Marlborough Magazine September 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021

MUSIC FOR THE SOUL

A singer’s search for herself

Finding Angela How one man risked it all to be true to herself

PLUS: Homes with heart | Munster’s Kiwi connection | House of the Year Awards

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September 2021

September 2021

Contents Features 11–13

TRUE COLOURS A transgender woman’s journey of hope

14–15

SHE IS ME Blenheim songstress Sarah Brown on finding inspiration

18–19

COURTSIDE HEROES A brush with death on a squash court averted by friends

14–15

Regular 18–19

16–17

Sporting Memories

23

On the Street

25–27

My Home

42–43

Social Pages

46

Gardening

47

Recipe

11–13

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Editor’s Note

W

He l l o

ow, what a whirlwind the last couple of weeks have been – back into lockdown life and all that brings with it. This time round has been slightly easier, after all, we all know the drill, but won’t it be wonderful when we can head back out, making the most of the warmer days. Oh, and the end of home schooling won’t be the end of the world for us parents struggling to do what our amazing teachers do every day.

There’s no doubt it’s been a time of great change for us all but of course life doesn’t stop during lockdown and in this edition, Angela MacKenzie talks about how she’s

gone through a huge change in her life and the highs and lows of making a literal life-changing decision.

For singer Sarah Brown overcoming often debilitating anxiety has also bought great change and positivity. As she gets set to launch a new single, she chats to us about how grateful she is to have grown up in such a supportive community. Change is not often easy and as we deal with an ever-changing world, it’s important to know we are not alone. Ki kaha Marlborough, we’ve got this.

Summa

EDITOR Summa Donald summa@marlboroughmedia.co.nz CONTENT EDITOR Paula Hulburt DESIGN Patrick Connor, Toni Woolf and Matt Brown

SEPTEMBER 2021

MUSIC FOR THE SOUL

A singer’s search for herself

Finding Angela How one man risked it all to be true to herself

CONTRIBUTORS Paula Hulburt, Peter Jones, Matt Brown, Chris Valli, Sarah Brown, Malinda Boniface ADVERTISING Rosa Tate rosa@marlboroughmedia.co.nz Gemma Bartlett gemma@marlboroughmedia.co.nz Anna Simpson anna@marlboroughmedia.co.nz DISTRIBUTION

PLUS: Homes with heart | Munster’s Kiwi connection | House of the Year Awards

Cover: Music for the Soul. Pages 14–15.

Phil & Paula Brown, Wendy Aberthenthy.

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September 2021

Supporting those in need CARE stands for Can Achieve Recovery Everyday.

What is Care Marlborough and what do they do?

CARE Marlborough is a community mental health centre providing two services-Mental Health Advocacy Service and a Day Activity program at 26 Percy St in Blenheim.

Why is mental health so important?

Positive mental health is about feelings of wellbeing, confidence and self-esteem. Without good mental health, it can be hard to get through the day, form healthy relationships, be productive or have enjoyment and be creative.

What is the largest barrier to good mental health in New Zealand?

The biggest barrier to wellbeing is the stigma around mental health with aspects of our modern life, such as loss of community, isolation and loneliness coming a close second. It is ok to ask for help, it takes courage to ask but it is not a sign of weakness.

Support Manager Carla Brownie

What are some useful techniques people can do at home, or in a spare moment, to help them better cope?

The Five Ways to Wellbeing put out by the mental health foundation can help people find balance, build resilience and boost mental wellbeing.

The Five Ways to Wellbeing are: •

Give

•

Be Active

•

Keep Learning

•

Connect

•

Take Notice

Is poor mental health something that only affects a certain type of person?

No mental health affects everyone - nearly half the population will meet the criteria for a mental illness diagnosis at some stage during their lives, and one in five of us will experience depression in any given year.

Why does New Zealand have the mental health problems it does?

Many of our issues are the result of our western lifestyle and our country is not alone in high levels of inequality, leading to child poverty, homelessness, unemployment, family violence and abuse and addiction.

Where can people go for help?

There are services in Marlborough, your GP is a good place to start and they will know where to refer you to.

Many of the mental health community services such as Supporting Families Marlborough, Te Piki or CARE Marlborough are available for help, just walk in and ask.

There are plenty of websites with information and 0800 phone support such as Depression Helpline, lifeline and Youthline or you can text 1737

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DAVID JAMES

Angela MacKenzie has waited a long time to show the real her to the world.

High hopes and heels Angela MacKenzie is 14 months into her transition journey and, after decades of pushing her true self aside, is embracing the woman she has always been.

Words: Paula Hulburt

T

he diamonds on the ring on her left-hand glitter briefly where her wedding ring once sat. Soft waves frame her face as she slowly picks up the photo of the young man.

“At 10 years old I used to pinch my sisters’ clothes to wear, it wasn’t a choice I made, it was something I felt compelled to do but I also knew I had to keep it a secret.

Her expression gives nothing away as she briefly looks at the black and white print. She could be looking at a stranger, and in many ways, she is, for the man in the photo was once her.

‘We’re talking about a time when you could go to prison for impersonating a woman after all.”

With a mop of unkempt hair, broad shoulders and sideburns, Stephen MacKenzie bears no resemblance to the elegant 66-year-old woman she is today.

Transgender is a term that includes the different ways people’s gender identities can be different from the sex they were assigned at birth. Angela always knew she was a woman, she says.

While transgender people express their true identities in many ways, from dress, behaviour and mannerisms, Angela went to great pains to keep her authentic self hidden. It was a decision that caused decades of anger and frustration for the eloquent woman she has become.

“I’ve changed the way I see things since becoming a woman, before there was anger and frustration and now there’s kindness and love, but it wasn’t always like that.

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I’m not brave, it wasn’t a question of if I’d do it, but when. I lost them for a while [my children] as they were very close to their mum. They saw me as the perpetrator and her as the victim.

“From when I first realised that I had these feelings, I was so scared so overdid the blokeness but was always so angry. I put such high standards on myself to prove that I was a bloke and when others didn’t meet those standards, I was quite hard on family and staff,” Angela explains, “I really regret that.”

She pauses and takes a wavering breath, tears briefly welling to be brushed away impatiently.

‘I never used to cry like this, but now I do it all the time,” she manages to laugh. As a woman, I feel more intuitive than I did before, my emotional IQ is better.

“Don’t get me wrong, it was a pretty good life but fraught with frustration.”

One of seven children, Angela was doted on and adored by her mother, her father an older figure, more on the periphery of her childhood, died many years ago.

Angela’s mother died three years ago. Neither knew the truth about their then blonde-haired son.

“She [my mother] definitely wanted me to be a girl; it just shows that you should be careful what you wish for,” Angela giggles.

Married at just 20-years-old in a church wedding the former musterer says she fell in love with her wife at first sight. It is the split from her that has caused the most heartache.

Caption here

“I drove 70km a night for a week just to see her. I fell in love straight away.

‘I will always love her but she cannot come on this journey with me at this time.

“I’m not looking for a partner but I know I’m not attracted to men, I like other trans women and women, I guess that makes me a little different.”

Behind her tentative smiles and fought-for poise, decades of hurt are not far from the surface as she explains how that as a then dad of three, she struggled to accept her identity.

Admitting who she was to her wife and her wife’s horrified response has been the hardest part of the transition, Angela says as tears start to fall.

“She tried to hide my female clothes from the world, she wanted no part of it, she was afraid of being associated with me as a woman.

‘I understood, I used to go through guilty spells when I’d burn all my women’s clothes but then just go out to charity shops and buy more.

‘It was not a choice, I had to do it.

