UNO Magazine | Issue 60 | Winter 2023 | Dr Stacy Sims

THE BAY IN FOCUS

Tauranga through the lens

DR STACY SIMS

talks hormonal health and taking your power back

What to wear and where to find it

Rita Angus, Cleopatra , 1938, oil on canvas

Purchased 1998 with New Zealand Lottery Grants Board funds.

©

Reproduced courtesy of the Estate of Rita Angus. Te Papa (1998-0028-2)

Image thanks to Photographer Marina Matthews, Architect Artektus, Builder Matt Lucas and Scope Interior Design

Stellaria Terca Brick Location: South Island

People-focused with good air quality and comfortable indoor temperatures all year round.

Now that vision has become a reality; the building is a promise.

A Porotherm Clay Block building promises excellent return on value, energy efficiency and life cycle costs.

The promise is delivered exclusively by building physics; solid walls and ceilings that serve as insulation & thermal mass, giving you much more for your money.

Constant feel-good temperatures mean good health and truly living well. There’s just no comparison.

Chris & Robyn MacPherson of MacPherson Architecture Ltd have been designing high-end homes for over 25 years.

Frustrated by the overall poor quality of NZ building materials, poor performance and the minimal Level 3 most homes are built to with only a 10-year warranty on the biggest financial and emotional investment of a lifetime, they believe solid clay block homes offer a real solution.

Feeling is believing. When you walk in and close the door, you are in a world of your own. The difference is like night & day. It’s quiet, peaceful and fresh, 100% natural with interior lime plasters.

There’s just nothing like it.

Stellaria NZ Ltd was formed by Chris & Robyn to import clay construction materials from their partner company, Wienerberger, Europe.

The New Cambridge Showhome

The new Porotherm Clay Block show home on 83 Swayne Rd in Cambridge, Waikato (not pictured) is a stunning showpiece of most of the products Chris & Robyn distribute throughout NZ.

Terca Clay facing bricks coupled with breathable plaster on the block finishes the exterior. The roof is Koramic clay roof tiles and exterior paving is the Penter pavers also produced by Wienerberger. The joinery is Internorm from Austria and Kitchen is by Zampieri, Italy. Breathable lime plaster interior walls.

Seeing is believing. The team at Stellaria NZ & MacPherson Architecture invite you to come and visit them. For many of their clients and industry professionals, Chris & Robyn have invited to stay overnight in the show home to experience the different living environment & enjoy a weekend in beautiful Cambridge.

”You just have to be in it and feel the walls. There is no way to truly describe how it feels until you know – and then you know.” says Robyn MacPherson of Stellaria.

It all started with a vision: the idea of a building with near-zero heating, cooling or ventilation required.

No queues No crowds four ski lifts

e a sy

COVER SHOT GRAEME MURRAY HAIR & MAKE-UP DESIREE OSTERMAN

PLAY

Hormonal health has been a hot topic over the last few years. New studies and findings have concluded that perhaps we haven’t been giving women’s health the attention it really deserves. For too long, women have been expected to just accept there are certain times in their lives during which they may or may not be miserable. For some, symptoms can go on for years and, for others, they may never stop at all.

In this issue, UNO talks to two local doctors about what have previously been deemed to be tricky life stages –perimenopause and menopause. Both doctors are experts in their fields of women’s health and, amazingly, both live right here in the Bay.

I, myself, have learned so much from Dr Stacy Sims over the past year. It was a ClubFit instructor who first put me on to Stacy when I began discovering those strange – but now completely understandable – symptoms of perimenopause. Sleep problems, weight gain, irritability, memory loss, fatigue –these can all be put down to stress and just dealing with life in middle age. But, around the age of 40-50 (sometimes earlier), there’s a good chance that there is more to it.

And, when it comes to perimenopause, what’s really astonishing is that we’ve had medical treatment for decades that women have been told to ignore, simply due to one study that found a tenuous link to breast cancer 20 years ago.

The fact I have a hard time writing this is testament to the fact that we really should talk about these issues more, to normalise a totally normal time in a woman’s life.

Turn to page 20 to find out how you can take back your power, no matter what age you are. You might be surprised to find symptoms can be prevented early on, and even lessened if you’re right in the midst of menopause. And, if you feel like you need more help, this may ease your fears around medication.

For husbands, sons, brothers and male friends, I urge you to read this too. It provides a lot of clarity about a time that Dr Dear describes as a liberating new chapter in womens’ lives.

As everyone in the Bay knows, sometimes you need a little rain for the sun to eventually shine through. Have a wonderful winter.

Hayley, editor

DIRECTOR

Michele Griffin 021 183 4618 michele@unomagazine.co.nz

DIRECTOR

Rebecca Meyer 027 469 6177 rebecca@unomagazine.co.nz

EDITOR

Hayley Barnett hayley@unomagazine.co.nz

DESIGNER

Annabelle Rose

ASSISTANT DESIGNER

Alice Rose

MEDIA ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Stephanie Taylor

SUB-EDITORS

Katherine Granich

Shiree Schumacher

CONTRIBUTORS

Nicky Adams

Amber Armitage

Monique Balvert-O’Connor

Jess Easton

Jo Ferris

Salina Galvan

Will Johnston

Stacey Jones

Jahl Marshall

Kathrine McDonald

Graeme Murray

Desiree Osterman

Karl Puschmann

Jenny Rudd

Catherine Sylvester

SUBSCRIPTIONS unomagazine.co.nz/shop

PRINTER Kale Print DISTRIBUTOR Are Direct PUBLISHED BY SAO Media Limited

UNO is a quarterly publication: ISSN 2744-7901

© Copyright 2022. Articles and illustrations may not be reproduced in any form without the permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of, nor endorsed by, SAO Media, unless stated otherwise. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of printing, the publisher shall not be held responsible for any actions taken as a consequence of information contained in this publication.

From left: Hayley Barnett, Nicky Adams, Rebecca Meyer, Graeme Murray, Stacy Sims, Michele Griffin, Stephanie Taylor and Desiree Osterman.

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CONTRIBUTORS

Meet some of the hard-working, talented creatives behind the Winter 2023 issue of UNO.

QUINN O’CONNELL

Photographer Quinn O’Connell specialises in creating images, capturing moments and saving memories. When shooting the Bay Twisters Cheersport athletes for this issue of UNO, he had to move fast: “What a blast! Pure energy, raw talent and skill on show – I had to be ninja quick to capture these girls in action.” When he’s not behind the camera, you’ll find Quinn sliding across the water in some form or another, cooking up a mean green curry, and teaching life to his three daughters in his epic backyard in the beautiful Bay.

KATHRINE MCDONALD

Working across the North Island with her interior design business, Kathrine experiences firsthand the aesthetic impact of location and landscapes and loves how this acts as inspiration for interior design. She considers herself lucky with her client base, who share her appreciation of quality and timeless looks. “Buy less and buy well” is a big part of her styling ethos. Putting together the interiors page for this issue of UNO has been a firm favourite, as it reflects a slight shift from her norm. Usually a huge fan of neutrals, with a bedroom as a project, Kathrine explores the impact of colour and how it can be used to add layers and texture.

JESS EASTON

Jess Easton's “Eureka!” moment with wine came as a teenager in Melbourne, when her wine-collecting dad gave her a glass of Penfolds Grange to try. Subtle and complex notes flooded her senses. “I knew instinctively I was drinking something of absolute quality, maybe without knowing why,” she explains. A lengthy stint working in fine dining further educated her tantalised tastes and exposed her to some of Australia’s finest vintages. Today, the Tauranga-based lawyer and co-owner of pop-up restaurant enterprise Kitchen Takeover is a committed oenophile, fully entranced by the delicious, varied flavours of New Zealand wines and intrigued by the winemakers who produce them.

HOLLY BROOKER

Holly Brooker has been freelance writing for 15 years, largely in the lifestyle, interiors and parenting space. Her work is regularly featured in Your Home and Garden, Homestyle, NZ Herald and Parenting Place. Holly was a high school teacher and changed careers when she became a mum, and has worked as a PR and marketing consultant in her business The Media Project for 11 years. She also co-founded Makes Sense, which advocates for child protection from illegal sexual content online. Holly is passionate about social change and strong connected families, so much of her work is focussed in this space. For fun, Holly is learning to ski with her family, and when she has time you’ll find her in her vege garden.

IF THE SHOE FITS

A white shoe is a great addition to any wardrobe, and thanks to Converse their new AS-1 Pros go even further than the superficial. Designed alongside pro-skateboarder, Olympian and architect Alexis Sablone for life on and off the board, their grip and cushioning complements an active lifestyle – Olympic or otherwise!

RRP$169.90. CONVERSE.COM.AU

WHAT’S HOT!

We’ve found the latest products for your mind, body and home.

STEP INTO COLOUR

COMFORT ZONE

One cushion is never enough, that’s a fact (basically). Now there’s even more of an excuse to invest in a few extra with the Altered State Cushion from Stolen Girlfriends Club. The luxuriously soft mohair and wool casing is the cosiest of comforts and the bright colours will add some fun to these cold winter days. RRP$169. STOLENGIRLFRIENDSCLUB.COM

POUR ME ONE

It’s five o’clock somewhere, so when you’re ready for a sophisticated tipple, check out the Tauranga-based Clarity Distilling Company. Their Clarity Dry Gin took home a Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition – a heightened classic gin that makes for a perfect G+T. CLARITYDC.CO.NZ

Inject some fun into your life with Karen Walker’s new COLOURS jewellery collection. The fresh hues and creative designs using cubic zirconia are very much needed at this time of year! With various precious metals, there’s a broad spectrum to choose from – select styles are available with black onyx too, for the more understated among us. From RRP$159. KARENWALKER.COM

IT’S NUTTIN’ HONEY

Like we need an excuse to try a new chocolate flavour? Experience the perfect blend of creamy milk chocolate, crunchy honey nougat, and roasted almond pieces in Whittaker’s new Honey Nougat and Almond 250g Block. A delicious twist on a classic flavour. WHITTAKERS.CO.NZ

HANDLE IT

Meet Ivory, the perfect extra-large morning coffee, tea, or matcha cup by New Zealand ceramics brand Modeletto. Handmade stoneware featuring a large, comfortable, chunky round handle and a tall body, it's hand-glazed in fun, fruity colourways to spice up your kitchen. Mix and match with the Valerie Plate to add a bit of fun and colour to your daily cuppa. Ivory mug RRP$65, Valerie plate RRP$49, both from PAPERPLANESTORE.COM

IN BLOOM

Flowers can last forever with Bella Rosa Florist’s bespoke resin art. Dried flowers are set in letters for a super special, personal gift. Feature their favourite bloom, wedding bouquet or flowers from a childhood home. Personal items can be included too, just make sure you grab the tissues before gifting! RRP$90. BELLAROSAFLORAL.NZ

WOOLLY QUALITY

What’s snugglier than wool for winter? Foxtrot Home's New Zealandmade wool collection features stylish throws, cot blankets, and more, crafted from 100 percent lambswool sourced locally, ensuring heirloomworthy quality. RRP$309. FOXTROTHOME.CO.NZ

HOTTING UP

An outdoor oven may seem like an indulgence, but who wouldn’t want home-baked pizza on demand? Local brand Tulip's Weltevree Outdoor Ovens offer ambience, heat, and the ability to double as a pizza oven. RRP$1798. TULIPS.CO.NZ

A GOOD LISTEN

Doing household chores is now hot. No, really! Put on an audiobook and suddenly you’re in the highlands of Scotland with a handsome landowner, not elbows-deep in soap suds. Thanks to the Tauranga City Library, you can read and listen, anywhere, anytime, for free! Browse the catalogue online at LIBRARY.TAURANGA.GOVT.NZ

ACORN FOUNDATION & UNO PHOTO EXHIBITION

The Acorn Foundation celebrated 20 years with a photographic exhibition, organised in conjunction with UNO

PHOTOS ERIN CAVE 1. Lori Luke 2. Trish Jones, Paul Jones & Neil Craig

3. Lynette Gibson & Alan Gibson 4. Rohario Murray & Matua Rawiri

5. Ian Macrae & Beppie Holm 6. Andrea Nicholson & Matua Rawiri 7. Bill Holland 8. Anne Steed & Philip Carmichael 9. Annabell Stewart & Jeremy Thompson 10. Katikati Primary Kapahaka Group 11. David McCallum & Tan Phuangdokmai 12. Lee Siegel & Teri Dawson 13. Unveiling 14. Unveiling.

WENDY’S BOUTIQUE WITH DAME TRELISE COOPER

Tauranga's Wendy’s Boutique hosted a Sip & Shop styling event with a very special guest.

COLLIERS TEAM EVEREST CHALLENGE

Fourteen teams courageously climbed Mauao 38 times in 12 hours to raise money for the Graeme Dingle Foundation Western Bay of Plenty.

1. Gillian Clarke & Kathy

Anderson 2. Wendy Simister & Di Taggart

3. Delicious 4. Gail Jones & Hayley Duffy

5. Sumner Raos, Michelle Newlands & Tania Hilliam

6. Katheryn Clout, Dame

Trelise Cooper & Sue

Broomfield 7. Natalie

McCoard & Rose Tickner

8. Kathy Anderson & Kim Kadman 9. Deb van Loghem & Cheryl Adams 10. Adele

Henderson & Wendy Simister 11. Jackie Hinton & Robyn Beardsmore

12. Sumner Raos & Kaye Clarke 13. Melissa Hopcroft & Shelley

Atkinson 14. Alessandra

Tilby & Tania Hilliam

15. Dame Trelise Cooper & Wendy Simister.

PHOTOS ERIN CAVE 1. Christine Winstanley, Sean Callagher, Tony Watson, Todd Fisher, Murray Sunckell, Elton Verran, Shannon Millar & Mike Winstanley 2. Graeme Elvin 3. Sammy Edwards & Nathanael Edward 4. Brittany Larsen, Matthew Fenton, Malcolm Swney, Dylan Barrett, Rhonda Levis & Jake Payne 5. Michelle Carey & Chloe Manktelow 6. Will Gray & Nick Weaver 7. Benet Carrol, Gareth Fraser & Richard Findlay 8. Hamish Wilton, Rob Schoeser, Rich Davidson, Richard Findlay & Simon Clark 9. Miranda Shields & Prue Mehonoshen 10. Michael Findlay, Miranda Shields, Grant White & Prue Mehonoshen 11. Jamie Reid, Clarissa Van Emmenes & Rowan

12. Harriet Gilbert, Alexis McStay, Graeme Elvin & Tom Elvin 13. Lakhan Clark, Ike Unsworth & Conrad Headland

14. Dicey Rhodes, Golde Holzapfel & Barbara Dunovits 15. Miranda Shields & Ashton Jones 16. (Back) Rob Taylor, Alex Fitch, Callum Mcbride, (Middle) Lilly Fitch, Lydia Lysaght, Kate Mcbride, (Front) Imogen Webb, Maddie Lysaght & Kirsty Bird 17. (Back) Gareth Fraser, Lee Pattinson, Rhys Bresnahan, Duncan Bayes, Paul Ensor, (Front) Kelly Bulloch, Noel Shorten & Mark Allen 18. Doug Perry, Kellin Holdem, Zoe Sturm, Susan Jamieson & Jo Perry.

PHOTOS SALINA GALVAN

THE FUTURE OF PUBLIC ART IN TAURANGA

Art lovers from across the Bay of Plenty gathered to celebrate Tauranga City Council's adoption of a bold new Public Art Framework.

PHOTOS BRYDIE THOMPSON 1. Shirley-Marie Coffin, Ayesha Kee & Antoine Coffin 2. Gillian Tasker, Karen Seccombe, Kelcy Taratoa & Jane Humphrey 3. Nikki Hansen, Darcell Apelu & Marama Mateparae 4. Ellie Smith & Deborah McCormick 5. Kelcy Taratoa, Deborah McCormick & James Wilson 6. Ellie Smith, James Wilson & Cheryl Smith 7. James Wilson & Gretchen La Roche 8. Marama Mateparae, Phil Hayhoe, Kate Montgomery, Cara Paterson, Gretchen La Roche, Simone Anderson & Sam Allen 9. Ellie Smith & Cheryl Smith 10. Guy Protheroe, Emily McLean, Nikki Taituma, Anne Blakeway & Fraser Hungerford 11. Annie Hill & Ayesha Kee

M.M LINEN ELEVENTH AVE

The grand opening of M.M Linen’s Eleventh Avenue store was a colourful, star-studded event.

PHOTOS SALINA GALVAN

1. Michele Griffin, Dame Trelise Cooper, Rebecca Meyer & Kerry Jackson

2. Megan Frost & Vaughan Frost

3. Michael McMichael & Eric Arbus de Lapalme 4. Louise Blackford & Rose Tickner 5. Niki McKinnonDowe & Trudi Waters 6. Sarah Kendrick & Chantelle McGougan 7. Wendy Simister & Sandy Crook 8. Cheryl Adams & Katherine Cloud 9. David Paton, Keith Marsh & Meg Marsh 10. Debbie Williams & Astrid Rudd

11. Jill Stackhouse & Debbie Hooper 12. Karen Howard & Angie By de Ley

13. Kerry Jackson & Dame Trelise Cooper 14. Christine Dawson & Helen Ward 15. Mathieu Muller, Michelle Griffith & Nicole Forrester 16. Bruce Reilly, Noelene Taylor & Bill Reeves

17. Tracey Giles, Dame Trelise Cooper, Kerry Jackson, Jeanne Lapeyrade & Meg Marsh 18. Sandra Heimann, Andrene McGinity & Anne Zodins.

AN AGE OF EMPOWERMENT

When it comes to recent research around menopause, it’s become apparent that we don’t really have to go with the flow. UNO talks to two local experts, Dr Stacy Sims and Dr Linda Dear, about how women can take charge.

WORDS + STYLING NICKY ADAMS PHOTOS GRAEME MURRAY HAIR + MAKE-UP DESIREE OSTERMAN

Dr Linda Dear (left) and Dr Stacy Sims (right) talk hormones.

All clothes sourced from STEALHERSTYLE.RENTAL

Whoever said there were two certainties in life – death and taxes – missed out the third, menopause. Historically perceived with a similar gloomy acceptance as the other two, finally an increased conversation around menopause is encouraging the idea that women can have more control over the experience, along with a realisation that there has been a failure to support women in mid-life. Targeted research and, most importantly, a move to de-stigmatise what is not an illness, but a life stage, has brought a shift of this topic into the public arena. Now open discussions are taking place everywhere, from the boardroom to breakfast TV.

Part of the problem is the general confusion out there; add to this the masses of misinformation and myths and the subject becomes a hotbed that makes most of us just want to bury our heads in the sand. The traditional definition of the menopause would be that it is the last menstrual period a woman experiences as the result of the ovaries no longer producing eggs. A woman is considered to have gone through menopause if she hasn’t had a menstrual bleed for 12 months. The average age that women experience this is 51, but the last-ever period can occur between 45 and 55 and it’s still considered normal. However, the additional curveball is perimenopause: Typically, a woman will enter the menopause transition – or perimenopause – two to four years prior, although this can be for a far longer period.

As a starting point, for many facing the end of their fertile years, it can be an emotional mountain to climb. While there is the upside of the cessation of periods (and I doubt any female has ever lamented their loss), the essence of this event is that it signals a move to a different life stage. And one that comes with the

additional slap in the face of feeling as though we are passing into the unpromising land of being an ageing female.

Perhaps this might explain why it’s so common to approach such an important time of our lives with trepidation or lack of preparation. Because, in fact, preparation is something that can transform the experience and, as our experts Dr Stacy Sims and Dr Linda Dear agree, ensuring that the menopause is managed will help navigate many of the unpleasant aspects.

We all know what those wee peskies are. From the hot flushes to night sweats, sleeplessness, anxiety, cognitive fog, aching joints, tiredness and lower sex drive. Oh, and thinning hair and abdominal weight gain (and if you’re lucky, across the bust as well). Of course, these are a lucky dip of blanket symptoms, experienced to varying degrees and lengths of time. The other tricky thing is that even though when put together, in conjunction with a change in your cycle, each of these symptoms can be easy to mistake for the side effects of being stressed, busy and suffering from “rushing woman syndrome”.

BODY MATTERS

Mount Maunganui local Dr Stacy Sims has a PhD in Environmental Exercise, Physiology and Nutrition Science. She works globally with female athletes, runs an online educational program sourced by everyone from health care professionals to individuals, has written books, and presents and makes podcasts. Her qualifications and research have been built on over the last 20 years.

"I started looking at sex differences in extreme environments and the more I got into that, the more I realised how much wasn’t known," says Stacy. "So I ended up doing my post-doctoral work with the Women’s Health Initiative, the big US study that was

“ WHEN IT COMES TO EXERCISE, NUTRITION AND MEDICINE, WOMEN ARE NOT SMALL MEN. ”

looking at menopause hormone therapy.” That was in 2007, and her quest to change the perception that when it comes to exercise, nutrition and medicine “women are not small men” has led to her becoming one of the leading voices in this arena.

Stacy and I talk about the necessity to get ahead of the game when it comes to menopause, but with this comes the difficulty of recognising the signs and symptoms of perimenopause. There is a blood test that can be done, but this is deemed unreliable. “When you look at what’s happening in perimenopause, you have all these changes in the ratios of oestrogen and progestogen, so if you go and have a blood test and they’ll say your progesterone is low and your oestrogen is at this point, and your follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) is really high, so you must be perimenopausal,” Stacy says. “Then you’ll go back a couple of weeks later and you get your bloods tested again and you’re at a different phase of your cycle and your hormones are at a different level, and your FSH has dropped, and it’s like – oh, maybe you’re not. Because you have to look at the trends, you can’t do a one-off blood test.

“What we can look at is how you’re sleeping, how you’re responding to exercise. Do you have any overt symptoms of vasomotor night sweats, what about your concentration? Do you have brain fog, are you to-thecore fatigued? There’s many different things, especially when women are in their late 30s, early 40s,” she continues. More key as an indicator are patterns within your cycle. “We also look at the menstrual cycle itself (which doesn’t help if you’re on the oral contraception pill), but if you look at the menstrual cycle you start to see changes in the bleed pattern, not necessarily cycle length, but you’ll start noticing nuances in your own unique bleed pattern.”

Critically, I wonder, how can you understand the signs if you’re not looking for them? “I always tell women they should be tracking their cycle,” Stacy explains. “Because then they start to understand how they feel throughout the cycle. The more you track, the more you can see: When you feel flat and when you feel good. When those individual patterns start to change, and we start to see a change in the cycle itself, that’s when you know something’s going on.”

FEELING HELPLESS

“I always have women say, ‘All the training I’m doing isn’t working. I’m not adapting, I’m getting slow, I’m getting fat, I’m getting tired. I’m trying this diet and it’s not working.’ And it’s like, okay, we definitely know you’re in perimenopause,” Stacy says. “You have women who say, ‘I don’t understand. Three months ago I was really lean and thin and now all of a sudden – boom – I have an extra five or six kilos on my boobs and my stomach. So I say, your body’s really responding to this sympathetic stress from hormone shifts. There’s this wicked circle going on.”

Where it can feel confusing is that it’s easy to assume most of the changes will happen in the 12-month window that your body is winding down. Seemingly this is not the case; in fact, it’s happening prior. Stacy tells me, “All the body composition changes happen in about the five years before that one point of time of menopause. It can be 15 years that you’re having a whole bunch of irregularities, but we really see the major amount of changes and effects the five years before that one point in time. We call it late perimenopause.”

TRAIN YOUR BODY AND BRAIN

As both an academic and an athlete, Stacy is uniquely positioned to address the journey with women who want to regain control over their bodies, and indeed mitigate the symptoms, which in some cases can quite literally stop women in their tracks. And importantly, how do we get results? I ask what steps Stacy would recommend to someone.

“I want them to track how they slept, what kind of training they’ve done, how they feel, what their heart rate variability is. You look at that, and on the overlay

of training we look at the training stress score and how they are adapting,” says Stacy. “And a lot of time they’re putting in the work and nothing’s happening – they’re like a zombie through it all. They might be training for a race; they might be training for life. They get up and go to boot camp and are going through the motions but are not seeing any difference; they’re just getting more and more tired. Even if they’re doing progressive overload and they’re following this program or they have a PT, but they’re just not getting anywhere.

