming Suter Café with delicious Havana Coffee and gourmet food, including gluten and dairy-free, vegetarian and vegan options. thesuter.org.nz

Curator and collections manager of The Suter Art Gallery, Dr Kyla MacKenzie, was thrilled to secure the job last October.

Wild night out leads to friendship and Aboriginal artwork

Over the last seventeen years Katrina Kallil has made a name for herself in Nelson as both the owner of the popular Suter Gallery Café and a charismatic entertainer. Larger than life and bursting with bonhomie, Katrina talks to Matt Lawrey about her work, her life and her favourite piece of art.

Katrina Kallil and Snake Dreaming by Walangari Karntawarra.

Katrina Kallil traces the ownership of her favourite artwork back to a memorable night in Kings Cross, Sydney.

Katrina was having “a very wild night out” in 2002 with her cousin, Delia-Rose Farr, when they met the awardwinning Aboriginal artist Walangari Karntawarra.

Walangari made such a good impression, Katrina and Delia-Rose ended up heading back to his apartment in the wee hours to check out his art. It was the start of a great friendship for Katrina and a romantic partnership for Delia-Rose; she and Walangari instantly hit it off and remain a couple to this day. At the time, Katrina was living in Queenstown and shooting over to Sydney every six months to catch up with Delia-Rose.

Over the years Katrina got to know and greatly respect Walangari and in 2005 decided to splash out and buy one of his paintings to mark her 52nd birthday.

Entitled ‘Snake Dreaming,’ the colourful oil painting references the Rainbow Snake that is seen in Aboriginal culture as The Creator. The artwork’s imagery includes The Seven Sisters (Matariki), fire, a centipede, the Milky Way, a kangaroo mouse, water and a rainbow.

Katrina says she loves the painting’s colour and “fantastic” energy and the way it takes her back to that time in her life.

“When I look at it, I feel happy,” she said.

Katrina, who has owned and operated The Suter Café for the last 17 years, says she has always loved art. Her home features numerous oil paintings, sculptural pieces and an icon of Mary and the baby Jesus that her parents used to pray to.

Over years Katrina has also inspired art. She grew up in Dunedin where her striking Lebanese looks made her standout a mile. As a result, numerous artists asked to paint her portrait and some of the resulting artworks hang in her home.

“It’s very pretentious of me,” Katrina laughed. She says growing up Lebanese in Otago was a unique and wonderful experience.

“We all lived in the same area. It was fantastic because we had our family all around us.”

Her family ended up in Dunedin as part of the Lebanese diaspora. Katrina jokes that her grandparents were supposed to be heading to Australia but her grandfather was in the middle of a good game of cards and refused to get off the ship, so they ended up in New Zealand.

Her grandfather was a renowned gambler who had already spent time in the USA when he returned to Lebanon to marry her grandmother. He was in his thirties, she was 12.

“She was 12!” Katrina exclaimed shaking her head. As a young woman in Dunedin, Katrina was in a band and acted at the Fortune Theatre.

A keen skier, Katrina spent a “wonderful” 20 years in Queenstown before a two-year stint in Hokitika.

She was encouraged to come to Nelson by another cousin, local lawyer Rick Farr (Delia-Rose’s brother).

“Ricky said ‘come up to Nelson, I haven’t got any family up in Nelson’.”

After all her years in the Nelson hospo scene, Katrina retains her huge enthusiasm for both the industry and looking after people.

“It’s been mostly a pleasure. The gallery has been so good to me and we have had very, very good customers. I’ve been very happy, and I’ve had fabulous staff,” she said.

“I’m genuinely interested in people. I care. I’ve always been a person who enjoys dealing with people.”

In addition to her cafe work, Katrina is well known for entertaining people as a singer and raconteur.

“Entertaining people is the one thing I’m good at. My voice isn’t great but it’s getting better, funnily enough. You wouldn’t expect to see a 73-year-old performing, but here I am.”

Katrina’s next gig will be a lunchtime concert at 12.30pm at NCMA on September 14. Tickets for Katrina and Friends are $15 and available at ncma.nz.

Top-notch garden and property maintenance services

Founded by Andrew and Wendy Neame in 2008, Al Fresco Garden and Property Maintenance is a local, family-owned business dedicated to providing clients with an experienced and affordable option for all property maintenance requirements. Whether it's a one-time job or regular scheduled services, Al Fresco can handle it all, including landscaping, lawn care, mowing, gardening, weed control, hedge trimming, or a pre-sale tidy up.