Gender dysphoria is a term that psychologists and doctors use to describe the distress, unhappiness, and anxiety that transgender people may feel about the mismatch between their bodies and their gender identity.

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September 2021

For Angela, the unhappiness came from pushing people away and the loneliness that came from living a lie. For the successful farmer and vineyard owner, the encouragement to start her transition started with an Olympic athlete turned reality TV celebrity.

USA-based Caitlyn Jenner, formally William Bruce Jenner, swept to fame across the globe as the most prominent athlete to come out as transgender.

Angela says she was immediately jealous.

“I told my wife I was envious of her [Caitlyn Jenner] and she just looked at me in despair.

“She didn’t want to have anything to do with me but we were still living together during lockdown last year and we had quite a good time but I felt really alone. I have always felt alone.

“I had waited long enough, long enough that I knew my children would be okay, that they could stand on their own two feet without me if they didn’t want me in their lives anymore. That’s why I waited until now.”

Angela is in contact with her children, but the relationship is strained, losing touch with her children and grandchildren is her worst fear, she says. She bristles slightly at the word brave.

“I’m not brave, it wasn’t a question of if I’d do it, but when. I lost them for a while [my children] as they were very close to their mum. They saw me as the perpetrator and her as the victim.

“The black dog days were definitely there then.”

Hormone treatment began in May last year and the oestrogen is working. Angela is shyly pleased about her new womanly curves. The upper body strength she had as a man is gone too. While not at the point of thinking seriously about gender reassignment surgery, she hasn’t ruled it out.

Initial issues finding the right levels of progesterone and oestrogen made her very sick at first and she ended up in hospital. Further surgery is not on her agenda for another year.

Being able to shop for clothes, shoes and handbags, to go out as a woman, is enough of a thrill, for now, Angela says.

“I like to dress smartly and have a stylist who helps me.

We sometimes have discussions about what suits me but she’s usually right.”

“A couple of guys who I’ve known for years came over to me one night, they’d had a couple of beers. They told me they didn’t understand me and I told them they didn’t need to understand me, they just needed to accept me.

“I don’t mind them judging me for my good points, as long as they keep the bad ones to themselves,” she laughs.

A passionate reader with a natural curiosity, Angela says she is still very much involved with the vineyard she shares with her wife and they have both worked very hard to make it the success it is today.

Legally separated, the pair live in separate houses but are in touch most days. The vineyard they share is now on the market.

Angela’s new home, high on a Marlborough hillside, has become a haven. Her wardrobe is filled with her much longed for feminine attire, dresses and skirts proudly hung in place of polo shirts and workpants. High heels sit nestled next to handbags.

At 6ft tall, of slender build and a huge fan of high heels, Angela cuts a striking figure when she is out at the local pub.

“I have found many new friends and they have supported me enormously throughout my transition and they are becoming my new family.

“I can’t really hide it,” can I, she laughs, “as soon as I open my mouth, people know, as in spite of my transgender, my voice won’t change.

‘I’m finally finding my place within the world,” she smiles, sitting up just a little bit straighter, almost comfortable with who she is.

Angela MacKenzie has more to smile about these days after decades of hiding herself from the world.

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Music for the soul Talented Marlborough musician Sarah Brown suffered severe anxiety that plagued her for years. Here she tells Paula Hulburt about her journey to peace and the creativity it has inspired as she gets ready to launch a new single and tour.

H

er breaths came in shallow gasps, lungs fighting for air as her heart beat a terrible tattoo of fear. Eyes wide in a face draining of colour, Sarah waited to die.

Pain spread out in heavy waves across her chest as nausea threatened. She sat as still as she could, willing it past.

Meeting Sarah today is hard to connect the confident acoustic singer and songwriter with the crippling anxiety and panic attacks that once ruled her life.

Chatting to the upbeat blonde ahead of the launch of her new single next month, there is no sign of the anxiety that even now can occasionally rear its ugly head. She exudes poise and serenity.

wineries, Sarah won the Ovation Rockshop songwriter of the year competition at 18 years old.

Her self-titled debut album Sarah Brown was released in 2006 and her second album The Great Heart Robbery in 2012.

Her latest release She Loves Me So is a beguiling meld of wistfulness and hope.

Writing it was a wholly cathartic experience, Sarah says.

“I actually sat down to write about something else and it kind of just fell from me. I hadn’t written a song in 5 years; I didn’t think I could and didn’t even feel like I wanted to.

“It’s about letting go of judgement, looking at myself with compassion and love.”

But, she explains, it’s been a hard road to get to this point in her life.

Acceptance of her true self has been a long time coming, she says.

“I had chronic anxiety which was so debilitating. I had panic attacks and was scared and not really functioning, I had no ideas what anxiety was.

“It was a thing of terror and a vicious cycle.”

The third of five siblings born into a musical family, Sarah made her first public appearance as a singer at just twoyears-old: standing with two other little vocalists in front of the congregation at Blenheim’s St Mary’s Church.

Recording her first demo at 12 years old, writing her own music at 14 and then securing regular local gigs at bars and

It was her mother, Paula Brown, who first picked up on the youngster’s musical talent.

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September 2021

“I think mum was quite surprised by how in tune I was.

“Mum was an amazing dancer and she danced in a TV show in the 1970s and had to perform live to camera every week,” she smiles.

“I remember sitting with mum at the piano and she’d play Beatles songs and beautiful, old folky-type songs. She could see that I was interested, and I had singing lessons from about the age of 10.”

Remnants of sunny summer days and family road trips make Sarah smile as she recalls happy childhood days.

The Brown family, dad Phil, mum Paula, sisters Emma, Katie, Sarah, Lucy and brother Matt would all pile into the car heading to Pohara, singing as they went, Sarah says.

“We sang all the time. We had cassette tapes and would all sing along to Annie, Chitty, Chitty Bang Bang and the Sound of Music. We’re lucky in that every member of the family can sing at some level. Dad does a great rendition of the Bee Gees,” she laughs.

While Sarah may have moved on from singing childhood favourites, family remains important to the mother of two.

She is delighted that both her children, Eliza, 10, and Peter, 7, have inherited the family’s talent for song.

Just days before she was due to head to London to meet with a recording company who were putting together a tour for her, Sarah found out she was pregnant with Eliza. It is she says, one of the very best things to ever happen to her.

“At first, I felt the loss of a dream, and went through a bit of a mourning period but then it was really exciting. I used to sing to her when she was in my tummy, every day.

When Eliza was born, Sarah’s life changed to include both her loves, her daughter and music. She did her first live gig as a new mum when Eliza was three weeks old and then released her second album, The Great Heart Robbery soon afterwards.

A national tour and video recording followed all before Eliza turned one year old.

“I was so in love with her and when she did arrive, would only settle if I sang to her, so I thought if she wants me to sing, then I will.

“She has been the most amazing little cheerleader and has the most beautiful voice and goes busking, it gives her so much confidence.

“Peter has a beautiful voice but has this incredible imagination and energy and is always on the move.”

“I’m doing this for me and my kids, I want to be super present and lap it all up. I want this [single] to uplift and empower people.”

Sarah Brown, centre, credits her children, Eliza, left, and Pete with helping her find inspiration again. Photo: Supplied Being present and being kinder to herself has seen Sarah give up alcohol, a move she wishes she had made earlier.

“Cutting out alcohol has been like a turbo charge. If I was perhaps to be more honest, I would say that it’s been something I wanted to kick for a while, it’s been a crutch and a way of self-medicating for anxiety.

“I get so much more out of life now.”

