Verve. April 2021. Issue 174. by Verve Magazine

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UP FRONT

WHAT'S INSIDE UP FRONT 12 Peta Mathias: Food, Fun and Fabulousness

TAKAPUNA FEATURE 96 Beauty at the Beach: A Fairy Tale Destination

RUG FEATURE 22 House of Bridges 34 Rugs: For So Many Reasons

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS 92 A Brief History of Breast Surgery

FASHION 54 Knitwear for all Occasions 54 Design of April: Dewy Blues

ART & ABOUT 130 The Art of April

JOURNEYS 62 Luxury Retreats 72 Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat

FOOD & WINE 148 Cooking Conversations: Emma Galloway WIN 174 Win with Verve

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Important message if you are planning to paint a multi-million dollar home in Auckland. Don’t spend a single dollar until you read our free report The Insider’s Guide to Painting A Multi-Million Dollar Home in Auckland.

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Fran Ninow and Jude Mitchell SENIOR WRITER Jamie Christian Desplaces HEAD GRAPHIC DESIGNER Zanalee Makavani

IN THIS GUIDE YOU WILL LEARN

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ken Khun

Why the first step in your painting job is to identify your I.O. (And why this is so important).

SOCIAL MEDIA Ashlee Lala

The three expensive mistakes to avoid when painting a multi-million dollar Auckland home.

CONTRIBUTORS Manish Kumar Arora, Paris Mitchell Temple, Aimée Ralfini, Jackie O’Fee, Vicki Holder, Nicole Healy, Anna Vonveh, Susan Roberts, Angie Atkinson, Bella Sampson, Andrew Kerr, Zach Thompson, Annabelle Taurua, SJ

How to quickly tell which painting contractors will do the perfect painting job and which ones won’t.

SUBSCRIPTIONS online@vervemagazine.co.nz

A clever way to make sure you compare ‘apples with apples’ with any painting quotes you receive.

PUBLISHED BY VERVE MAGAZINE LTD 13 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021

How to future proof your painting investment so it lasts at least 25% longer.

GST 90 378 074 ISSN 2253-1300 (print) ISSN 2253-1319 (online)

A simple technique for identifying a common painting problem that 63% of multi-million dollar homes have.

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES (+64) 9 520 5939 Fran Ninow: fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Jude Mitchell: jude@vervemagazine.co.nz

Go to WALLTREATS.CO.NZ to order your free copy of the insider’s guide to painting your multi-million dollar home in auckland or phone us on 0800 008 168

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Ashlee Lala: ashlee@vervemagazine.co.nz Fran Ninow: fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Jude Mitchell: jude@vervemagazine.co.nz Pam Brown: pambrown@xtra.co.nz COVER IMAGE Ted Baker Rug Masquerade Pink from Allium Interiors. alliuminteriors.co.nz

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VERVE MAGAZINE is published monthly (except in January) and has an estimated readership of 60,000. It is a free lifestyle magazine delivered to selected homes, cafés and businesses in Devonport, Epsom, Herne Bay, Kohimarama, Meadowbank, Mission Bay, Newmarket, Parnell, Remuera, St Mary’s Bay and Takapuna. Verve Magazine is placed in magazine stands for free collection from locations in Auckland City, Devonport, Epsom, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay, Mairangi Bay, Milford, Mission Bay, Newmarket, Parnell, Ponsonby, Remuera, St. Heliers, Stonefields and Takapuna. Visit vervemagazine.co.nz for exact locations these magazine stands. Verve is also available from all popular cafés in its main distribution areas as well as in ebook format. Visit vervemagazine. co.nz to sign up for your free monthly ebook. Verve is printed by Ovato. It is distributed by Ovato, Admail and Mailchimp. The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without prior permission in writing of the copyright owner. Any material submitted for publication is at the owner’s risk. Neither Verve Magazine Ltd nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of information contained in this publication, the publisher cannot accept any liability for inaccuracies that may occur. The views and suggestions expressed in this magazine are those of individual contributors and are not necessarily supported by Verve Magazine Ltd.

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Fran

Jude

April issue each year sees Jude and I in business together for yet another year.

I live my life believing the best is yet to come but I have to say right now it feels as though many parts of my life cannot get better.