“When we look at that we know we need to get you out of modern intensity work – the boot camp – and into true high-intensity work. If you’re doing true highintensity work, it’s a different story. True high intensity is short, sharp intervals – think 85-110 percent of maximum effort – with an entire session including warm-up and cooldown not exceeding 35 minutes,” Stacy explains.

“What gym HIIT classes do is put women in moderate intensity, an intensity that is too easy to have any kind of adaptive changes, and too hard to give you a boost to your parasympathetic drive and recovery. It just keeps you in this state that drives cortisol up, that keeps you tired but wired and signals you to put on belly fat.”

The key, Stacy tells me, lies in true high intensity interval training. “This is one to four minutes at 85 percent or more of your max and you have a variable recovery in between. The longer the interval, the lower the intensity, and you might have one minute on, two minutes off, repeat – and you’re really taking those two minutes to really recover. So, if you’re running and your one-minute pace is a 4.5-minute kilometre, then your two minutes would be probably an eightminute kilometre. You’re totally polarising them, so that when you go to do that next minute, you can hit that 4.5-minute kilometre again. You might do that four or five times and that’s it.

“Sprint interval training (SIT) is a subset of high intensity that women should really incorporate. SIT

induces better body composition changes, metabolic and cardiovascular health. SIT intervals are no more than 30 seconds as hard as you can go, with enough recovery (two to four minutes) to allow you to hit it at full gas again – and you might do those five times. This is 110 percent – like running up three flights of stairs and you’re going redline, and then you’re dropping your heart rate. And if you want to keep on going up, you start climbing really, really slowly. Then once you hit that four-minute mark, you go as hard as you can again. The goal is that recovery is a central nervous system response. But if you’re holding that stress for 20, 30 or 45 minutes when you’re not really going that hard, your central nervous system never really learns that this stress is something that it can overcome.”

Sprint training can be multifaceted in its benefits. The options of testosterone for mid-life women in the form of gels or creams is a route some explore; however, as Stacy points out, through exercise you can form your own pathway. “The other thing that sprint interval training does is when you’re done with that parasympathetic response that comes later, you also get an increase in growth hormone and testosterone. And women’s testosterone often starts to plummet more with natural age decline, which is a conversation a lot of GPs are having – that is, do we do testosterone replacement or not? Do the sprint interval training, because post-exercise there is a natural boost of testosterone, IGF-1, and growth hormone.”

WHERE TO BEGIN

While the big rock for exercise at this age is resistance training, this is relatively terrifying for the non-sporty among us. I wonder just how this type of regime works for the women in this camp. “We always phase people in – this isn’t just a training programme. We’re looking at what we can do to maintain quality of life for the rest of your life. We want to introduce you into lifting loads – I want to make sure you move well; I want to see what your mobility is before you start moving loads. Resistance training is not just for lean mass, it’s also for brain health. Cardiovascular work is really good for increasing total brain volume and maintaining the grey matter, but resistance training is critical for that neural adaptation because it increases the nerve growth factor. So, it’s vital for attenuating dementia and Alzheimer’s risks because you’re developing new nerve pathways.”

Then there’s those who recognise they need a plan of action, but simply can’t find the time in their schedule. According to Stacy, all is not lost. “This doesn’t have to take a lot of time – it can take 10 minutes here or there. Get moving, get outside, do a couple of surges upstairs, or squat jumps or lunges or pushups – something for 10 minutes three times a week is the start. If we really want to make it work, we do jump training: Skipping, trampoline, running or hopping up your stairs. It’s all really good for your bones, and your bones really suffer in peri- and post-menopause.”

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Of course, how we eat is a key aspect of this life change. “Nutrition is part of the whole evolution. Women become very anabolic resistant, so it’s hard to build and maintain lean mass. We need more regular protein doses throughout the day – palm-sized doses of protein (20-30g) with every meal, and then 10-15g in every snack, a handful of almonds or half a single-serve of Greek yoghurt. And as many colourful fruit and veg as we can. We want to take care of the gut microbiome through all the fibrous fruit and veges and help our body with neurotransmitters, lean mass and body composition through protein. Even if you don’t exercise, but you have a higher protein intake diet, you can completely recomposition your body over the course of 12 weeks. Protein is so powerful. It’s not just meat, it’s eggs, yoghurts, cheese, nuts and so on.”

NOT JUST A HOT MESS

Dr Linda Dear runs MenoDoctor – a medical practice dedicated to giving extended holistic consultations to women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. The concept is “Medicine meets lifestyle – the best of science, the best of nature, for women to choose from – to help them know their options and come up with a recipe that’s going to help them.”

Linda, like Stacy, is rooted in educating women with the purpose of empowering them – and in a wholly positive way, because while menopause signals an ending, it’s also a beginning. “We should know about it before it comes. Everyone feels too young for perimenopause – anything with menopause in it makes us feel old, makes us feel used up and uncomfortable; it has a negative vibe about it. Even though it shouldn’t do because for many women it’s a liberating new chapter

TIME’S ON YOUR SIDE

Personal trainer Kelly Rennie from Busy Mums Fitness demonstrates that high-intensity exercise doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as this 20-minute workout three times a week.

Whether you’re in perimenopause or menopause, the importance of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), or resistance training, is so important. These exercise modalities offer numerous benefits to women going through this transitional phase.

HIIT, characterised by short bursts of intense activity, helps boost metabolism, burn fat, and improves cardiovascular health. It also enhances insulin sensitivity and promotes hormonal balance.

Resistance training, on the other hand, strengthens muscles and bones, mitigating the risk of osteoporosis. It can also combat age-related muscle loss and promote a healthy body composition.

Combined, HIIT and resistance training help alleviate perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms, enhance overall wellbeing, and empower women to navigate this stage with greater resilience.

Each move should be repeated for 40 seconds, with a 20-second break in between. Repeat for four rounds. Start with 3-5kg weights and work up from there every few weeks.

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in their life that’s actually better than any of the others, as long as its handled right… Not every woman suffers bad symptoms; some breeze through it and come out the other side feeling surer of themselves, and more confident. So, this newfound irritability can sometimes be a positive thing as you get comfortable saying no. You start putting yourself first a bit more, which I don’t think is a bad thing.”

Grasping the difference between perimenopause and menopause is a crucial first step in wrapping your head around the journey. Linda breaks it down to a simple analogy: “Perimenopause is when your ovaries hand their notice in, and menopause is when they officially resign and leave. The notice period varies between women and when you hand your notice in you’re not doing your job like you used to. And that reflects what perimenopause is – not fully gone yet, but not quite as good as they were.” The reason the effect is felt throughout your body is because the ovaries have many jobs to do, with the hormones they make going everywhere in our body and brain. Understanding this helps us appreciate all the things that change once they stop doing their job.

Perimenopause is what Linda terms “the great disguiser”. As we talked about with Stacy, it’s all too easy to miss the signs or misdiagnose.

“Menopause has been a blind spot in medicine, but in women as well, who feel too busy and too young for menopause.” For this multitude of reasons, it often becomes hard to recognise and then proactively address the physical fallout. Add to this the confusion around Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) that still prevails, and you have, quite literally, a hot mess. The burning question is, of course, is HRT safe? There’s so much information and misinformation that it really is hard to know.

Linda is very reassuring. “When anyone hears HRT, the first thing they think of is breast cancer. Those things got stuck together 20 years ago from a big study in America that announced to the world there was an increased risk of breast cancer, heart attacks, clots, and strokes. Those four nasty things got attached to HRT, so everyone stopped using it. Doctors stopped prescribing it, med students stopped learning about it. HRT was dead, and the rates of use plummeted overnight. Was that fair, was that right? No. The increased risk of breast cancer was so small that it wasn’t statistically significant – out of every 10,000 women, HRT caused an extra eight of them to develop breast cancer. And this risk of eight extra cases was only after taking HRT for at least five years.”

Ironically, Linda continues, this is “lower than the risk of breast cancer from being overweight. Lower than the risk from drinking two or more alcoholic units a night. It was really overstated, and it frightened everyone away. There was an article last year in the Cancer Journal that talks about how amazing HRT is for women’s hearts and their mortality – their lifespan. They say very clearly that the breast cancer risk from HRT is not big at all.”

So, if there is a takeaway from this, it is that the benefits massively outweigh any risks. “You have to acknowledge the small increased breast cancer risk from combined HRT; the women on oestrogen only shouldn’t be worrying at all because the WHI study actually found lower rates of breast cancer in women taking oestrogen-only HRT compared with women taking no HRT. The women on combined, we have to say yes, there were eight per 10,000 extra cases, but it’s in comparison a small risk to take.”

Knowing that we can take back an element of control amid what can feel like a vortex of uncontrollable elements is incredibly empowering. It’s certainly a lot to try and get your head around, and aspects are daunting. However, for the woman who was told by her doctor to “harden up” to her symptoms, and for the woman who was asked by her boss to cut out the “mid-week drinking” as her memory loss was impacting her performance, the key message is hugely heartening. Changes are coming, and changemakers are among us.

For more information: DRSTACYSIMS.COM MENODOCTOR.COM

“ FOR MANY WOMEN, IT’S A LIBERATING NEW CHAPTER IN THEIR LIFE... ”

MYTHBUSTING WITH DR LINDA DEAR

Should you be guided by your mother’s menopause?

We always ask the age of your mum (especially if your mum has gone through menopause early), but you can have a completely different version of menopause than your mum. Looking to relatives can be vaguely helpful but not definite.

Can you have menopausal symptoms but still have a period?

You can still be having horrendous

perimenopausal symptoms and your periods have not changed one bit.

Is there an accurate test for menopause?

You can have normal hormone blood tests and be perimenopausal as hell. Blood tests can slip everyone up – there is no test for perimenopause. There is a test for menopause but the woman’s body tells you by not bleeding for a whole year. If you have a bleed within that time, you start the clock again. FSH (the hormone measured) fluctuates in peri, and sometimes it looks like it looks in menopause, so we can’t rely on that being measured.

Can you check for menopause if you’ve had a hysterectomy when there’s no womb or period?

You can check FSH but we want to know on two separate days – so if you get two high FSH readings in a woman, we’re more willing to say she’s been through it. The higher they are, the more confident we feel. From a medical point of view it doesn’t change options when a woman has had a hysterectomy. We can offer a woman all the same treatments whether she’s post-

menopausal or perimenopausal – her symptoms matter more than her blood test results.

What if you don't have a period because of a Mirena?

If the woman has a Mirena, then it’s sometimes useful to do the FSH to confirm that she has actually gone through the menopause and her periods have now stopped naturally. That way we know that if we remove the Mirena, she isn’t going to get pregnant or get the heavy horrible periods back.

Is it true the symptoms of menopause can continue after you’ve been through it?

There are a fair number of women who continue to have hot flushes for the rest of their life, and they never sleep a whole night through until the day they die, and some of these women are really struggling. For most of us, it does not last forever; for the vast majority, whether you take HRT or not, your body adapts.

Will HRT prolong my menopause, or will I get addicted?

Nature happens in the background even if you’re on HRT. Most get off HRT and the symptoms have gone, they go through the choppy bit relatively unscathed. Then it’s fairly smooth post-menopausal sailing.

Perched on top of Papamoa Hills, Summerhill Estate Golf Course offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with captivating sea views and picturesque park like surrounds.

We warmly welcome all green-fee paying golfers to visit and experience playing golf in the peaceful and relaxed environment of Summerhill.

| www.summerhillestate.co.nz

When food, culture and creativity collide to make our region the place to be.

a big difference

PLANT POWER

Foodie Stacey Jones takes in Tauranga’s delectable plant-based restaurant scene.

Last month, I emceed an event for Flavours of Plenty Festival called “Food for Thought”, featuring a panel of chefs who had all brought their distinctly different food cultures to Tauranga. One of the speakers, Tomer Rooney, was from CBD favourite Falafel Metro. Tomer grew up on a kibbutz in Israel and once a month, he would take the bus into Jerusalem to indulge in a fresh pita stuffed full of the delectable chickpea-based snack, topped with lashings of tahini. Yum! The very next day I couldn’t get falafel out of my brain, so I decided to pop in to devour the aptly named “Jerusalem”. Holy smoke… I was in food heaven. The cherry on top? The dish was completely plant-based, not a morsel of meat in sight. “I love turning meat lovers to falafels,” Tomer explained. And it got me thinking… Where else in the Bay might one discover a plant-based bite that rivals the sensory bliss of its carnivorous counterpart?

It seems I’m not the only one asking this question. Recent statistics reveal that a remarkable 34 percent of the New Zealand population has gracefully

transitioned to a flexitarian diet (Massey University, 2022), reducing their meat intake and embracing the vibrant world of plant-based foods. So this month, I thought I’d reveal some of my top picks of places to eat where you can enjoy a meat-free meal that tastes as good, if not better.

Falafel Metro is one of the best cheap eats you can experience in the Bay, so the fact that it's plant-powered too gives it a double thumbs-up. The team are constantly striving for improvement, having recently purchased a pita breadmaking machine so everything you eat there will be produced in house. Less food miles = more eco goodness.

FALAFEL METRO FALAFEL_METRO

Just around the corner in Tauranga CBD is Mudan, offering an array of plant-based delights, all made from scratch including the tofu and noodles, plus it’s MSG-free. My pick would be their homemade Chinese hot spicy noodles with cooked tofu, fresh vegetables, and a delectable spicy sauce, or the kimchi fries.

NEWORIENTALMARKET.COM

If you’re after something a little more fancy, Sugo Italian Restaurant is one not to be missed. Chef Ian Harrison, who was trained by Marco Pierre White, loves the

challenge of creating food that is not only planet-friendly but ridiculously tasty at the same time. They have a dedicated plant-based menu featuring entré es, mains and desserts. My recommendation would be the mushroom bolognese with cashew nut parmesan, which I think is even better than the original version SUGOSUGO.CO.NZ

Sea People makes ice cream using a blend of cashew and coconut milk, giving rise to a velvety-smooth, creamy texture that tastes as good as dairy ice cream, without compromising on flavour. Owners Mariah Whittaker and Allan Blondeau have a genuine passion for sustainability, creating a new generation of ice cream that is kind on the planet. Last time I was there I was treated to the olive oil ice cream – definitely worth a try. SEAPEOPLE.CO.NZ

SEAPEOPLEICECREAM

Tiny Seed NZ is a vegan baker offering a range of treats at the local farmers’ markets including Tauranga on Saturday and Mount Mainstreet on Sundays. My pick would be the orange and raspberry cake with caramel sauce. They also offer a grazing platter service which is 100 percent plant based – perfect for a guilt-free gathering.

TINYSEEDNZ TINYSEEDNZ

Sugo Italian Restaurant

Falafel Metro Sea People

TomerRooney, Falafel Metrochef

WINES WORTH HUNTING FOR

UNO’s new wine columnist Jess Easton is introduced to the wild Wairarapa through a unique fine wine.

PHOTOS JAMIE TROUGHTON/DSCRIBE MEDIA

Jannine Rickards arrived for our Martinborough meeting adorned with luscious wines and an apology. She'd wanted to catch up earlier but needed to break down a boar she'd shot, she explained. And the day before that was a write-off, landing a hefty kingfish while out fishing.

Any further attempts to say sorry by the Wairarapa winemaker – who sells under the crazily appropriate Huntress label – were met by our group with thoroughly deaf ears and a barrage of questions, which she quickly silenced by opening a bottle of her Waihonga.

Fermented with wild yeasts, each of her vintages is a unique expression of the wild Wairarapa. Jannine (Ngā Puhi/Ngai Te Rangi) has an uncanny knack of conveying her love of nature and passion for hunting and foraging through her wine. Her own wairua (spirit) shines through, with an earthiness and intense connection between whenua (land) and palate.

Waihonga is Māori for “ nectar ” and the honey-coloured amber wine comes from pinot gris grapes fermented on skins with a dollop of skin-fermented riesling. It's fresh and vibrant with a deliciously long finish, dragging tones of peach, honey and spice along for the ride.

And what a ride it turned out to be. Tasked with finding wine matches for Kitchen Takeover's “ Ki Tua ” event earlier this year, combining delicious liquid offerings with the culinary mastery of Kārena and Kasey Bird, meeting Jannine seemed like a sign from the gods. One sip and I knew immediately this wine was going on our menu.

Fast forward a few months and Jannine's Waihonga sat serenely alongside Kārena and Kasey's Kai Kōhua dish, a deconstructed boil-up featuring bacon broth, nasturtium and watercress.

Ki Tua presented diners with five delectable courses, each inspired by legends of female Māori atua (gods), each paired with wines from Māoriowned vineyards or winemakers.

It was entirely fitting we opened things up with Tohu's Rewa Rose Méthode Traditionelle 2017. Tohu is acknowledged as He mātāmua taketake – the original and first Māori-owned and operated wine label. The stunning Greywacke Riesling 2021 was next up, made by winemaker Richelle Tyney (Ngati Tama ki te tau Ihu/Te Atiawa/ Ngāti Maniapoto/Ngāti Porou).

The Tiki WJM Waipara Pinot Noir 2017 followed The Huntress as the fourth match, produced by Sue (Ngāi Tahu) and Royce (Ngāti Ranginui) McKean. The second Tohu offering – the Raiha Reserve Noble Riesling 2016 – provided silky apricot and honey flavours with a dash of zesty lemon meringue and sweet citrus to finish.

Showcasing Māori wine talent was such a proud moment for our team. And while New Zealand is renowned for our Marlborough sauv blancs and Central Otago pinots, plenty of sensational boutique offerings are out there. Using Jannine Rickards as inspiration, sometimes you've just got to go hunting for them.

Jess Easton is a director and owner of Kitchen Takeover, complementing her career as a Tauranga-based lawyer. Her lifelong love of wines has been taken to the next level, tasked with crafting the wine list and wine matches for Kitchen Takeover's culinary masterpieces.

Jannine Rickards from Huntress JessEaston , director/owner ofKitchenTakeover

BELLA CUCINA

Forget takeaway pizza – these simply mouthwatering recipes from Kiwi chef Bri DiMattina will transport your tastebuds to the Italian countryside.

Tomato with Whipped Feta

This tomato medley salad plays with the contrasting flavours of whipped feta and a sweet honey-chilli drizzle. Make extra of the whipped feta and the honeychilli drizzle to reconstruct this later as a dip with other garden goodies. Though, honestly, it is best with fresh tomatoes – an addictive combination.

SERVES 2

INGREDIENTS

4 tbsp honey

½ tsp chilli seeds

1 tbsp butter

2 tbsp capers

500g mixed heirloom (or homegrown) tomatoes, sliced (little ones can be left whole)

½ small red onion, finely chopped

Small handful of Italian parsley, roughly chopped

METHOD

WHIPPED FETA

80g feta

40g sour cream (or yoghurt)

½ garlic clove, minced

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp olive oil

Lemon zest and cracked pepper (optional)

To make the whipped feta, blend the feta and sour cream in a food processor until smooth, then stir in the remaining ingredients by hand. Chill until required.

In a small pot, heat honey until runny (no need to simmer or boil) then add chilli seeds and stir thoroughly.

Meanwhile, melt butter in a small pan and fry capers until crispy. Leave to cool.

Layer whipped feta on the base of the plate, followed by tomatoes, capers, red onion and parsley. Drizzle with the honey chilli just before serving, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

BriDiMattina

Zucchini Arancini

Arancini are usually made with rice, often from leftover risotto. They have a delectable filling, such as cheese, truffle or ragu, and are rolled in breadcrumbs and deep-fried. A lot of Italian cooking represents this style of using up everything, and is the spirit of this dish. If you, like me, are seduced into planting lots of zucchini, unsurprisingly you will have lots of zucchini to use up, so this is for you. Arancini are Sicilian and southern Italian, and a similar recipe in Rome is called suppli. There are many variations and other names as you travel through Italy, but I think this one, made purely from grated zucchini, is a uniquely New Zealand garden version.

SERVES 6

INGREDIENTS

3 zucchini, grated

1 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, crushed

Small handful of parsley, finely chopped thyme leaves, to taste

1 tsp cracked black pepper

2 eggs

½ cup pecorino, finely grated

½ cup fine dry breadcrumbs, plus more, to coat

100g mozzarella, cut into 1cm cubes

Vegetable oil, to deep-fry

METHOD

Place the grated zucchini into a clean tea towel and wring out over the sink, to remove excess liquid. Place zucchini into a large bowl.

Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over mediumlow heat. Gently cook the onion and garlic until translucent, then add to the zucchini. Add the parsley, thyme, pepper, eggs, pecorino and breadcrumbs. Mix well and season with salt and pepper. If the mixture seems too wet, add some more breadcrumbs, though it should be fairly moist.

Take a small handful of the mixture and flatten a little in the palm of your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the centre, then enclose with the zucchini mixture and shape into a ball. Roll in the fine breadcrumbs to thoroughly coat.

Half fill a large saucepan with vegetable oil and heat over medium high heat. Deep-fry arancini in batches until golden brown. Drain on paper towel.

NOTE: You can make these in big batches and freeze them after crumbing. They make a great lunch snack in the middle of winter.

Grilled Capsicum & Tomato Tart

This tart is almost better cold the next day than it is straight from the oven. Feel free to use puff pastry instead of shortcrust, but still leave a border around the edge so that you get a lovely crust.

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra to drizzle

2 anchovy fillets

2 shallots, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

500g shortcrust pastry

150g gruyere, grated

4 tbsp chopped herbs (such as thyme, sage and oregano), plus extra, to serve

2 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced

3 large capsicums, cut into pieces and lightly chargrilled

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 190°C fan-forced. Lightly grease a large baking tray.

Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat and cook the anchovies, shallots and garlic for a couple of minutes, until softened. Set aside to cool.

Roll out the pastry to a 30cm × 20cm rectangle and place onto the prepared tray. Spread the cooled anchovy mixture over, leaving a 2cm border around the edge.

Sprinkle with gruyere and herbs, then layer the tomato and capsicum on top, slightly overlapping.

Fold the edges of the pastry over to make a crust. Drizzle the topping with olive oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until pastry is golden.

Cool slightly and serve topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and cracked pepper.

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Spiced Apple Cake

This recipe hails from my mother’s café, Eliza’s Pantry. It’s super simple and uses four apples with their skin on. The apples don’t have to be at their best, it’s a little like a banana bread recipe for apples. They can be rescued because no one is inclined to eat them, and turned into something delicious – but the best part is that it is all just mixed up in a food processor, then baked.

SERVES 12

INGREDIENTS

4 apples, quartered, cored

2 eggs

2 cups sugar

2 tsp bicarbonate of soda

2 tsp ground allspice

250g butter, at room temperature, chopped

2 cups plain flour

1 tsp ground cinnamon

Ice cream and caramel sauce, to serve

CINNAMON CRUMBLE

½ cup brown sugar

½ cup rolled oats

1 tsp ground cinnamon

25g butter

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 180°C fan-forced. Grease a 23cm springform tin and line with baking paper.

To make the crumble, combine the ingredients in a food processor and process until crumbly. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

For the cake, place the apples into the food processor and process until finely chopped. Add the remaining ingredients and process for 1 minute. Pour into the prepared tin and sprinkle with the topping.

Bake for 1–1.25 hours, until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve with ice cream, caramel sauce, or both.

Extracted with permission from Nostrana: Flavours from My Italian Kitchen Garden by Bri DiMattina (HarperCollins NZ, RRP$55).

THE LITTLE STORE MAKING A BIG DIFFERENCE

Stepping through the doors of Katoa in beautiful Mount Maunganui, you’re met with all the hallmarks of a humming café. Happy chat and laughter bubble up from the young staff behind the counter, where a delicious array of smoothies are on offer.

Look a little closer, and you’ll soon discover Katoa is a smoothie bar with a twist – and a greater purpose. Opened last November by The Get Group, it exists to provide a space in which young people are trained with the skills needed to work in customer service, and to also house the Group’s not-for-profit Little Heroes Project.

