Kowhai Summer Edition 2021

Kowhai SUMMER EDITION 2021

BACKROAD TRAVEL Ross and Eleanor take us off the beaten track.

FEEDING HUNGRY KIWIS Naturebox empowers people to grow food.

DAVID TRUBRIDGE The story you didn’t know behind his iconic lights.

e m o c l We mer edition

ot our suKmōwhai of

Birds are chirping, bees are pollinating, and sun-lovers are bathing.

As our days flood with warmth and sunshine, there’s no better time to step back and look at how we choose to live.

You’ve likely heard of conscious buying where consumers shop ethically, causing less harm to the environment and people. And sustainable living where people adopt earth-friendly habits. Well, combine the two and you have conscious living. Which is what this summer edition of Kōwhai is all about.

We’ve scoured Aotearoa for conscious living leaders. David Trubridge – artist, maker, household name – finds his inspiration on the beach, on the sea, and in the mountains (page 16).

Blair and Ollie took a similar approach when starting Naturebox. They entered Mt Aspiring National Park with an idea and a 6-pack of beers.

They emerged with a business designed to help Kiwis sustainably grow food for their whānau (page 10).

Ross and Eleanor love to lock up their Ryman residence and hit the road. Firm believers in ‘leaving no trace’ the pair adventure Aotearoa every chance they get – often in convoy and always with happy hour supplies on board (page 4).

We’ve been inspired by these remarkable people and many more! We hope you are too. And if you’re ever feeling short on inspiration, simply lace up your shoes, step into nature, and take a deep breath. Our big Kiwi backyard will show you the way (page 6).

Kylie And the Ryman team

In this issue 04

WE’RE OFF ON AN ADVENTURE with seasoned road trippers Ross and Eleanor.

06

OUR BIG KIWI BACKYARD is waiting to be explored this summer.

08

MARKO, BEEKEEPER AND CHEF has brought beehives to Ryman’s Charles Upham Village.

06 16

10

NATUREBOX IS DETERMINED to help Kiwis grow healthy food at home.

12

DELICIOUS PLANTBASED RECIPES with Ryman’s very own carnivore, Chef Troy.

10

14

18

REBEKA STAGES HOMES that make prospective buyers fall in love.

16

DAVID TRUBRIDGE’S ART resides in homes and public spaces across Aotearoa.

18

PRE-LOVED HIGH FASHION is Bridget Brownrigg’s passion. She also loves helping others.

The open road ROS S AND EL EA NOR A RE EXP ERIENC ED ROAD T RIP P ERS .

Everywhere we go “ there’s something different. ”

4 | Kõwhai

With his ukulele in tow, Ross and Eleanor have spent years exploring Aotearoa in their motorhome. Often travelling in a convoy with friends, they prefer to take the back roads and explore paths less travelled.

Fishing the canals of the South Island keeps them busy while on the road, as does walking and e-biking. And for the past 10 years, they’ve been regulars at country music festivals across New Zealand thanks to Ross’s passion for the ukulele.

Ross picked up the ukulele in retirement. He says it’s a common instrument for motorhomers to play. “It’s easy to learn, easy to carry, and they’re small.” Ross started playing at 65. “At the time it was the growing instrument, all the schools were changing to them.” He went on to build his own, keeping some and selling others. “I hand-built the one I play now 10 years ago.”

His craftsmanship is impressive, but Ross doesn’t have a history in woodworking. “Just a typical Kiwi – you pick up wood, steel, and you make something.”

These days, Ross is playing less ukulele, choosing to travel more and ride his bike. “I head out every Thursday for a 30-40km ride with a group.” He feels a sense of freedom when riding his bike that mirrors the freedom he and Eleanor feel when travelling in their motorhome. “You can go anywhere in a motorhome.

Usually, 2-3 of us head away together, stopping by country music events, balloon festivals, highland games – we go all over the place!”

Happy hour is “ compulsory at 4pm

every day. We all put our feet up and tell lies.

”

Residents at Ryman’s Ernest Rutherford Village, Ross and Eleanor love how their Ryman lifestyle lets them take off whenever they like.

“It is a great way to live. We can jump in the motorhome and go. No gardens to worry about, no lawns to mow, and the house is secure.”

Ross is in his element when playing music, exploring the countryside, and trading yarns. “They’re a pretty social bunch, motorhomers.”

Ross and Eleanor make an effort to support smaller towns and less tourist-heavy regions when on the road. “They look after us as well, it goes both ways.” Members of the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association (NZMCA), they often use the association’s member-only parks.