A little over 17 years ago, we met each other through a mutual acquaintance, who helped us set up a fledgling business specialising in creating mini-publications for a variety of businesses and organisations. A year later we were on a different publishing track, having decided to focus on creating our own magazine. A friend came up with the name ‘Verve’, and it stuck; meaning enthusiasm, spirit, and vigour, it is hardly surprising, as it is all these qualities that see us here today, publishing our umpteenth issue of what has now become an Auckland stalwart. Seventeen years is a long time, and it that time we have as people, business owners and editors, grown and matured. During this almost two decades, we have seen our children develop from high school students, to successful careers people, developing their own unique talents, and carving their own niches for themselves. Naturally they give us immense pleasure, and like all parents we are unspeakably proud of them. I am not sure of the exact recipe for creating a fulfilled and happy child, but I do know that it requires daily unconditional love and devotion. Perhaps it is for the same reason that Verve has blossomed and developed into the bloom you see before you, as for the past 17 years, Jude and I (supported by an unspeakably amazing and equally devoted team of people) have given this paper child our daily unconditional love and devotion as well. Happy birthday Verve. Your two mums are ever so proud of you, and are enjoying the personality you have become. And to all our readers, here’s hoping you enjoy this birthday edition. See you next month. Fran x

For 17 years we have been publishing Verve on a monthly basis. When we started the magazine we took it one issue at a time, put our heart and soul into it and hoped for the best. Here we are almost two decades later still doing what was orginally a passion project. Now we feel we can genuninely celebrate. And a walk along the Lake Wainamu Loop track seems like the best idea, taking a big deep breath before diving into another issue and immersing ourselves in the truth and natural beauty of the Waitākeres. We must congratulate ourselves on producing so many issues as a team, through all sorts of crisis and challenges. We are a brilliant team and proud of what we do. Proving the best is yet to come, my beautiful and talented daughter and her husband Henry are having a baby in June. I will at last have a grandchild in Auckland (my other two granddaughters live in New York). We celebrated with an unconventional baby shower for 70 people at my home. Friends, family and dogs all joined in. This month I was with Pauline Bianchi, the owner of Lightworx Gallery in Customs Street, for an evening of music, wine and great conversation. We joined many of Pauline’s remarkable artists, collectors and friends for a true celebration of life and the joy and pleasure that art brings to our lives. This issue has a fun, frolicking lifestyle shoot with Peta Mathias at The Convent Hotel in Grey Lynn. Peta is a professional. She works the camera like no other, totally relaxed, full of laughter, joy and mischief. Neil Gussey, the photographer, is equally as chilled, and the whole shoot was effortless. Thank-you to your both. Our MAY issue will host a WOMEN IN BUSINESS feature another celebration close to my heat. There will also be a REAL ESTATE feature as property and homes are top of the mind for so many. On 7 April I go to the Candlelight Vivaldi concert at the Parnell Trinity Church which willl be a very special moment in a very special place. Before that, there is Easter. I will be sitting by the sea loving the quiet time and thinking about the year we have all been through, what it has taught us and what it has brought out in us. For now, I am with the The Beatles: “Tomorrow may rain so I will follow the sun“

Editors' Notes

Enjoy. Aroha, Jude

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The Importance of Outdoor Education Words – Dave Scott Principal, Kristin Middle School (Years 7 -10)

At Kristin, Outdoor Education is pivotal to our holistic educational offering. By offering a range of challenging outdoor experiences, we aim to promote communication, problem-solving and decision-making skills, which have currency across various areas. These experiences encourage a positive ‘opting in’ and ‘can do’ attitude. Our Camp week is an incredible logistical feat, moving over 1,200 students to destinations across North Island from Kai Iwi Lakes to Great Barrier Island and from Raglan to Tongariro National Park. The week also promotes active learning through direct personal experience and offers excitement, fun and adventure, all within a safety and challenge framework. One of the keys to Kristin's success in our adventurous outdoor programmes is that students get to spend time with their teachers outside of the classroom context. It's one thing for a student to learn rock climbing from a hired professional instructor, but quite another to go tramping in the Northern Kaimai Ranges with their French teacher. These experiences lead to profound moments when students are teaching their teachers. This shared adventure builds relationships that turbo-charge the classroom experience. In this way, Outdoor Education is woven into the fabric of a Kristin education. We know through our programmes that challenging outdoor experiences impact powerfully upon a young person's intellectual, physical, spiritual, social and moral development. This is perhaps best encapsulated in our three-week journey experiences, Odyssey 21 and Pasifika. The Odyssey 21 is a three-week canoe journey down the Whanganui River from the source to the sea. This journey, designed specifically for our Year 9 students, is about active learning and adventure,