The Get Group was launched in 2015 by friends Angela Spice-Ridley and Noeline (Noels) Cook, who met while working in adult education. The organisation seeks to provide training in basic career skills to those for whom school is not a natural or easy fit.

“We started by going into schools to run workshops,” explains Angela. “Practical things like barista skills, horticulture, food safety, customer service and interview techniques.”

The pair’s experience working in adult education meant they were able to identify certain gaps that young people were encountering. They realised that filling those gaps would be their mission.

“Noels and I have a passion for young people and love their energy. They have so much to offer,” says Angela, smiling. “We hear a lot that young people don’t know how to work, but have they been taught to? We felt they were getting a bit of a raw deal and wanted to change that.”

The Get Group employs young people to work in all areas of the business. They teach workshops, run school holiday programmes, operate the Katoa Food Truck, and work in the café. They’re also encouraged to give back to the community and are given time off yearly to do so.

It was through one of these altruistic initiatives that the Little Heroes Project came to be. Encouraged to find ways that were meaningful to them and would benefit others, one young wahine chose to help teen mothers by creating and gifting care packages. From the beauty of those small beginnings, something even bigger was born.

The name Katoa embodies its purpose – a place where “all” local youth can feel they belong while learning career skills that’ll help them thrive.

WORDS CATHERINE SYLVESTER PHOTOS JAHL MARSHALL

All the staff at Katoa are young and, says Angela, "have so much to offer."

A call to the community for donations for these packages resulted in an overwhelming response. The collection and distribution of goods on a larger scale was enough to warrant the Project registering as a charitable trust that now supports individuals and organisations throughout Aotearoa.

Angela explains the Katoa store allows The Get Group to train and employ young people, and to raise funds for the Little Heroes Project.

“We partner with young entrepreneurs across New Zealand, providing them with a space to showcase and sell their creations,” says Angela. “We also have a range of Katoa merchandise and upcycled clothing for sale, which profit the Little Heroes Project.”

Jorgia Neill first encountered The Get Group when she took their Gateway course while still in high school.

“We were learning interview skills, and afterwards Noels invited me to do some work experience with them,” the 21-year-old says. “I was able to try a bit of everything to see what I would enjoy the most and where I would thrive.”

Fast-forward four years, and Jorgia now manages the head office in Palmerston North.

“It was a shock to be asked to join as I didn’t have much confidence in my abilities,” she explains. “This has built my confidence and helped me grow. It’s also helped me to know my worth in the workforce.”

Noels is keen to point out the beautifully collaborative effort that has gone into ensuring Katoa thrives.

“The biggest thing Angela and I do for each other is to be calm when the other is freaking out,” she says, laughing. “I don’t think I would have survived without her. This venture wouldn’t have got to where it is without it involving the two of us.”

Both women’s husbands are fully committed to the vision, contributing their building and business skills to projects.

Noels sums it all up with a smile: “When all is said and done, it is our incredible team of young people that makes it worth getting up every day and keeping it all going.”

KATOA.ORG.NZ

The store also raises funds for a social enterprise, the Little Heroes Project.

Angela with some of Katoa's stunning wares.

Here to serve.

Supporting local communities, together.

Congratulations to the Acorn Foundation for 20 outstanding years of community service - Thank you.

Our communities’ remarkable and unique identities are vital to our region’s prosperity. Legacy celebrates these stories and works alongside organisations like the Acorn Foundation to keep them alive and our communities flourishing.

legacyfunerals.co.nz @legacyfuneralsnz

Keep the story alive.

THROUGH THE LENS O F GIVING

Colour, candour and compassion are three hallmarks of the stunning images featured in Acorn Foundation’s recent 20th birthday commemorative photographic exhibition, presented in partnership with UNO.

Shifting the focus to those deserving of support has always been at the forefront of Acorn Foundation’s mahi. Their recent 20th birthday celebration was true to form, showcasing the extraordinary generosity of Acorn’s donors and the lasting impact of their gifts on the local community. In partnership with UNO and our award-winning photographer, Alan Gibson, a stunning photographic exhibition was unveiled in the heart of Tauranga on April 4.

The exhibition, Enduring Connections, featured 18 of the more than 290 charitable groups in the Western Bay of Plenty who have received funding from Acorn. Spanning organisations focussed on the arts, environment, youth, food insecurity, homelessness, health, diversity and more, these images acknowledge in a visually impactful way the enduring difference Acorn donors seek to make, and the enduring support Acorn is then able to extend to the region.

The Acorn Foundation was established back in 2003 by their inaugural chair, Bill Holland, with the support of a group of committed trustees. Acorn is now one of 17 community foundations in New Zealand that use a smarter giving model that involves pooling and collectively investing donors’ funds. The capital in the fund remains intact, while a portion of the income is distributed annually to the local community.

Using this method means that Acorn’s donors can support causes close to their hearts, forever.

The Edna Brown Fund was Acorn’s first donation. Upon Edna’s death in 2001, she left $67,000 for the benefit of the community. When Acorn was founded two years later, her trustees thought that the foundation would be the perfect place for Edna’s gift. After 20 years, Acorn has given away more than $89,000 from Edna’s fund to support local charitable organisations. Her fund value is now $91,000, and is a perfect example of the community foundation model. The Acorn team know that Edna would be absolutely thrilled.

In 2023, over 430 donor funds – and more than 600 donors overall – support the community in all sorts of ways. Thanks to these generous donors, Acorn has now reached $60 million in funds under management that are invested with Craigs Investment Partners. More than $13 million overall has been distributed to nearly 300 worthy causes in the Western Bay of Plenty and other areas important to Acorn’s donors.

The Acorn team has a tremendous belief in the power of community foundations and the enduring difference that Acorn can make in this region.

Understanding that overseas community foundations are over 100 years old, they know that Acorn’s story is just beginning.

SURFING UP SUCCESS

“The new day dawning is really a metaphor for the work done by the amazing crew at Live for More. It’s a new beginning, or a fresh start from their troubled pasts, through the surf therapy programmes they run. I think that this image captures the ray of hope that their work brings to so many, one wave at a time.”

~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

Live for More empowers vulnerable young men who are caught up in lifestyles that include alcohol, drugs and crime to find freedom from their troubled pasts and be inspired to live positive and fulfilling lives. Acorn Foundation funding supports Live for More to provide counselling and mentoring for these rangatahi, giving them a renewed understanding of their identity, purpose and potential.

COLOUR ME HAPPY STREAMS OF CHANGE

“Tasked with creating a mural covering the drab wall of a Te Puke commercial building, artist Kalib Wallace was struggling with both deadlines and bad weather. Luckily, rangatahi from Ngā Kākano Foundation were there to help him create something beautiful while learning invaluable skills from an accomplished artist.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

Ngā Kākano Foundation provides a wide range of free and accessible health and social services to families living in Te Puke. Acorn has a strong focus on youth development through field of interest funds, which supported young people to create this colourful mural as a creative outlet.

“When a photographer asks you to stand in the middle of a fastflowing stream, some people might think twice. Karen Smillie jumped - or, rather, fell! - straight in, keen to promote the work Project Parore do to protect the water quality in Bay of Plenty catchment. Fellow passionate environmentalist Ben Haarmann joined her on the bank.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

Project Parore focuses on improved freshwater quality through restored native habitats. Volunteers work with local landowners to practice ecological restoration for improved soil health, stream health and biodiversity in the waterways that feed into Northern Tauranga Harbour.

HISTORY COMES ALIVE

“Hidden away among the majestic trees that are its namesake, The Elms | Te Papa has been a place for locals to gather and learn for generations. Through the lens, I can see paintings, photographs, and beautifully crafted objects. The smell of ancient woods used to make them combine with the sights to transport visitors back in time.”

~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

The Elms | Te Papa Tauranga is a very important heritage and educational site as a place of early contact between Māori and Pākehā. Acorn’s unrestricted fund has provided support for expenses, and in addition, Trustees have set up a Community Group Fund with Acorn to ensure that this site remains open for future generations.

JOY OF GIVING EMBRACING COMMUNITY SPIRIT

“The Holi Festival has its roots in Hindu traditions and is an opportunity for the local Indian community to bring a sense of fun and the colours of their culture to Tauranga. I wanted to capture the emotions expressed as people unleash their inner child, tossing coloured powder that all bear different meanings.” ~

ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

Acorn’s VitalSigns® research highlights the importance of residents feeling a sense of belonging and engagement in their town and of migrants feeling welcomed by locals. This desire to enhance community connectedness is why Acorn is a joint funder of the Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund.

“The absolute thrill that Alan Goodyear gets from supporting the development of tamariki in Katikati is undeniable. At the primary school during a kapa haka practice, the kids loved having Alan watch, as you can see in the intense pukana of young Alex Hollows.” ~

ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

Alan Goodyear set up a fund with Acorn in 2017 in memory of his son Paul, a brilliant maths and science student who passed away far too early after a battle with mental illness. Alan attended Katikati Primary School and is delighted that his fund can provide enrichment programmes to the students in maths, reading, science and kapa haka.

MUSIC FOR THE SOUL

“Standing in the darkened theatre as the chords of Pachelbel’s Canon ring out through the smoky haze has to be one of the most beautiful moments in this project. The three members of the Opus Orchestra made their way through an extra-long version of the musical masterpiece while I crafted my image. It was a stunning experience!”

- ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

Opus Orchestra was founded in 1991 to positively impact the cultural life in the BOP/Waikato regions. The orchestra provides performance opportunities for professional musicians with local audiences. The trustees of Opus Orchestra recently opened a Community Group Fund with the Acorn Foundation to help fund the Opus Pathways programme to support the development of musicians at all stages of their careers.

ENGAGING AT SPEED IMAGINATION AT PLAY

“Youth Encounter Ministries Trust uses the love of action to engage young people at their Paengaroa property. The thrill of riding dirt bikes through the mud together is as important as the camaraderie and mentorship the team provide for our youth who feel lost.”

~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

Youth Encounter Ministries Trust unleashes potential in young people by encouraging a sense of belonging and belief in their value, giving them hope they can become who they are meant to be. Acorn funding supports operational expenses for youth development interventions that empower vulnerable young people “ to live a life wide open”

“People say you should never work with children or animals. However, I had so much fun capturing this image of enthusiastic participants at STEM Wana Trust, which is found at Basestation on Durham Street. These budding scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians are learning that the world is there for the making.”

ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

~

Many Acorn donors like to support organisations which promote learning opportunities for children from all backgrounds. STEM Wana Trust’s mission is to engage and inspire a new generation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) activities and opportunities.

BIRD’S EYE VIEW

“The guardians of our beaches do the most extraordinary work, so I wanted to capture this image using drone technology to achieve a perspective most people don’t get to see. While standing on the beach, I took this photo of the Waihi Beach lifeguard crew going through a practice rescue beyond the breakers so that they are ready to help when it matters most.”

~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

The volunteers at Waihi Beach Lifeguard Services patrol the 10km long peninsula and provide search and rescue services around the 75km coastline. Acorn is proud to support this important mahi, as well as Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service, Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Papamoa Surf Life Saving Club, and Pukehina Surf Rescue.

RESCUING THE VULNERABLE

“The love and dedication of the team at the ARRC Wildlife Trust was immediately evident to me in the way they handled the morepork chick we photographed. A pair of steady but delicate hands cradled the tiny bird while vet Liza Schneider checked it over and gave the volunteers a glowing report of the bird’s improvement.” ~ ALAN

GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

The team at Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre (ARRC) Trust are passionate about caring for wildlife which has been injured or orphaned in the Bay of Plenty. ARRC has a Community Group Fund with Acorn and also receives tagged funding each year from the J Abbot Fund.

“Art was all around us at Te Tuhi Mareikura’s hub in Mount Maunganui. Paintings and drawings hung on the walls, while around the table, discussions were underway about the carving of a taiaha. It is a place where young people can let the art get under their skin, and their creativity knows no bounds.” ~

ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

Te Tuhi Mareikura Charitable Trust (TMT) is passionately dedicated to the vision of building a strong Māori collective identity for those from the Tauranga Moana region through an expression of Māori culture and arts. Acorn is a new funder supporting their youth programme, Toi Ohooho.

KO TĀKU TOI TĀKU OHOOHO! MY ORIGIN IS MY AWAKENING!

PROTECTING OUR FOREST

“The beautiful North Island brown kiwi calls Ōtanewainuku Forest home. Ross Edwards checked one of the many pest traps in the forest and had caught a ferret. Ross, and dozens of other volunteers like him, happily give up their time to check and bait traps, clear tracks and generally cherish our environment. I see an immense pride and passion in Ross’s face for the work they do for our beloved kiwi and the native forest.”

~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

Volunteers at Ōtanewainuku Kiwi Trust work with DOC to protect kiwi, kōkako, and the conservation of the forest through pest control, kiwi and kōkako translocation, kiwi chick rearing, education and fundraising. The trust has established a Community Group Fund with Acorn and also receives tagged funding from the J Abbot and M&L Bellerby funds.

BOXING UP COMPASSION

“Tauranga Community Foodbank warehouse manager and buyer, Jordy Gastmeier, is pictured among the jungle of boxes and supplies which illustrate the level of need in our community. Signs like ‘Strictly for clients living in cars’ say it all. With this photo, I wanted to capture the enormity of their vital work.”

~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

Demand is so high that, in the last year, Tauranga Community Foodbank gave out 6,900 food parcels, helping over 18,500 people. In 2022, Acorn support from trusts, corporates, and their unrestricted fund contributed to food distributed by the Foodbank which was used to prepare nearly 200,000 meals.

COLOURS OF THE RAINBOW

“Here I strove to capture the pride and aspirations of the Gender Dynamix team in their villa at Historic Village. The staff have created a space here where people can be at peace and free from judgement. The wall is covered in pieces of art that clients have created to reveal their stories, feelings and hopes.”

~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

As a long-time local donation manager for The Tindall Foundation, Acorn funds local organisations on their behalf that promote an inclusive, diverse and welcoming community. Gender Dynamix works to meet the mental health needs of the BOP's transgender and non-binary community.

“Roger Clark is well aware that sailing has long been seen as a rich man’s sport, but he is determined to change that impression. Showing kids who’ve never sailed before the pleasure of spending time on the water has become a mission.”

~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

HEALING WATERS

Thanks to the Sail for Life Community Group Fund set up at Acorn, the BOP Sailing Academy Trust has been able to share the love of sailing with locals, irrespective of means or ability. Sailing is a demanding sport that brings out fantastic qualities in young people, such as tenacity, self-reliance and discipline. The challenge and sense of achievement on offer are so empowering.

A PLACE TO REMEMBER CARE AND COMPASSION

“To sit with Brian and Shirley and hear the stories about the help they have received at home from staff at Waipuna Hospice was uplifting. This is a happy image; perhaps it will help dispel some of the sad connotations people associate with the term ‘hospice’.” ~ ALAN

GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

The work of Waipuna Hospice is celebrated by Acorn’s donors, as it is their most-named charity in wills. Waipuna receives more than $115,000 from Acorn each year, coming from 11 estates and living givers. In the future, dozens of Acorn funds will provide hundreds of thousands of dollars each year to provide care both for patients and families.

Acorn’s staff is small but mighty. Here, five of our seven team members are pictured at the Acorn Foundation Oak Grove in Cambridge Park, where trees are planted in memory of Acorn donors who have passed away. We are so lucky that the foundation has always been supported by fantastic volunteers. Nine Trustees provide governance and oversight and sit on one of the four foundation committees: Distributions; Investment Advisory; Scholarship; and Audit, Risk and Policies. Additional community members help make distribution decisions and review scholarship applications, while investment professionals share their expertise to oversee the work done by our longtime fund manager, Craigs Investment Partners.

IMPROVING A HOME

“Mike has a plastic container in the corner of his home that holds three months’ worth of water from a leak in his roof. It’s a big container. Mike was delighted to have the friendly team from Sustainability Options arrive at this Bethlehem home to discuss plans to fix leaks and install insulation. Although the house is small, the improvements that the organisation is going to make will transform it into a true home for a deserving gentleman.”

ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER

Sustainability Options is a social business which provides free home assessments to ensure that local families are living in safe, warm and dry homes. The Acorn Foundation provides funding that assists Sustainability Options to perform home repairs, provide heaters, blankets and curtains, and improve healthy housing literacy across the Bay of Plenty.

Alan’s love of photography came from his father, who shocked his own father when he announced he was going to be a photographer instead of running the family farm. Eventually, with a young family in tow, he did return to the farm and continued to document our unique culture: “He taught me to see the beauty in the backlit dust cloud kicked up by a mob of sheep being mustered or the stunning contrast of muted light coming through a woolshed door.”

Alan worked as a photojournalist for the NZ Herald for over 20 years, as well as for agencies in the UK, and now uses his storytelling skills for a wide range of commercial clients.

Funding from the Acorn Foundation simply wouldn’t exist without the generosity of our supporters. Each of the deceased donors in this collage had their own hopes and desires for the region, with some naming specific charities and others selecting a field of interest for their Acorn fund. Another group of donors entrust their annual distributions to the dedicated volunteers on the Acorn Distributions Committee who evaluate applications for the unrestricted funds. Support for the community is not just for the wealthy; most Acorn donors are very modest people who are passionate about this region. However, our supporters all share the same desire to give back to this community and a strong belief in the long-term power of Acorn’s smarter giving model.

Congratulations and thank you to the Acorn Foundation for 20 incredible years of supporting the community.

The ASB Tauranga teams are proud to contribute to the great work you do.

TEAM SPIRIT

WORD S HAYLEY BARNETT PHOTOS QUINN O’CONNELL

Cheerleading has always been known as an all-American cultural activity of sorts. A way to provide overly enthusiastic encouragement to sports teams and “cheer” them on to victory. But in recent years, the way we view cheerleading has completely changed, thanks in part to the highly-acclaimed doco-series Cheer on Netflix. Watching the agile young athletes twist and turn, we were all reeducated on what it means to make it as a true professional cheerleader.

Cheer, which premiered in 2020, offers a glimpse into the cutthroat world of pro college cheerleading and the sheer hard work and athleticism required to make it to the top. What you might not know is that, for the past 10 years, the Bay has been training its own cheer talent in the form of Bay Twisters Cheersport.

Offering competitive and non-competitive cheerleading from the age of four and up, the local club, based in Judea, Tauranga, has more than 140 students. Rebecca Grigson, alongside cheer champion daughter Anna, trains their students to compete both here and on the world stage.

“Anna started doing cheer in Auckland from a young age,” explains Rebecca. “Then we moved here to the Bay and there was nothing. I was worried she’d miss out on cheerleading, so one day I just said, ‘How about we try doing something on our own?’ It was crazy, but it worked!”

Today 22-year-old Anna, who has been doing cheer for 15 years, is on three cheer teams – two representing New Zealand and one being the Top Gun All Stars team in the United States.

Anna Grigson and the Bay Twisters team.

Twisting, tumbling, flipping, flying… Competitive cheerleading has a strong foothold in the Bay of Plenty.

CELEB POWER

When Rebecca got in touch with US cheer team Action Cheer, the opportunity arose for Cheer Season

Two star Jeron Hazelwood to fly in from Texas to train the young students of Bay Twisters. He was tasked with choreographing a competitive routine for 99 girls at Tui Ridge in Rotorua earlier this year.

Asked how our Kiwi cheer world differs from the all-American version, Jeron answers it’s not that much different.

“There are a lot of different rules and regulations around safety and that kind of thing, but all in all it’s not that much different,” says Jeron. “It would be good to see some more boys involved, but we have that problem in the States too!”

Jeron says the key aspects he loves about the sport aren’t just physical.

“Although I love being the show pony as much as anyone else, the best thing about cheer is that it teaches you not only physical strength but mental strength as well.

“Over in America, we don’t really care for crybabies,” he laughs. “It can be a bit of an eye-opener for some people.”

Rebecca insists Bay Twisters is not quite working to the same extremes as Cheer in terms of pushing the envelope.

“We haven’t had any serious injuries!”

Cheerleading has finally been recognised as an Olympic sport globally, but Rebecca says, in New Zealand, it still has a long way to go when it comes to recognising cheer for what it really is.

“To be officially recognised as a sport at the Olympics, after so many years, that was an amazing feeling,” she says. “People still think it's all about pom poms and short skirts at rugby games, and it does my head in. When people say it’s not a real sport, I say I'd like to see them go out on the floor for two-and-a-half minutes and do the routine that these kids do. We're slowly getting there, though.”

BAYTWISTERS.CO.NZ

From L-R: Cadie Sadlier, Charlotte McCready, Jeron Hazelwood, Bianca Hawes and Maddie Langdon.

GEARING UP FOR CHANGE

Awards, massive renovation and a new service centre and showroom in Pā p ā moa are pushing the dealership to greater heights.

The dealership that occupies a whole block on Hewletts Road is set to build in Pāpāmoa, to keep up with the growth of its 16 vehicle brands. Offering everything from quality pre-owned cars, right up to new luxurious brands, the time seemed right to develop further. In 2024, Farmer Autovillage will zoom into Pāpāmoa with the opening of the new service centre and showroom. They're the first dealership to put down roots in the area.

UNO caught up with the Farmer Autovillage team to find out about the most recent changes and the exciting developments happening this year – and next – at Farmer Autovillage.

PHOTOS AMANDA AITKEN + JAHL MARSHALL

FEEL AT HOME IN FARMER AUTOVILLAGE

Expanding the scope of the Škoda showroom was the first priority for the dealership when it decided to upgrade part of the Hewletts Road site one year ago. Modernisation of the downstairs area achieved an at-home feel and gave Farmer Autovillage the opportunity to improve their customer-focussed offering, including the café Customer feedback around the café has been overwhelmingly positive. Aiming to make it more comfortable and providing a relaxing environment for their customers was imperative in the planning.

Walking into the newly restyled café feels as if you're stepping into a sophisticated Melbournianstyle eatery. With a dedicated space for kids, comfortable lounge area, business lounge upstairs and free wifi, customers can sit back, relax and enjoy the food and coffee on offer.

Image courtesy of Chow:Hill Architects Limited.

PĀ PĀ MOA EXPANSION

Building a brand new service centre has been a major project for the Farmer Autovillage team this year. With 30 percent of their customers based out towards P ā p ā moa and Te Puke, they knew it made sense to provide a more convenient location.

Construction will start on the 10-bay workshop in P ā p ā moa in July 2023, and will be complete with a five-car showroom by January 2024. The workshop will service their 16 brands, and all other makes and models are welcome.

ELECTRIC MOBILITY

Farmer Autovillage has the biggest range of electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid vehicles in the Bay. The dealership accommodates for all budgets when it comes to electric vehicles, from the gran turismo of the Audi RS e-tron GT to the value packed MG ZS EV, there's something for everyone.

Now the Autovillage has recently added Horwin electric mopeds and GoScoot electric scooters, to provide people with even more mobility options.

Ensuring customers always have a range of vehicles at hand is a top priority for the team, to make loan services as easy as possible. And now they’re driving sustainable practices by moving all of their service loan cars to electric and hybrid, while also offering GoScoot Electric Vehicle Scooters and E-Bikes, for customers to pick up and take.

Of course they still have the courtesy Volkswagen multivan running daily for people to jump aboard, but group after sales manager Bevan Sheppard says they’re now encouraging use of the new pedestrian laneway that runs along Hewletts Road into the city and to Bayfair.

Left: Construction of the P ā p ā moa service centre on Turiwhatu Street is in full swing.

The Farmer Nissan team.

In terms of servicing electric vehicles, Farmer Autovillage has been one of the most progressive dealerships in New Zealand. They were the first dealership in the Bay of Plenty to install a 175kW DC ultra-fast supercharger on site four years ago. For those new to the electric vehicle world, the dealership's Wallbox showroom offers an interactive space where customers can learn about electric/wall chargers and interact with them alongside the Farmer Autovillage parts specialists.

Over the last five years, the team has worked hard to create total vehicle care solutions, aimed at customer and vehicle care. Now it includes services such as windscreen chip repairs, as well as wheel repair and alignment for all makes and models.

“The ultimate aim is for customers to know they can come to us,” says Bevan. “Anytime you think, ‘I need something for my car’, we want to be able to provide that. And we’re about 99 percent of the way there. We've invested in things that no other car dealership really does.”