“They’re published in the member-

only travel directory – all secure and only a few dollars a night. There are thousands of places you can go.”

This network of parks across the country suit Ross and Eleanor’s approach to motorhoming. “We just go with the flow.”

And their relaxed approach to life is well deserved. Ross worked for Nelson’s port company for 40 years as a skipper on their dredge and pilot launch, and then as a tug master for the last 20 years. “It was a fairly good job, but I didn’t enjoy the crazy hours!

We were on call 24/7 with an hours’ notice to get to work. There was always stuff cropping up out of the blue. It was full-on.” Which explains why he and Eleanor’s lifestyle in retirement is focused on relaxation, freedom, and absolutely no worries.

Kõwhai | 5

Getout there y DISCOVER WHAT AOTEAROA’S SUMMER HOTSPOTS HAVE TO OFFER.

When travelling this summer, pull over every chance you get.

Because the real adventure begins when we stop. From local delicacies to impromptu picnics by pretty streams, let’s embrace the unexpected this season.

01 K A IKOU R A

coastline

Turn off the main road to explore the many small settlements along the Kaikōura coastline. This is a great destination for motorhomes. Swim with playful dolphins, taste Kaikōura’s renowned crayfish, take a cruise to spot the whales and hire kayaks to explore a coastline teeming with wildlife and picturesque views.

Rich with culture and the home of several must-see homewares stores, there really is something for everyone. And if you’re here to be one with nature, check out the Kaikōura Coast Track, a private 2-day walk at kaikouratrack.co.nz.

“W e couldn’t be luckier,

having New Zealand as our big backyard.

”

6 | Kõwhai

After a quick 30-minute drive along the unsealed Mavora Lakes Road, you’ll find North Mavora and South Mavora patiently waiting for swimming, paddling, walking, and resting. These two serene lakes are nestled amid forest and tussock grasslands.

South Mavora Lake Walking Track: 2.5 hours walk

Mavora Lakes

03

Lake Mavora to the Kiwi Burn Hut: 4 hours walk

02

LEAVE NOTHING BUT FOOTPRINTS AND TAKE ONLY THESE INCREDIBLE MEMORIES.

W HA RA RIKI B E AC H

Accessible via a 20-minute walking track at the end of Wharariki Road, this north-facing sandy beach is windswept, raw, and beautiful. It also boasts a delightful resident seal colony.

West Coast New Zealand at its finest.

Skinny-dip in a remote lake

Tūrangi & Tongariro River Underrated Tūrangi is a great destination for summer fun. Fishing lovers know it as the unofficial trout fishing headquarters of New Zealand. For those preferring to sit on top of the water than wade up it, you'll find whitewater (and white-knuckle) thrills at Tongariro River Rafting, trr.co.nz.

04

05

W E ’ VE BEEN (A LMOST ) EVERY W H ER E, M AN

A destination for the experienced traveller, Medlands Beach on Great Barrier Island is off the beaten track. Home to only 1,000 full-time residents, the island is off-grid without Wi-Fi or reception.

Must-do otearoa Ab

Heli hike on the Fox or Franz Josef glaciers

Walk among the giants at The Redwoods, Whakarewarewa Forest

Swim with playful dolphins

Explore the tracks, views, and beaches in Abel Tasman National Park

Always purchase local produce and speciality foods to try Kõwhai | 7

The Village Buzzzzz

t

Ryman villages are known for their buzz.

Laughter, banter, activities, …bees?

Marko is integrating beekeeping into village life. The chef at Ryman’s Charles Upham Village recently delivered two hives to the village.

He’s sourcing the bees from his own hive at home. “They don’t do much over winter, but the spring population will grow and fill their box, so I’ve split some off for the village hives.”

Each hive should produce a queen or Marko will source a queen from a breeder. While there’s a bit of work involved, he’s excited to share his results with the village. “The first season will be quiet, but the honey will grow season after season.”

In the interest of sustainability, Marko tries to do as much as he can in the village. “But I have to take the honey home to process it because I have a centrifuge there.” The trick to producing good quality honey is healthy bees. And Marko thinks the Ryman bees couldn’t have a better home. “There’s plenty of food in the village garden and they’ll fly a radius of 3.5km if they need more.”

The bees live in a central spot where everyone can enjoy them.

“One of the village gardeners is a fantastic artist and has painted the hives with landscape designs.”

And residents who are former beekeepers have talked Marko into running a market day.

Marko himself is no stranger to the benefits of bees. “Bees have always been part of my life. There was a man in Austria during my early childhood who had built a hut using beehives.