Al Fresco also caters to local businesses, orchards, vineyards, commercial properties, and slope mowing, of up to 10 acres. They take pride in their excellent work ethic and the ability to work within any budget. Their team of experienced professionals are well-equipped with quality tools and full insurance and ACC cover. Whether it's a general tidy up or a niche service, Al Fresco has the expertise to handle it all.

al-fresco.co.nz

Specialising in eco-friendly

22 - 24 SEPT SAXTON STADIUM

FRI & SAT 10-5, SUN 10-4

Adults $8, Gold Card Friday $4, Under 16 Free Door sales or buy online at homeandgardenshow co nz LATEST TRENDS! EXPERT ADVICE!

INSPIRATION FOR YOUR HOME, GARDEN & LIFESTYLE WONDERFUL RANGE BUILDERS, KITCHENS, POOLS & SPAS, FLOORING, ARTISAN GOODS, FOOD, BEVERAGES, HOME MAINTENANCE, PLANTS, SOLAR, HOMEWARES, HEALTH & WELLBEING & EVERYTHING IN-BETWEEN ENJOY SHOW SPECIALS AND SEEK EXPERT ADVICE AT THE SHOW!

Simone Wenk

Registered Architect (Germany)

LBP Design 2 (NZ)

03 540 3282 / 021 1049 039

Shed 4, Mapua Wharf

Architecturemapua.co.nz

A true passion for design and a genuine desire to get the look and feel of the project just right

Wendy Neame, owner of Al Fresco Garden and Property Maintenance

Mowing a steep overgrown section on the Ventrac Mower.

Gardening with Tim’s Garden

Each month Tim’s Garden will be providing gardening tips and advice for your garden. This month Tim shares some advice on planting a spring vegetable garden.

Spring is upon us, and it can be the busiest time of year for gardeners. My advice is to narrow down on your goals for the year ahead, as tempting as the seed catalogues are there are only so many hours in a day and only so much space in your garden. When it comes to edibles, bear in mind they are by in large annuals which have a short life and high needs while producing a crop. I would suggest trying to select plants you love to eat. If you love to eat it, you will most likely give it extra attention. Each plant will have individual requirements and conditions so pick your five top kitchen ingredients and see what they require, this will help you identify where in the garden to plant them and whether they should be close to or far away from each other.

The location of the plant will be a major factor on the success of the crop. Let’s look at tomatoes as an example; planted in spring, they need to be in a sunny position, not too much wind (to avoid low temperatures and damage), they will need support/ bamboo as they grow and a woody/straw mulch to help retain moisture in the soil as it grows. The lettuce family, however, likes a break from the sun or it can bolt (begin to flower and go peppery), loose soil for faster root growth, planted year-round but protection from frosts. So, although both great salad ingredients, both need different conditions. Have a look around your garden at midday to find the sunny spots, these will be best for growing edibles. I avoid toxic herbicides and insecticides to help keep beneficial insects and organisms in the garden –

unless you have an infestation of a particular pest try to let nature balance out the problem. Using organic methods can take longer but it is worth the wait. Try to encourage predatory insects with spaces for bugs and birds to visit – they are nature’s pest control. You can do this by allocating a wild area in your garden of meadow flowers, install some bug hotels or stacks of logs, or bird houses or a bird bath.

This month we are preparing for the latter end of planting season, so conditioning the soil for this is very important – if you’d like to order living compost to help your plants get the right start head over to our website to order for deliveries to the Nelson region. Over the next few weeks, fruit trees will begin to bud and sprout new branches. If you can get in quick, prune these to a more usable shape, remove overlapping branches, giving focus to making the tree more suited to producing less volume of fruit, but better quality or size. We see a lot of fruit wasted because of the lack of pruning and a tree producing poorly-sized fruit.

Would you like to WIN a 1 hour consultation with Tim and a report tailored to your garden worth $190+GST? Then simply send us a gardening question and you’ll be in with a chance to win. To enter, email your gardening question to nelsonmag@timsgarden.co.nz with the word ‘competition’ in the subject heading.