And now with the online booking portal, customers can easily book in services like a warrant without spending time on the phone.

AWARDS APLENTY

Adding to their already jam-packed shelves of awards is always a bonus for the Farmer Autovillage team. Farmer Nissan recently took home the Master Elite award for best Nissan dealer worldwide – a monumental achievement for the team. Prior to that the coveted Audi Dealer of the Year 2022 award was bestowed upon the dealership, with six team members also awarded as winners of six different categories.

Dealer principal Blair Woolford says the team was more than satisfied with the multiple awards, especially the overall Dealer of the Year win. "To win the award twice in three years speaks volumes of the hard work and dedication of our whole team,” he says.

And for Farmer Autovillage, that ongoing hard work and dedication is the best reward of all.

FARMERAUTOVILLAGE.CO.NZ

The dealership's Wallbox showroom offers an interactive space where customers can learn about electric/wall chargers and interact with them.

The Š koda showroom on Hewletts Road has been modernised and transformed.

ACOUSTIC SPIRIT

Whiskey SoHo is the Bay’s top-shelf blend of musical talent.

WORD S SHIREE SCHUMACHER

Bay of Plenty’s authorised repairer for:

Singer-songwriter Waylon McPherson has been steeped in music since childhood

– strumming his way through various bands and playing to crowds over the years with some memorable success. But a voice injury, and the pandemic, forced a hiatus. After time to recalibrate and heal his voice, Waylon re-emerged as Whiskey SoHo – a multi-genre percussive solo-acoustic act that’s as interesting as it sounds. Singing, playing and percussing on his guitar using effect pedals manufactured by McPherson Stompboxes, his own Papamoa-based family business, he produces a full band-like experience. His sound is funky, soulful – and just like a great whiskey, hits all the right notes.

What led you to become a musician?

I can always remember being drawn to music. When I was three or four years old, and my dad put on a Dire Straits Live Concert VHS, and that's when the penny dropped: “ Wow, so this is how music is made! ” I began to learn guitar at 10 years old and was totally into it, but it wasn't until I was around 18 and I played my first live show that I knew music was something that I wanted to be a large part of life.

How did you end up creating Whiskey Soho?

I ’d been playing the cover circuit for quite a few years but during lockdown, all my gigs were cancelled. This coincided with a vocal injury, and I was advised not to sing until it was addressed. After quite a bit of vocal therapy, I was able to heal my voice back to a point where I could perform, and in late 2022, I started working on Whiskey SoHo.

What do you love about what you do?

The biggest thing I love about playing music live is how it brings people from all different walks of life together in a positive way. It's an addictive feeling when you are playing in front of a crowd that's really engaged. I love my day job, which is a company my wife Shelley and I started in 2008, McPherson Stompboxes NZ Ltd. We work with musicians all over New Zealand and around the Bay, building, servicing, repairing and modifying musicians ’ instruments and gear. We are a musical household 24/7 around here.

What are your music career highlights so far?

Being managed by Ray Columbus and having a single on the NZ Charts. Being nominated for best new artist in the Juice TV Music Awards. Performing on Top of the Pops with Chefu and Opshop. Performing live on the Good Morning Show. Rotorua Sound Shell performance to a crowd of over 30,000 people. Supporting Midwave Breaks on the Mount Maunganui leg of their tour. I have played many memorable gigs, and they all make up epic lifetime experiences.

What inspires your music?

Life experiences, random thoughts and ideas. My style of writing is all about the vibe. Songs can have several storylines that are all intertwined. Even though my songs have meaning to me, I would rather the listener have their own idea of what it might mean to them. When I was six or seven, I remember really liking a song, and watching an interview where the artist was describing what the song was about, and I felt like knowing the backstory took away some of the magic of what the song meant for me.

How is it being part of Papamoa's music community?

Papamoa and the wider Bay of Plenty is such an incredible musical community, supportive, encouraging and helpful. The quality of the musicians in the Bay is world-class. There is so much inspiration every time someone releases new music, or you get the opportunity to catch a live show.

What is your favourite instrument to play?

Guitar! I'm totally obsessed with the guitar and have been since I was 10! The entire Whiskey SoHo act is built around pushing the boundaries of what you can do with just one acoustic guitar.

Who is your favourite band or musician right now?

I love so many styles and types of music, hence the range of genres I write and play. I love that there is something for everyone and more amazing music is being written, recorded and released every day. When I connect with a song, I can enjoy it, regardless of the artist who wrote it, or who performs it. Every style or mix of music has its place and has the opportunity to connect with people, and the big thing is how to give people the opportunity to hear your music.

WHISKEY.SOHO

WHISKEY SOHO

ART OF THE CITY

PHOTOS ANNE SHIRLEY + SAM HARTNETT

Public art humanises the built environment, sparking community engagement and fostering appreciation for creativity. Now Tauranga is set to become a destination renowned for public art, thanks to a just-launched Public Art Framework.

Tauranga city’s commissioners have adopted a “bold and ambitious” new plan for public art, dedicating up to $3 million toward undertaking major public art commissions over the coming years – works of scale and vision the likes of which the city hasn’t seen before.

Tauranga City Council’s arts and culture manager James Wilson says the plan is to build a world-leading collection of public art, and to invest in developing local artists and the community to create “incredible” new pieces and installations, all of which will help make Tauranga a destination renowned for its public art.

“The framework has been developed alongside a wide range of Tauranga artists and arts organisations, and I’m hugely excited by what this will enable for the city. It is focused on shining a light on the stories of our city – working with artists and communities to give visibility to Tauranga’s stories, and to create a sense of place and belonging, by bringing great public art to our re-imagined public spaces,” James says. Especially wonderful, James says, is the fact public art is the most accessible of art – works the whole community can engage with, without having to buy a ticket, or cross an art gallery entrance.

Freelance art consultant and curator Ellie Smith, who has been involved in developing the new framework through Supercut Projects, says the public can expect an invigoration of Tauranga’s artistic landscape. Think: Lightboxes, sculpture, pop-up installations, light works, participatory works, creative

hoardings and ngā toi Māori in all its forms. All this as well as still supporting and encouraging community and temporary installations such as murals, she says.

The framework involves a region-wide view. There will be significant commissioning of work for downtown Tauranga, yet inspiring pieces of public art will also be placed at the Mount, Greerton, Pyes Pa, and other significant locations. The Framework includes a 10 Year Master Plan which will map public art activity, in step with city-wide development and Tauranga City Council’s Long-Term Plan.

“Our city has been going through some growing pains, but I am so excited to see how this transforms Tauranga,” Ellie says. She’s noted both hunger and support in the community for this ambitious undertaking, which comes with many benefits. It is globally recognised that

A $3 million commitment to public art is set to redefine Tauranga’s public spaces.

WORDS MONIQUE BALVERT-O’CONNOR

Bobbie Gray, Kōwhai Grove, 2023

cities succeed both economically and in wellbeing statistics when arts and culture are prioritised.

“The Public Art Framework will contribute to the local economy, give opportunities to local artists, and give space for mana whenua to tell their narratives. It will add to the city’s vibrancy and also show domestic and international visitors that the city is about more than solely a beach,” Ellie says.

Incubator director Simone Anderson says the new Public Art Framework and arts investment gives reassurance that Tauranga can “begin the game of catch-up.”

“We can become a city where arts are not considered an indulgence but a necessary ingredient to nourish our city’s identity and to encourage and welcome expressions of culture and storytelling,” she says.

The new framework aims to enable projects that will explore the diverse cultural narratives of the city. This has been met with enthusiasm by Julie Paama-Pengally, who chairs Te Tuhi Mareikura Trust – an organisation committed to building the capacity of Māori artists and enhancing the contribution of Māori to Tauranga Moana.

“I believe this is an opportunity to bring to life, in unique ways, the significant legacy of Māori visual language. In articulating the rich art traditions of Aotearoa, New Zealand, Māori have so much value to add to this space.

“For our Māori artists and the community, this will be an important expression of a Māori arts legacy for future generations. Our landscape will reflect our aspirations as artists, as people, as a unique destination in the world, and as a place that reflects its people,” she says.

The Public Art Fund will open on July 1 next year, but Tauranga will welcome new public art before then. A work called Kōwhai Grove by Bobbie Gray has been commissioned, opening over King’s Birthday weekend. It will be installed down a laneway off Grey Street. There are also some other significant Tauranga City Council-led projects in the works – check out the app City Art Walk Tauranga.

Artists wishing to know more about the commissioning process (and the support available) can contact Council’s Arts & Culture team at: PUBLICART@TAURANGA.GOVT. NZ

“ THINK: LIGHTBOXES, SCULPTURE, POP-UP INSTALLATIONS, LIGHT WORKS, PARTICIPATORY WORKS, CREATIVE HOARDINGS AND NGĀ TOI MĀORI IN ALL ITS FORMS. ”

Sara Hughes, Midnight Sun, 2022

Kelcy Taratoa, Kotahitanga , 2021.

Askew One, Untitled , 2017.

Sam Allen, Into Tauranga Moana , 2023.

AN ELECTRIC DREAM

With the futuristic RZ 450e Dynamic, Lexus has raced straight to the top of the electric car category.

WORD S KARL PUSCHMANN

PHOTOS PHOTOS KARL PUSCHMANN + SUPPLIED

Here’s the scene. I’ve just pulled into the Bethlehem shopping centre car park. It’s mid-morning and the place is heaving. I’m behind the wheel of the luxurious Lexus RZ 450e, a car so new that not even the good people at Lexus of Tauranga have had much of a chance to test drive it before I drive it out of the lot. I know this because when I go to charge it at the end of the day, the packaging is still on the charging cable.

As I hunt down a space to park I notice people gawping at the car. It’s easy to see why. The space-age design and aggressive styling make the car a guaranteed head-turner. Especially as this is the flagship “ Dynamic ” model, which boasts a sophisticated grey and black two-tone paint scheme and matching 20-inch alloy wheels.

Finally, I spot a park. Rather than being overjoyed at my good fortune on this busy day, I begin to feel very nervous indeed. And it’s not because the empty space is squeezed between an electrician’s van and an oversized ute.

You see, the one futuristic feature of the RZ 450e that I’ve been most excited by, but also the most hesitant to try, is what Lexus calls their Advanced Parking System. What this translates to is auto-park and it’s something that feels straight out of a sci-fi film. Simply push a button and the car parks itself. All you have to do is sit back, relax and let its vast array of cameras and sensors do their thing.

That’s the idea anyway. But actually letting go of the steering wheel and putting all of your faith and trust into the car to pull into a parking spot safely and without incident is easier said than done. At least the first time.

It was incredibly nerve-wracking to hand over complete control of the car to its computer. Especially with its $150,000+ price tag bouncing around in my head. As well as other drivers looking for a free spot, there were also pedestrians springing out from all directions that the car had to negotiate. There was a lot that could go wrong and I didn’t fancy returning it with a ding, dent or scratch.

Pushing the button to give the car autonomous control I silently cursed myself for deciding to try the feature in the middle of the day at a crowded car park instead of late at night in an empty one. Although there was some solace in the fact that this was indeed a ‘real world’ test and would certainly be challenging for the RZ 450e to pull off.

The car started beeping to indicate it was reversing and we started moving. It braked to a halt to let a shopper walk past behind it, then continued. We backed past the open space and stopped. Then the steering wheel began quickly spinning in front of me like the little girl’s head in The Exorcist – which was apt because it does feel like the car is possessed while it’s doing this manoeuvring. Once the wheel had spun further than I would have thought possible the car began moving forward with far more confidence than I, a human driver, would have dared.

I was literally on the edge of my seat watching the car’s vibrant and crystal-clear 14-inch iPad-style touch display. Usually, you use this to control the climate, maps, stereo and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but it also shows different camera views when needed. Right now it was showing two different angles; a general camera that focused on the front or rear depending on which way we were going and a top-down view showing the roof of the car and nearby obstacles. Both views presented the anticipated driving arc the car would take.

I was watching both like a hawk, my foot hovering over the brake ready to stamp it down if for even a second it looked like the RZ 450e had made a miscalculation and was in danger of getting even the merest of scratches. Or, you know, hitting someone. But there really was no need. We’d gracefully pulled straight into the park in one sweet turn. But the car wasn’t finished. The steering wheel began spinning, the beeping started up and we slowly reversed out of the park, only stopping to let an oncoming car drive past us. Once out, the car lined itself up and drove forward into the park completing one of the most perfect parking manoeuvres I’ve ever seen. We were precisely in the middle of the space. I couldn’t help the big grin from spreading over my face.

In fact, that big goofy grin was pretty much permanently etched on my face for the entire four days I spent with the car. That’s because, even with all its many luxurious touches and commitment to comfort, the Lexus RZ 450e is just a stupendously fun car to drive.

The fully electric car has two engines, one each powering the front and rear wheels and pulling a combined 308 horsepower. When you put your foot down it shoots forward like a rocket with a satisfying thrust that pushes you back into the incredibly comfortable Ultrasuede seats. Capable of hitting 100kms in just under 5 seconds, not much will be getting away from you at the lights. And, being

electric, you don’t have to feel guilty about burning recklessly through your petrol tank. Of course, with electric vehicles, battery life is all important. Lexus says the battery in the RZ 450e is good for a whopping 470kms, which is enough juice to get you to Auckland and back on a single charge. I didn’t keep a record of distance but I can tell you I only charged it once during my time with the car which included everyday errands, school runs and day trips to Waihi Beach and Katikati.

The cabin has a sophisticated simplicity to it. It’s surprisingly roomy, even in the back, and the power-dimming panoramic glass roof ensures it’s bright and feels airy. Needless to say, it’s just lovely to sit in.

There are all the modern features that you expect of Lexus, like heated seats and heated steering wheel, phone charging pad and a driver HUD display projected in front of you, but also new ones like the car’s personal assistant which you operate by saying “ Hey Lexus ” to issue voice commands like changing radio stations or finding maps without needing to have your phone connected. Of course, the Bluetooth connectivity was flawless, instantly connecting as soon as I hopped in. A special mention also has to go to the car’s 13-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Audio stereo system, which was powerful yet clear and detailed. It sounded terrific.

Safety-wise there’s more than just the Advanced Parking system. The RZ 450e also boasts lane-keeping assist, which doesn’t let you stray out of your lane, and adaptive cruise control, which keeps the car moving at a speed you set as well as keeping you a safe distance from the car in front of you. If they start to slow down, so do you. A full auto drive feature cannot be far away.

With the release of the RZ 450e, Lexus have comfortably driven to the top of the electric car category. It delivers comfort, looks, speed and the all-important distance, and wraps all of these up in a layer of understated sophistication. It kept me smiling the entire time I had it. In fact, the only time the smile left my face was when I handed the keys back.

LEXUS.CO.NZ/EN/DEALERS/TAURANGA

LOVE THEM ENOUGH… GIVE THEM THE BEST

Highest

Édith Piaf is a true French icon. The singer was one of the country’s biggest stars and one of its few musical acts to have a global impact. Her songs, largely autobiographical ballads about love and loss, were received as instant classics that immediately joined the standards songbook to be covered and reinterpreted forevermore. But despite all of Édith’s fame, her life remains shrouded in mystery. Even decades after her death the renowned French chanteuse still keeps many dark secrets.

“She was a very complex, complicated character,” vocalist Mandy Meadows says. “She was abandoned by her mother and father who were circus performers and grew up in a brothel. Nobody really knew exactly where she was from.”

Mandy has been fascinated by Édith for as long as she can remember. As an international singer, it’s no surprise that she’d be enamoured by the songs, but Édith’s life also captured her imagination. So much so that she created a cabaret style show around it.

Titled Piaf: The Legend, the show tells the story of Édith’s life via her remarkable songs like La Vie En Rose, La Foule and Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien

LIFE IS A CABARET

Celebrated vocalist and Pā p ā moa local Mandy Meadows is taking her internationally acclaimed cabaret

Piaf: The Legend on tour around the North Island for the first time.

For complete authenticity, Mandy sings them in their original French.

“All the songs are in French but the story is in English, so everybody can understand that because it is a show for everybody,” she says. “Whether you're a fan or not, it's really her incredible story that’s so captivating.”

Édith’s life was full of contradictions but never boring. From her childhood as a street urchin to helping POW’s escape during the war to becoming one of the biggest stars in the world.

“She was a real contrast of flaws and beauty,” Mandy says. “And unapologetically human, which is what I really like about her. She was a phoenix, rising above the ashes. There was nothing pretty about her life. It was really very tragic. But through all of that, she created these absolutely stunning songs and had a big, booming voice out of someone so small.”

Mandy first performed Piaf: The Legend in London’s Piccadilly Circus around seven years ago after funding its development by joining a paid clinical trial.

“I literally gave my blood for this show,” she laughs.

Since then she’s taken it all over the globe, leaving audiences spellbound and earning four and five-star reviews. Now she’s bringing that special French je ne sais quoi to the North Island.

With dancers, a six-piece band that includes French accordion and clarinet and, of course, Mandy’s acclaimed vocals and performance leading the way the cabaret is all but guaranteed to transport you out of the regions and straight over to Paris.

“I get quite emotional actually,” Mandy replies when asked how she feels while performing Édith’s passionate and powerful songs. “I really feed off the audience and I always cry. I always have that moment on stage where something really emotional happens and I feel the audience tense up. I do the same. It's a real energy and a beautiful thing. It's a really unique experience.”

For more info, videos and tickets visit PIAFTHELEGEND.COM

WORDS KARL PUSCHMANN

WHERE THE BOYS AREN’T

The Hits radio personality Lauren Mabbett is single and ready to mingle… But where are all the men?

Calling all singles in the Bay of Plenty! We're putting on a speed-dating night!"

What joy I felt reading those words as a single 30 *mumble* year old gal in the Bay of Plenty. I moved back here from living in Auckland and Wellington a couple of years ago and fairly quickly noticed the lack of 30-something single guys or even meetup-style events. So when a local bar started promoting their speed-dating evening, myself and a few of my single girlfriends were rapt. Finally! A chance to meet potential dates face-toface and not via a dating app. As tempting as those photos of dudes holding up a fish or a dead deer are, or the profiles that solely consisted of a pic of some cash spread out on a bed (cool that you've got $180, go you!), it just wasn't working out for me.

Two days before the speed-dating night, the bar organising it posted on Instagram: “Apologies ladies, due to the lack of interest from males we've had to cancel the speed-dating night.”

You could hear the resounding heavy sigh from women across the Bay. My point had been proven.

And it's not for lack of trying. Many nights my friends and I will go out and try and meet someone the good old-fashioned way – getting on the piss at a pub. However, a quick scan of the room usually results in disappointment. Groups of men old enough to be my dad, young enough to be my children, or all sporting those bloody wedding rings.

In the two years I've been back in Tauranga, I've been on one date. I met a guy from Tinder at a bar in town and straightaway realised he didn't look at all like his photos. His profile said he was 36 but he informed me in person he was 45 and didn't know how to change his age on the app (side note: If you can't figure out how to type in your own birthday, that's a bit of a red flag in itself). He then proceeded to spend our whole date talking about how much he hates the government and “Cindy”, all the while continuously calling me “chickadee”.

On the way home, while sitting on Cameron Road for 45 damn minutes, I thought to myself, “ Even though I'm single, if the right guy for me isn't out there right now, there's no point pushing it. I have friends in other cities who will end up dating the wrong person for the sake of not being alone. They're not happy, but they believe they're happier than they would be being single.”

As the great Robin Williams once said, “ I used to think that the worst thing in life was to end up alone. It's not. The worst thing in life is to end up with people who make you feel alone.”

As nice as it would be to at least be able to go on a few promising dates, being single certainly has its upsides. I have so much time for my good friends and family, I get to wake up and start my day exactly the way I want to, I can travel without having to work around anyone else, and I don't need to bother changing the second pillow case on my bed (apart from when it's covered in cat fur). Seriously, though, it's given me heaps of time to focus on myself which I haven't taken for granted. I've been filling my evenings doing standup comedy, hosting pub quizzes or going out for lovely dinners with friends. And if among all that I have no plans, there's something quite enjoyable about hibernating at home, ordering Uber Eats and catching up on White Lotus. Perhaps opening a bottle of wine too.

If you're single and over 30 in Tauranga, first of all, call me! Secondly, embrace it. Make each day your own and enjoy it. And if you get really desperate, I know a guy who has $180.

Listen to Lauren weekdays 9am to 3pm on The Hits 95.0FM.

“ I USED TO THINK THAT THE WORST THING IN LIFE WAS TO END UP ALONE. IT'S NOT. THE WORST THING IS TO END UP WITH PEOPLE WHO MAKE YOU FEEL ALONE. ”

ROBIN WILLIAMS

Lauren (far right) and friends.

BETWEEN THE LINES

UNO’s top new reads from home and around the globe.

WHERE LIGHT MEETS WATER

by Susan Paterson Simon & Schuster

HANNAH & HUIA

by Charlotte Lobb

Quentin Wilson Publishing

Tauranga author Charlotte Lobb’s debut novel tells a story about hope and finding purpose, even when that hope seems lost.

Hannah is in a mental health unit, rendered speechless following the sudden death of her husband and baby son one rainy night – for which she feels unspeakable guilt. Huia is also there, a long-term resident who lives entirely in her own inner world. Drawn out of her own web of misery, Hannah learns to read Huia and discover the truth. This is one powerful and unforgettable story that reminds us we are never alone.

Set in Scotland, England, Australia and New Zealand in the 19th century, this is a transformative story of art, love and the sea. In 1847, Scotsman Tom Rutherford is a sailor and an artist. Sent to sea at age 13 after the loss of his father, Tom is determined to captain his own ship. On shore leave while his ship is being repaired, Tom discovers a lace glove soaked in turpentine. The unusual token belongs to Catherine Ogilvie, a captivating woman and singular artist who chafes against the constraints of her privileged but stifling London life. As Tom and Catherine begin to share their stories in pigment, Tom’s world is opened to creative possibility and his lifelong ambitions risk being upturned.

THE GUBYLLUB

by Lisa Hamilton-Gibbs iCandy

A whimsical tale with a very important message at its heart

The Gubyllub is a New Zealand children’s book which follows the story of a young girl named Rose. She encounters bullying behaviour by a boy named Billy at her school and recognises Billy’s unkind words following her own brief history of bullying behaviour. She recounts her frightful experience of once having “ The Bullybug ”, the bug responsible for taking kindness away from children, and reveals her journey to find the cure.

UNDER THE WEATHER

by Professor James Renwick HarperCollins NZ

Professor James Renwick explains how a warmer world will change more than just our weather patterns. It will change the look of the land around us, what grows and lives on it – including us. He looks at New Zealand's increasingly frequent natural disasters, warming and acidifying waters, the creep of rising sea levels, and the ways that the changing weather will affect our lives. Renwick examines this perilous point in human history in which no generation has ever faced such a threat. But he points out the fact humans are driving global warming means that we as a species can stop it.

FROM THERE TO HERE

by Joe Bennett HarperCollins NZ

New Zealand writer and columnist Joe Bennett's first memoir confronts and reflects on the journey from childhood to manhood, and his long and fruitless struggle against teaching for a living. This is Joe Bennett’s first 30 years. It covers a childhood in middle-class southern England, through to his teaching and travels, before coming to New Zealand at the age of 30. With the intention of staying for just a year, he ended up staying a wee bit longer…

Showcase

THRILL OF THE HUNT

EXPERIENCE GREECE

Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters along the Aegina shoreline, take in the stunning sights, or simply bask in the peaceful atmosphere before finding solace in the art studio, unleashing your creativity and finding inspiration. This exceptional opportunity caters to both novice and seasoned painters, offering the blissful pleasure of creating art amid the serene ambience of Greece's captivating Aegina Island. The next experience is on August 30, and there are only four spots left, so secure your special discount of NZD$500pp for a shared two-level apartment and indulge your artistic muse.