building self-confidence and self-esteem. Odyssey 21 introduces our students to the environment to develop understanding, appreciation, awe, wonder, and respect. It fosters sensitivity for the environment and increases their awareness of the need for sustainable use of the world's natural resources. Exceptional accomplishments in exploration and adventure, on the sea, in the mountains and in the world of nature, feature strongly in our country's history. Reflecting on this heritage, Kristin has led the way in the use of outdoor learning and adventure for our students' development - through the camp programme, journey experiences, Outdoor Education in the curriculum, the William Pike Challenge and the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. At Kristin, we know that tomorrow's successful citizens will possess the adaptability to cope with a rapidly changing world of work and the responsibility to be an influential member of a community. Our outdoor education programmes are a part of our holistic educational offering and, we believe, will help them to become future ready.

Education beyond the classroom.

Experiential Experiential learning learning is is aa key key feature feature of of aa Kristin Kristin education, education, and and it’s it’s these these opportunities opportunities that that deepen deepen our our students’ students’ experience experience of of school, school, both both socially socially and and academically. academically.

From From Junior Junior School School to to Senior Senior School, School, Kristin Kristin students students participate participate in a huge variety of experiences outside the comfort of in a huge variety of experiences outside the comfort of their their classrooms. This helps them to build confidence, knowledge, classrooms. This helps them to build confidence, knowledge, determination determination and and independence. independence. Our Our students students enjoy: enjoy:

•• ••

Annual Annual camps camps Excursions Excursions and and field field trips trips to to places places relevant relevant to to the the topic topic of learning, across all subjects of learning, across all subjects

•• Opportunities Opportunities to to serve serve the the community community as as part part of of our our Service Service Learning Learning programmes programmes •• Leadership opportunities Leadership opportunities across across all all year year levels levels

•• AA vast vast range range of of clubs, clubs, groups groups and and committees committees to to participate participate in in

Apply Apply online online today today for for your your child child to to study study at at Kristin Kristin from from 2022. 2022. Applications for Year 7 and 9 students in 2022 close 30 April Applications for Year 7 and 9 students in 2022 close 30 April 2021. 2021. www.kristin.school.nz www.kristin.school.nz Kristin Kristin is is located located at at 360 360 Albany Albany Highway, Highway, Albany Albany with with dedicated dedicated buses buses across across Auckland. Auckland.

Peta Mathias

Food, Fun and Fabulousness Words – Jamie Christian Desplaces

Photos - Neil Gussey

“Dressing beautifully makes you happy,” says Peta Mathias. “Just putting on beautiful clothes makes you immediately feel better. A lot of people don’t like colourful clothes, but I find that it changes my mood— and I might even change my clothes three times a day!”

Indeed, the Kiwi icon is almost as famous for her colourful clothing—and character—as she is for her creativity and culinary skills. Peta Mathias MNZM is an award-winning chef, author, broadcaster and entertainer who has hosted food and travel shows—and tours—in Aotearoa (including Taste New Zealand) and around the world, while penning numerous tomes such as Can We Help It If We’re Fabulous?, A Matter of Taste, and Eat Your Heart Out, her latest, released in 2019, about unusual love stories. Her 2016 memoir is the brilliantly titled, Never Put All Your Eggs in One Bastard, and she’s just finished her newest book, Shed Couture, “about clothes and fashion”, due out in October. I ask if she enjoys the writing process. “I love writing, but it gets harder and harder, how much work writing a book entails and the reward for it. But it is something that you're driven to do. You know, it's like being a painter or an actor. You just have to do it. You have to express yourself in this way. You're driven.”

Peta has recently also taken her one-woman live show on the road, “telling tall stories, sautéing up a storm, singing of lost love and explaining how egg whites can transform your life”. For as long as she cares to remember, she has also split her time mainly between Aotearoa and the South of France, spending around six months of the year at her place in Uzès, a little north of the Riviera. What makes all of her achievements even more remarkable is that she didn’t find her calling until middle-age, a late-in-life lane-change that she admits to regretting not making sooner. “I don’t understand people who say that they don’t have regrets,” Peta tells Verve. “I do have them—I’ve made a lot of mistakes and I was a late developer. It took me a long time to find out what my true path was—food, cooking and entertainment. I’m basically an entertainer. Everything that I do, such as hosting culinary tours, and speaking events all over New Zealand—where I also sing—is part of my whole need to make people happy, and to entertain. I wish that I had got that a lot earlier than I did, because I was around 40 by the time that I got my act together.”