A benchmark for excellence in residential construction

Registered Master Builder House of the Year Regional Awards

For over three decades, the Registered Master Builders House of the Year Regional Awards has stood as one of New Zealand’s foremost and most renowned awards programme, setting the benchmark for excellence in residential construction. Held in the highest esteem, the yearly awards epitomise the pinnacle of building achievement and offer Registered Master Builders (RMB) members the chance to showcase their craftsmanship and skill set, gauge their progress against their colleagues, and establish a concrete and widely recognisable quality standard for their businesses. Spanning eight regional divisions nationwide, the Nelson Marlborough Regional Awards were hosted at Rutherford Hotel on August 5.

President of RMB Nelson, Ruben Fry says judges once again found themselves impressed by the calibre of the new builds and renovations submitted. “The homes we are seeing in the competition are outstanding. A lot of them would have been subject to the many difficulties our industries faced during Covid and it’s a real testament to the dedication that our members

have to building at such a high level of craftsmanship even through such hard times. The quality of entrees remains high and caters for all categories. It’s great to see that this prestigious event is still well respected amongst our members and the public.”

A panel of nationally appointed judges, featuring an architect and a builder, rigorously assess the Master Builders against exhaustive criteria. The panel subjects’ homes to a thorough points-based evaluation, with projects earning the highest scores receiving Gold awards. The finest projects then secure the title of regional category winners. Winning entries from the regional competitions also earn the opportunity to compete as National Category winners during an awards ceremony in Christchurch on November 25. Reigning supreme at this year’s regionals, Contemporary Homes scooped a multitude of awards with their Kaiteriteri entry. Their stunning build earned the title of Supreme Regional House of the Year 2023, the Pink Batts Craftsmanship Award, the Kitchen Excellence Lifestyle Award, the Outdoor

Words: Amy Russ

Contemporary Homes scooped multiple awards with their Kaiteriteri entry, including Supreme Regional House of the Year. George Guille

Living Excellence Award as well as a Gold Award and was judged as one of the Top 100 homes. Judges’ comments include, “It is a superbly built home which oozes quality. Contemporary Homes should be extremely proud of this build and take immense pride in their exceptional achievement. The dedication and workmanship is truly outstanding.”

Director of Contemporary Homes, Paul Richards, says, “The awards are acknowledgement from the industry that we are doing things correctly, that day by day, task by task we as a team are making the best decisions to achieve the best result for the client but also for the home. Both are deserving of this. A client’s investment in their home is significant, but it is also vital that the client feels our love for the project and that they know we are working for the best outcome every day. I am very proud of our team. They understand excellence and the extra time required to achieve this, and it is awesome for them to be acknowledged, especially winning the Craftsmanship category. That really is the ultimate award in this industry.”

Contemporary Homes will continue to grow as a team, continue to push the design boundaries to establish better living for less and continue to produce outstanding homes and relationships, says Paul. “Life is busy, and it is easy to get lost in the moment. The point of winning something is to acknowledge that moment has been shaped by years of experience, every conversation, every question, and every outcome is an evolution of time and experience by everyone involved. So, on that note, Jacob, Melissa and I want to give a huge shout-out to all who played a part, you have all contributed to the success of the project.”

Local building company Inhaus was named the winning recipient in the Builders Own Home Category at the event, and received a Gold Award, for a Richmond

Inhaus won a Gold award, was a Regional Category Winner and made the Top 100 homes nationally for the builders own Richmond home. Tessa Jaine

Jennian Homes was the winner of the Volume/Group Housing New Home $500,000 - $750,000 Category, and a Gold Award, for this Mapua home. David Chadwick

home. Shain, the son of Inhaus owners Russell and Tanya Campbell, is following in his father’s footsteps, showcasing his skillset within the serene sanctuary of Inhaus’s Kakano Lane subdivision. Judges say Shaun has taken great pride in the exceptional home which is evident in the precise detailing and flawless craftsmanship. “The stunning cedar-clad build takes pride of place. Despite the small land area, the carefully considered floor plan creates an inviting entrance that leads to generous living spaces on the main floor. The builder’s attention to detail shines through, both inside and out, with a cleverly positioned outdoor living area

forming a private and sunny courtyard—a perfect retreat for the young family residing there.”

Recently announced, the Top 100 Homes for the 2023 Registered Master Builders House of the Year Regional competitions have been made public. Representing the top entrants in this year’s competitions, the Top 100 homes will now be re-judged by the national judging panel to find out who will take out the top spots at the 2023 National Awards Gala in November. Contemporary Homes, MOORE, Scott Construction, Inhaus and Roger Hogg Builders were named for the Nelson Tasman and Marlborough region.