LOVEMYGREECE.COM/PORTFOLIO-ITEM/ART-COURSE-TOUR

Kitchen Takeover and Te Puke Truffles have teamed up to offer foodies a winter culinary experience. Owned by Maureen and Colin Binns, Te Puke Truffles has been cultivating some of New Zealand's highest quality black perigord truffles since 2015. The couple will offer hunters the opportunity to hear their personal story, as they share how they started their truffière and witness Jed and Sam, the truffle hunting dogs, in action as they search for truffles on the truffière. Once the truffle hunting experience is over, guests have the option to visit Sugo, one of the Bay's top restaurants, for a two-course Italian lunch where Te Puke Truffle will take centre stage. Truffle hunts will run on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays until July 30. Bookings are now open and cost $99 for the hunt and $69 for the lunch.

KITCHENTAKEOVER.CO.NZ

YOUR PERFECT RECIPE FOR RETIREMENT AWAITS YOU NOW AT WAIHI BEACH

This premium 96 home lifestyle retirement village is your chance to secure retirement living at the beach.

With homes starting from $880,000 Karaka Pines Waihi Beach has been designed from the ground up to be the new standard of excellence in retirement living.

Along with all the other benefits this village offers, you’ll get the benefit of the capital gain in your home, along with fixed fees for life.

If you are interested in a home within walking distance to Waihi Beach, come out for a coffee and visit our stunning new showhome and explore the possibilities first hand.

SNUGGLY WARM

Perfect at keeping you warm and dry in the cooler seasons, the Bundlebean has a waterproof shell and cosy fleece lining and is available in seven great graphic options. Easily held in place with a strap, the Bundlebean is designed to be comforting without being restrictive.

RRP$115 from MOBILITYCENTRE.CO.NZ

KEEP CALM

Discover a new perspective on health at The Wellness Den. The new local chiropractor based in Te Puna focuses on the spine-nervous system relationship, unlocking your body's healing powers for optimal wellbeing. With tailored treatments, education and preventative care, they empower you to take charge of your health. Their calming studio in Te Puna welcomes the whole family. Book with code "UNO" to enter the draw for a premium chiropractic pillow. Winner announced on August 1, 2023. Terms and conditions apply.

THE_WELLNESS_DEN THEWELLNESSDEN

THEWELLNESSDEN.CO.NZ

Sartorial Elegance

Sophisticated Style

STYLE STATUS

Keep cosy but cool with key elements this season.

LAYER UP

Winter is the time when fabrics really come into play. Texture adds a whole new layer to any piece, so the distinctive look of mohair, or the sheen of silk or satin can take an outfit to the next level. Wool is at the fore in its many forms, and a modernised Fair Isle jumper is a cool retro aesthetic. Match with a pair of leather pants and chunky boots, or a statement sweater in cable knit or an on-trend colour (there are greens and pinks galore), and you have an outfit that breezes from day to night. If a jumper feels like too much of a temperature commitment (no one wants to feel trapped sweating it out on a mild Bay day), then consider a cardigan. Versatile to the end, it’s the ultimate seasonal sneak piece as you still get to showcase the outfit beneath.

Wrapping up in something snuggly has never been more acceptable with the post-pandemic love fest for leisurewear. A determination to prioritise comfort has led to a burgeoning market for anything you feel good in. Meanwhile, a solid staple that’s hit the big time this season is the white shirt – with the potential to be styled in multiple ways, it’s a foundation piece that you can’t do without. Winter accessories are surely the most gratifying, and this year the bigger the scarf, the more on-trend. A lightweight version comes into its own with its ability to double as sleek outfit accent and draught excluder when you get the seat no-one wants next to the open office door.

1. MULBERRY BRONTE BAG $85, FOR STOCKISTS CONTACT ANTLERNZ.CO.NZ

2. PRINCIPESSA DRESS, $570, TWENTYSEVENNAMES.CO.NZ

3. CABLE KNIT FAIR ISLE SWEATER, $299.95, SCOTCH-SODA.COM.AU

4. GEO WHITE SHIRT, $269, CHARTREUSE SAILOR JEANS, $289, NZ.KOWTOWCLOTHING.COM

5. PETER ALEXANDER KNIT CHECK CARDI $99.99, PETERALEXANDER.CO.NZ

6. EASEL COMBAT BOOT, $400, MIPIACI.CO.NZ

7. GARICA FAUX LEATHER PANTS, $255, URBANVOGUE.CO.NZ

8. GREEN ABSTRACT LEOPARD SCARF $39, FOR STOCKISTS CONTACT ANTLERNZ.CO.NZ

WORDS NICKY ADAMS

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TRENDING NOW

Most wanted this season.

UNPACK THE PARTYWEAR

Looking polished in winter always feels like a bit more of an effort – but the dazzle can still be worked into the outfit, just in different ways. The most obvious route is via your outerwear – a stylish, quality winter coat or jacket is an investment piece that will not just elevate your look but will be with you to the end. When you’re going glam in winter, you want hard-working multifunctional looks that will translate just as well at a milestone birthday party as a black-tie event. Balancing statement with staples is easy to achieve with an on-trend maxi dress or skirt. Full-leg coverage makes this the ultimate cold-weather piece that can turn its hand to a host of different looks. Style with a blazer or larger-than-life faux fur for a super cool classic silhouette, or throw on a low-key jacket for contemporary. Plush textures are going strong, so don’t shy away from a furry, feather or shearling aesthetic. To extend your looks still further, consider winterising items in your wardrobe by incorporating layering pieces. Fine knit merinos or turtlenecks will slip under dresses and can be styled either to blend in or as a contrast.

1. RUBY ARIEL DRESS $329, RUBYNZ.COM

2. NAUTICA RING $379, SILKANDSTEEL.CO.NZ

3. CURTIS SLEEVELESS BLOUSE $199, RUBYNZ.COM/COLLECTIONS/LIAM

4. SCARF MINI SKIRT $519 (LIMITED EDITION), ZARA.COM/NZ

5. NAUTICA HOOPS $269, SILKANDSTEEL.CO.NZ

IN YOUR ELEMENT

The scarf trend has crept into clothing and can be found incorporated into everything from coats to skirts. Embellishments are key; however, it’s worth thinking about the type of event before you commit to a look – stand-up versus sit-down can be more of an outfit barometer than you think (hours on a seat-full of sequins can be prickly). Instead tie these aspects in other ways. A black ankle boot will be a wise investment, good with maxis and pants, a sleek slimline heel makes this the perfect footwear to swap in to replace anklebaring heels. If you’ve opted for a minimal design outfit then top the look off with an evening bag with extra va-va-voom; high shine or intricate detailing is a sartorial win.

ANGEL FEATHER JACKET $499, STORMONLINE.COM

CASHMERE OVERSIZED SWEATER, HONEYDEW, $859, STANDARDISSUE.CO.NZ

DARCY SUEDE BOOTS $490, SCARPA.CO.NZ

C/MEO RECIPROCATE MINI DRESS $349, COCOWELLINGTON.CO.NZ

BRIE LEON ANTONIA BAG $250, PAPERPLANESTORE.COM

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COLOUR ME PRETTY

Work out which shades will light up your life

WORDS NICKY ADAMS

While we live in a time of obsessing over miracle creams and tweakments, the more achievable secret to looking our best is far simpler and lies not in a needle but in our wardrobe. For men and women alike, some colours will quite literally take years off you by visually brightening your skin tone. Others will suck the very life force from you.

Deciphering the colour palette that best suits your skin tone is not an exact science. A professional colour analysis is one way of doing it, or you can DIY it by holding up different colours close to your face to see which give you a lift. No matter how light or dark your skin is on the outside, cool, warm and neutral undertones are the colours that come through from under the surface of your skin. By looking at the veins on your wrist you may be able to work out where you sit. Blue or purple veins indicate a cool skin, green means warm. If, like me, you have spent lots of time staring at your veins but remain none the wiser,

COOL DRESSING

Pink or bluey-red undertones tend to blush more easily.

Aim for bright greens, purples, bold and pale blues, jewel tones, cool greys, crisp white and sea shades.

it might be that you sit between both and are neutral. Another tried-and-tested way is by looking at your jewellery or watch; silver looks good on cool skin tones, while gold flatters warm tones. Failing all these methods, most people will know how they react to the sun’s rays – warm undertones tend to tan, cool will burn more easily. While hair colour is no clear-cut indicator, generally the darker your hair, eyes and skin, the brighter the better, whereas naturally fair of skin and hair will find pastels and paler shades complement their features.

Once you’ve got a baseline of the shades that theoretically flatter you, don't be too literal. It’s very common to simply dismiss a colour and all the shades that lie around it when armed with the perception that the base colour does not suit you. However, different hues within the colour wheel can be subtle to the eye yet throw off a totally different look. Using white as an example, the wrong hue can easily make you look washed out – while pure white looks fabulous on cool complexions, a shift to ivory makes it stunning for warm. So, if there is a colour

WARM WEARERS

Yellowish or olive undertones look good in earth colours. Try greens, browns, warm reds, orange, peach, coral, yellow, taupe and off-white.

you’ve mentally banned, try again with an alternative that sits in close proximity.

If you’re reading this with a view that it’s irrelevant because “one size fits all ” black is your go-to, then I have bad news. Black has long been considered the safe option, but for many complexions it can drain all the colour from the face; worse still, it can cause shadows that pool in those fine wrinkles, which of course is more obvious as we mature. If this is the case, you might find that swapping out black for navy is like switching on an internal light.

Once you’ve found those shades that really make an impact, don’t be scared to dial it up a notch. As we mature, vibrant colours become a statement. We’re in a fashion moment where dopamine dressing rules supreme – nevertheless, if you simply can’t make your favourite colour work then don’t despair, all is not lost. The key is to keep it at a distance from your face, so anything worn from the waist down will work. Equally use the colour to build on to accessorise with bright heels or matching bags.

NEUTRAL UNDERTONES

You suit a variety of hues and shades and can get away with most colours, so wear what makes you feel best, but be careful of bright colours.

UNIVERSALLY FLATTERING COLOURS

Anyone can wear these, whether you're cool, warm, or neutral, so don't be afraid to go bold with true red, teal and dark purple.

FASHION FORECAST

Get ahead with the latest spring fashion trends.

WHAT LIES BENEATH

Lingerie-inspired looks have left the bedroom and will be hitting the high street. Think corseted tops and beautiful satins along with sheer fabrics and luxurious lace trimmings. The ubiquitous slip dress will be seen with lacy accents, and pretty camisole tops abound. To be this slinky needs confidence, and this trend is a something of a twist on power dressing.

A NEW ANGLE

Well, hold onto your hats – flattering and relatable? Surely not! Asymmetric hemlines are big for spring. This look lends itself to a fabric with movement and ruching along the seam; both aspects make this super easy to wear.

SHINE BRIGHT

Silver is coming out as leader of the metallics. A little more discreet than gold, it can be toned down to pewter, and slides into daywear with ease. Meanwhile, lime is the shade that will sing spring from the low-sheen colour chart. Refreshing and with a range of tones suited to most people, it’s a bold choice, but one that signals summer is on its way. With a colour this vibrant, the design is best pared back to let the hue do the talking.

ETHEREAL BEAUTY

Sleek draped dresses and skirts – dreamy, goddesslike and the new romantic on the runway. Avoid looking too costumey by keeping accessories to the minimal. It’s a soft, undone, and with its pleats and gathers in all the right places, very flattering look. It’s also a style that can be played around with for day wear, but translates easily into sultry evening attire or sophisticated event wear. The Greek goddess look is the ultimate classic.

Collina Strada

Shang Xia

Versace

Fendi

Salvatore Ferragamo

Loewe

FEEL-GOOD FASHION

Sister boutiques Urban Vogue and George Edward keep fashion at the forefront.

WORD S NICKY ADAMS | PHOTOS SALINA GALVAN

Buying clothes is a bona fide spirit lifter. There is joy (and adrenalin) involved in finding that perfect outfit, but a huge part of the experience is being comfortable and confident in your surroundings when you make those choices. Vicki Burns, owner operator of Urban Vogue and George Edward in Bethlehem, and her team are exactly the sort of people you want to be there to help with those – sometimes complicated – decisions. Despite 30 years in the industry, Vicki has not been caught up in the smoke and mirrors of the fashion world. What drives her is knowing that her customers can enjoy all the attractions of a boutique surroundings but have access to attainable but individual pieces. With her own style leaning towards

a casual steampunk aesthetic, what Vicki loves is that she has found her niche in the market by bringing her client base a range of looks that are influenced not by her personal preference, but by good style and high quality rather than moving trends. In fact, she tells me, her best feedback is when customers come back and say, “I’ve thrashed that piece – can I have something similar?” Not, she laughs, the best business model in a trend-led industry.

Her small team are, like Vicki, there to help with their considerable experience and expertise, rather than to tell people they look good to secure a sale. The success of this ethos is reflected in the fact that the majority of the two stores enjoy predominantly repeat custom. The team have mostly been with Vicki from the very beginning, or the early days. Urban Vogue was established 16 years ago when Bethlehem Town

Centre was developed, and Vicki took over George Edward a year or so later. She finds it works well having the two stores so close together. There’s a slightly different emphasis on stock, with Urban Vogue catering to those looks that you won’t find elsewhere, and George Edward leaning more towards classic, modern chic. But with the same staff working between the two shops and having knowledge of the entire stock, there’s a synergy that means customers have the benefit of a far more extensive pool that they would first have thought. The team of Kim, Sonia, Robyn, Megan and Donna all bring a unique skill set, from Sonia with her flair for individualism, to Megan who is an instore professionally trained colour consultant, able to assist customers with their best looks.

The concept of doing things a little uniquely filters from the looks to the interior design of the stores, specifically Urban Vogue, which has been set out in the style of wardrobes. Typically arranged by colour, it streamlines the process for the customer. Vicki holds that for the store her initial mission statement was “to develop a space where people could come and tell us the dog’s sick or the bird’s having its beak clipped – I wanted a friendly space. For people to come and connect. And that’s what they did – and those people have carried on supporting us.” When it comes to the labels held in stores the idea was “trying to get things that were a little bit outside the square, but not to the point where it’s scary for the consumer.” Over the years the brand choices have evolved organically, as Vicki

continues to strive for a feel of exclusivity – along with this, Vicki has her own unique spin on the styling of her pieces. This, she puts down to her personality. “It’s really good, because although there are other lovely independent boutiques locally, we’ve all got quite different personalities – and that comes through in our stores.” Along with the different looks is an emphasis on body inclusivity and wearability. “I want things people will wear above all else. I don’t buy for a fleeting trend; I buy for my customer. And they need quality and affordability.”

Vicki’s boutiques are well known for the fabulous fashion shows they put on locally – often for a charitable cause. She loves the community aspect of these and sees it as a way of giving back to her loyal customers as much as showcasing her lines. As someone uncomfortable with limelight and fanfare, Vicki is level-headed about the perceived glamour of the fashion world. Instead, she thrives on representing the ordinary woman in fashion’s extraordinary world. What she does love is “the changing landscape – you don’t know from one day to the next what you’re going to get out of the industry. I might not buy the passing trends if it’s no good for my customers, but I love to look at them, keep up to speed, to feel the fabric and know that the quality is being upheld.”

For Vicki and the team at Urban Vogue and George Edward, the real joy is customer service, satisfaction and the camaraderie that fashion produces.

URBANVOGUE.CO.NZ

GEORGEEDWARD.CO.NZ

“ VICKI OFFER S HER CLIENTS LOOKS THAT ARE INFLUENCED BY GO OD STYLE AND HIGH QUALITY RATHER THAN MOVING TRENDS. ”

SOLE SEARCHING

Mount Maunganui photographer and creative Tasha Meys, better known on Instagram as @tastefullytash, shares her top winter footwear picks from SOLECT.

SOLECT.NZ

BOOTS IN

“A high-quality black boot is a staple in my winter wardrobe. Pair with jeans, winter dresses or smart trousers.”

TIMBERLAND CORTINA VALLEY CHELSEA BOOT

$360

CREAM PLEASE

“I’m all about a sneaker which works as well for a run up the Mount as it does with jeans for a casual vibe.”

ASICS GEL 1130 $190

COSY TOES

“These pink sheepskin slippers feel like a fluffy hug for my feet. Snuggly indoors yet easy-wear outdoors due to their hard soles.”

EMU AUSTRALIA MAYBERRY SLIPPERS $80

SHEAR COMFORT

“A shearling-lined cold-weather version of these classic Birks is a dream. Wear with cute socks for extra warmth. They feel like slippers but are totally acceptable to wear in public!”

BIRKENSTOCK ARIZONA SHEARLING $350

STAR TURN

“I love that the lift gives you that extra bit of height! Leather is warmer than the canvas version, so perfect with jeans for cooler days, or a dress and trench for an evening look.”

SUPPORT LOCAL

“Alongside a black boot, I love a brown boot in winter for a softer look. Ideal with blue denim and a white shirt.”

CHAOS & HARMONY MONTREUX BOOT $390

CHUCK TAYLOR ALL STAR LEATHER LIFT LOW $150

Menopause can have a dramatic effect on the skin. Without hormones, our aging accelerates by around 30 percent. Because our skin is so visible, being the largest organ on the body, it is one of the areas we first notice the most rapid changes. Often people tell me they feel like it happened overnight. One of the reasons for this is that oestrogen receptors are very abundant around the face and the decline of oestrogen is part and parcel of menopause.

Tell-tale signs can include thinning skin, wrinkles, skin laxity and dry skin, as well as hair loss, thinning of the hair and hirsutism (abnormal hair growth in women on the face).

The best way to treat perimenopausal and menopausal skin is to find a good skin therapist, and make sure it’s someone you

A NEW ERA

Registered nurse Leanne Cashmore from the Cashmore Clinic has more than 26 years' experience in women’s skincare. Here she takes us through the challenges that menopause can have on skin, and what we can do to combat them.

can trust. Take a hormone replacement if your doctor recommends it for you, too. There are many cosmetic options these days, including amazing bio stimulator hyaluronic acid dermal fillers that promote hydration. This involves basically injecting moisturiser into the skin and stimulating your own collagen by way of regular needling appointments.

Needling helps with tightening and minimising the visibility of fine lines, and it has been scientifically proven. So if you don't already do it, start now! The latest technology, Secret RF radio frequency needling, uses heat to tighten the skin and needling to cause collagenesis.

Peels and resurfacing treatments brighten the skin and diminishes pigment and irregularities.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is another way to promote collagen. Your own blood is full of growth factors that can be injected or infused into the skin, to produce collagen for fine lines and thinning skin.

Low-level light therapy promotes skin rejuvenation by stimulating collagen production.

Outside of the clinic, it’s a good idea to consistently stick to a skincare regime which includes lots of hydrating serums

and moisturisers. Never use soap. Use a cleanser that is suitable for your skin and try to use a mild cleanser at night, which will allow serums and moisturisers to absorb.

Use an SPF daily, take oral supplements such as zinc and collagen powder, and adhere to a healthy diet while getting plenty of sleep and limiting alcohol and sugar. All these combined will have an amazing effect on the skin.

You can get away with ignoring these health principles when you're younger, but it's impossible after 40.

Treating your skin is a journey. It's maintenance that is no different to maintaining a car or a house. It’s no different to colouring your hair or whitening your teeth. It's a commitment, and the changes don't happen overnight. If you’re considering using botox or fillers, a good canvas to work with is important.

We have to remember it has taken years to get our skin to get to where it is today, and it's going to take some time and patience to bring it back to life. But it's never too late. Small changes over a course of time make big changes to your confidence when you see the results.

Visit Leanne at Cashmore Clinic and have your skin analysed with the latest technology, Observ 520, or simply get some skincare advice.

CASHMORECLINIC.CO.NZ

“ SM ALL CHANGES OVER A COURSE OF TIME MAKE BIG CHANGES TO YOUR CONFIDENCE WHEN YOU SEE THE RESULTS. ”

TURNING HEADS

A stylish new salon in Te Puna makes waves.

WORD S NICKY ADAMS | PHOTOS JAHL MARSHALL

Opening its doors at the end of last year, Kevin & Co is a new hair salon based in the heart of Te Puna village. With its stunning fresh décor, wooden accents and spacious layout, the aesthetic is everything that owner/founder Amanda Sutton had envisaged when she set out to create a calm space where clients could relax and zone out.

Together with stylist/executive assistant and “ right-hand woman ” Hayley McCabe, Amanda has concentrated on setting the tone for a retreat-style salon. Using premium hair care products was hugely important to her, and she raves about luxury brands Oribe from the States and premium Australian haircare from Kevin Murphy.

“In the colour range, the Kevin Murphy tints are honey based and ammonia free, so they’re super soft on your hair, giving heaps of shine, and are nice and gentle on the scalp – which is really important for people these days.” In addition, when it comes to colours, it’s “hands down the best powder lightener I’ve used in my life, although their colours are really good across the board.”

I comment the brand must be good to have inspired the salon name – to which Amanda laughs: “It’s not actually after the brand; this tracks back to when I was a teenager, I’ve always wanted an English bulldog; his name was going to be Kevin, and he was going to be a salon dog – the salon just happened to come before the dog!”

Amanda Sutton, owner and founder with stylist/executive assistant Hayley McCabe.

Based in Hamilton until around five years ago, she moved to Tauranga, and met Hayley when they worked in a salon together. They formed such a great bond that when Amanda opened Kevin & Co, Hayley coming on board was a natural step. They are, says Hayley “very much a team.” They recognise the great synergy they share is important as they expand, which will be the next natural step. But while Amanda plans to take on more staff, maintaining the calm vibe remains central to her vision.

The atmosphere is zen, but the feel is modern. I wonder where each of their passions lie as stylists. Amanda says she thrives on finding that perfect hue for her clients – “I love anything colour related. I’ll figure something out for you – if it’s blonde, brown or copper – as long as I can make you feel good, I’m happy.” Hayley equally enthuses about the colour process, and she fizzes when she talks

about blondes: “I love the transformation with blonde. It’s not just one shade –you can do so much with it – you can create dimension and you can make the client bright or creamy, cool, warm.”

They are both aware that part of hairdressing is being up to speed with the latest looks, although most “ new ” trends have been done before. “All the grunge, and the 90s is coming back – the wolf cut, undone, messy – it’s following the same curve as fashion.” I wonder what their dream style would be to create. Amanda would go for the total redo “100 percent! People do their best work when they are left to do it; bring in your inspo pictures and we’ll dive in and figure out what you like most out of each picture, but the creative freedom to bring it to life is amazing. I also love colouring, a lot of people don’t take into consideration eye and skin colour – all of that comes down to what kind of hair

Amanda’s top haircare tips

• Start with a good foundation, to make sure you get the best out of your new hairstyle. A personalised shampoo and conditioner will make dealing with your hair on a daily basis much easier.

• Protect your hair when heat styling. Heat protection comes in many forms, such as a spray, cream or foam, and is essential to ensure minimal damage.

• Maintaining colour between appointments is easy: For blondes, use purple shampoo, and brunettes, pigmented conditioner. Some shampoos even have UV filters to protect against sun damage.

• Keep hair healthy with a weekly treatment. My favourite is a scalp scrub followed by a deepconditioning treatment. It keeps my scalp happy and my ends lush.

• Maintain long hair with a microtrim every six to eight weeks. Taking off the smallest amount promotes health and ensures it grows happy and long.

shade they should have.” Hayley, on the other hand, is all about the cut – “I love a good blunt long bob. If someone comes in and wants it, I’m like, ‘Let’s do it!’”

For those people who have tricky hair, or who may be reluctant to try a new style or salon, Amanda agrees it can feel like a big step. “We offer free consultations; for anyone who is second-guessing, that’s a really good tool. You can come and scope out the environment and space and see if you feel comfortable here – talk to the stylist, see if you form those connections. We would cover everything from past experiences, products used, styles tried, then we can hone in on what you’re after.” Excited about the journey, both stylists are committed to staying ahead of the curve. As Amanda rounds off, “The second you stop wanting to learn as a hairdresser, you should stop hairdressing”. KEVINANDCOHAIR.CO.NZ

EXCELLENCE IN DERMATOLOGY

CHILL PROOF

Level up your winter beauty routine with these new-season essentials.