In winter they kept him warm. In summer, I would visit with my great grandfather and a jar to get honey.”

Thank you, Marko and Ryman’s Charles Upham Village bees.

I love food so looking after “ nature is important to me. ” 8 | Kõwhai

Feeding the bees

THERE'S ONE GARDEN THE CHARLES UPHAM VILLAGE BEES WON’T PASS BY.

Peter and Diane have planted a flower-filled oasis in their village garden. While this may be the smallest garden they’ve designed, they’ve made the most of every square meter. And after decades spent developing gardens in both New Zealand and Australia, it’s no surprise their garden is a showstopper.

Their low-maintenance Ryman lifestyle gives Peter and Diane more time than ever to get their hands dirty.

When they’re not working on their own garden, they give other residents a hand and tend the village’s main entrance garden.

Diane likes having “different rooms” within the garden.

Rhododendrons, trilliums, and azaleas can be found on the south-facing side of their townhouse while the living room looks out on generously planted gaura, brownleea, verbena, and salvia.

And their garden comes to life in late spring and summer. Diane loves a good display of spring bulbs and Peter loves getting the garden ready to showcase their summer flowers. “Some days we’re out in the gardens for five or six hours a day”, says greenfingered Diane. But she explains that “it doesn’t feel like work when you enjoy it so much”.

Maintaining lawns and garden bed edges has been a passion for Peter since starting a neighbourhood lawn mowing business in high school. And Diane’s upbringing in a large family meant daily harvesting of the garden for the family dinner table.

It was this increase in spare time they were seeking when they moved to the village after buying a townhouse off the plan. And Diane is delighted.

“I just love it here. I’ve been happy since day one.”

Special thanks to Peter and Diane for sharing their love of gardening.

Kõwhai | 9

The duo making

‘homegrown’ mainstream Co-owners of Naturebox Ollie Hoare and Blair Kippenberger are helping Kiwis grow their own food.

Forget farm to table, these two are bringing homegrown veggies to the back door.

Naturebox offers vegetable and herb seedling packs, planter crates, and growing information to help Kiwis grow food anywhere. Ollie says it best. “This is for everyone. We're showing people that they can grow their own food, no matter their living situation." He and Blair, a couple of mates who love the outdoors, are helping Kiwis grow food in their backyards, on balconies, and even doorsteps. And they’re reducing grocery bills and increasing healthy homegrown meals as a result.

All while showing the business world that profit and the environment aren't mutually exclusive. “They're seen as contradictory, but we're working to show that profitable business can also benefit the environment." As a startup, the pair are in a unique position. “We can be flexible, so we have core values that direct us while we’re developing a business model that works financially and does good.”

10 | Kõwhai

Blair knows what it takes from a business and marketing perspective.

With 12 years of experience in the startup industry, he has already built and sold a successful nationwide business. Combined with Ollie’s complementary skillset featuring a finance degree and sustainability background, these two make a strong team.

In true Naturebox fashion, the business plan was drafted on an overnight tramp through Mt. Aspiring National Park. Blair explains that they “talked for 36 hours and by the time we emerged we had a business plan”. But first, they had to reach Liverpool Hut. “That was a challenge.

Ollie was fitter so he dragged me up – although I did have a 6-pack of beers weighing me down.” The two reached the top, “had a brew”, and agreed that the idea was a go.

That was mid-December 2020.

Following a summer break and plenty of work, Naturebox was launched in February 2021. And Ollie found himself in his element. “Plants and

the environment are what get me going.” Before relocating to Wanaka where he currently resides, Ollie “plunged into regeneration projects in the Bay of Plenty”. He fell in love with the natural world and was determined to ‘do good’ moving forward. And Dunedin-based Blair has caught that passion. Shortly before Ollie came to Blair with the idea, he had planted a vegetable garden. “I loved it. I couldn’t stop talking about it.” And that’s what Naturebox is all about. “We get hands in soil, there are mental and physical health benefits, people are empowered to grow their own food, we help them learn a new skill, and there are wider environmental benefits.”

So, how do a couple of mates keep focused on the business? “It makes the work fun. Our Naturebox Winter Summit was held mid-winter at an AirBnB in Naseby. We shut ourselves in and talked Naturebox all weekend until we realized we’d forgotten to go curling!”

MAINSTREAM MEANS BEING ACCESSIBLE Blair explains that “a lot of people don’t know they can do this”.

Times have changed and higher density housing is common. “That’s where the design of the planter crates came from.” Ollie and Blair designed a solution for small space gardens. “If you have a sunny spot, you can fit one of these in.”