Back in Blenheim after recording with her band in an Auckland studio and filming their video in Marlborough, Sarah’s sunny optimism shines in her smile as she gets set to embrace the next adventure.

But she will never forget her roots, she says.

“I am truly really grateful for the amazing support Marlborough has shown me for my entire career; it means the world to me and means I can face the future knowing I have that backing.

“It’s amazing, so exciting and I want to enjoy every moment and explore my potential at every level.”

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Sporting moments revisited

Marlborough’s Jeremy Manning, far left, and his three Kiwi teammates lay down a challenge to the touring All Blacks at Thomond Park. Photo supplied.

‘Munster haka’ has special place in rugby folklore

By Peter Jones

T

he year is 2008 - the place is Thomond Park, Limerick and the atmosphere is electric.

Twenty-six thousand rugby fans are packed into the terraces and stands, intent on inspiring their beloved Munster men to victory over the touring All Blacks - 30 long years after their red-shirted heroes upset Graham Mourie’s side in one of Ireland’s great sporting moments.

The teams face each other across the halfway line, awaiting the legendary All Blacks haka.

Then, as the men in black prepare to lay down their customary challenge, four of the Munster team step forward.

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September 2021

As the crowd roar their appreciation, Marlborough man Jeremy Manning, plus fellow Kiwis Rua Tipoki, Doug Howlett and Lifeimi Mafi, launch into their own version of the haka, throwing down a unique and stirring challenge to their countrymen.

With their red-shirted team-mates forming a resolute backdrop, Munster’s Kiwi connection provide the perfect platform for a typically passionate Munster performance.

The Irish match commentator summed it up - “If that doesn’t send shivers down your spine, I don’t know what does”.

As if the home side needed more motivation, the ex-pat haka

provided it. Starting as 33-1 outsiders, they played well above themselves, rattling the All Blacks and threatening to repeat their predecessor’s 1978 heroics.

Munster led 16-10 at half time, then 16-13 until the 76th minute when a Joe Rokocoko try broke their hearts, the All Blacks scraping through 18-16.

Jeremy says Rua, a former NZ Maori captain, was the main instigator of the “Munster haka”.

“He was heavily involved in Maori rugby and very respectful of the All Blacks and their traditions … he threw it out there and the other three of us became really excited by the idea.

“Then the conversation sort of snowballed. We were thinking about teaching the rest of the team the haka, but when we thought about it in more depth we figured it would be more personal coming from the four Kiwis … laying down the challenge to the All Blacks.

“It just felt like the right thing to do.”

The Kiwi quartet got in some practice, performing the traditional challenge to their teammates.

“Just because some of them had never experienced that type of thing before. We didn’t want anyone to be too shocked [at facing the haka] … so we did a private haka inside the changing rooms leading up to the game.

“Then Rua took everyone through why we were doing it and the background to it, so it was more of an educational thing for those that didn’t know much about Maori culture and why we do the haka.”

“I do remember missing a dropped goal though. I blame it on a scrum we had on the same spot just before, as it left the turf uneven,” he adds with a chuckle, immediately shifting the blame to the forwards.

“Honestly though, I don’t remember too much about the game. It was just one of those big moments which, when you look back, you wish you had tried to enjoy it a little bit more … because you are so focussed on a few processes, like the haka, your own game and your opposition.

“You are playing the All Blacks, the best team in the world, and you don’t want to have a cricket score … there are all these things going on in your head so you can’t really enjoy it as you should.”

There was no doubt, however, that the All Blacks enjoyed the unique pre-match challenge.

“Afterward the four of us were in the changing room with all the [NZ] coaches and players and they told us that they were absolutely blown away … because nobody knew that we were doing it.

“Obviously Rua got permission for us to do it and informed the All Blacks’ management that there would be something pre-game, but the general public didn’t know anything. I didn’t even tell a few of my Blenheim mates who had come over for the game.”

Jeremy, a former NZ Schools rep out of Marlborough Boys’ College, was a fixture in the Munster camp from 2005 to 2010, wearing the red jersey on 50 occasions, scoring 173 points. The team picked up two Heineken Cup wins during that period. He followed that with a three-season stint at English club Newcastle before heading to the Abu Dhabi Harlequins.

Jeremy admitted to some nervous moments leading up to the pre-match confrontation.

From his base there, he joined Fijian sevens coach Ben Ryan’s coaching team as they prepared the Islanders for their Olympic Games bid in 2014.

“All four of us were probably at home practising the haka in our heads, trying not to stuff it up in front of God knows how many people watching at the ground and on TV.

He was in the UAE as the Flying Fijians won gold in Rio but cheekily contacted Fiji Airlines on social media asking if they would fly him to Rio for the ensuing celebrations.

“When we did our haka the crowd roared so much we couldn’t hear each other … we were all doing it, but looking out the corner of our eye to make sure we got the timing right.”

They agreed, and he was able to share first-hand in yet another historic rugby moment, six years after the “Munster haka”, which Jeremy believes may never be repeated.

Then, when the All Blacks did their haka, the crowd went absolutely silent, an Irish courtesy also afforded to goalkickers which Jeremy described as “daunting and disconcerting, as it feels like everybody is watching you”.

“No-one else had ever done it before and I doubt it will ever happen again, especially with there being so few midweek games nowadays.”

A reserve utility back, Jeremy entered the fray soon after halftime and admits recalling little of the match.

Watch the ‘Munster haka’ on You Tube youtube.com/watch?v=D8hzfrTPo6E

17

MATT BROWN

Cody Pickles, Tim Smith, Hayden Swain, Graham Kerrigan, Mark Spencer and Andy Register at the Marlborough College Old Boys Squash Club.

Miracle at the squash club

By Matt Brown

B

ang, thwack, squeak – bang, thwack, squeak.

Sweat beads on his forehead - face flushed and breathing heavily he pivots and with a flick of his wrist his racquet sends the little black ball hurtling towards the pockmarked wall.

Moments later, his opponent, a fraction of his age, ripostes but he is beat. Experience trumps age, again.

Graham Kerrigan’s heart is hammering, threatening to burst from his chest like a runaway train. He can hear the rapid tattoo deep in his ears and feel it in his tips of his fingers.

Graham won that game, but as he was refereeing the next game on court three, he began to feel dizzy.

“My vision started to go, and I said, I’m going to faint. That’s all I remember,” Graham says.

Andy caught Graham as he collapsed, and one of the players, Cody Pickles called for help.

Three men leapt into action – performing CPR until St John arrived to restart his heart.

“It was their quick thinking – they’re heroes,” Graham says.

A quick trip down the halls of the Marlborough Boys’ College squash club, the sweet smell of sweat – new and decades old – and he’s outside, greedily gulping the cold, August night air.

Graham credits his survival to Marlborough College Old Boys Squash Club members Mark Spencer, Hayden Swain and Tim Smith – and St John paramedics Ben Parsons and Tracy Morrison.

Had Graham’s heart stopped now, he would be dead today he reckons.

“They were all amazing.”

He headed back inside to referee the next Thursday night squash game completely oblivious to how close death’s touch would soon be.

“[Graham’s] lights were out for 5-6 minutes,” Mark says.

The captain of the club, Graham says he had just played 17-year-old Andy Register, and he was exhausted.

“I went outside to catch some air – I was lucky it didn’t happen then,” he says.

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September 2021

Hayden was refereeing on court two, with Mark.

“We performed CPR and it all went like clockwork.

“He’s a very lucky fella.”

The three men took turns performing CPR until the paramedics arrived.

Hayden, who works at Wairau River, says it was hard, tiring work.