WINTER GLOW-UP

Cooler weather means more time indoors, hotter showers, and layering up. Give dry skin a boost with SugarBaby’s new skincare range. It’s specifically formulated to keep skin hydrated, nourished and soothed using their unique Glow Boost Elixir, and is 100 percent plant-based. Kind on your skin, kind to the planet – and looks pretty cute on the shelf. From RRP$9.99.

SUGARBABYBEAUTY.CO.NZ

FOREVER YOUNG

JUARA Skincare’s new award-winning Radiance Vitality Oil works magic on skin. The silky smooth, hydrating oil will leave you feeling and looking fresh while combating premature aging. Its 12 pure and precious oils and extracts promote elasticity while reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Add this luxurious oil to your skincare regime and uncover a newer you. RRP$140.

JUARASKINCARE.CO.NZ

CRYSTAL CLEAR

Let’s be honest – hair removal tends to slide down on the list of priorities over winter. If your legs need a quick tidy-up, the Crystal Hair Remover by Manicare is your new best friend. This innovative, convenient tool buffs away body hair and dead skin cells for the smoothest of skin. RRP$44.99

MANICARE.CO.NZ

HEY MAMA

Pregnancy is beautiful, but the aches and pains can be real. Finally some relief can be found for expecting mums with PURE MAMA’s Magnesium Body Rub, the first of its kind in pregnancy skincare. It’s easy to apply and perfect for at-home self-massage. Enjoy more sleep, mamas, while you can! RRP$59.

PUREMAMA.COM

LOOKING LUMINOUS

Give your skincare a boost with Dr LeWinn’s new Serum Series, designed to address three of the most common skin concerns. Choose from Hydrate, Renew or Glow, or use in combination to really pack a punch. The active ingredients are concentrated so that less really is more. RRP$79.99.

DRLEWINNS.CO.NZ

BETTER TOGETHER

Emma Lewisham’s award-winning Supernatural Face Oil has been carefully created to work with your skin. Using only naturally derived ingredients, the skin is able to unlock its true potential and stimulate collagen production, without the use of synthetics. Let your skin work smarter, not harder. RRP$148.

EMMALEWISHAM.COM

UNDER PRESSURE

A revolutionary sensory therapy is bringing clients a deep sense of wellbeing and inner peace.

WORD S MONIQUE BALVERT-O’CONNOR

Desiree De Spong loves how her working life is strongly focussed on offering people the chance to be wrapped up and supported, to feel warm, relaxed, calm and even healed.

All that is possible thanks to Desiree’s knowledge of the body’s lymphatic system and her associated desire to help facilitate life-changing results for a variety of people.

The Tauranga woman is a lymphatic specialist and developer and designer of Flowpresso®. Flowpresso, Desiree

explains, is a sensory therapy system designed to reset the body’s physiology to support healing and general health.

The system is a result of Desiree’s desire to combine holistic therapy with scientific rigour, driven by a conviction that lymphatic therapy offers “a missing link in health”.

Essentially, Desiree tells, Flowpresso the product is a special bodysuit – one that comprises individual chambers that inflate in sequence and cover the legs, abdomen, arms and torso. It is non-invasive natural therapy, with reclining clients remaining clothed while enjoying a sensory treatment

based on compression, thermodynamic heat and deep pressure (“pressure of a good kind”). Hence the feeling of being wrapped up, hugged and calmed.

Among those endorsing the suit is our constabulary. A research study, which involved 135 first responder candidates, showed the suit improved sleep by 92 percent, reduced stress by 63 percent and reduced anxiety by 55 percent.

The WBOP Police became early adopters – that was two years ago – and remain users. Following their lead were other first responders, such as nurses and firefighters – people dealing with community stress and then their own. Referrals also come from counsellors, psychologists and others within the health field.

So, what’s the magic behind this suit?

Flowpresso’s purpose is to release toxins, switch off the body’s fight-or-flight mechanisms, and encourage a rest and repair state, which is the optimum state required for a body’s healing process. Time in the suit once per week for three weeks is recommended.

For Desiree, Flowpresso is the realisation of her dream to create an evidence-based therapy that helps with mental health and sleep crisis.

It’s a field that’s a far cry from what she

did in her “past life”: She worked in IT and finance for the NZ Fire Service.

“I made the change as I wanted to be involved in something that helped people. I became spellbound when I attended workshops in lymphatics. It was like a lightning bolt moment, as I saw lymphatics as the missing link in health,” says Desiree, who went on to train in the USA and Australia. She’s been a lymphatic specialist for two decades now, constantly building upon what she can offer. Flowpresso is a relatively new development, resulting from extensive worldwide study of existing technologies and their efficacy. This keen entrepreneur soon realised she would need to design an effective device and develop an initial prototype.

The first Flowpresso suit was manufactured only four years ago. Updates and refinements followed and the full Flowpresso system was launched in February 2020 with support from NZ Trade and Enterprise. Close to 500,000 sessions per year are going on in the world now, Desiree tells. Exports are predominantly to the USA, Australia and the outskirts of Europe. In the USA alone, the suits are used in about 240 clinics and donned by those

in law enforcement there too. Desiree has been hosted on a couple of occasions at the NZ Embassy in the USA to speak to those involved in defence, homeland security, law enforcement and firefighting.

Back home, Desiree and fellow wellbeing advocate Karen Gemmell, own Neuro Bar (with Tauranga, Te Puna and Matamata clinics) where Flowpresso therapy is available. Other clinics have purchased the suits, so Flowpresso is available in various locations nationwide.

Creating something pivotal in facilitating people to experience positive change in their lives is the best thing ever, Desiree says. "It's heart-touching and I’m elated. Users talk about how relaxed they feel after a session – some hadn’t necessarily realised how stressed they were. People say they’ve noticed improved sleep quality and energy, and a decreased stress response. Many feel they’ve been hugged all over.”

“Among other things, hugs release the feel-good hormone, but a lot of people don’t have access to hugs. And as the saying goes, we need four hugs a day for survival, eight for maintenance, and 12 for growth,” Desiree smiles.

THENEUROBAR.COM

FLOWPRESSO.CO.NZ

“ I W ANTED TO BE INVOLVED IN SOMETHING THAT HELPED PEOPLE... I SAW LYMPHATICS AS THE MISSING LINK IN HEALTH. ”

Skin 101: Menopause and your skin

It’s no surprise at Caci we see customers with skin challenges related to perimenopause and menopause. It’s natural and despite affecting half of the world’s population, we don’t talk about it as much as we should be.

Menopause can cause symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep disturbances and as well as lead to some unwelcome changes to your skin. From acne you thought you left behind during your teenage years to wrinkles that seem to have appeared overnight!

Read on for Caci’s Skincare Trainer, Linda’s expert advice on the common skin changes that can occur during menopause and tips on how to combat these.

How does your skin change during perimenopause and menopause?

During this time your skin undergoes various changes. Initially, you may notice increased dehydration and dryness. The natural cell turnover slows down, leading to a loss of that youthful “glow.”

Pigmentation, especially hormonal pigmentation, becomes more noticeable, along with the emergence of prominent lines. This is attributed to the decline in collagen and elasticity, resulting in a downturned appearance around the mouth and more visible jowling and softening of the jawline.

Common Skin Changes During Perimenopause and Menopause

• Drier skin due to reduced cell turnover and decreased oil production, often accompanied by dryness in some areas and an oily T-zone.

• Noticeable growth of vellus hair (peach fuzz) on the sides of the face and dark hair growth around the chin.

• Breakouts around the lower face and redness on the neck.

• Pigmentation, including sun damage and hormonal pigmentation, as collagen production decreases and skin thins, resulting in volume loss.

• Vascular redness, individuals may experience warm and red skin, along with the appearance of “broken” capillaries.

Common Skin Concerns During Perimenopause and Menopause

We often hear the the words: tireda dn ageing. Lines, wrinkles and volume loss become more apparent due to thinning skin and insufficient essential fatty acids. Flushed looks are common, potentially leading to rosacea and breakouts.

Are these changes permanent?

Unfortunately, aging concerns like pigmentation and redness persist if left unaddressed. However, hair growth and breakouts can improve over time.

Tips to Address These Concerns

To mitigate these concerns, it is essential to prepare in advance for the approaching menopausal phase. Starting early with skincare and maintaining a strong, healthy skin barrier is crucial. Adequate hydration and increased intake of essential fatty acids, both topically and internally, are important.

Linda's Skincare Recommendations

• Replace rough physical exfoliators with gentle exfoliators containing glycolic acid. For example, Murad’s AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser is suitable for routine use 2-3 times a week to promote healthy cell turnover and skin hydration.

• Combat aging symptoms by using skincare products that contain retinol, vitamin C & E, niacinamide, and SPF 30 or above. Consistent sunscreen application protects against UVA rays responsible for aging.

Recommended products include Skinsmiths PRO Strength Retinol serum, Skinsmiths PRO Strength Niacinamide serum and Murad’s Rapid Dark Spot Correcting serum for targeting pigmentation.

• Maintain hydration with a suitable moisturiser. Murad’s Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisture is recommended for drier skin, while Murad’s Intense Recovery Cream calms redness and dryness associated with flushing and

rosacea. For an extra moisture boost, Murad’s Multi-Vitamin Infusion Oil aids in healing and reducing inflammation.

Linda's Treatment Recommendations

• Microneedling helps maintain skin plumpness by stimulating collagen production, which tends to decline during menopause. This treatment promotes the development of new collagen, filling in fine lines and supporting the skin structure.

• Photo Rejuvenation is effective for redness and vascular concerns, as well as targeting signs of premature aging like pigmentation and age spots. This treatment uses high-energy light beams to improve skin texture, complexion, and collagen production.

• LED Red Light Therapy treats the outer layer of skin and stimulates collagen proteins, reducing inflammation and enhancing skin plumpness, brightness, and overall health.

At Caci, we work with you to get the best results! We have many customers we’ve supported through their Skin Health Journey!

Book your free consultation with one of our skin experts at over 80 clinics across New Zealand.

caci.co.nz

Did you know your heart is not just another organ in your body, but rather a life-sustaining force that keeps you going day after day? Unfortunately, heart disease remains one of the biggest killers worldwide, accounting for a staggering onethird of all deaths globally. But why are we still struggling to get a handle on heart health? Despite the alarming number of heart attacks that occur every day, many of us still underestimate the importance of taking care of our heart.

Your heart is the ultimate powerhouse that pumps oxygen-rich blood to every corner of your body. Without its proper function, your body simply cannot work at its best. Heart disease is an umbrella term that encompasses a range of conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation. These conditions can lead to serious complications such as heart attack and cardiac arrest, which can be fatal if not treated in a timely manner.

Did you know there’s a difference between a heart attack and a cardiac arrest? While these terms are often used interchangeably, they’re two entirely different things that can go wrong

MATTERS OF THE HEART

with your heart. A heart attack happens when there’s a plumbing issue caused by a blockage in the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle itself. This can lead to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and sweating. Cardiac arrest on the other hand can be likened to an electrical problem that results in a sudden loss of heart function. This can be caused by a heart attack, but also stems from underlying inflammation, trauma, or irregular heart rhythms. Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment with CPR and defibrillation.

Knowing how to perform CPR could save someone’s life, and it’s an easy skill to learn – you don’t need to be a healthcare professional, and I highly recommend taking a course.

It’s crucial to be aware of your risk factors for heart disease. Factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, a family history of heart disease, being overweight and inactive can all increase your chances of developing heart disease. However, even if you don’t have any of these risk factors, it’s still important to take proactive steps to protect your heart health. After all, your heart has to keep ticking for your entire life. Without proper care, you can’t expect it to function smoothly year after year.

Heart disease affects men and women differently. While it’s often thought of as a man’s problem, heart disease is just as significant for women. Shockingly, around 55 New Zealand women die every week from heart disease. It’s important to be aware of the key differences between the sexes when it comes to heart health. For instance, women may be more susceptible to some risk factors, such as smoking. Women with diabetes are also at a greater risk of heart disease than men with diabetes. Furthermore, having a family history of heart disease can be a stronger predictor of heart disease in women than in men. Men are more likely to develop heart disease at a younger age than women, while the risk for women increases with a drop in protective oestrogen levels close to, during and after menopause. Women also tend to experience different symptoms of heart disease and heart attack than men. Symptoms such as nausea, indigestion, and back pain may be more common in women, which can make it harder to diagnose.

So if you feel something is off, you’re just not feeling right, and you have risk factors for heart disease or a family history, go and get yourself checked out.

THECENTREFORHEALTH.CO.NZ

Anna Rolleston

of

Tauranga’s Centre for Health highlights the importance of protecting your ticker and keeping an eye out for any warning signs of heart disease.

PHOTO JAHL MARSHALL

TONES OF TRANQUILITY

The quiet-natured qualities of soft green has a calming effect, creating a peaceful interior space that is a joy to be in.

PHOTOS

STYLING

WALL

Walls painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Pumice. Skirting in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Rice Cake. Built-in sideboard painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Pumice, with the wood top finished in Resene Colorwood Pitch Black. Floor

STYLIST TIP

Create a harmonious interior by building on the soft green backdrop of Resene Pumice with complimentary natural tones. Mid and dark wood pairs well here, as well as earthy clay and light, raw linens, striking the perfect balance.

Back wall and plinth painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Pumice. Skirting in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Rice Cake. Floor finished in Resene Colorwood Bask. Latina Sideboard $2,499 from Danske M ø bler. Monaco Framed Print in Natural $799.99, Florence Table Lamp $379.99, Kinfolk Island $99.99, Simple Fancy $44.99, A House Party in Tuscany $69.99, Corfu Travertine Vessel $54.99, Vinnie Travertine Coffee Table $1,999.99, Small Gerome Wide Vase $89.99, Dome Glass Vase $25, Linear Tumbler $16.99, A Good Day to Bake $49.99, The Fi Greig Method $49.99, all from A&C Homestore . Pottery Jug $75 from Flotsam & Jetsam . Mackenzie White Straw Rug from $1,350 from Baya . Hubert Occasional Chair $379.95 from Mocka

TOP LEFT Back wall in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Pumice. Corkboard in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Jaguar, Resene Just Right, Resene Contour, Resene Pumice and Resene Rice Cake. Stockholm Desk $1,799 from Danske M ø ble r. Botanical Jungle Notebook $11.95 and Note Square Sticky Pad $8.95, both from Father Rabbit . Corfu Travertine Vessel $54.99 and Medium White Stackable Multi-Box $44.95, both from A&C Homestore.

TOP RIGHT Back wall in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Pumice. Skirting in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Rice Cake. Latina Sideboard $2,499 from Danske M ø bler Monaco Framed Print in Natural $799.99, Florence Table Lamp $379.99, Kinfolk Island $99.99, Simple Fancy $44.99, A House Party in Tuscany $69.99, Corfu Travertine Vessel $54.99, all from A&C Homestore . Pottery Jug $75 from Flotsam & Jetsam.

BOTTOM LEFT Resene Testpots (from top) in Resene Contour and Resene Half Colins Wicket. Resene A4 Drawdowns (from left) in Resene Contour and Resene Half Colins Wicket.

BOTTOM RIGHT Resene Testpots (from top) in Resene Rice Cake and Resene Just Right. Resene A4 Drawdowns (from left) in Resene Rice Cake and Resene Just Right.

STYLIST TIP

Combine practicality with style in your home office by mounting cork tiles onto the wall, creating an oversized pinboard that brings texture into the space. Finish this off with a framed cork board, cutting the cork tiles into a tetris of shapes, then painting a selection of them to bring your colour palette together.

ABOVE Walls in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Pumice. Floor finished in Resene Colorwood Bask. Corkboard in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Jaguar, Resene Just Right, Resene Contour, Resene Pumice and Resene Rice Cake. Stockholm Desk $1,799 from Danske M ø bler. Maya Plush Dining Chair in Rattan $650 from Republic. Botanical Jungle Notebook $11.95 and Note Square Sticky Pad $8.95, both from Father Rabbit . Medium White Stackable Multi-Box $44.95, Corfu Travertine Vessel $54.99, Bella Table Lamp in Black $159.90, Lulu Stool in Sage (used as a waste bin) $319.99, all from A&C Homestore . Fayette Round Floor Rug $1,380 from Baya.

LEFT Walls painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Pumice. Built-in sideboard painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Pumice, with the wood top finished in Resene Colorwood Pitch Black. Medium Denver Vase $159.99 and Small Cirque Pillar Candle $34.99, both from A&C Homestore. Wooden Cava Bowl $195, Yellow Rose Print $75, Ink Bottle $45, all from Flotsam & Jetsam.

TIMELESS SECLUSION

Soak up the privacy along with the waterfront scenery in this modern take on the traditional villa.

Taking the colonial character of villas from the past, this home combines the luxury and comfort of a modern build in ways that will retain its enduring grace for years to come.

Architecturally designed, the home was completed in 2009 and remains a testament to the vision of this peaceful setting on Tauranga Harbour. Nestled in a secluded waterfront corner just outside Katikati, the home enjoys complete privacy – lost within the freedom of this prime horticultural area.

A small avocado orchard and numerous edible plantings are natural additions to the lifestyle on offer here. But it’s the home and the serenity that gives this property purpose. The familiar lines that

define colonial villas are emphasised immediately, thanks to the vast wraparound verandahs. These follow the sun and extend private settings off bedrooms and living areas right around the house. It begins with a café serving from the kitchen window into a quiet corner, before wrapping around the home to the main event and that waterfront scenery. Sheltered settings step down into the full sun and out into the garden where a firepit circle beckons to toast sunset. Towering palms and manicured gardens immerse this home within nature in ways that ensure all rooms savour the sun and scenery.

Four bedrooms all have the personal luxury of an ensuite – an aspect which enhances the potential to consider a

possible commercial venture with boutique home hosting. Three bedrooms also enjoy French door access to the verandah, out to the garden and nature down by the water.

Mindful of the colonial influence, the attention to detail is to be admired. Colonial-styled wooden joinery throughout features traditional brass hardware. Sash windows hark back to a different point in time, while parquet flooring in the foyer and kitchen also pays homage to the age of craftsmanship.

The bespoke kitchen cleverly blends the appeal of a farmhouse design with the contemporary tone of sleek finish. Its ability to serve areas outside and indoors for both casual and formal dining makes

WORDS JO FERRIS

entertaining a pleasure. Function and flow move easily from the family hub to the quieter mood by the fire in the lounge, or outdoors to alfresco areas. A well-placed spa is another invitation that enhances the leisure and relaxation here.

Finesse is clearly evident everywhere in this home. It’s what’s not seen that accentuates the vision behind its creation. A geothermal bore provides hot water for circulation in the home’s hydronic underfloor heating. This network extends throughout the entire home – excluding only the garage. Yet, even in this area, forethought has

considered another option. Connected to the house via a verandah and with a sheltered patio of its own, this garage contains a large laundry, powder room and storage area. This is plumbed to allow possible conversion for a studio or separate accommodation, perhaps. Additional features include several extras. A new fridge/freezer in the kitchen, TVs in the kitchen, lounge and bedroom, along with a Bosch washing/ dryer machine. The spa pool stays, as does the fire pit, the ride-on mower; among other built-in features in the home and garage. Immaculate care of

this home has kept pace, with a new dishwasher, plus a new solar/electric hot water cylinder with 10-year warranty.

Tranquillity underlines the very essence of this property. The home and grounds soothe the soul. Either wandering around the gardens, or strolling amid the avocado orchard, time here isn’t governed by a clock. Buffered from neighbouring properties, there is a sense of complete seclusion here. Water, scenery and sun feed the soul – what more could you ask for?

55 Pukakura Road, Katikati

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NOSTALGIA AND NATURE

A little bit of domestic bliss awaits in this magical corner of Te Puna.

WORDS JO FERRIS

Tauranga Harbour is home to some extraordinary properties – but perhaps none so remarkable as this magical corner on a small inlet near the end of a sought-after Te Puna peninsula.

As Wallace Road veers off Snodgrass Road to head down to Waitui Reserve and its public harbour access, this home nestles elevated on a secluded waterfront of its own. Relaxing outside – enjoying a seamless gaze through trees to the water – the enchantment here touches the soul. Birdlife and birdsong are constant companions, thanks to the extent of trees and flowering specimens that adorn this garden. Dappled lighting filters through branches and leaves of the trees that fringe the water. Its gentle sound is the background to calmness.

Waterfront is one thing, but this has the sense of a private lake – shared by a small enclave of like-minded neighbours – and rarely visited by outsiders. Here you can launch the kayak and paddle out to the harbour and open-air freedom. Or, you can simply cherish the seclusion and serenity of this exquisite inlet.

Like the garden, this home has matured and adapted over its lifetime. What started as a simple country cottage decades ago, has undergone several transformations. It has been extended, renovated and upgraded. Yet never has this home forgotten its roots and the natural simplicity dating back before the 60s.

Wooden joinery throughout extols the appeal of natural timber inside – hinges and latches all in tune with the era. Modern additions like bi-fold and French doors in the living area were crafted to match the original joinery. This home is a brilliant blend of yesterday and today. Bespoke styling in the kitchen instils nature’s subtle tones with a farmhouse nuance. But the contemporary design ensures its focus on entertaining. The barstool island is a natural drawcard, while the map of the world on a feature wall is a conversation piece to test geographic knowledge during dinner parties.

The seamless link with the loggia is the overriding element of this central hub, however. That enchanting view of the garden to the water is a magnet. You simply cannot get enough of it. Understandably, this loggia was built to scale to take full advantage of this outdoor haven and its connection with nature.

Moods change in the lounge. Timber flooring changes to carpet and a more intimate tone is introduced with the darker richness that surrounds the open fire and wood-stack alcove. Gabled ceilings and exposed beams add another point of difference. And this is one of the home’s outstanding features – its numerous points of difference.

Bedrooms are personalised, bathrooms have individual attention; even the separate guest suite enjoys its own personality. Sitting as an adjunct to the garage, it’s an invitation for friends to

stay over and enjoy privacy. Thoughts of boutique accommodation hosting are obvious, as well. Who wouldn’t want to come and stay here and lose themselves in this soothing sanctuary? Or this space could serve as a beautiful work-fromhome environment (suitable for clients/ customers to visit if required).

An air of mystery surrounds this home from the road. Sitting on a bend, it disguises the size of the garden behind the fencing and hedging. A stained-glass door and bullnose verandah hint at this home’s nostalgia. But it’s not until the amble around the back arrives at the magical waterfront setting that this property’s true essence is unveiled.

Gardens change with the seasons; wildlife comes and goes. Beneath it all, this home’s spell remains constant. Homes within this Te Puna corner don’t come to the market that often.

Sitting amid all this serenity, it’s easy to see why. It’s a rare opportunity to join the neighbourhood and share the magic that lives within this special corner of the world.

58 Wallace Road, Te Puna

OLIVERROADESTATEAGENTS.COM

CLOUD NINE ON WELCOME BAY

You’ll never be so thrilled to get to the end of the road as when you’re viewing this magnificent outlook.

WORDS JO FERRIS

When it comes to views, Tauranga boasts among the most spectacular scenery. It’s all about perspective - whether you prefer being up close and personal, or above it all on cloud nine.

Welcome Bay is blessed with an extraordinary panorama, thanks to its north-facing outlook over Tauranga city, harbour and ocean vistas. The higher into the hinterland you go, the more exquisite the view becomes – and more peaceful.

Nestled into the hillside, just below the Waitaha Road ridge line, this home commands a magnificent outlook that stretches from Motiti Island to Coromandel. To enjoy Pāpāmoa sunrises and sunsets over the Kaimais, you need simply stroll to the top of the hill behind

and stand in awe. The panorama not only catapults to another level, it pans right around to the hills behind Oropi and beyond.

The serenity is bliss – more so, learning the dedication to this property’s creation. What began as a significant block of farmland, was carefully carved by these vendors into a boutique enclave of 12 lifestyle properties. Their home sits above it all – removed from close proximity to neighbours below; and cherishing idyllic privacy.

Sheltered from prevailing winds, thanks to the way this home cuts into the hillside, it stands alone. With the hill plateau behind and gardens sloping down into grazing below, nature underpins the serenity here. This address is literally the end of the road.