Orders are taken through their website for planter crates, soil if needed, and seasonal seedlings that are tailored to Aotearoa's growing climate. Crates arrive fully assembled and light enough to carry or as a kitset. “The idea is to make it as easy as possible for people. We set them up to succeed.”

Committed to supporting local, Naturebox partners with Palmerston North family business Awapuni Nurseries to grow and deliver their seedlings. “They’ve made the partnership easy, they’re unbelievably good to deal with.” Dunedin’s Cargill Enterprises is another partner.

The trading arm of the Disabled Citizens Society (Otago) Inc., Cargill employs over 80 people with intellectual disabilities.

Blair and Ollie know there’s a long way to go as they start challenging the status quo in society and business. “The way we build our cities and interact with the natural world is a story of separation. We’re working to find sustainable opportunities that bridge that gap in a profitable way.”

So, where to from here for Naturebox? Ollie and Blair are committed to providing a seamless, rewarding experience for customers feeding their whānau and friends. The pair are proving that homegrown food is easier than ever.

As Blair says, “lettuce do the hard work for you”. And while they’re “walking before we run and focusing on executing really well”, they also have an eye on the horizon. “There are plenty of opportunities to grow the business while having a positive impact.”

Learn more about Naturebox at naturebox.co.nz

that “ Itherealised success of

Naturebox would mean success for the natural world as well. If we all plant a garden, no matter how small, we can each make an impact to improve our environment.

”

How Naturebox

Stacks Up

We asked Celia and Hugh, residents at Ryman’s Bruce McLaren Village to review Naturebox for us.

“The process has been excellent and Naturebox was very responsive when we had questions.

The box was a bit heavy at our age! But the Ryman gardeners helped us set it up. We filled it with the lettuce, runner beans, and spring onions we’d ordered through Naturebox and planted the leftover herbs in another pot.

Everything’s growing well and we’re already enjoying the lettuce and herbs in our salads.

Our neighbours want one for their balcony – or even two! It’s so easy to use. We are having heaps of fun growing our own vegetables in a convenient patio space off our apartment. We plan to add strawberries next!”

Kõwhai | 11

A plantbased

feast

Chef Troy is a passionate advocate for plant-based eating. He’s also a carnivore.

Troy grew up in India where vegetarian diets are common. As chef at Ryman’s Diana Isaac Village, he’s committed to providing nutritious and delicious vegetable dishes. And they’re proving to be a hit with the residents. “A balanced diet is very important. I love meat but I eat a wide range of vegetables as well. They’re delicious when prepared well.”

Maharashtrian P OTATO D U M PL IN GS ( BATATA VA DA ) Serves 4 INGREDIENTS

250g potatoes, peeled and diced 15g ginger 4 cloves garlic 2 green chillies ½ tsp mustard seeds ½ tsp cumin seeds 10 curry leaves, roughly chopped 1 tsp turmeric 2 cups chickpea flour ½ tsp asafoetida ½ tbsp chilli powder Salt, to taste Chopped coriander (optional)

" This was my favourite street food growing up in Mumbai" 12 | Kõwhai

" This dish is a really good vegan dip that originated in Lebanon"

METHOD

1. Steam (or boil) the potatoes then mash roughly. Set aside.

2. Make a paste with the ginger, garlic, and chillies and set aside.

3. In a frying pan, add oil and fry the mustard seeds until they crackle. Add the cumin seeds and the curry leaves. Then add ½ the turmeric and the garlic, ginger, chilli paste. Lightly fry.

Add the mixture to the roughly mashed potato and blend well.

Optional: add chopped coriander to the potato mixture for added zing.

4. Cool the potato mix slightly and roll it into evenly sized balls.

5. Use the chickpea flour, asafoetida, chilli powder, and the remaining turmeric to make a batter by slowly adding water while mixing.

6. Coat the potato balls in the batter and deep-fry immediately until they float to the top.

7. Drain on a kitchen towel and serve hot with a fried green chilli.

VEGAN DARK CHOCOLATE MOUSSE

View this recipe on our lifestyle blog: rymanhealthcare.co.nz/lifestyle

Baba ghanoush

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

2 eggplants 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp tahini 2 cloves garlic 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

½ bunch parsley 10g paprika Salt, to taste Flatbread, to serve

T ROY ’S P L A NTBA S E D T I PS FO R

meat eaters

METHOD

1. Grill the eggplants in an oven or on a BBQ, turning occasionally until the skin is evenly charred.

GO GREEN

Always add something green to your meal for its fiber, chlorophyll, vitamins, and antioxidants.