Sentinel Homes won a Silver award for New Home $500,000 - $750,000 for this Marsden Valley Home. David Chadwick

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

Wok Thai

Our menu reflects centuries of family cooking, offering traditional and innovative dishes, skilfully cooked to dazzle your senses. Vegetarian and gluten free options available. Dine in or takeaway, with delivery available through DeliveryEasy and UberEats.

Open Mon - Sat, 1pm - 8:30pm; Sunday 4:30pm - 8:30pm

514 Main Road Stoke 03 547 8111 wokthai.nz |

Eddyline Brewery & Taproom

Discover a taste sensation like no other at the newest taproom in Nelson. A fusion of New Mexican flavours and craft beer! Indulge in a delectable blend of New Mexican cuisine and the freshest craft beer in town. Savour our mouthwatering menu, including tacos, burritos, smoked meats, and green chile cheeseburgers. Enjoy specially crafted dishes, celebrating the vibrant flavors of New Mexican red and green chile. A culinary journey that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Open Tues - Sat.

15 Elms St, Stoke, Nelson 03 541 0757 eddylinebrewery.nz

Eight Plates

Nelson’s newest dining experience! Delicious, seasonal small plates for brunch, lunch and dinner, cocktails, coffee, beer and wine.

Open Thu – Mon, 10am - 10pm.

300 Trafalgar St, Nelson 03 546 4300 eightplates.co.nz |

The Views

With panoramic views of Kaiteriteri, The Views vegetarian restaurant at Kimi Ora Eco Resort offers a relaxing dining experience. With locally sourced seasonal produce, chefs delight in creating a fusion of flavours for you to savour. Vegan and gluten free options are available, with a variety of regional wine, beer and cider. Bookings essential. Open Thurs- Sat 5.30pm - 8.30pm

99 Martin Farm Rd, Kaiteriteri 03 527 8027

kimiora.com/restaurant |

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.

Miracle Restaurant

Famous for classic Chinese and signature Thai family dishes, Miracle Restaurant offers rich and diverse Asian fusion cuisine with Yum Cha available all day. Come and meet Mira - Miracle’s friendly robot who will deliver dishes to your table and even sing happy birthday. Popular set menus are available for individual diners, and all menu items can be ordered online for takeaway. Fully licensed and open 7 days for lunch and dinner.

rabbitislandcoffee.co.nz |

200 Hardy St, Nelson 03 545 8163 miracleasian.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 3pm, and delicious fresh salad rolls to take away and enjoy on your spring picnics. There’s a good gluten free range and a different gourmet pie flavour each month, all topped off with a supreme coffee to add a bounce to your day.

68 Aranui Rd, Mapua 03 540 3656

mapuavillagebakery.co.nz

River Kitchen

River Kitchen are celebrating a decade of delectable dining this month! For ten years they’ve been providing customers with a little slice of calming paradise to enjoy a coffee and something to eat. Visit them by the river and try out their new spring menu.

Open Tue-Fri 7:30am-4pm | Sat 8am-4pm Sun 8:30am-4pm.

Mango

Offering a mix of delicious and authentic Malaysian and Indian cuisine, great service and high-quality food, Mango cuisine is incredibly nutritious and amazingly priced. Using only the highest quality and freshest of ingredients, Mango have guilt-free yummy curries and noodles amongst their unique options. Open for lunch Mon-Sat 11:30am-2pm and dinner every day from 5pm-10pm.

81 Trafalgar St, Nelson 03 548 1180

riverkitchennelson.co.nz

227-229 Hardy St, Nelson 03 539 4916 244 Queen St, Richmond 03 544 3278

2 Scott St, Blenheim 03 577 8781 mangoonline.co.nz

Burger Culture

You guys asked for more room and we now have it! We are so excited to finally have phase one of our extension done and dusted. We’ve got an extra 40 seats so get your booties down here and fill ‘em!

Hogarth Chocolate

Hogarth Chocolate Makers have been crafting some of the world’s best chocolate right here in Nelson for the past 8 years. Creativity and exploration of flavour are pillars of their philosophy. Check out their range at their new factory store and see why they are New Zealand’s most awarded chocolate maker.

Open Tues-Fri 10am – 4.30pm Head to their factory shop to try their range of chocolate products for free.