What advice would you give others approaching such a crossroad?

“You’ve got to do it. If you’re the kind of person who plays it safe, then changing your life is probably not for you. You have to be a risk-taker, but you can do it bit by bit so that it doesn’t feel so drastic. When I set up my life in France, I did it for one month the first year, two months the second, until I had finally set up this second life. It’s never too late to change. There are numerous examples of writers not publishing their first books until they were in their 70s. Challenging yourself is also the best way of keeping your brain healthy.”

Is that what you put your infinite energy down to?

“My mother was like that. In fact, both my parents were, so it’s just inbred. I also like working. People work because they feel that they’re contributing something to society. If I stopped, I’d feel pointless. Terrible things may happen that set you back, but you have to keep the faith, and keep on going.”

Your love of food and the need to make people happy, are these also a reflection of your upbringing? Were family dinners, for instance, celebratory affairs?

“Well, I'm the oldest of six children and was like a second mother— she taught us all to cook when we were young. I loved it because I discovered that cooking made people like you, that food is love. We’re the only animals in the universe who use food to socialise.” Peta asks if I like to cook and I tell her that I do if I’m in the mood— but my partner’s the one with the culinary talent so I often wind up as her sous chef. “Well, we do need servants,” she laughs, then adds that preparing meals for others is a form of the utmost respect. I ask more about her childhood. Her dad, she says, was a gentle soul, but, for her mum, Peta stumbles for adjectives, then fills the silence with “my mother was quite a splendid package”. “She was very beautiful, and very clever and capable of so many things,” she goes on. “She was colourful and dynamic and expected a lot from her children, which was hard work. But I’m very close to my brothers and sisters, so we must have had a good childhood. And we adored our father.” Peta’s dad was an accountant, and her mother a “very talented artist”. Some of her work adorns Peta’s K’ Road apartment—a possibly-permanent residency she’s been forced to take up since Covid closed the borders. A collection of antiques and classic art contrasts with the contemporary abode—her mother’s paintings aside, Peta's especially fond of the dining table that takes pride of place on the glassed in terrace with floor-to-ceiling folding doors and big views of the city and harbour. “It’s a cutting table from a knitwear factory that’s covered with the girls’ graffiti. So, I’ve still got all the graffiti over the top of it, and it’s been cut down to table size, with iron, wheeled legs put on it. It’s very unusual, and special.”

Quite the centrepiece for your regular dinner parties?

“I normally do so much cooking professionally, but since I’ve moved into this glass house, I’ve become addicted to cocktail parties. It’s so nice getting people over for the sunset—and of course, it’s a lot less work as you just have to make finger food!”

How’s your flairing?

“You’re talking to the wrong age group!” Peta’s “double life” between France and New Zealand has always been peppered with regular trips to far-flung jungles and dusty, aromatic streets scattered around the globe. Grateful as she is to have been back on home soil when the pandemic hit, it is tempered by her need to roam—this Kiwi must fly. I ask if Covid has forced her to reassess her views on life and travel. “Not yet. I think I'm still living in a fantasy world where I think I'm going to get my old life back, but you know, I was reading in the Sunday Times, actually yesterday, predictions from the travel industry and us getting back to some sort of normal again is likely years off. So, I think I will be forced to change my life, whether I want to or not, as a lot of people will. I feel very, very sorry for my colleagues in the hospitality business at how much they've suffered, because they're keeping us all alive by feeding us beautiful food.”

What are your thoughts on the evolution of the Kiwi food scene during the time you’ve been back and forth?

Peta’s next book, Shed Couture, will be out in October, published by Random House. Keep up to date with her latest projects, including those culinary tours, at petamathias.com Peta Mathias – Silverfox MGMT New Zealand silverfoxmgmt.co.nz 021 178 3729

“Auckland in particular has fantastic restaurants. I mean, really fantastic. New Zealand is not behind at all, either in food or wine. In fact, we're ahead of most people—we're very similar to Australia. We have really good cooks and we have really good, fresh produce. And that's what's going to be the thing with New Zealand while we can't get international visitors and we can't go anywhere ourselves. We're going to have to really concentrate and up our game with regard to food and wine tourism. That's our next big thing. And we have to take that really seriously.” Last month, Peta organised a culinary staycation at Hawkes Bay (“a wild success!”), with plans for similar events throughout the country in the coming months, as well as in Rarotonga and Australia once those travel bubbles are finally established. Finally, I ask if she gets nervous about hosting such gatherings, or at her speaking events. “Oh no,” she giggles. “I’m the girl you have to push off!”