I could hear it clicking and popping – Mark was saying, go harder.

“We just knew we had to keep pushing,” he says.

“It went really fast, but we were sweating; we were smashing him hard.

“I could hear it clicking and popping – Mark was saying, go harder.”

Then Tim, who is also a volunteer firefighter, took over until the ambulance came.

It was Tim’s first night back at the club after taking a year off; he says as a firefighter they usually arrive with St John, who look after the patients.

“I was Johnny on the spot – it was very different,” he says.

The trio performed CPR for about six minutes, pumping and doing breaths for about two minutes each.

“The poor buggers to go through that.”

Graham was rushed to Blenheim Hospital, then taken to Nelson Hospital for surgery and now has a pacemaker fitted.

Mark says it was lucky Graham wasn’t alone when it happened.

“Ben Parson says he’s never hugged someone he’s shocked before.”

“Tim was a bit hesitant to kiss Graham to begin with,” says Mark.

At a St John debrief last week, the paramedics described just how rare it is for someone to recover from a cardiac arrest so quickly.

But Tim says their firefighter training doesn’t include breaths, they just perform compressions.

“At the debrief, Tracy said that the chances of my survival in a community cardiac arrest was 12 per cent,” Graham says.

Mark says St John arrived in six minutes.

“They say once you have a cardiac arrest you’re brought back, but not conscious, sometimes for one or two days.

“They [St John] left the same minute as they were called – it was amazing.”

“They shocked him once, and nothing happened.

“She says in her 29 years she had never seen anyone respond like I had.”

“They shocked him again and he woke up like nothing happened.”

“We did CPR fast, strong and thorough – that gave him the chance,” says Mark.

Mark says Graham nearly jumped through the roof.

“They say immediately, straight away – don’t delay.

“I woke up there were some faces over me that I didn’t recognise,” Graham says.

“Keep that blood flowing until help arrives.”

“I know a bit of first aid – and I thought I had fainted, so I tried to get into the recovery position.

“The actions of that night was friends helping friends.

“Ben pulled me over and said, Graham, you just had a heart attack.”

Club president Nic Dann says she’s proud of the club’s members.

“I’m really proud they came together and worked as a team – we’re very tight.”

Graham says he didn’t see or feel anything.

Graham says he would like to acknowledge the good work of the guys and St John.

“I just fainted. I didn’t know I was out for six or seven minutes.

“I’m biased though, they saved my life.”

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ON THE STREET Regan Pickering-Watt Sales Professional at Michael Hill Jeweller What are you wearing today?

Im wearing, what is our company standard workwear consisting of Glassons, Portmans, and Ruby & Rain items with Minx shoes and of course plenty of Michael Hill Jewellery.

Do you have a usual style?

Normally you will catch me in a more casual look, Jeans and tee’s with a puffer in winter to watch the kids winter sports. Typical Mumwear!

What item do you have the most of in your wardrobe?

Plenty of shoes…. And of course Diamonds are a girls best friend.

What looks or trends do you like at the moment?

Not really a trend follower. I have my own sense of style I like, which is probably a mixture of all sorts of different styles over the years.

Where do you buy most of your clothes?

Most of my wardrobe consists of Glassons, Just Jeans, Portmans and of course Michael Hill Jewellery.

What is your favourite all time buy?

Easy…. My diamond rings.

Worst clothing disaster?

Anything to do with my teenage years.

A wardrobe staple everyone should invest in?

A simple black dress, jacket and nice pair of shoes to match most of your wardrobe.

Which celebrity’s sense of style do you admire?

Megan Markle.

Finish this sentence. You would never catch me wearing…

Over the knee boots, shorts, short skirts or ripped jeans. I don’t like showing my knees.

24

September 2021

My

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

Our home is in the Boulevard on Taylor subdivision. We moved in around 2 1/2 years ago.

Homeowner, Karen and Rob Lyon with Peanut the Papillion

What four words would you use to describe your home?

Private, functional, cosy & modern.

What piece would you never part with?

What inspired this look?

The black and white exterior is timeless. Because we back onto the farm park we wanted to make the most of the view and rural outlook while giving us multiple outdoor living & entertaining areas.

The rural outlook.

What’s your favourite spot in the house?

The open plan kitchen/living dining area & the outside entertaining areas.

What do you love about the neighbourhood where you live?

Where do you shop for homewares?

Our neighbours are friendly, the area is very quiet and it has a very relaxing atmosphere, and everyone takes pride in their properties.

Karen loves Farmers, Mayflower Studio and Mitre10, Rob’s easy... Mitre10.

25

What’s your decorating style?

Simple, clean lines, minimalist.

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

Karen has a good eye when it comes to homeware, mostly low cost items with the occasional treat.

Have you done any renovations?

No, as it's a new home, but we still have lots to add to the landscaping when time allows. Things are very busy in the building trade at the moment. We intend to stay here for a long time so there's no rush.

What’s your favourite room?

Karen, being a chef by trade, would say the butler's pantry/kitchen area, where Rob being a builder likes the large garage workshop with the walk-in attic space above.

What should every home have?

Good insulation & heating. Cooling is a must, good indoor/outdoor flow.

Best money spent?

The window coverings from Cinnamon House and the tiled bathrooms by Floor Pride.

Best seat in the house?

Theres more than one but anywhere that has a view of the farm park, having the space out the back gives it a real country feel.

Best memory in your house?

Having our first Christmas here with all the family and Karen not having to work as she normally does on Christmas day.

27

Silver Award winners Stonewood Homes.

Registered Master Builders House of the Year Awards Matt Croad

The NZ Registered Master Builders House of the Year Awards are held annually and reward excellence and outstanding achievements in residential building across the country. Highly regarded, they are an opportunity for builders and designers to showcase the results of high-quality design, workmanship, style, and functionality while measuring their achievements against their peers.

E

ach entrant competes with others in their category and are awarded gold, silver or bronze awards, regional category awards and the coveted Supreme Award.

Regional category winners are decided by pairs of nationally appointed judges, comprising an architect and a builder in each of the nine judging regions. Judging criteria is detailed and exhaustive and the winners need to show that all aspects have come together to produce a truly outstanding building.

There are seven New Home and three Renovation categories based on the value of the build with a number of other Award categories such as Builder’s Own Home, Show Home and Multi-Unit category for apartments, duplexes and terrace housing.

In addition, there are four National Lifestyle Awards, Bathroom Excellence Award, Kitchen Excellence Award, Craftsmanship Award, Outdoor Living Excellence Award, and the Sustainable Excellence Award.

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September 2021

All of the ‘Top 100’ proceed to the national competition.

The top three scorers in each category automatically gain placement in the Top 100, with the balance of places taken by the highest scorers overall.

The resulting kaleidoscope of winners, twenty-two in all, serves as a tremendous source of inspiration for anyone looking to build or renovate a home. You can see a range of photos for all project winners online on the House of the Year website. https://houseoftheyear.co.nz/

FEATURED HOMES Stonewood Homes - pages 31-35 Jennian Homes - pages 37-39

Jennian Homes were awarded a Gold Award.

T

he Nelson/Marlborough/West Coast Regional Supreme Award winner for 2021 is a home in the Resene New Home over $2 million dollar category on a semi-rural property in Redwood Valley. This home was built by Salter Builders who are no stranger to award success with a plethora of previous awards to their credit. This sleek and contemporary architecturally designed 400sqm home that features so many high-end features, celebrates the magnificent rural and sea vistas from most rooms, providing the owners with a haven that both embraces the landscape and provides every comfort for living. This year Salter Builders won the Gold Award New Home over $2 million; Category Winner new home over $2 million; Lifestyle Award - Outdoor Living Excellence; Lifestyle Award - Interior Design; Regional Supreme Award and 2021

Registered Master Builders House of the Year.