279 Trafalgar St, Nelson 03 546 9020 burgerculture.co.nz |

Port O’Call Bar

When you need a place to relax, Port O’Call Bar is the perfect spot! You’ll be impressed with the superior selection of local and international beers and wines, along with one of Nelson’s largest whiskey selections.

Open Mon – Sun, 4pm – 11pm.

Level Two, Rutherford Hotel Nelson 03 548 2299 rutherfordhotel.nz

10B Kotua Place, Stoke 03 544 8623 hogarthchocolate.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

Solander Gourmet Seafood

For all your fresh fish and seafood favourites for nourishing winter chowders, paellas and your delicious fish curries, keep it local with Solander.

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. gourmetseafood.co.nz

McCashin’s Tap Room

With great indoor/outdoor dining areas, bring your friends, family or workmates along to enjoy their mouth-watering menu, which includes their famous steak sandwiches, pizzas, platters and seasonal plates to savour. McCashin’s Tap Room is your local friendly meeting place with fine beverages made on site at the brewery. It’s your local.

660 Main Road, Stoke 03 547 0329 mccashins.co.nz

Grilled octopus salad

Tender octopus is given a slight smokey flavour from grilling, and the combination of cherry tomatoes and baby rocket with a delicious dressing, sends this seafood salad recipe over the moon.

1 hr marinating | 10 min prep | 10 min cooking | serves 6

INGREDIENTS

• 1kg frozen octopus tentacles frozen

• ½ cup (125ml) olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, crushed

• 1 tsp grated ginger

• 1 red chilli, finely chopped

• 250g cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup (125ml) extra virgin olive oil

• ¼ cup (60ml) balsamic vinegar

METHOD

Combine octopus, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and chilli in a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to marinate.Preheat the barbeque on high. Drain octopus, reserving marinade. Cook on a flat plate for 10 minutes, brushing frequently with marinade, until octopus curls and turns dark red. Meanwhile, combine tomatoes with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar in a serving bowl. Slice the

The perfect

Lipsmackingly sweet and sour, the Cosmopolitan cocktail of vodka, cranberry, Cointeau and lime is a good-time in a glass.

SERVES 2

• 40ml Cointreau

• 80ml Vodka

• 20ml lime juice

• 40ml cranberry juice

• 2 wedges fresh lime

Measure and pour all ingredients into a shaker with ice. Shake well then pour into a chilled martini glass. Serve with a wedge of lime.

A home away from home

Reminiscent of times past, families and friends gather at a local watering hole in a quiet part of town to share a pint or two while regaling tales of the weeks gone by. Once the market-growing hub of the community, the Wood area plays host to one of the homeliest taverns in the district, Sprig + Fern Milton Street. Owned by Karl and Emma Russ, and local legend Bruce the Frenchie, the couple purchased the tavern in 2018 with a passion to provide good oldfashioned hospitality to its patrons. The renovated bungalow provides a cosy, relaxing and intimate atmosphere that is continually enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Bringing his decades of hospitality experience back to his hometown, Karl worked in London and Mauritius prior to settling back in the region and says he loves the English pub vibe that their tavern provides, “It is a typical English pub which is a great concept and one that stands the test of time. We have met a lot of good friends since we first started the business. There has always been a lot of really good banter here, that goes both ways. We have the best customers in town, definitely! We are like a great big family with our regulars, it is brilliant, they are what keep us going.”

The couple also own Sprig + Fern Upper Queen, with Karl running Milton Street and Emma based mainly at the Richmond site. “We enjoy that the taverns feel like a home away from home for people. It is a family-friendly environment and a safe place for

people to enjoy themselves with a drink or two. They have a really nice vibe with a nice community of regulars. Wednesday nights we have the mountainbike group come in. They all go riding at 6pm, rain, hail or snow, and get back to the tavern at 8pm for dinner and a few pints. After everyone leaves, it is a chance for Emma and I to sit down and have a beer together by the fire, it is lovely.”

“For us, the tavern is all about the people and keeping up with what the customers are wanting. Our main points of difference would be the cosy, double open fires, which are super warm and inviting, especially over winter, and we are dog-friendly (both inside and out) as long as dogs are on a lead and the owners are respectful of the tavern and its patrons.”