PHOTO GRAPHY – AARON BURG ESS

Behind the Scenes with Jewellery (Earring) Designer

Eva of Hide And Seek

When and why did you begin designing jewellery, more specifically, earrings? I’ve always loved to create things, especially gifts. In 2017, I made a batch of leather earrings for Christmas presents and the feedback was overwhelming. I made more and more because the demand was there. And Hide and Seek hasn’t stopped growing since. What inspires your designs? Natural shapes fused with colour. NZ native birds are my current obsession. My design in the making is pīwakawaka (fantail) tails. I’m most proud of my huia range. What sort of woman wears hide and seek earrings? One who considers dressing as an art form or someone who wants to create a unique style, and someone who appreciates the practical element of the ‘light-as-a-feather’ aspect that leather offers. What materials do you best like to work with? Leather and silver are my favourites, especially being able to use up offcuts from bag makers and the like, this appeals to my sustainability ethics. Through my leather working I’ve created my own techniques for making leather come to life. Why wear earrings? Earrings embody a mood, a gentle delicate touch to finish an outfit or a bold don’t-mess-with-me feel that gives strength and power to your day. Earrings always make me feel more feminine.

H I DEAN D S EEK .NZ @ HIDEAN D S EEKEARRI NGS

Where can we find your earrings? MOA Grey Lynn stocks huia and contemporary huia and a list of national stockists of Hide and Seek earrings is available on my website.

Auckland’s most unique boutique hotel, The Convent, has opened its historical doors and you won’t have to take a vow of poverty to stay there. The architecture of the historic Spanish Mission style structure, originally built as a nunnery in 1922, has been largely preserved and layered with playful design features that extend to the relaxed restaurant space. The glass ceiling vaulted above the dining area, formerly familiar to the Nuns as the cloisters, bridges the past and present. From the same creator as its sister eatery and retail concept, Ponsonby Central, the owner Andy Davies had a vision to create a one of kind stay in an urban location, without the luxe price tag. Nestled in its own niche between a high-end hotel and an Airbnb experience, The Convent ﬁlls a gap for those travellers who want more from our city than the four white walls we are used to.

T H E CONVENT HO TEL .CO. N Z

G R E Y LY N N . A UC K L A N D

The same ideals are shared by Ada Restaurant where the beautiful space is open for everyone to enjoy. Not only for guests of the hotel, Ada is a destination to experience a seasonal menu of Italian inﬂuence. The restaurant, arguably the most visually striking part of The Convent, has Hayden Phiskie (ex Cotto) and Johnny Price (Rita, Wellington) at the helm, carrying forward the approachable nature of sharing great pasta and wine. Just as each room in The Convent is different, Ada moves with the seasons for a fresh experience every visit.

Berlin, Germany Words – Graham Wood, Photography – Greg Cox

House of Bridges

Co-founders of art collective Slavs and Tatars, Kasia Korczak and Payam Sharifi have filled their classic Gründerzeitwohnung in Berlin with art, craft and folklore to make a profound statement about hospitality.

RUGS

In the study, a coffee-house genre painting of a circumcision comes from a Jewish antique shop in Tehran. The rugs include a Persian kilim and another lion rug, a thick, hand-woven rug often made by nomads. A series of sliced bowling balls, Getting Even #6 (2014) by Assaf Gruber, are used as door-stops.

On one side of the kitchen area of the Berliner Zimmer is a mid-century Polish unit Kasia inherited from her family. On the other is a kitchen unit with stove and sink for washing up, and surfaces for food preparation. The shelves are laden with various ceramics and glassware, spices, and cooking and serving vessels.

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RUGS

As the winter chill kicks in, there’s nothing more enticing than stepping onto a deliciously soft, warm floor rug. What could be nicer when the weather outside is miserable than snuggling up with a book and digging your toes into luscious layers of deep pile wool?