The home is testament to sustainability and longevity. Constructed from imported aerated concrete blocks, the exterior walls are 250mm thick, interior walls are 175mm. A hushed, insulated ambience is in tune with the tranquillity outside.

Innovation flows throughout the home, in ways that ensure the view is always centre of attention. Apart from one bedroom and the intimate TV snug with its wood burner, every room embraces the postcard scenery. Polished concrete flooring is aesthetically beautiful and functional. While harnessing the sun’s warmth, there’s also a gas fire for mood. Double-sided, it serves the living area on one side and instils romance to the master bedroom next door.

Bathroom indulgence also embraces the astonishing scenery. No need for frosted

windows here. Picture windows ensure bath relaxation savours the stars and Tauranga’s twinkling lights at night – both in the master ensuite and guest ensuite.

Outdoor intimacy is integral to this home’s subtle ambience. Decking extends its full length to connect with every room. The master bedroom might boast its own fire. But few bedrooms can claim a lap pool outside their door; as the ensuite guest room enjoys. When it comes to alfresco entertaining however, this aspect takes a more secluded approach.

Stepping out from the living area, this outdoor zone combines sheltered alfresco dining around an open fire with a spacious setting that curves into the hillside. Rockeries and gardens embrace this corner within nature, before stepping

up to the hill behind. The forethought here points to an understanding of nature, the elements and how to connect with the environment; not dominate it.

Careful to ensure this enclave preserved nature, the vendors created something special in this hillside retreat. Their decision to now put their own home on the market hasn’t been taken lightly. It’s time to step back and create a smaller haven. They have made sure nothing else can split up what they developed in this hillside enclave. That assurance is something to appreciate well into the future. Standing on the hilltop heregazing down and out to all that sits below - that’s something to cherish. Cloud nine is hard to find.

332

Waitaha Road, Welcome Bay

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“ THE FORETHOUGHT HERE POINTS TO AN UNDERSTANDING OF NATURE, THE ELEMENTS AND HOW TO CONNECT WITH THE ENVIRONMENT... ”

PAWSOME ADVICE

Animal expert and vet David McDonnell of Tauranga Vets is a wealth of knowledge on pet health and wellbeing.

We all want our four-legged companions to be happy, healthy members of the household, but knowing how to help them thrive, and understanding what’s going on between those ears, isn’t always clear. Vet David has some suggestions – from tricks for calming your feline to recognising when it’s time to visit your local vet.

How do I keep my cat calm and safe after a move?

Moving house can be a stressful event for our furry friends. The good news is there are lots of useful aids to help make the transition into their new home as stress free as possible. I would recommend in the 2-3 weeks prior to moving house, starting them on the Royal Canin Calm diet. This food should be continued once

you have moved until your cat has settled into the new environment. This special food has something called L-Tryptophan in it which helps cats to feel calm. We have had great feedback from our clients on this food. Other things you may wish to consider are keeping your cat inside the new house for the first 2-3 weeks, and using a Feliway plug-in diffuser. The Feliway diffuser releases a pheromone that cats will smell but you won’t. It helps them to feel less anxious and more relaxed in their new environment.

Does my pet need its teeth cleaned? Good question! Yes, absolutely dental healthcare is equally important for pets as it is for us humans. It has been scientifically proven that pets with good dental health live longer lives and 80 percent of pets have some degree of dental disease by two years of age. In the

first instance, I would recommend getting your pet’s teeth checked by your vet or vet nurse and a specific dental plan created which is tailored to your individual pet’s dental needs. We offer a free dental health check with our veterinary nurses. Some animals, for example, small dogs, can require annual professional dental cleaning every year, others may only require this once or twice in their life. |The frequency of dental cleaning is influenced by many factors including breed, diet and how much dental homecare the pet owner is able to achieve. Introducing your pet to toothbrushing daily when they are young is a great way to help prevent dental disease. We also have special dental foods that are designed to keep your pet’s teeth clean.

My cat always seems hungry, what shall I do?

Hunger in cats can be caused by a few different things. I would recommend getting its health checked by a vet and ideally a blood test too which would include checking thyroid levels. Sometimes as cats age, they can get a condition called hyperthyroidism. This causes them to feel very hungry and eat a lot, but they’ll often still lose weight despite this. The good news is, that there are lots of great treatment options available to help and even cure these cats once we get a diagnosis.

My cat keeps vomiting, what could be the problem?

Vomiting in cats can be caused by many different things ranging from problems with the gastrointestinal tract, food allergies, through to pancreatitis and other disease conditions outside of the intestines too. The best way to get to the bottom of this type of problem is to have a complete physical examination with your vet and often some other diagnostic tests are required as well depending on what the vet finds and your pet’s symptoms. Some of the diagnostic tests for causes of vomiting may include a blood test to help eliminate things outside of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as ultrasound, x-rays and sometimes diet trials.

BOPVETS.CO.NZ

“ MOVING HOUSE CAN BE A STRESSFUL EVENT FOR OUR FURRY FRIENDS. ”

TECH-TESTING CORNER

Karl Puschmann tries out the latest and greatest gadgets.

IPHONE 14 PRO

At first glance, changes to the iPhone 14 Pro appear minimal. But within its familiar rounded corners and premium feel, there’s a maximum amount of new features and improvements.

First, say hello to the customisable Always-On display. This dimmed screen shows handy info like time, notifications, customisable wallpaper and widgets, as well as different screens for various locations.

OONI KODA 16 PIZZA OVEN

Ooni’s new Koda 16 is a fantastic option for those wanting to leave the world of fast-food or frozen pizza behind them forever.

You’ll start quickly as there’s practically no setup. Unbox it, unfold the three legs on the bottom, slide in the pizza stone tray, plug in your gas cylinder (I simply used the one from my BBQ) and presto – you’re done.

The Koda is marketed as a portable pizza oven and that’s accurate. Without the pizza stone inside, it’s light and easily transportable. The optional waterproof protective cover is perfect for rainy days. An option you’ll definitely need however is a pizza peel. This is the long-handled tray used to slide your pizza into and out of the oven.

To get started there’s a few recipes in the manual, including essentials like pizza dough and sauce, as well as unexpected dishes like roast pork

chops and apple and cranberry crumble, which I’m excited to try out.

But the main event is pizza and, like everything about the oven, the Koda makes it easy. It only takes around 20 minutes to heat up to the recommended 400 degrees, which is blazing quick. This is thanks to its unique L-shaped fire burner which curves around two sides. In most pizza ovens only one side has flame. By doubling that it not only heats faster but also cooks more consistently and evenly and requires less turning of the cooking pizza.

That last bit is the skill I’ve found hardest to master. It’s not as easy as it looks on TV! But as authentic Italian pizzas are ready to eat in around two minutes, it’s a skill I’m prepared to master. Because it may not be BBQ weather, but pizza never goes out of season.

Widely available. Priced from $1299.

Next is the Dynamic Island, the floating pill-shaped bar at the top of the screen that acts as a new source of info and interactivity. You can control media playback without needing to be in the app, as well as show battery status and connected devices. Very handy indeed. The gorgeous new 6.1-inch OLED display is vivid, and the 48-megapixel camera is a game-changer. With four zoom options, ultrawide and an improved portrait mode, I'm taking more (and better) snaps than ever.

It also records video all the way up to 4K, making it more than suitable for content creation, if that’s your thing. Its A16 Bionic processor is super quick, and battery life also impresses.

And in an iPhone first, it also comes with a free two-year subscription to Apple’s new crash detection feature, which automatically calls emergency services if it detects you’ve been in a car accident. It's the first smartphone that could literally save your life. Widely available. Priced from $1999.

ASTRO A30 WIRELESS HEADPHONES

These headphones may be targeted at gamers thanks to their Lightspeed lag-free connectivity to consoles and PCs, but even if you don’t know your PlayStation from your Xbox they still hold a tonne of appeal. They sound great, with a wide stereo field, clear separation and nice detail. They’re both stylish and comfy to wear for extended periods thanks to the spongy cushions on the earcups and headband. Made of matte plastic, they’re light, but don’t feel at all cheap.

It’s a disappointment they’re not noise cancelling, but as the rectangular cups fully encase the ears the thick sponge naturally blocks ambient noise.

Battery life impresses, lasting a massive 27 hours. There’s a detachable boom mic for game chat or Zoom calls, plus a built-in mic on the left side, and they come with a very swish hard case for protecting them while commuting.

The mini joystick on the right cup operates volume, track control and source mix. That last one makes the A30 unique, allowing you to connect and listen to multiple devices at once. So you could be gaming, chatting to friends and listening to a podcast all at the same time. Multi-tasking has never been easier.

Widely available. Priced from $429.

FITBIT ACE 3

The only thing harder than getting kids off screens and devices is getting them to eat their vegetables. While this fitness tracker hasn’t helped at dinnertime, it has successfully got our eight-year-old up and moving by gamifying her activity.

Designed for kids, Fitbit’s Ace 3 tracks steps and, thanks to its heart monitor, records intense activity like dancing or skipping. Badges and trophies are then awarded for hitting certain fitness milestones like, say, achieving a streak of 10,000 step days or cumulatively walking set distances. These have inspired her to join Mum on her daily walks, to “get her steps in”.

The screen may only be black and white, but I feel colour would be too distracting and encourage her to fiddle with it more. The whole point was to keep her off screens, not add another one!

The Ace 3 lasts over a week on a single charge, is waterproof and the silicon strap also protects the face, meaning you can rest assured knowing that it’s tough enough to withstand even the most hardy of playtimes. Widely available. Priced from $119.

COSY UP FOR WINTER

"Bringing softness into the bedroom is easy with fabric. Cushions, throws or an upholstered bedhead are perfect keynote accessories. By using a rich palate of burgundy and rust I’ve opted for a deep saturated colour wheel. Not only does this give a real wintry warmth, it also plays perfectly to both the masculine and feminine. Placing an Ottoman at the end of the bed brings the next layer of luxe, balancing the room, while doubling as practical by adding seating. An occasional chair is another hard-working piece that draws the eye but also serves a purpose".

KMINTERIORDESIGN.CO.NZ

MCDONALD.KATHRINE

1. Bellaire Bed , RRP $3,590, kingliving.co.nz 2. Jasper Bed , $4,590, kingliving.com.nz 3. A History of New Zealand in 100 Objects, $65, paperplanestore.com 4. Jane Crisp – Untethered Soul , $850, parnellgallery.co.nz 5. Sh eepskin Double in Natural Honey, $349, threaddesign.co.nz 6. JWDA Lamp in Alabaster, $549, paperplanestore.com 7. Glossy Cow Vase by Jessica Hans for HAY, $194, hayshop.com.au 8. Twill Cushion Cover in Mulberry, $99.90, cittadesign.com 9. Miro cushion cover, $99.90, paperplanestore.com 10. Velvet Quilted Throw in Mulberry, $189, cittadesign.com 11. Serenade Bedside Table, $1,420, kingliving.com.nz 12. Juno Moon Occasional Chair in Cinnamon, $2023, sorenliv.com

INTRODUCING BATHS BY UNIQUE

Discover Baths by Unique, a premier brand based in Mt Maunganui, led by owner Richie Knight. With over a decade of collaboration with designers and manufacturers, we specialize in sculpting and crafting the ideal bath that suits every body shape. Our exceptional baths can be found all across New Zealand, from Cape Reinga to Bluff, gracing both indoor and outdoor spaces in various environments, from sun-soaked beaches to snowy landscapes. Offering affordability and effortless maintenance, our collection boasts timeless styles and a range of colors in both baths and basins.

At Baths by Unique, we believe that your home should be your personal sanctuary, a place where you can unwind and rejuvenate. Our Unique collection stands as a testament to our unwavering dedication to quality and design. Meticulously created by skilled artisans using recycled marble, quartz, and stone, our baths are not only exquisite but also environmentally conscious.

Transform your home into a blissful retreat and bring the essence of a holiday to your everyday life.

To ensure your peace of mind, we offer a generous five-year manufacturer's warranty. We stand by our product because we believe in its enduring quality and craftsmanship.

Call us today to learn more!

WWW.UNIQUEIMPORTING.COM

Contact Richie 022 452 1782

Think new friends in every neighbour

CONSISTENT RETURNS THROUGH UNCERTAIN TIMES

In an era of economic volatility and market uncertainty, investment opportunities that provide consistent returns can be hard to come by. Local company First Mortgage Trust (FMT) shares strategies that have managed to achieve this for more than 27 years.

With their conservative investment strategy and stringent lending requirements, FMT has not only weathered the storms but has also managed to consecutively increase its investment return rate over the past five quarters and is anticipating further increases.

“In our 27 years no FMT investor has ever lost a cent of capital, even during the GFC and, more recently, the Covid-19 pandemic,” says CEO Paul Bendall.

This accomplishment is a testament to FMT’s disciplined approach, their risk management strategy, the expertise of their team, their local property market knowledge and their commitment to the preservation of investor capital.

“We know these are uncertain times and people are cautious, especially when it comes to investing and deciding what to

do with their nest egg and savings,” says Paul. “Living costs and inflation are high and this can be hard for savers. We understand this and that’s why we are pleased to have been able to deliver increased investment returns for the last five quarters, and because of our consistent investment returns and the peace of mind we provide we’ve seen many of our investors invest more with us and recommend us to their friends and family.”

INCREASED INVESTMENT RETURN RATE

FMT has showcased its expertise in wealth protection and generation by progressively increasing its investment return rate. Their March 2023 quarterly rate was a pre-tax return rate of 6.61 percent (annualised), which was well received by investors.

HOW FMT WORKS

Investors invest in either the First Mortgage Trust Group Investment Fund or the First Mortgage PIE Trust, then FMT lends the money out to Kiwis seeking property finance. FMT differs from some other investments as both funds are trusts. The trust structure means each fund is supervised by an independent supervisor. The supervisor plays an integral role in the governance of FMT and they have oversight of lending decisions.

“This gives our investors confidence that their money is being managed well,“ says Paul. “The money our clients invest with us helps New Zealanders achieve their property related goals. It builds homes, businesses and it helps shape communities. In return we are able to provide a stable return to our investors to help them achieve their investment goals.”

FMT.CO.NZ

Paul Ben dall, CEO

THRIVING TOGETHER

Tauranga Business Chamber’s chief executive Matt Cowley says owners of local businesses big and small benefit from support, collaboration and networking opportunities.

Leading an organisation can be a lonely position. It’s easy to feel the weight of the entire business on your shoulders as you carry ultimate responsibility for the finances, marketing, human resources, administration and operations.

It can be a massive relief to meet people in similar roles; to share problems and help each other discover new solutions.

Our lives feel like they’re only getting busier, so it can be challenging to find time to connect with other business owners and leaders. However, times are extra tough for businesses right now – and that connection has never been more vital.

I encourage you, if you’re feeling the strain, to prioritise connection.

Tauranga Business Chamber connects with hundreds of business leaders across all industry sectors on any given month. As the region’s business hub and champion, it’s a great place to start.

We hold several events a month, covering a range of networking opportunities and leadership conversations with industry and political decisionmakers. We also provide targeted forums like our Business Women’s Network and LINKT – Young People in Business.

We also help keep you up to date with the latest trends, legislation changes, and new business support offerings, as well as what’s happening across the Western Bay business community.

An incredibly effective way to build rapport with people quickly is by offering help without strings attached, sharing experiences, and welcoming them into your network.

You can do this by meeting like-minded people at our events, or by sharing your expertise through our trusted communication channels.

We have recently made membership more affordable and accessible to business owners and leaders, allowing you to choose the level you want to engage with us. Our entry-level membership is less than $270 per year and comes with a host of benefits – perfect for small and new businesses.

As a larger business, membership showcases your corporate citizenship and helps the next generation of businesses. You’re also supporting the Chamber to be a strong, independent voice of business as we advocate for better outcomes for local businesses.

It’s time to come together, support one another, and ensure the Western Bay’s dynamic business ecosystem continues to thrive through the economic turbulence heading our way.

TAURANGA.ORG.NZ

Zane Munro

Kenrick Smith

Cassandra Hogan

Kenrick Smith from Rake Healing with one of his mammoth artworks.

SHINE A LIGHT

An upcoming event shines the light on men’s mental health by demonstrating that it’s braver to seek help than to tough it out alone.

WORD S LIZ FRENCH

For too long, Kiwi culture has celebrated the tough guy. While women have felt free to seek help from friends and professionals, men have bottled their problems. If they expressed vulnerability or showed their emotions they risked being told to “harden up”.

With one simple word and a lot of support, Cassandra Hogan intends to help change perceptions about how men deal with their mental health. The event on October 13 that will put the focus firmly on the male state of mind is simply titled: he.

The pendulum is gradually swinging, but not fast enough, says Cassandra. As a certified life coach, she sees far more women than men, but she also gets to talk to men more deeply than many. “I’ve got a lot of guy mates,” she explains. “If they confess to me that they are finding life hard and I ask what they’ve done to get help, the answer is usually… nothing.”

Awareness that the men she talked to were just the tip of the iceberg, Cassandra germinated the idea that has evolved into he. And it’s got bigger than she anticipated.

While keen to facilitate an event about men for men, she knew it needed to be by men as well. Cassandra only had to put the word out to influential males in the mental health arena to have speaker offers flooding in.

Zane Munro is a speaker who is upfront about his struggle with depression,

anxiety and feeling isolated. He says that the birth of his son five years ago was the impetus for the men’s mental health support group, For All The Brothers: “I didn’t want him to grow up like this.” For All The Brothers provided a platform where blokes could comfortably share their experiences. It took off on social media (40,000 followers on Instagram!) and there are now branches in many centres. It has organised men’s walks all over New Zealand and Australia. “It’s easier to talk while you are walking side-by-side,” Zane points out.

Cassandra is an ambassador for The Shaka Project, an Australian initiative to ignite the conversation around mental health. Sean Weir from Shaka is coming to talk about the benefits of connection, mateship and brotherhood. Shaka was inspired by a dad’s love for his kids and his friends, something Kiwi men can certainly identify with.

Tai Tupou from Hamilton will also be an inspirational speaker. He experienced a downward spiral when a broken ankle axed his chances of playing league the day after selection. He represents The Last Chance Project, supporting men with burdens from haunting past issues to everyday pressures. The Last Chance Project provides a safe, healing and nurturing environment for men to walk positively into the next chapters of their lives.

Kenrick Smith is better known for his pictures than his words. Kenrick started drawing in the sand during lockdown as an outlet for his energy. So began Rake

Healing, which creates mindfulness and calmness by putting artistic lines in the sand. Kenrick’s greatest pleasure is helping individuals fulfil their potential. If it’s fine on he. day, his work will appear on the beach outside the venue, Mount Maunganui Surf Club. Co-ordinating he. is a big job for a woman with a business and a young family. Cassandra gratefully acknowledges her supportive family and friends and the assistance of Kim Brown of She is Unleashed, a networking group for self-employed women. Both women stress that while they are ensuring he. happens, this is the men’s do.

Serious action does not mean acting seriously. he. is planned as an evening of open sharing, laughing and realising others have your back. The Surf Club will create an intimate atmosphere in an inspiring location. Attendees get a drink as they arrive and dinner is served between speakers. Sponsor enthusiasm ensures the goodie bags will be very good! Women are welcome whether as partner, friend or interested supporter. Well known sportsmen are already lining up to be involved in the next event. “Next!” laughs Cassandra. But her supporters are already talking about he. becoming a regular event and spurning spin-off groups.

The he. event will take place on October 13, 5.30pm at Mount Maunganui Surf Club. For more information, head to the Facebook page:

IN THE ‘HOOD

Kids can have big emotions. Simple self-care for parents helps find and lend kids our calm.

WORDS HOLLY BROOKER, PARENTING PLACE

Parenthood is an incredibly fulfilling, beautiful journey, but it can also be one of the most challenging experiences. During times of high stress, it’s important we care for ourselves and build our own reserves so we can manage the stressors we face, and be present to support our tamariki. It’s like the safety message we hear on planes: Put your own oxygen mask on first.

FITTING IN SELF-CARE

Life as a parent is incredibly busy. But self-care doesn’t have to be the luxe pampering you see on Instagram. It can be the small things, little and often, to achieve balance, like refraining from starting that gripping Netflix series at 10pm. Getting a good balance of fruit and veg (and no, the “grape juice” that goes quite well with Netflix doesn’t count as fruit). Moving your body, even if a daily five-minute walk around the block is all you can manage. Or snatching two minutes of silence during times of high stress to process the triggers you might be feeling.

Creating space for ourselves is an important tool to help ensure we are able to keep calm during periods of stress, so we can provide our kids with the emotional stability and support that they need.

Our kids need self-care too, with a gentle balance of sleep, good food, movement, and play. Consistent routines, exceptions and boundaries increase our child's feelings of safety and security, especially during times of extra stress and uncertainty.

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED

If there is one given in parenting, it’s that our children will have big emotions and big behaviours – often when we least expect it (like when we’re running out the door, already late). Big emotions can make children feel out of control. Children generally express themselves through behaviour rather than words, and sometimes that behaviour can be pretty confronting and loud. Hence the need to look after ourselves first, so we’re well-resourced to be a cushion for our kids when their big feelings erupt. This is when our kids really need us to help them find their calm – we can lend them some of ours, but only if we can prevent ourselves from having our own emotions triggered by their big feelings.

PAUSE, REFLECT, ENGAGE

“Pause, reflect, engage” is a simple strategy to help reduce the brain’s threat level, enabling our prefrontal cortex to do the work it was designed to do. It’s particularly helpful if you’re struggling with additional stressors as well.

“Pause” is about stopping and taking a slow, deep breath (or 10!) in a stressful situation. It really is just about breathing. Oxygen is a gift to the brain and nervous system, and a very quick and effective way to calm things down a bit.

When we “reflect”, we gather information about and from ourselves, as well as from our surroundings. We use “reflect” with empathy to notice our thoughts and feelings based on the situation we’re in.

We do this by asking the following questions:

• Name the feeling you are experiencing. It might be, “I feel frustrated.” No judgement, just acknowledgement.

• Now consider, what might my child be feeling? “They seem to be feeling sad.” Accept where they are at, without judgement. “Those are their feelings, and that's okay.”

• Consider the why? “I’m wondering whether I’m feeling so frustrated because they are making me late to work by mucking around?” or “I’m wondering if he could feel sad because I’m getting snappy and grumpy?”

Now we “engage”. Once we have that information, we can use it to better understand ourselves, our kids and the situation, and we can plan of how to move forward together. A simple, sharing conversation could be enough.

“When you and I were arguing before, I noticed that things were getting out of hand. So I just needed to

stop and take a breath. When I did, I realised that I was feeling really angry and frustrated. Then I thought, well, maybe you felt angry too, maybe even sad because we were arguing? I don’t like feeling that way and I’m sure you don’t either. I’m sorry that it happened. There must be some way we can work this out. Let’s give it a go.”

This simple process of understanding our triggers and emotions, as well as our kids, and sharing these through conversation can provide a healthy process of connection.

Our children’s behaviours can be so big and intense that it is difficult to see the emotions underneath. When this happens, we are easily drawn into their emotional turmoil. But if we approach them with an attitude of empathy, compassion and understanding, we show them that their relationship with us is more important than their challenging behaviour. It might be a work in progress, but it’s always progress when you're moving toward connection at the forefront.

PARENTINGPLACE.NZ

EXPLORE

Hit the road and explore our surrounding treasures.

BEACHING

FOLLOW THE LIGHT

Head over to Whakat ā ne this season, where you’ll find colourful artworks and not one but two bright and shining celebrations this winter.

WORD S KARL PUSCHMANN

Whakatāne promises to light up the region this winter as the Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne Festival returns to bathe the town in warm hues and bright neon.

Following on from an incredibly successful debut last year, which saw attendance exceeding planners' estimates four times over, the organisers have gone all out to make this year’s 10-day event bigger – and most definitely brighter.

“The festival consists of about 16 artists and their work will be spread out over the Whakat ā ne CBD,” Sam Poots, the project co-ordinator for Arts Whakat ā ne, tells UNO. “It’s a mix of installations, projections and interactive standalone objects that will be lit up from 6pm to 9pm each night.”