2. Move the eggplants to a strainer over a bowl to drain any excess liquid. Set aside to cool.

COMBINE VEG AND MEAT

Add vegetables to your meat dishes.

Grated beetroot and carrot with diced mushrooms are tasty in burger patties and meatballs.

3. Once cooled, discard the skin and place the eggplant flesh in a blender with the lemon juice tahini, garlic and olive oil.

Blend to make a paste. Adjust the seasoning with salt and lemon juice.

MAXIMISE NUTRIENTS

Eat leafy greens as a salad to make the most of their nutrients. They’re easy to overcook and once overcooked, their nutritional value drops.

4. Chop the parsley and mix it into the paste.

STEAM, DON'T BOIL

5. Garnish with paprika and serve with flatbread.

Steam your vegetables instead of boiling them so they look and taste better. If they start to lose their colour, they’ve been cooked too long.

CREATE COLOUR

Briefly shock steamed vegetables in ice-cold water to bring out their colour for a vibrant display.

BLEND THEM

Add greens like kale and spinach to your daily smoothie, plus beetroot for its liver cleansing properties.

MIX AND MATCH JAPANESE TOFU AND AVOCADO SALAD

View this recipe on our lifestyle blog: rymanhealthcare.co.nz/lifestyle

Variety is important for balanced nutrition. When you plan your weekly meals, make sure each day’s vegetables are a little different from the last.

Kõwhai | 13

In-House Style The home staging industry is booming as people begin to realize the impact a beautifully styled home can have on its final sale price.

People walk around “ and think ‘this is

going to be our lives’.

And owners often say they don’t want to sell now!

”

together naturally. “We started with one house lot of furniture and as we grew we bought more pieces. We thought we’d killed it every time we parted with money for new stock, but then the business snowballed!”

Rebeka Raiwalui-Mason was working for an Australian interior designer while living in Hong Kong when she first applied her passion for interiors.

“She threw me in the deep end!

I quickly learnt that I prefer styling beautiful spaces over a technical interior design role.” Rebeka returned to Aotearoa and noticed a gap in the market for beautiful property staging. “I had no idea how to take the next step, so I approached a friend in real estate and with the 14 | Kõwhai

two of us combined, it worked.

We had no idea what we were getting ourselves into!”

The opportunity Rebeka spotted was niche. “We focused on beautiful staging that wasn’t stock standard or dated but was fresh and different.”

6-odd years ago when In-House Style launched, staging wasn’t as popular as today. “It was a slow burn but then things got busier and that never stopped.” It was an organic beginning where everything fell

Rebeka bought out her friend on great terms and hasn’t sat still since. “It got incredibly busy since that day. People are starting to understand the benefits of staging.”

She points out that when it comes to styling, you either have it or you don’t. Colours, fabrics, and spatial layout need to be intuitive for a space to form beautifully. “I was a flight attendant for 8 years before this. It wasn’t something I trained for, but it came naturally and is such a passion.”

lifestyle she has visually created.

They want to relax in that cosy sitting room or curl up on that couch by the sunlit window or their child wants to decorate their new bedroom ‘just like this one’. “Home staging is a small investment for the impact it has.”

One of the many things that sets In-House Style apart is Rebeka’s attention to detail. “We add little accessories – everything down to organic wooden toothbrushes, linen sheets, outdoor furniture with drinks and trays. People walk around and think ‘this is going to be our lives’. And owners often say they don’t want to sell now!”

Rebeka is here to make the lives of her clients as stress-free as possible. “I take the emotional side away for my sellers and create emotion for the buyers.

People may have lived a certain way for 20-odd years but it’s my job to make their home appeal to a broader market.” Rebeka’s approach is aspirational, she describes it as ‘selling the dream’. Feedback from buyers is that they want to live the

Rebeka doesn’t take it lightly that her clients are dealing in the hundreds of thousands and millions of dollars. “And it all comes down to the first impression.

Which, with us, is a beautiful home that doesn’t look staged.” She laughs that her approach is highly contradictory. “I hate houses that look vacant and staged! So, we go out of our way to make it look less sterile and add those touches like gorgeous hand soaps to make it look livable.”

But it’s not all vast white walls and dreamy stone benchtops. Luckily, Rebeka enjoys a challenge.

“I love the ugly ducklings. We can completely transform a home with a few suggestions for the owner like swapping curtains or removing them altogether. We work with it all!” And when it comes to quality, In-House Style clients know what to expect.