Emma says they feel honoured to be a part of the bungalow building’s ever-evolving story. Once a home, it then became the local post office, a liquor store and a video store, until transforming into a Sprig + Fern tavern. “I love that because the tavern is a refurbished old house, it automatically feels like a home away from home. People feel automatically comfortable because it is like you are stepping into a living room.”

Open Mon – Fri: 2pm – late, Sat – Sun: 12pm – late

Owners of Sprig + Fern Milton St Karl and Emma Russ with Bruce the Frenchie.

Sprig + Fern Milton Street

3 September Tasman Mako vs Manawatu

30 September - 1 October

2023 NZ Highland Dancer of the Year

20 October

Queen - It’s A Kinda Magic

21 October

Tragic Mike’s Netflix & Chill

30 October - 2 November

Te Mana Kuratahi

18 November Gindulgence

Event dates are correct at time of printing. Please check itson.co.nz for updates.

270 Trafalgar Street, Whakatū www.nelsonmuseum.co.nz nelsonmuseum

Tahunanui beach to be transformed into a massive obstacle course

UltimateAthlete is a fun, feel good event that highlights the undeniable role exercise plays in our well-being. This labour weekend, the team from Ultimate Athlete will pull off the impressive feat of building the obstacles, running a 2-day event and dismantling obstacles along the beach and trails of Tahunanui beach in under a week!

Organisers Jocelin August and Gavin Foster have worked with NRDA and Nelson City Council over the past two years to bring Ultimate Athlete to Nelson and establish what’s set to be an iconic annual event. “We love Nelson, we’re showcasing the stunning natural environment” stimulating both national and international visitation to the region and bringing economic and community benefits,” says Gavin.

Ultimate Athlete is collaborating with local businesses and sports clubs to create a version of the New Zealand event that is unique to Nelson, including obstacles from local businesses like Aflex Inflatables, Mega Slide and Pro combat laser tag. The race marshals will be friendly local faces from Nelson sports clubs like the SUP club, Waka ama and surf lifesaving.

So, who is Ultimate Athlete for? Anyone who wants to feel good and is looking for a goal to inspire them to train. We all know when we exercise, we feel better.

The course will consist of 15 unique obstacles set over 3 km of beach and trail. Multiple laps make up 6 km and 10 km distances for individuals and teams, there are also categories for kids and teens.. All you need is a pair of sports shoes, Let’s go!

Ultimate Athlete Saturday 21 October ultimateathlete.co.nz |

This November the Trafalgar Centre will once again tickle your tastebuds with gins from all around New Zealand in an afternoon of pure Gindulgence. Spend the afternoon enjoying free tastings, exploring the craft and enjoying the flavours in this boutique gin experience.

Soak up the buzzing atmosphere inside or grab a specialty cocktail and take it outside to relax on the lawn. We welcome you to this Feast Whakatū event celebrating all things gin!

What’s On

For updated information visit itson.co.nz

16 – 17 September

CHORAL PEACE

Nelson Civic Choir and Orchestra with music director Jason Balla explore the theme of ‘peace’ with beautiful, uplifting choral music. 7pm & 2pm. Tickets on sale from NCMA.

20 – 23 September DISNEY’S WINNIE THE POOH KIDS

Nelson Youth Theatre Company proudly presents this delightful show. Featuring favourite songs from the Disney animated film. This honey-filled delight is as sweet as it is fun.

Theatre Royal

22 September

AUSTEN FOUND

Addicted to Darcy? Bonkers for Big Balls? Well put down your cross-stitching and join Penny Ashton, Lori Dungey and Jamie Burgess, as they swoon, romp, and pianoforte their way through an entirely improvised Austenian musical. Tickets $25 from Eventbrite.

25 – 30 September LEGALLY BLONDE

Legally Blonde The Musical follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Exploding with memorable songs and dynamic dances - this musical presented by Nelson Youth Theatre is so much fun, it should be illegal!

27 – 30 September DISNEY’S THE ARISTOCATS KIDS

Based on the beloved Disney animated film, featuring a jazzy, upbeat score, Aristocats is a non-stop thrill ride of feline fun, complete with unbelievable twists and turns. Proudly presented by Nelson Youth Theatre Company.

Theatre Royal Theatre Royal

16

September THE ULTIMATE DRAG SHOW

The Ultimate Drag Show features a sensational lineup of Wellington’s fiercest Drag Queens and Kings who are bringing you gag-worthy lip syncs and drag excellence that’ll leave you screaming SHANTAY, you all stay!