Why should you choose a Registered Master Builder?

Master Builders are backed by a trusted brand and build quality homes and buildings that last. They represent the best of the industry and uphold the highest standards.

Choosing to use a Master Builder means that you are choosing quality. To become a Master Builder, certain quality criteria must be met including building experience, trade and professional qualifications, on-site management experience, customer satisfaction and financial responsibility. And only a Master Builder can offer you peace of mind with a 10 Year Master Build Guarantee.

SUMMARY OF WINNERS Salter Builders

Gold Award

Home up to $450K

Supreme House of the Year Award

National Top 100

Gold Award

Winner - Resene New Home over $2 million Category

Roger Kenning Builders

National Top 100

Winner - Renovation $500,000 - $1 million Category

Scott Construction

Outdoor Living Excellence Award

Winner - Master Build 10-Year Guarantee

Hubbers Flooring and Soft Furnishings Regional Interior Design

Gold Award

Gold Award National Top 100

Winner - New Home $600,000 $750,000 Category

2 x Gold Award

Golden Bay Builders

Gold Award

National Top 100

Winner - New Home $1.5 million - $2 million Category

Mike Greer Homes Nelson

R Fry Builders

Winner - Volume/Group Housing New Home $450K - $750K

Winner - Builders Own Home Award

Pink Batts Craftsmanship Award Gold Award

Gold Award

National Top 100

Jennian Homes Nelson Bays - Richmond

You Build

Winner - New Home $450,000 $600,000 Category

Winner – CARTERS New Home $1 million - $1.5 million Category

B A Fahey Builders – Karoro, Greymouth

Multi Unit (Apartments/Duplexes/Terrace Housing) Award

Gold Award Mike Greer Homes Marlborough Winner - GIB Show Home Gold Award

Gold Award

Jason Gardiner Builders

Kitchen Excellence Award

2 x Silver Award

Gold Award

Gold Award

Stonewood Homes Nelson

Jennian Homes Marlborough

National Top 100

Winner - New Home up to $450,000 Category

Gold Award

Contemporary Homes Winner - Altus Window Systems New Home $750,000 - $1 million Category Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award

Gold Award

Stonewood Homes Blenheim

Silver Award

Silver Award

Milestone Homes Nelson Bays

GJ Gardener West Coast

Winner - Volume/Group Housing New

Gold Award

Re ach for the sk y

BUILDING

Award Winning Homes

0800 86 00 00 marlborough@stonewood.co.nz stonewood.co.nz

30

September 2021

Building Excellence with Award-Winning Standards Words Amy Russ Photos Matt Croad

M

ulti award-winning builders, Stonewood Homes, have done it again receiving a gold award, two silvers and a Regional Category award for the 2021 Registered Master Builder House of the Year. The annual event stand for excellence in residential construction, are recognised as a symbol of quality and are highly revered by both the industry and consumers.

Stonewood Homes Marlborough-based entry, ‘A Place for Space’, received a silver award in the Volume/Group Housing New Home up to $450,000 category for the brand new fourbedroom, two-bathroom, Witherlea build. Embracing the regions sun and breathtaking outdoors were key elements for the company's clients and Stonewood Home owner/operators, Brent and Tara Stewart, certainly delivered.

Judges commented that the team managed to create “a big footprint on a small spot” with outdoor living sharing top billing with a carefully crafted layout that creates maximum use of space. “The luxury of space is evident from the moment you pull up to the double garage or knock on the grand front door.

The galley kitchen, which incorporates a pantry, is a crisp and clever study in black and white. A beautifully glazed living area sits to one side, while a separate lounge adjoins this space.”

The judges say the outdoor deck is positioned perfectly to capture the sun and the inner sanctuary of the delightful main suite is the perfect retreat in the evenings.

Proud new homeowners, Heath Duncan and Claire Cullen, say their experience working with Stonewood Homes was one

31 45

32

September 2021

where expectations were exceeded. They were very pleased by the timing, attention to detail and the quality of the final finish with the kitchen, ensuite shower and cedar cladding being their favorite features.

The dedicated team at Stonewood Homes also won a gold, a silver and a regional award for their Nelson Tasman entries.

Tasman-based ‘You Little Beauty’ received both a gold award for New Home up to $450,000 and a regional category award. The brand-new three-bedroom home wowed the judges with its character touches and close attention to detail. The 160sqm property has everything you would expect in a much larger home. "Everywhere you look are

46

September 2021

details that set this place apart," judges remarked. "The kitchen, the point from which the living room, lounge and dining room flow, packs a stylish punch."

Stonewood Homes beautifully crafted show-home ‘Living the Dream’ in Richmond, Nelson, also received a silver award for its entry. Showcasing the very best the company can offer to prospective clients, the 220sqm pavilion-style house is a feast for the senses, expertly planned to accommodate everyone, combining relaxed family living with a stylish and striking interior that judges say is a home with modern-living at its best. “The smarts exhibited in the design are also evident in the styling – both inside and out.”

33

FIRTH.CO.NZ

THE TRUSTED

NAME IN

CONCRETE.

34

September 2021

Entering through the double entry doors you can expect quality and master workmanship throughout. Linea oblique feature cladding to interior entry walls, scissor truss ceiling to the living, dining, kitchen and lounge rooms finished with a decorative James Hardie grooved lining, custom-tiled ensuite bathroom, custom kitchen and pantry by award-winning Bays Joinery and a feature bar in the formal lounge are a few of the stunning features in this home.

For owners Brent and Tara receiving the prestigious awards is an exciting and humble showcase of the many quality homes built by their team and they believe that the home designs, quality finishing and workmanship sets their team apart.

For more information visit the Blenheim office at 6a Arthur Street, Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm (after hours by appointment). Contact Stonewood Homes 0800 86 00 00 or visit their website at www.stonewood.co.nz

35 47

SHOWHOMES

1 Piwakawaka Drive, Stoke 17 Rose Manor Drive, Blenheim

e more more ce. choice. c e choice. .

Mike Greer Homes offers a great selection of Home and Land packages

e

$689,000

Stag Ridge $785,000 Lot 2

Sunningdale Drive $789,000

Lot 159

Montebello $799,000

Reserve Views

Emma McCashin 021 682 787 o.nz emccashin@mikegreerhomes.co.nz Lot Huntaway 7Close 9 $859,000 Montebello $959,000 Lot 72 Lot 79

o

at tention to detail If you're looking to b

come home to more with Mike Greer Homes.

If you’re looking to buy or build a new home in the Nelson Tasman region, come home to more with Mike Greer Homes.

Homes For Sale

Homes

attention to detail is evident every home we Tasman build. region, If you're looking to buy or build ain new home in thethat Nelson

Homes For Sale

159 Appleby Fields

Greer

Mike G re er Home available throughout L and package s av

Mike Greer Homes has over 25 years of experience building homes that Mike Greer Homes has over 25 years experience building are characterised by design innovation andof quality workmanship.

T he homes are characterised by design innovation quality value of that our specialist knowledge and attention to detail is and evident in every home that The we build. workmanship. value of our specialist knowledge and

Lot

Mike

Mike Greer Homes offers a great selection of Home and available throughout the Nelson Tasman and Marlborough region.

Land packages available throughout the Nelson Tasman region.