“Everyone gets the same quality, from 2-bed ex-rentals to milliondollar new builds. Variations of the same furniture are used in different ways to suit each house and its buyer market.” Rebeka will use sharper lines and moodier tones in modern homes, with softer palettes being reserved for heritage or character homes. “We also change our artwork and accessories to suit. Coastal properties use prints of the beach, lanterns, and clamshells. But the base furniture remains the same.”

Rebeka admits that she’s “quite obsessed” with her business and styling. “I live it and breathe it.” But it has challenges. “It’s not glamorous, it’s hard work. But it is a beautiful career. There’s nothing else I’d rather do.” Unsurprisingly, Rebeka takes her clients sales very personally.

Her passion shows in hilarious ways.

“If I’m available, I’ll watch the house auction online – I get so nervous and scream and shout as the numbers rise!”

Learn more about Rebeka and In-House Style at inhousestyle.co.nz

Basically, it got “ incredibly busy

since that day.

People are starting to understand the benefits of staging.

”

Kõwhai | 15

David Trubridge

ha rd Br ime r

art was “ Their community-

a creative journey Known for iconic lighting and large-scale installations, David Trubridge is a household name across Aotearoa.

Furniture maker David, wife Linda, and their two kids spent five years on a sailboat in the 80s, circuitously making their way to New Zealand.

Their goal? “To live a meaningful life in touch with nature.”

Much of their trip was spent hopping on and off islands. An experience that

c Ri y b ken David Trubridge, ta

was transformative for David. “I found these cultures I knew nothing about living in harmony with nature and expressing themselves creatively.”

Raised in England, “our history lessons featured Kings, Queens, and conquests” but island life showed David how to achieve his ‘back to the land’ dream. “Their art was community-based. It was part of how they lived. They weren’t aspiring to Picasso or Monet.”

The family landed in Opua in the Bay of Islands. “We saw picket fences and knick-knacky ornaments on the

based. It was part of how they lived.

windowsills and we groaned. It felt like we’d come halfway around the world and arrived back in England in the 50s.” But Aotearoa society changed rapidly. “Both New Zealand changed, and we changed. We came to meet each other and got pretty close in a sense.”

A leader in the ‘raw sophistication’ design trend, David’s work mirrors his relationship with Aotearoa. His pieces are easily identified by their raw materials, natural storytelling forms, te reo names, and European culture overlay.

another way to do things. You can go off “inThere’s your own direction and see where it leads. ” From sculptural furniture to

iconic lighting Until 2003, David’s work featured sculptural furniture. “I was teaching a class at a design school in Perth and after sitting around talking to students all day, I wanted to make something myself. As a kid, I made cardboard models of polyhedra, so

16 | Kõwhai

”

I tried using plywood. That became the first Coral.” There was no business plan or market research involved. Just David and his creative expression. “I went home and asked Linda what I should do with it. She said, ‘put a lightbulb in it’.” So, David switched to lighting and built a business around not taking the direct route but wandering off in his own direction and seeing what happens.

Redwoods

Treewalk Nightlights

Half of David’s business is a production studio for his iconic kitset lights. The other half features one-off projects.

“It’s something different, it’s an idea. The work is more artistic and expressive.”

Commissions respond to the client and the site. “My first thought in Rotorua was ‘this is an enormous space’.

We fill shopping malls with lights, but this space needed a different approach.”

David and his team got to problem-solving. “We built these enormous lights the size of an ocean buoy” which fit naturally with the forest’s large trees. “It’s lovely at dusk when the light starts to go.”

Inspiration in the

natural world

David’s sculptural forms aren’t only informed by nature, they’re inspired by it. “It’s fundamental. I need the space I find when I’m on the beach, on the sea, in the mountains. Those environments are essential for my brain to form creative ideas.” So, David “wanders in the mountains” and comes back with an idea.

Looking forward

sustainably

An advocate for nature, David’s aware of his impact. “It’s a precarious balance. If I wanted to reduce my impact on the environment, I would do nothing. I’d live in a cave and eat wild boar. But we can’t all do that – there aren’t enough caves or wild boar.” So, David employs a balancing act. His team strives to reduce their impact where they can. “We’ve removed plastic from our operations.” Only the clips used on the lights are still nylon but the team have been working with Scion in Rotorua to develop a biopolymer replacement.

Bamboo plywood is their material of choice. “It’s a byproduct of the food industry. Tall bamboo trees create a canopy that traps moisture for the forest to grow. Those trees

“I present that to the team and between us, we push and pull and knock it into shape.” Which, it turns out, is the hardest part.