Theatre Royal

23 September

TASMAN VIEWS FROM THE 1970S

An exhibition of colourful Toss Woollaston watercolours, shown for the first time. Opening function, 5pm, Sat 23 September. Photo: Motueka Foreshore, watercolour 1972.

Atkins Gallery, Founders Heritage Park

The Boathouse

Nelson Cathedral

Civil Contractor Awards

Rutherford Hotel Nelson

1. Campbell White and Leon Nicholls

2. Laurie Vercoe, Raewyn Manssen and Melissa White

3. Helen Petterson and Jane Archbold

4. Leah and Philip Klenner

5. Scott Thompson and Greg Carpenter

6. Tiare Green and Riley Letton

7. June Chambers, Cindy Chambers and Eve Cooper

8. Chris Porteners and Gary Donaldson

Mackenzie Charleton

Fashion for a Cure

Trafalgar Centre

1. Alison Macbeth and Lynn Bell

2. Rebecca Kristoffersen and Emma Williams

3. Chris Harvey and Missy King-Turner

4. Helen Davis and Rachel Harris

5. Karen Carppe and Chamaine Boocock

6. Sandra Goodman and Tracy Lyall

7. Wendy Petrie and Sonja Demari

8. Sarah Daly and Juanita Donnelly

Mackenzie Charleton

Code Breakers: Women in Games

Nelson Provincial Museum

1. Rose McGrannachan and Annie Pokel

2. Blair Cameron, Derek Shaw and Tim Skinner

3. Casey Taylor and Chelcie Phillips

4. Hannah Dell and Phillipa Hamilton

5. Hilary Mitchell and Yolanda Persico

6. Troy Stade and Karen Stade

7. Huiwen Lin, Cindy Batt and Ricki Wilkie

8. Kelly O’Leary and Bridget Hannen

Sarah Board

Registered Master Builders House of the Year Awards

Rutherford Hotel Nelson

1. Arko and Smita Biswas

2. Emma and Mark Williams

3. Dave Orme and Emma Kain

4. Kirsten and Trevor Lineham

5. Manu and Aimee Edmonds

6. Paula Jones and Catherine Piper

7. Paul Treguning and Katrina Jones

8. Brett Butcher and Megan Riddell

Mackenzie Charleton

Onam 2023 –Ponnonapulari

Saxton Netball Pavilion

1. Binsu Babu and Divya Thomas

2. Arjun Madhav, Janelle Slemang, Rasmi NR and Ananohu Nasheed

3. Jeph Tom and Jais Tom

4. Geojith George and Henna Aliyas

5. Georgia Joseph and Arjun Sasi

6. Eldho Roy and Femi Thomas

7. Jaisy Ebin, Ebin Thomas and Joby Thakkolkaran

8. Nasrin Raja and Pinu Raja

Gordon Preece

244 Hardy Street

1. Carley and Bryn Lloyd

2. Amanda Crehan, Joe Sims and Christine Hatton

3. Stephanie and Miles Drewery

4. Dean Vinicombe and Brigitta Cropp

5. Michelle van Dyk and Anna Seifried

6. Kelcee Williams and Pablo Salas

7. Ulrich Heck, Amie-Jo Trayes and Michelle Kennedy

8. Michel D’Hondt and Fermin Padilla

Sarah Board

INTRODUCING OUR MARKETING MANAGER

Introducing Alicia Staite, our Marketing Manager, who joined our team earlier this year. Her expertise in digital marketing along with her experience in premium brands sets us apart, as she creates tailored campaigns for each property, reaching effectively potential buyers across the country.

Our marketing strategy is dedicated to promoting our properties for sale rather than our brand and goes beyond the traditional real estate marketing plan emphasising on digital channels, employing sophisticated paid advertising campaigns on social media and Google, in addition to real estate portals. Our proactive marketing

process leverages the power of social media and Google to maximise exposure and capture the attention of interested buyers. We take pride in targeting a discerning nationwide audience, using precise age-specific and detailed settings to connect with the right individuals.

Our engagement doesn’t end with the initial campaign. We consistently focus on dynamic lead generation, capturing potential buyers’ interest throughout their journey. When you list your property with us, it maintains a continuous presence across various channels, ensuring it remains in the spotlight until the perfect buyer is found.