Lot 57

Lot 33

Mike Greer Homes h Mike G re er Home are characterised by home s that are ch value of our specialis every home that The we workmanship.

come home to more If you’ re lo oking to region, come hom

Sunning

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under construction

Reserve Rural Views Views

Vanessa vclark@m

Vanessa Clark 027 733 1409 vclark@mikegreerhomes.co.nz

Montebello $929,000 Lot 84 m p l e te d completed 2020 c Rose o Manor $879,000 Lot 48

Sea Views

2020

Monte Rose M

Reserve Sea Views Views The Hilltops

Contact us

Showhome

MGH/012/NM

Contact us Showhome Dave Ch Dave Chambers 027 572 1958 Drive, Stoke 7951 Jordan McConnochie 426 vclark@mikegreerhomes.co.nz 7951 vclark@mikegreerhomes.co.nz Vanessa Clark 027 733027 1409 1 Piwakawaka dchambe dchambers@mikegreerhomes.co.nz es.co.nz jmcconnochie@mikegreerhomes.co.nz Open daily, 1pm-4pm emccashin@mikegreerhomes.co.nz Emma McCashin 021 682 787 emccashin@mikegreerhomes.co.nz

lark@mik egreerhomes.co.nz Vanessa Clark 027 733 1409 vclark@mikegreerhomes.co.nz 1 Piwakawaka Drive, Stoke es mccashin@mikegreerhomes.co.nz Emma McCashin 021 682 787 emccashin@mikegreerhomes.co.nz Open daily, 1pm–4pm

aka Drive, Stoke anor Drive, Blenheim

03 544 7873 mikegreerhomes.co.nz

nz

03 544 7873 o.nz mikegreerhomes.co.nz

36

September 2021

Jennian – homes with heart Words: Paula Hulburt Matt Croad

T

he silhouette of a plane catches the eye first, drawing the gaze in to the clean roof lines that are so reminiscent of the nearby Wither Hills.

Rockcote Graphex and Linea weatherboard combined with simple white add interest and texture to the walls while the curved flower beds outside add easy elegance and flow.

This well-appointed three-bedroom, two-bathroom home at Omaka Aerodrome is special, a clever meld of modern with traditional touches throughout.

The kitchen is a haven in white. Touches of wrought iron have been cleverly combined with modern twists to create a space that is both clever and easy to enjoy. A marbled island sits at the heart of the open plan kitchen dinning area, both welcoming and functional in design. A walk-in pantry, large workspaces and the convenience of a gas cooker make this the perfect kitchen to create culinary delights.

Natural light spills into the room and creates dappled pools of gold on the beautiful dark wood floors, enhancing the relaxed and imminently liveable atmosphere throughout the 195sqm home.

A decent sized dining area sits off the kitchen, offering the perfect room for both socialising and cosy dinners. The clever use of light enhances the space, making it both inviting and practical. Sliding doors give easy access to a beautiful enclosed private courtyard and patio, making that all important indoor, outdoor flow a breeze.

For creators Jennian Homes, it was important to create a high-end home that not only ticked all the boxes for their clients but surpassed their expectations too.

The vision for Jennian Homes Marlborough, is to continue to build affordable quality homes throughout Marlborough and a sense of pride comes from being backed by a National Brand and collective buying power. Jennian has a very secure place in the Residential Building Market and are proud to provide and deliver an affordable quality product in a market that is seeing many delays. Jennian Homes Marlborough’s sponsorship initiatives and community support is testament to this.

It is clear they take great pride in their design and build process, working closely with clients from the very first time they walk into the office or display home until the day they get the keys to their brand-new home. Every care is taken to ensure the client’s dream becomes a reality, and the house at Omaka really is a dream come true.

So what makes Jennian different or sets them apart?

Having the most qualified and experienced construction team here in Marlborough, which delivers guaranteed build times and an affordable, quality product, backed up by Gold Awards is without question, the point of difference.

The design team and interior designer works closely with all their clients to create a home that is uniquely their own.

The Omaka home and build is never better illustrated here.

Moving seamlessly from the dining room into the main living space, the care taken and attention to detail is immediately clear. With a bespoke and stylish wooden feature wall and a striking wrought iron candelabra, the connections between the rooms is clever and pleasing.

37

We’ve Won Gold... Again!

Build your new home with your local Award Winning Builder.

Come on over...

75th Jennian Lottery Home 14 Rose Manor Drive

Jennian Homes Marlborough 20 Scott Street, Blenheim P 03 578 2017 | E marlborough@jennian.co.nz | jennian.co.nz

38

September 2021

The perfect meld of classic and modern, the room boasts a soft grey carpet that invites cosy nights in while the open plan layout makes this an entertainer’s dream.

If you are considering building the team at Jennian welcome your enquiry.

Stepping out of the social areas into the bedrooms, the sense of stillness exudes calm and relaxation. Both the main bathroom and spacious ensuite are light, bright and clean with crisp lines and the kind of finishing touches that make this home truly unique.

In the master bedroom, muted dove grey walls provide the perfect backdrop to showcase art and make a statement while the light filled room is like an oasis of tranquillity and space, the perfect place to relax and unwind in in both style and comfort. Sliding doors again lead to the private patio, cleverly linking the house.

The sun filled courtyard is the perfect space for dining al fresco or just relaxing and enjoying the deep blue skies that span overhead. Splashes of colour along the easy-care courtyard come courtesy of camelias and potted shrubs brighten.

Different seating areas make the most of this great outdoors area, which tracks the sun as it moves across the sky throughout the day. Every care has been taken with this build, ensuring it is a home you want to come back to.

HEART FOUNDATION: Jennian Homes proudly partners with the New Zealand Heart Foundation to build their Heart Foundation Lottery.

The Heart Foundation Lottery partnered with Jennian have built more than 75 first-prize dream homes together. We’re changing lives, home by home, not only for our lucky winners but for all New Zealanders.

The lottery support helps to fund life-saving heart health initiatives, building healthier Kiwi communities. Every Jennian home is part of this amazing journey.

Jennian Homes Marlborough franchise owner Angela Mead says the partnership with the Heart Foundation is a wonderful association for all involved.

“Jennian Nationally build six Heart Foundation Lottery homes throughout the year which each can be won. This is our second Marlborough Lottery Home that we have built. Situated at 14 Rose Manor Drive, Springlands. It will be launched on Monday 30th of August and runs until the 29 October 2021, with a winner announced on the 5th of November 2021.

38

September 2021

“If you buy a $15 ticket you are not only supporting a great cause, you could win a Jennian home, valued at $845,000, fully furnished, landscaped and ready to go. There is also a brand new vehicle and other prizes to be won in the Heart Foundation Lottery.”

The effortless style of the Jennian 75th Heart Foundation Lottery Home consists of three generous bedrooms, two bathrooms, a separate laundry and ample storage.

The open plan living centres around a modern kitchen with access to the north facing alfresco area making it an entertainer's dream. From the street, a striking monochromatic exterior provides excellent street appeal.

All proceeds from the sale of Lottery tickets fund vital heart health research to help stop families losing loved ones to heart disease.

39

1

3

2

SIDECAR & REGISTERED MASTER SWING STARSHIP BUILDERS APPRENTICE OF FUNDRAISER THE YEAR AWARDS Blenheim

4

5

Renwick

1. Adam & Stacey Goble 2.

1.

3.

2.

Daniel Ah-Loy & Tonielle John and Trevor Tovey Purdy Fran Nolan Anna Moore Rowan Lee,&Donna Lee, Daniel OKeefe

Scott Kinzett& Vinita Mala 4. and Wendy Tantrum

6

3. Brent and Cameron Palmer-Mcgruer 5.

LouisaWoodward & Ben Leggett 4. Mike HenrySpooner Leov and 6. & Mark AdamLovelock Tavave

7

5. Ruth KelvinThompson, and Jess Deaker 7.

Aimee McIntyre 6.