“The structural issues – how you build it, what it looks like – are all competing.” It requires a strong team with varied skillsets. “I’m lucky that our team has been together a long time. We started off raw and small and have grown together.”

get cut down when they grow too big, and we take those. It’s replaced as fast as it’s used.” But David is realistic about the compromises he makes and that converting a round tube of wood into a flat sheet uses machinery and glues. “Nothing about the ecology story is black and white. We’re constantly having to make these judgements, and nothing is perfect.”

David hopes that his lights, artwork, talks, videos, and the book he’s currently writing will all help generate awareness for nature. “I call the book my love letter to the land. It’s filled with writings and photographs from places I’ve travelled … I do believe that if people can feel a connection with nature, they start to care.”

Learn more about David Trubridge and his iconic lights at davidtrubridge.com Kõwhai | 17

Loft

pre-loved high fashion

Bridget Brownrigg loves fashion.

She also loves helping others.

When her new home included a loft space, she knew just how to fill it – with clothes and people.

18 | Kõwhai

A volunteer at Dress for Success, Bridget has seen firsthand the impact fashion has on a person’s confidence. She volunteers weekly as a stylist. “We dress women who have no or low income when they’re applying for jobs.” They’re dressed head to toe in an outfit that they keep. “They go off and hopefully get the job, then we dress them again to give them a capsule wardrobe to get started.” Bridget says that the change in their confidence is incredible to see. “If you don’t have to worry about what you’re wearing or 'looking the part', that’s a huge obstacle taken care of.”

Loft was an opportunity to run a business that could contribute to Dress for Success while indulging Bridget’s passion for fashion.

The business runs on a 50/50 consignment model. If an item doesn’t sell, the seller can donate the piece to Dress for Success or one of the other charities Bridget supports. “I started this for something to do but it’s grown quite large.”

Bridget has watched buying pre-loved clothes become mainstream. “Early on there were people bringing bags of clothes to sell but they wouldn’t look around. Now, everyone’s buying, everyone’s selling, everyone’s just having a good old time!”

It’s the combination of fashion, banter, and making a difference that keeps Bridget excited about Loft.

Every parcel on the doorstep holds new possibilities. “I love seeing what comes in. A woman recently sent me a couple of big bags from the West Coast and honestly – wow! I was putting the pieces on the rack and everyone coming in was so excited.”

Some customers are searching for high-end labels at bargain prices while others are conscious consumers working to reduce their footprint on the environment.

“There’s plenty of life left in the clothes Loft sells. They’re very lightly loved – many come in with the tags still on.”

have a one-in-one“ Iout principle in my wardrobe. ”

But that’s not all that draws customers to Loft. “It’s quite a fun atmosphere.” Bridget has created a relaxed environment, making Loft shopping “a social experience”. She learns a lot as well. “My daughter is a huge advocate for buying on principle so I have her in my ear about my overconsumption.” Many of Bridget’s customers are also focused on

sustainability. “They’re after quality labels but also lasting materials – linens, wools. They’re savvy about what the articles are made of.”

Learn more about Bridget and her pre-loved boutique Loft at facebook.com/loftboutiqueTaiTapu

High fashion highlight

“A bright, beautiful Trelise Cooper dress came in. It didn’t take long until off it went to a christening.

Then it came back and soon after went to a wedding!” Bridget says that wedding season and horse racing cup weeks are busy at Loft.

“There are those pieces that have been worn to a special event but won’t be worn again. I love the idea that they’re continuing their story with someone else.”

Kõwhai | 19

pre - loved

Bridget’s shopping tips

Noeline, resident at Ryman's Anthony Wilding Village explores the racks at Loft.

1. Visit regularly

4. Touch everything

Every week I fill another rack with around 80 items. People who come in regularly enjoy browsing new items until they find the right fit for them.

Take time to feel the quality of the items you like. Look at their labels, take note of the care required, and make sure they suit your lifestyle.

2. Don’t shop seasonally

5. Hunt for treasures

Avoid getting caught up in seasonal shopping. If you see a gorgeous summer dress but the weather is cold, buy it and save it for summer.

Dig deep in the clothing racks. My savvy customers who regularly shop preloved will systematically look at every piece of clothing in their size range.

3. Avoid planning

6. Ask for feedback

This isn’t the place to list shop. Pre-loved shopping is best suited to ‘see it, love it, grab it’ because you never know what you’ll find – and it won’t be there next time!

The lighting is (unintentionally) terrible in the Loft changing rooms, but the silver lining is that people step out and everyone shares their opinion.