The roster has been curated from local and regional artists like Jamie Boynton and Kereama Taepa, and includes Story Box in collaboration with artist Desna Whaanga-Schollum. Additionally, there’s some global flavour as, for the first time, a sprinkling of work from internationally acclaimed artists like Australia’s James Voller will be lighting up the town centre.

But the real highlight of the festival are the Friday and Saturday night celebrations. It was due to last year’s community night being such a hit that this year it was decided to add another one.

“We estimated having 300 to 500 people turn up at the community evening. We had over 2000,” Sam smiles. “It was hugely gratifying and heartwarming to know that the community really wanted this. We had such positive feedback. Around the artworks, around it being family friendly and something unique to Whakat ā ne. It brought the community together.”

While details are still being locked in, the first Friday will feature the expected festival-type experience including performers, food trucks and stalls, while the brand-new Saturday event will include a big Lantern parade down by the Whakat ā ne River.

Last year’s festival was about getting the community involved, but this year Sam is hoping its unique nature, and the impressiveness and fun of its electric art, will bring out-of-towners to the city to experience it for themselves.

“Whakat ā ne is very summer orientated with the beaches and sunshine so we really wanted to create an event in winter,” Sam says. “Because of the popularity of light festivals, we saw it as a really good opportunity to bring something here, provide opportunities for artists to display their works and say, ‘Hey, look, we've got this awesome event on, come see it and explore Whakat ā ne in wintertime.’”

With its focus on community and family, stunning and unique artworks and big Friday and Saturday nights, Whakat ā ne has become a real bright spot in an otherwise dark winter.

The Trust Horizon Light Up Whakat ā ne Festival runs from July 28 to August 6 in the CBD and is a completely free event.

WHAKAT Ā NE TRAVEL GUIDE

Whakat ā ne is spoiled for choice when it comes to eateries and things to do. Here are some recommendations on where to spend your time when you’re in town.

Mata Brewery

The craft beer craze has hopped into Whakat ā ne, and beer lovers will be in heaven at the award-winning, family-owned Mata Brewery. Try their range of handcrafted brews, like West End Lager, Spellbound Hazy IPA and Manuka Golden Ale. The more adventurous will enjoy Mattachino Coffee Chocolate Milk Stout or Berry Sundae Beer. Accompany your tasting with a full range of stone-cooked pizzas, gourmet burgers and hard-to-resist loaded wedges.

The Comm

This gastropub on the ground floor of a beautiful heritage building offers an extensive menu of pub favourites, as well as gourmet delights like twice-cooked pork belly and coconut lime ceviche. Stylish inside and with a sizable garden bar, it’s a great place for an afternoon drink that can stretch into dinner.

Golfer’s Paradise

A short drive from town is the Whakat ā ne Golf Club, an 18-hole championship course that is renowned for being one of the finest in the Bay of Plenty. Over the hill you'll find the truly unique Ō hope Beach Golf Links, nestled on a strip of land that lies between the Pacific Ocean on one side and Ohiwa Harbour on the other – the views while playing are simply magnificent. Why not try to make a hole in one at both?

Footprints of Toi

Whakat ā ne has sensational walking and tramping trails. You'll either enjoy a brilliant walk along the coastline soaking in its stunning ocean vistas, or plunge into the natural beauty and greenery of its ancient native forests. At the Ngā Tapuwae o Toi Trail, translated as “Footprints of Toi”, you'll follow birdsong through native forest past pohutukawa while also enjoying sublime coastal views of the Whakat ā ne harbour. The 16km round trip takes five to seven hours, but it’s split into three sections so you can enjoy shorter jaunts.

Kiwi Wandering Trail

Whakat ā ne is recognised as the Kiwi Capital of the World, and our national icon thrives here thanks to the tireless work of the Whakat ā ne Kiwi Trust, who ensure a safe, predator-free place for them. If you have kids, they'll love exploring the Kiwi Wandering Trail, a self-guided scavenger hunt through town looking for the 10 hidden, life-sized bronze statues of our iconic bird.

COLOURFUL KATIKATI

Natural beauty meets artistic expression in this picturesque little town.

Katikati might, arguably, be one of the most underrated towns in New Zealand. Probably due to the fact that it’s a stop and go kind of place – easy to pass by. But you might be surprised to discover this small town offers some big attractions. There’s an abundance of art, plenty of scenic walking and cycle trails, excellent fishing and – of course – the freshest avocados you’ll find.

The town’s artistic heritage is obvious to anyone who’s ever passed through. Instead of the usual boring white walls, many businesses are decorated with showstopping, brightly coloured murals that tell the story of Katikati’s M ā ori and Pakeha peoples coming together. It’s definitely worth grabbing a coffee and a bite and moseying up the main street to check them out in detail. This unique burst of colour along the main street earned the town the title of New Zealand’s Mural Town. But that’s just one reason for art lovers to visit. Katikati also boasts Aotearoa’s biggest open-air art gallery, which aims to make the whole town a work of art!

Keen anglers will want to pack their best rod and head to Kauri Point jetty which is a favourite spot for

local fishermen. If the fish aren’t biting, why not walk the length of the jetty out into the spectacular harbour?

If you prefer to view the water from land then Lindemann Lookout offers stunning selfie opportunities with a 180-degree view over the Tauranga Harbour.

Don’t forget your walking shoes, as there are many scenic walks to enjoy. The Haiku Pathway is a must, as you discover the many boulders engraved with the popular Japanese form of poetry. The Beach Road loop is a casual, easy stroll with splendid views and bird watchers will find an ample amount of avians on the bird walk.

If you can, timing your stay with one |of Katikati’s many events would be ideal. Fortunately, the town is buzzing with events year-round, meaning you won’t have to wait long. Just some of the popular events include the famed Avocado Food and Wine Festival, the Festival of Cultures, Sheds in Studios Ramble, Christmas in the Park, the Twilight Concert Series and the Katikati A&P Show.

With all this going for it, it’s no wonder Katikati won the Keep New Zealand Beautiful Society’s “Most Beautiful Small Town” award in 2005.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

UNO catches up with Peter Watson, Western Bay of Plenty District Council Reserves and Facilities manager, to find out all about the best cycle and walking trails Katikati has to offer.

WORD S KARL PUSCHMANN

Cycle and walking trails have only grown in popularity over the years, and Katikati was quick to recognise the potential of the natural splendour of their backyard. The development of a network of various trails in the area has been underway for quite a few years now. While many are completed, the ambitious project is ongoing and promises to result in some of the most scenic and enjoyable walking and cycling trails around.

“We've done trails around the harbour so people can experience and interface with it,” Peter says. “We’re also currently in the middle of building a 1.2 kilometres shared pathway that goes from the Yeoman Bridge

along the edge of the Uretara River to Park Road Reserve. That'll be really awesome when it's done. You’re going to get to see all the lovely birdlife and what have you that's associated with the use of the water.”

The Tauranga harbour (moana) is incredibly scenic, with inspiring views and a bustling wildlife population, something Peter is particularly passionate about.

“There's a lot of birdlife here. If you follow the Uretara River down into the harbour there’s freshwater and saltwater interface, which gives you a mixture of fish and things like that,” he explains. “The water goes up and flushes in so there’s a lot of kingfisher, ducks, pied stilts and even royal spoonbills as well. A lot of people like it there. It’s a very peaceful, quiet place.”

WALK THE WALK

Whether you’re after a casual stroll enjoying the views or prefer to power through and walk a sweat up Katikati has a trail to match your level. Meandering through Haiku Park is a real draw card for a meditative jaunt. For access to the Northern Kaimai Ranges, head out to the end of Wharawhara Road where you can access walking tracks in the Kaimai’s.

“There's a range of walks,” Peter says. “After COVID-19, people have been looking for an excuse to get out. They’ve started to appreciate the value of open spaces and the sense of well-being you get being in nature.”

The Tamawhariua Reserve trail is a 2.9km coastal walk that offers a casual loop for both walkers and cyclists and you’re welcome to take your dog as long as you keep it leashed. At a breezy 41 minutes, it’s a good way to stretch your legs.

Alternatively, the Aongatete 6.6km long loop track at the end of Wright Road offers a moderate challenge through native forest complete with stream crossings and fallen trees to amble over. Fido will have to stay home for this one, however, as dogs are not permitted due to the abundance of birdlife in the forest.

As for Peter, he can’t pick a favourite trail. He says he loves them all as they’ve worked hard to ensure the trails encapsulate the land, water and sky.

“You can really connect with nature, trees and native vegetation and bird life here,” he says. “What we're trying to do is give people an experience where you can take longer or shorter routes.”

ON YER BIKE

As with its walking tracks, Katikati also provides for cyclists of all skills.

“There’s a variation to the cycling experience,” he says, noting most trails are loops so riders can feel like they’re going somewhere rather than having to bike back along the same path. “We've got a big cycle network with a range of different grades to explore. ”

Along with the Katikati Trails Development Group, Council wants to get people on their bikes around the trails and have a great experience. "By offering a variety of cycle trail options, which includes Waitekohekohe Reserve up Thompson's Track Road, with dedicated purpose-built mountain bike trails and equestrian tracks that include a galloping track and jumping ally, we hope to get people visiting more often to use the trails."

LIVE, PLAY, EAT IN KATIKATI

These must-visit stopovers showcase the best that Katikati has to offer.

NURTURING NATURE

Discover this gift shop with a gorgeous range of homewares, gifts and our very own range of honey, which is crafted on site. Our charming retail store is adjacent to our manufacturing facility which is open for tours by appointment. BeeNZ is working with nature and the environment to bring its customers the highest quality New Zealand honey.

BEENZ.CO.NZ

TASTE OF TRADITION

Step into a world of legacy and indulgence at this family-owned establishment, where history intertwines with exceptional dining experiences. Celebrating over 130 years in Katikati, The Talisman proudly embraces local growers and family-owned enterprises. Unveil the magic of the restaurant, sports bar, garden bar and boutique accommodation, where award-winning chefs craft bistro-style masterpieces. Savour the taste of tradition, with each bite taking you on a remarkable journey.

TALISMANHOTEL.CO.NZ

HEALTHY SIP

Discover the real taste of refreshment with Dr Bucha's Living Drinks! Crafted by the talented duo, Donna and Fin McDonald, our kombucha is a healthy alternative to soft drinks and alcohol. We add real fruit flavourings directly to the bottles, ensuring an authentic experience. Locally made and hand-crafted, our kombucha supports the community and delights customers. Join us at the Katikati Produce Market or visit our website for free local delivery. Embrace a healthy choice with Dr Bucha's Living Drinks.

DRBUCHA.CO.NZ

GET CRAFTY

Experience the vibrant Katikati Artisan Craft Market, an enchanting rendezvous on the third Sunday of each month from 9am to 1pm. Nestled at the A & P Showgrounds, immerse yourself in a treasure trove of locally handcrafted wonders. With great coffee and hot toasties, unleash your inner explorer and indulge in a shopping spree like no other. Join us amidst the breathtaking beauty of the BOP, where even furry friends on leads are embraced. Discover that extraordinary find for yourself or someone dear, and make every moment a masterpiece.

KATIKATI.ORG.NZ/MARKETS-OF-KATIKATI

NATURAL PET CARE

HoneyVet was developed by two friends – one a veterinarian and the other with an extensive background in the New Zealand honey industry. Both saw a need to provide our animal friends with a much safer alternative to skin and coat care using nature's healing properties, from this, HoneyVet was born. HoneyVet is made locally in Katikati from locally sourced ingredients and is exclusively available to purchase at BeeNZ or online. HONEYVET.CO.NZ

WELCOME TO FAIRVIEW ESTATE

Only a couple of minutes from Katikati lies Fairview Estate, a lifestyle subdivision situated between the sheltering Kaimai Ranges and the beautiful Tauranga Harbour.

TAKE A BREATHER

Café Nineteen operates seven days a week and is open to all. With both indoor and outdoor seating and bar areas, with views over the golf course, this relaxing setting provides the perfect environment to enjoy a meal and drink either after a round of golf or just catching up with family and friends. They’d be happy to host your next function too, no matter how big or small.

PLAY A ROUND

Fairview Golf Course is an 18-hole course that offers one of the best golfing experiences in the area. There are also a number of facilities, including a fully stocked golf shop and practice areas, as well as a fleet of golf carts. It is the local club for Katikati and has a range of membership options available which come with many benefits. Green fee players are encouraged to come and play on the wonderful course.

HOME SWEET HOME

TRIP TO THE PAST

Step back in time at Western Bay Museum – New Zealand's premier small museum. Immerse yourself in the 1900s with our interactive group tours. A guided tour involves period costumes, fascinating exhibitions, freshly baked scones and tea served in antique bone china. Book now for an unforgettable experience. Open Monday to Friday 10am-4pm, weekends and public holidays 11am-3pm. Visit us at the historic Fire Station building on Main Road, Katikati. Don't miss out on this extraordinary journey loved by locals, groups and families.

WESTERNBAYMUSEUM.NZ

Why not enjoy the wonderful facilities and everything on offer at Fairview year-round by making it your new home? Fairview is one of the best lifestyle subdivisions in the area and has a limited amount of freehold, including golf course fronting, house and land packages still available. The purchase of a property at Fairview also comes with membership to the exclusive Country Club, which gives you use of the indoor pool and spa, health studio, tennis courts, barbeque and petanque areas, plus more along with all the community spirit that comes with it.

34 Sharp Road, Katikati FAIRVIEWESTATE.CO.NZ

WHERE BUSINESS MEETS BLISS

A trip to Sydney gives the opportunity for some work-life balance.

WORD S JENNY RUDD

Why bother flying somewhere fun if you aren’t going to give yourself the time to enjoy it? This year I’ve been back and forth to Australia for work, and last time I went to Sydney, instead of cramming everything into a couple of days and whizzing back home, I extended the trip and turned it into a wee holiday for one. It was just the right blend of career and care.

A top-rated apartment in the CBD was found on booking.com, made all the more luxurious as they organised and paid for a taxi on arrival. I did nothing. A message popped up on my booking.com app as soon as I’d landed, telling me whe re to meet the driver. A great start to the week.

A CITY WALK

I’d been sitting in a plane for many hours, so fresh air and leg stretching were first on the list. An easy loop started at Hyde Park with giant fig trees and the Archibald Fountain, a tribute to the Franco-Australian relationship. You can walk straight over to the Botanical Gardens, and follow the water’s edge round to the money shot - the Sydney Opera House. The garden holds deep cultural significance as it’s situated on the traditional lands of the Cadigal people. You can learn about Aboriginal heritage with artwork, and interactive displays explain indigenous plant uses and the connection between Aboriginal communities and the land. Past the Opera House, I settled in for the French menu at Whalebridge. Warm evening light, a view of the bridge over the harbour and rippling water. I was ready for work the next day.

WHALEBRIDGE

BONDI

It’s oh so easy to travel in Sydney. I just tapped my Visa card on and off trains, buses and ferries. Staying by Town Hall station made everywhere seem like a few minutes away. I had a meeting in Bondi, so we met at Blackwood Cafe. Bright pink tuna crudo eaten in the sunshine and talking to ambitious founders of a business bound for the States was followed by a walk round the iconic beach. I’d stuffed my bikini in my handbag so got happily smashed about in the waves before heading back to the CBD.

LIGHT UP

I’m not much of a party girl these days, but I do love to walk around cities at night. Each year Sydney’s buildings and skies light up with their Vivid Festival in May. Hundreds of drones take to the skies and videos of artworks cover landmark buildings. Follow the light walk from Circular Quay and grab snacks en route.

BARANGAROO

Everyone here likes to have early meetings, which has been perfect as I get the rest of the day to explore. The morning was spent with Startmate, one of Australia and New Zealand's best-known tech startup accelerators in the Stripe offices at the incredibly hip WeWork building. The whole area, Barangaroo, has been recently redeveloped. The land is named after an influential Aboriginal woman from the Eora Nation. Gleaming buildings line the water, it’s a pretty magnificent working environment. The development has turned an inaccessible industrial area into a waterfront for everyone to enjoy, and linked up some of the central Sydney points with the Wulugul (kingfish) Walk.

SHELLY BEACH

Take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Beach and walk the picturesque pathway cut into the cliffs round to Shelly Beach. A towel, snorkel, mask and a good book are all you’ll need to while away a good part of the day. There’s a lovely beachside restaurant called the Boat House which doesn’t take bookings. And a huge reef round the headland at the end of the beach, which is where your mask and snorkel comes in handy. If you’re hot on the walk back to Manly to catch the ferry, stop off at Cabbage Tree Bay and have a quick dip off the rocks.

INDOOR WATERFALL

Okay, I think this is my favourite thing in Sydney, and I found it by accident walking through Town Hall shopping centre to get to the train. An actual waterfall covering an entire wall in Eternity Café. I went there every day. It’s got a very kitsch vibe. I was a big fan of the smoothie bowls and salads.

ETERNITYCAFESYDNEY

TOP TIPS FOR SOLO TRAVEL IN SYDNEY

Use booking.com app for the best one-bedroom apartments in the CBD.

Eat outside peak restaurant hours to get the best seats in town.

BOOKING.COM

Walk everywhere! You’re on your own schedule.

CULTURE SHOCK

Will Johnston has a solution for one of the Tauranga CBD’s problems, and he’s practically giving it away.

There’s a buzz in Auckland (if you tell an Aucklander I said that, I’ll deny it). Maybe it’s more people, maybe it’s bigger buildings, maybe it’s just traffic (though we have that in spades here – amiright)? Or maybe it’s the fact that businesses are actually open and operating at night – not just food and booze businesses, either.

I hear the same old argument about Tauranga not being big enough to support opening at night, or even support half of the businesses during the regular shopping hours. But rather than just complaining – as I’m prone to do as I sink into my late-30s role of dad jokes and loathing of bad parking – I have a solution!

All I ask for this fix is a humble working week’s worth of fees that the Tauranga commissioners charge per day of work each. $1,500 each x 5 work days = $7,500. I know, generous of me, right? I’m not even charging the chair’s fee of $1,800 per day. Which I would be totally justified to do as I am quite clearly the chairman of my own board.

So here it is: Whack it on the rates, mate!

It’s fair to say that I was excited to go to Hamilton. That’s not usually a sentence that comes out of my mouth. Cold and foggy isn’t my cuppa. However, this time, Hamilton was going to be different.

It was at Spark Arena in Auckland, and it’s the musical about Alexander Hamilton that’s taken over the theatre world since its first performance in 2015. My wife is a huge musical theatre fan, so this was a must for her and, by association, me. Don’t get me wrong, I like a musical as much as the next 39-yearold musically untalented guy. But mid-show when I noticed my forearm was wet from the tears of joy and sorrow emanating from my wife’s face, I realised I was not at her level of enthusiasm/hysteria. Bless. But the thing that really struck me while we had our baby-free weekend in Auckland was that we are lacking a vibe in Tauranga.

Every residential ratepayer gets an allowance built into their rates that must be spent on tickets to shows/events every year. If you don’t spend it, it gets divided up as an annual cash payment among all businesses/organisations in the CBD that would benefit from an entire theatre of people coming to town before/after a show.

Worst-case scenario for the ratepayer: You get to go to a bunch of shows a year, expand your horizons, and fill the CBD with reasons for businesses to operate there. Worst-case scenario for a business/ organisation: They get a sweet cash payment at the end of every year to keep the doors open/pay their staff and reinvest into their business to make the CBD a more attractive place to socialise for the ratepayer.

Now, w ho do I invoice for this idea?

All this aside… It worries me that I’ve mentioned rates AND went to Auckland and enjoyed myself. Who have I become? Middle-aged?!

RADIOWILL

On What’s

PĀPĀMOA 'LIGHT UP THE WATERWAY '

Friday, July 14

Pāpāmoa Plaza, P ā p ā moa Te Ara ō Wairākei stormwater reserve will be illuminated to celebrate the nine stars in the constellation of Matariki that represent the beginning of the Māori New Year.

MOUNT MAUNGANUI HALF MARATHON

Saturday, August 26

Mount Maunganui

Experience Mount Maunganui's iconic half marathon with the option to choose from 21km, 10km or 5km routes. MOUNTMAUNGANUIHALFMARATHON.CO.NZ

WONDERLAND GLOW SHOW

Wednesday, July 19

Baycourt Addison Theatre

Wonderland Glow Show is a giant scale glow-in-the-dark puppetry show for babies to seven-year-olds! Be part of the glow show experience, as you’re thrown into a world where reading is a super power. Be transformed through highly visual storytelling, uplifting, wacky, larger-than-life characters and dynamic, upbeat music. GLOWSHOW.CO.NZ

MATILDA – THE MUSICAL

September 21 to October 7

Baycourt Addison Theatre

TAURANGA JUNIOR TOUGH GUY AND GAL CHALLENGE

Friday, July 21

Mercury Baypark, Mount Maunganui

Primary and intermediate aged kids can take on a 1.5km or 3km muddy obstacle course consisting of swamp crossings, a spider’s web net climb, crawl under obstacles, tunnels, hurdles, a climbing frame, and not to mention mud, mud and more mud!

EVENTPROMOTIONS.CO.NZ

Presented by Tauranga Musical Theatre, this is the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical is the captivating masterpiece from the Royal Shakespeare Company that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. TAURANGAMUSICALTHEATRE.CO.NZ/MATILDA

Our four vet clinics in Tauranga , Te Puna , Katikati and Papamoa are focused on providing the best veterinary care for your companion, production, equine and lifestyle animals.

• Locally owned and operated for more than 40 years

• Best Practice ® accredited • 24 hour emergency on-call service for our clients

COOL, CALM AND COLLECTED

With its artfully designed space, locally-sourced treasures for sale and delectable food on offer, every detail of this café has been thoughtfully curated.

WORD S HAYLEY BARNETT

As far as locals go, Gather is up there with the best. The vibe, the crowd, the food. It’s slightly bigger than a hole in the wall, but everything just works. And not one bit of it is an accident. Chatting with owner Steph Meaden, it’s obvious there was a very clear focus when she and husband Sam took over the Pāpāmoa spot three years ago.

“ We knew we wanted to run a neighbourhood café but we both agreed it had to be three things – good for the community, good for the body and good for the environment,” explains Steph. Having spent most of the first year behind the counter with their first baby in a front pack, this wasn’t easy to execute, especially during Covid-19 when supplies were limited and there were very few customers. But this is a couple who knows an opportunity when they see one.

They first opened the Tay Street Store two years prior to opening Gather, selling local products (mainly created by

innovative and entrepreneurial friends), with the aim of branching out into food. When Gather came up for sale in 2020 the couple jumped at it. They had a bit of experience with a coffee caravan business , Lulu Coffee, which was a great first taste of the hospitality scene. It was just lucky they weren’t put off by dire times.

Today Gather is run by an all-women team, bar Sam who runs the finance and payroll back of house. Their head chef, Dominique Rojo Vivot, is Argentinian and the menu is largely influenced by her home country’s cuisine, with a colourful, vegan twist. The cheese puffs, vegan carrot cake and chimmi chilli eggs have all become loyal customer favourites. Thank goodness they’re staying on the upcoming, otherwise-new winter menu.

Steph and Sam aren’t chefs themselves but they were inspired by the very “farm to plate vibe” that they picked up on their travels overseas. “When we came home, we realised there’s an abundance of good food out there – you just need to know where to get it from,” says Steph.

Keeping in line with their noble ethos, they worked with their friends – Mt Atkinson Coffee – who has a direct trade relationship with Ugandan coffee farmers and gives back through village projects. It does, however, come all the way from Auckland, which is quite a way away for Steph and Sam these days. A lot of product in the café is close to fully local, even the wide array of wares, skincare and clothing they sell in store. The clothing is actually designed by Dominique herself. Steph and the multitalented chef even have plans to start their own pantry range.

With another baby in the front pack, Steph and Sam certainly have their work cut out for them, but that’s all part of the fun.

“One day we’ll get back on the road – that’s kind of the idea of setting up a business!” she laughs. But right now, they’re both enjoying being part of a community which has embraced them and their passion for all things local and delicious.

GATHERPAPAMOA.CO.NZ