8.

7.

& KatrinaCampbell Lange and William Reimers Mathew Tracey Blisset, PaulHamish McKenzie & Hillary Hicks Fergus Kearns and Scott

9.

Murphy, Jessie 8. John Rodney Wiblim, GaryMurphy, Cooke and Daniel Small Gemma Wilkinson & Laura Huntely

9. Stuart Caulfield, Neville Ward and Kieren Mallon 10. Jo Spooner, Charlotte Patterson & Sarah Tavave 10. Meghan Deaker, Donna Ryan and Hamish Ryan MALINDA SARAH BROWN BONIFACE

8

9

10

40

September 2021

1

3

2 4

REMAX BLENHEIM REGISTERED MASTER BUILDERS OPENING Blenheim APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARDS 1. Helen Ronchi & Glen Godsiff

5

Renwick 2. Kay Shearer, Sue Godsiff & Kate Bradley

3.

1.

4.

2.

5.

6

Keith Niederer, Mala Maharaj & Anna O’Hagan John and Trevor Tovey Mala Gepp and Luke Dobson-Sinclair Rowan Lee, Donna Lee, Daniel OKeefe MalaScott Maharaj, Charlotte Murphy and Kinzett & Anna Turner 3. Brent Woodward and Cameron Palmer-Mcgruer 6. Mark Coleman & Debbie Godsiff 4. Henry Leov and Mark Lovelock 7. Scott Bradley & Catherine Griffin 5. Kelvin and Jess Deaker 8. Philip & Wendy James with Revti Verma 6. Mathew Campbell and William Reimers 9. Mala Maharaj, Kate Bradley, Don Ha 7. & Fergus Kearns and Hamish Scott Graham Heath 8.

Rodney &Wiblim, Gary Cooke andGodsiff Daniel Small 10. Pamela Errol McConnell, Chris

7

& Jeremy Shearer 9. Stuart Caulfield, Neville Ward and Kieren Mallon

10. Meghan Deaker, Donna Ryan and Hamish Ryan

8

MALINDA MATT BROWN BONIFACE

9

10

41

The stunning vista of Lochmara.

N

Niki and Chris with their family, Caleb, Kartjana, Rylie, Brad, Tori, Briana, Chris, Niki, Adaline and Declan (in front).

Once discovered, never forgotten

iki Penberthy and Chris Bensemann first fell in love with Lochmara Lodge as visitors, enticed by the resort’s captivating waterfront and peaceful ambience.

For the pair, returning to the lodge in July as its new owners was the perfect move and as they gear up for opening in September, they are looking forward to welcoming old friends and new.

It was something of a baptism by fire as the 14room resort and waterfront café took the full impact of a storm system which battered the region, leaving a deluge of mess in its wake on the land.

“

The region is also home for me and that was a big lure...

Chris Bensemann

But with the help of amazing staff, friends, family and former owners Shayne Olsen and Louise Bright, the 11 acres of land surrounding the resort is starting to look better and is in great shape for the upcoming season.

The pair, with help from staff, friends and family, have devoted hours cleaning up and repairing the resort paradise to its former glory ready for guests.

Continuing with and protecting the legacy which first began 22 years ago is very important for the couple.

“Our overarching goal for the first 12 months is to learn and observe all that is Lochmara. We wish to continue the legacy that is Lochmara.

“Shayne and Louise have created this paradise for families with so many activities and educational opportunities. We wish to leverage this and continue to enhance, further develop and grow what they have begun – but first we must learn,” says Niki.

It will be a change of pace for the couple, but one they are looking forward to embracing.

42

September 2021

Chris previously worked with the NZ Police while Niki was in Tertiary Education. Both have spent many years in management and leadership roles, with customer service the priority.

With five children and two grandchildren, the pair are looking forward to creating more magical memories, not just for their own family but for their guests too.

It seemed the lure of opportunity to take over the reins at Lochmara was primarily down to timing.

“It just seemed like everything lined up and it ticked the best of Chris and my skills and wishes for the next stage in our families lives.

“The region is also home for me and that was a big lure, also with the location and regional community feel we had been used to for most of our lives,” Chris says.

They firmly believe Lochmara’s continued point of difference is its unique setting and being so close to the port town of Picton.

They love that the resort has so much to offer, no matter what their guests are looking for.

“Families can come here and choose to fill their days with walks, animal feeding, kayaking/paddle boarding, or simply relax in the warmth and read a good book or play a game – all the while enjoying great food and drink from our restaurant. It is a family destination so close to Picton that people can pop in for a visit or choose to stay for a night or more.”

“We also come with fresh ideas, and we have been excited by our staff and their exciting ideas too. So watch this space over the coming few years and join us in continuing to keep the paradise that is Lochmara a firm favourite for all”.

Health

The bright side of being in the sun Do you find yourself seeking out the sun in winter or wondering why you feel so much better when the weather is good? It turns out there may be a scientific reason for this.

Words: Dr Marissa Kelaher

V

itamin D is a unique vitamin we mostly manufacture within ourselves in response to sunlight on our skin.

We get very little of it from food.

As a result, scientists now believe that low vitamin D is just a marker for a lack of sun, and that the benefits of sunlight extend far beyond vitamin D levels.

It has many roles, including helping with calcium/phosphate metabolism, control of cell growth, immune function, insulin production, blood pressure regulation, bone and muscle strength, and improving mood.

When skin is exposed to sun, it produces nitrous oxide - a molecule that dilates blood vessels, reduces blood pressure, induces a sense of euphoria and wellbeing, improves blood flow to tissues, and helps insulin sensitivity.

Severe vitamin D deficiency can cause muscle pain and bone weakness in adults, as well as rickets (soft bones) in children.

Interestingly, nitrous oxide is also produced when you eat fruit and vegetables!

Low vitamin D levels have also been linked to a shorter life expectancy, as well as higher rates of autoimmune disease, allergies, diabetes, cancers, dementia, multiple sclerosis, heart disease, blood clots, strokes, and mental health issues.

Sun exposure also triggers the release of serotonin and endorphins (happy hormones), improving mood.

In the past few decades public health advice has been to cover up in the sun, due to the increased risk of skin cancer with high levels of sun exposure, especially in New Zealand.

There is now growing evidence that safe sun exposure may reduce the risk of ailments and diseases linked to low vitamin D. An article in the Journal of Internal Medicine even concluded that avoiding sun could harm health as much as cigarette smoking.

Yet trials supplementing vitamin D have had mixed results.

A large-scale trial published in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine (2019) showed that routine supplementation of vitamin D did not reduce the risk of cancers or heart disease risk at all.

In contrast, some other trials have shown that correcting vitamin D deficiency may improve allergies, immunity, risk of falls in the elderly, and bone and muscle strength, plus autoimmune diseases (especially MS), and dementia.

But the advice always is taking it in small doses. In New Zealand our ultraviolet levels are high in summer, and so are our melanoma (skin cancer) rates, so caution is needed, and getting sunburnt is to be avoided, definitely.

Sunbeds are not recommended as an alternative because of the higher UVs they emit – some are said to be more potent than the midday sun, while wearing sunscreen and covering up while outside is important.

In Nelson we are lucky to have a lot of sunny days, as well as beautiful places in which to enjoy them. To reap the benefits of a safe dose of sunlight, head outside in the early morning or the late afternoon during summer. Any time of the day in winter is fine – it’s all about balance.