20 | Kõwhai

So, why shop pre-loved?

Conscious consumers spend time researching industries and products and carefully choose what to buy. They understand that the fashion industry is overwhelmingly exploitative from human rights to pollutants, carbon emissions, land stripping, the extraction of fossil fuels to make synthetic fibres, and the list goes on. The impact of recycling clothing and slowing down our consumption cannot be underestimated.

Hidden t reasures

Aotearoa knows how to shop sustainably. Most towns boast more than one pre-loved boutique.

We’ve handpicked a selection worth visiting in person or online. Stop by for lightly loved designer fashion and surprising secondhand finds.

RECYCLE BOUTIQUE

PAPER BAG PRINCESS

This consignment store celebrates conscious shopping and specializes in high-quality designer, contemporary, and vintage clothing. You can find Recycle Boutique in Auckland, Waiheke Island, Hamilton, Mount Maunganui, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown

Avid supporters of NZ charities, Paper Bag Princess is a one-stop shop for affordable secondhand clothing – branded, vintage, 70s, 80s, 90s. You can find Paper Bag Princess in Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland and Whangārei. paperbagprincess.co.nz

recycleboutique.co.nz COCO’S CABIN

"Shopping consciously is rewarding it 's making a difference in t he world " A resident at Ryman's Anthony Wilding Village, Patricia fits right in at Loft wearing a vibrant outfit.

I LOVE LABELS

Sourced from New Zealand, Europe, and around the world, I Love Labels is committed to ethical on-selling. Think luxury brands and fabulous style. You can find I Love Labels in Paraparaumu.

Tineke and Jo believe secondhand should be the first choice. They’ve curated pre-loved vintage and highend labels at their “magpie’s haven”. You can find Coco’s Cabin in Queenstown. cocoscabin.co.nz

ilovelabels.nz GEORGIE GIRL PALMY LADY MUX

Pop in for an eclectic selection of nearly new clothing. The affordable range features unique dresses from homegrown and international brands. You can find Lady Mux in Nelson. facebook.com/LadyMux

Kylie at Georgie Girl stocks pre-loved labels that are “ready to be loved again”. Her curio accessories are a delightful sweetener. You can find Georgie Girl Palmy in Palmerston North. facebook.com/Georgie-GirlPalmy-361598497836510

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Wrap it up!

Upcycled

Sustainable gift wrap ideas are front of mind this gift-giving season.

Making small changes to how we live our lives can make a big difference.

Sustainability at home might look like a worm farm, planting bee-friendly plants, or mending worn clothes.

And for a bit of fun, we’re sharing conscious gift wrap ideas.

All you need is some old (but clean) paper or paper bags. And a few other simple items found around the house.

“Use a shoebox to store old ribbons, buttons, and the ds pictures from car you receive."

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art

Cut up an old calendar or card to create a striking front cover for your gift wrap. And for a rustic ‘I did this especially for you’ touch, apply paper tape that matches the artwork design.

FROM THE GARDEN Add a scented touch to your gift by plucking a favourite bloom or sprig from the garden. Rosemary, hydrangea, and lavender work just as well fresh as they do dry.

A BOLD BOW Chic and highly sustainable, this gift wrap option makes use of old fabric. Simply cover the back of your gift with fabric, then flip, cross over the leftover fabric, flip again and tie your fabric into a bow.

n extra Atreat The perfect sustainable gift wrap for bottles and candles. Use an old piece of fabric, gather at the top, and tie with a bow. Then sew or tape a few chocolate treats to the outside!

THE SI MPLE GATHE R

Sweet

nothings

Place a gift in an old paper bag then fold it tidily into shape, securing with ribbon. Writing a personal message on a clay tile or piece of card makes for a stylish gift tag packed with sentiment.

This wrapping idea is perfect for smaller gifts. Simply lie your gift on open fabric then gather the fabric in both hands and tie to finish. Tuck in any loose edges for a delightfully rumpled style.

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WE HAVE FREEDOM A generation of Kiwis aren’t retiring from life. They’re looking for a new way to live.

Ryman residents like Ross live their lives with purpose and passion. They push further and go beyond the ordinary.

Ross and his wife Eleanor often take off in their motorhome to explore New Zealand’s back roads. With his ukulele in tow, Ross prefers catching fish and meeting the locals over mowing lawns and worrying about home security.

We’re committed to pioneering retirement living for one simple reason. To better serve a generation of New Zealanders.

“We have no worries.”

Ross Ryman resident

rymanhealthcare.co.nz