Dr Marissa Kelaher is a Nelson based GP who runs lifestyle, nutritional medicine and plant-based health clinics. She is based at Nelson Family Medicine.

Check out Marissa’s blogs and health and wellness tips on Facebook and Instagram @thesimplicitydoctor

43 79

Art & culture

The Matala Project will take place on Saturday October 9 at the ASB Theatre. Photo: Supplied.

The flourishing of Fua Creative WORDS: CHRIS VALLI

SUPPLIED

For Vita and Nicole Vaaka starting Fua Creative was about realising a dream and making a positive contribution to the Marlborough arts acene and community.

A

s an organisation, Fua Creative’s vision is to provide innovative arts and mentoring programmes to service professional, community and educational sectors.

Vita Vaka, a young Pacific entrepreneur, started Fua Creative to integrate his passion and skills in Arts and Entertainment, Pacific Culture, Holistic well-being and community work. He now operates as the Creative Director of Fua, working alongside his wife Nicole and other arts practitioners in Marlborough.

“We wanted to pave a way for others to walk in success and actualise their creative potential and dreams” says Nicole.

‘Fua’, is a Tongan word that translates to mean a few different things depending on the context, but according to Nicole the group refer to it as “fruitfulness” or “to blossom and flourish”.

It goes in line with a well known Te Reo Maori proverb “Mai te kakano ki nga hua” which translates “From the seed to the fruit”, this describes our passion to see potential actualized and not remain as potential.

Fua Creative works in collaboration with the Primary and Intermediate Schools as well as the two Colleges in Marlborough to provide a Pasifika Performing Arts Programme.

Nicole says this is different in each school and based on the needs of the school and their learners.

“We really appreciate how much the schools value Pasifika culture, arts and creativity – their participation in our Pasifika Performing Arts programmes sends a really clear message that Pasifika culture and the arts in general is valued in a student’s learning journey and within this community. “ The couple, originally from Auckland, Vita moved to Blenheim five years ago. Nicole describes her husband as a Pacific multidisciplinary artist.

“The Arts scene in Auckland was very different, there were lots of opportunities for me to create, showcase and be involved with performing arts. The work I did was always really well supported and I didn’t have to convince people of the value of my work.

When I moved to Marlborough it was really different, Pacific Performing Arts was quite new – don’t get me wrong there was Pacific Arts in Marlborough but a thriving Pacific Arts scene was not what I was walking into here.

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September 2021

“I remember applying for a couple of funding grants to write and produce a Pacific Theatre Production (Mafana) and a funder questioned me about why they should fund this project in Marlborough when there was a thriving Pacific Performing Arts scene in Auckland with a much bigger Pacific population and uptake and ticket sales would be much more popular. It was at that moment that I realised my “why.”

Nicole says the application for funding had a reason, a purpose.

“Why shouldn’t funding be given to Marlborough where Pacific are a minority? I realised I had a purpose. To put into practice what I had studied and learnt over the years in my performing arts career and invest into building Pacific Arts in this region.

I wanted to give young Pacific people and aspiring artists of all cultures and backgrounds a platform to experience Pacific contemporary and multi-disciplinary arts.”

Nicole says their vision and goals can make a positive difference in peoples’ lives.

It is a way of enhancing holistic wellbeing and helping spark creative passions, she believes.

“We think that the arts, creative practices and mentoring can really make a difference in the lives of people. We work with a lot of rangatahi and the combination of arts and mentoring gives them a platform to express themselves creatively and authentically in a safe way.

“The wellbeing of people is really important to us and the arts is a way to be able to enhance holistic wellbeing, while also stimulating our own creative passions.”

Nicole says the calendar is looking healthy with the Pasifika Proud Programme and Pasifika Performing Arts (work within schools across Marlborough) will be showcased at the Marlborough Pasifika Festival on Saturday August 25. The Matala Project (Tongan for growth or blooming of flowers) will have a one night only show on Saturday October 9 at the ASB Theatre.

The Fua Creative cast of 17 will be performing Matala in the Nelson Arts Festival on Wednesday, October 27 and Thursday, October 28. The performance will represent the ‘new wave’ of Pasifika voices in Te Tau Ihu (top of the south iwi/tribes) in a fusion of original song and music, spoken word, krump (street dance) and contemporary dance.

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Gardening

Spring is in the air, so get planting September is a busy month in the garden calendar. The days are getting longer and the weather warmer. The promise of a long hot summer and a bumper harvest is in the air!

Kitchen Garden If you haven’t already prepared the soil now is the time to get started. If it doesn’t need turning over, then spread a couple of bags of compost over the bare soil and dig through the top layer before you plant.

Empty your compost bin, it is ready when it is the consistency of lumpy soil, don’t plant straight in to it though, it is too rich, leave for a few weeks before planting.

Frost will be you biggest enemy now, be vigilant. Drape frost cloth over but not touching the plants. If it is too close a hard frost will freeze it to the plants.

Sow seeds: carrots, parsnip, beetroot, silverbeet, peas, lettuces, leeks, cabbage, tomato, capsicum, courgette, melon, cucumber and eggplant. Transplant to the garden as the weather warms and when they are showing at least two sets of true leaves.

Plant seedlings: Lettuce, leeks, cabbage, corn, pumpkin, celery, onions, silverbeet, courgettes.

Garden Colour Continue replacing your winter flowers with new spring annuals as needed. A pinch of blood & bone as you plant your annuals will give them a head start.

Continue to replant your pots, if the potting soil is old it will be depleted, remove the old soil, add new container mix and fresh new flowers.

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September 2021

Sow seeds: begonias, carnations, cosmos, flowering kale, impatiens, lobelia, salvia, viola, poppies. Transplant to the garden as the weather warms and when they are showing at least two sets of true leaves.

Plant seedlings: ageratum, alyssum, aster, begonia, californian poppy, carnation, cosmos, dahlia, impatiens, marigold, and petunia.

Trees and Shrubs Plant new trees and shrubs, dig compost with the soil and add a long term fertiliser to the bottom of the hole.

Plant that hedge, use a long term fertiliser at the bottom of each hole. For easy watering use a soaker hose, lay out along the planting line, move when necessary.

Plant large shade trees, stake firmly at the time of planting.

Lawn Sow new lawn; take advantage of the spring rain and warmth to germinate new seed.

Fertilise your lawn for spring. Apply evenly across the whole lawn and water in.

Spray for onehunga weed, it comes in to flower in September and October now is the time to spray for it.

Attack the broadleaf weeds in the lawn. Wait for a calm day before using any sprays.

Recipe

Greek RIZOGALO Recipe by Helene Marchant from Eleni

“This is the dessert that always brings back memories of my childhood. It’s also great for kids as they always like rice.

It’s the Greek Rice pudding - enjoy.”

Helene Ingredients

Method

2 cups medium rice (I always wash this well)

Bring together in a non stick saucepan the rice, salt, water and the cinnamon stick

1 can coconut cream

to a boil. Turn heat down and simmer until most of the water evaporates. 20- 25

1 can sweet condensed milk

mins approx.

1 can coconut milk 3 cups milk 3 cups water

Then add together the coconut cream and milk and the condensed milk and normal milk.

Vanilla Essence 2 tbls

Add the Vanilla essence. Bring to boil and then simmer stirring every few minutes

1/4 tsp salt

for around 30 minutes.

1 cinnamon stick

Pour into bowls and sprinkle with cinnamon.

Cinnamon for sprinkling on top at the end You can eat them hot or cold, they’re delicious both ways.

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April 2020 2021 September

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September 2021

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