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Rugs Next Page →

The fresh, clean, minimalist look of bare wood or tiles works well in summer. But when you’re looking for the cosy factor, nothing beats a rug to add warmth to a room. The feeling of softness and warmth adds comfort. However, there are many other reasons they’ve become one of the most popular furnishing accessories in our homes. In addition, a rug can provide greater insulation stopping draughts, especially if it has a pad underneath. Rugs are a clever way to anchor a room to create a more intimate space. Whether you have hard floors or carpets, it makes sense to start with the rug, building on the colour and texture to pull everything else together. And the good thing is, you’re not stuck with the look. Because you can change them or move them from room to room with ease, your home can take on a whole new look by swapping out different rugs. If you’ve been stuck, staring at your same furniture for ages, there’s no better way to spruce up a space with a new floor rug and today, there are loads to choose from to fit your aesthetic — from the classic to the contemporary. If you’ve spent a lot on beautiful hardwood floors, rugs can save you a lot of angst especially if you have children, pets or just lots of visitors. Lay them down in heavy traffic areas to protect your floors from wear and tear. While it might be a little late because the damage is already done, rugs are a lot more cost-effective than refinishing the entire floor and a great way to disguise any problem areas. Rugs can also significantly reduce the noise in your own space. Hard surfaces don’t absorb sound in the same way as soft materials. Which makes rugs ideal for apartment living as they soften the impact of sound travelling to anybody who lives on the floor below. Put a rug on the floor and see how that echo effect disappears. It’s important to select the right size for a rug. In a living room, the rug should be large enough that all the elements — the sofas, chairs and the coffee tables — sit on the rug or at least adjoin it to feel as if it is part of the space. Without it, furniture often feels like it is floating. In feng shui, a rug slows down the energy in a home, reducing the chaos of activity to make you feel calmer. If you’re buying for a dining room, make the rug big enough so you can slide the chairs out without catching on the end of the rug.

Left: Claudia Kogachi Nanny, 2020 Wool, mohair, acrylic yarn 2140 x 1520mm Courtesy of the artist and Visions, Auckland

And don’t be afraid of large patterns on your floor. You can pick up on the colours in smaller patterns in your cushions. If bold colour is not your thing, go for texture. Finally, rugs don’t have to just go on the floor. If you’ve fallen in love with a beautiful ethnic rug on your travels and it has special value, you could even consider hanging it as a focal point on the wall or above your bed.

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Stunning Rug range available with samples in store or online Designers Guild, Christian Lacroix, Ted Baker, Scion, Harlequin, John Derian, Romo, Weave, Mulberi 11 Teed Street, Newmarket I 09 524 4242 I www.alliuminteriors.co.nz

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BREMWORTH.C O.NZ

Bohzali

Vintage Meets Contemporary Style Bohzali prides itself on sourcing Moroccan rugs from specialist artisans to suit contemporary homes and modern spaces, adding personality and comfort without sacrificing sophistication. Transporting the idea of Middle Eastern rugs from ‘ragged’ to riches, Bohzali takes the best of the rich artisan history, bold colourways and lush materials to create one-off pieces that bring a layer of cohesiveness to any room setting they feature in. Founded in 2017, Bohzali was born out of a passion for travel and interiors. On a trip to Morocco, founder Emma Martin fell instantly in love with the craftsmanship and one of a kind look and feel of each rug. “I wanted to provide a platform to showcase these artisans making the rugs, which is such a beautiful process, but also allows them to be accessible to a wider group of people,” explains Emma. “In the Atlas Mountains of Morocco each new rug is entirely handcrafted one knot at a time, the same way they have been for centuries, with the art and technique passed down through generations. From Fez to Marrakesh, through the mountains to the desert, then on to the coast, here at Bohzali we travel far and wide through Morocco in search of the most beautiful vintage rugs. Each rug has its own story to tell, no two are the same.” Every piece Bohzali offers is unique, but it is the understanding that every home is unique too that has seen the brand continue to evolve. With the new Bohzali range of Beni M'Rirt rugs now on offer, this craftsmanship is combined with local flare and much requested touch of customisation. "Each rug is handloomed in Khénifra by the best weavers, a craft handed down by generations before them, and made with the finest New Zealand and Australian wool," explains Emma. “Designs can be traditional or modern and we can also custom make rug designs, colours and styles of your choice. Once the rug comes off the loom, the process is not yet finished, each rug is individually washed, brushed and dried 4-5 times. This gives them the softest feel and glossiest finish.”

Stocked online at bohzali.co.nz, they have just branched into their first bricks and mortar store in Auckland with 10 Curated in Ponsonby.

BOHZALI ARTISAN + HANDMADE + ONE OF A KIND

10 Ponsonby Road Grey Lynn

+64 22 678 2951 bohzali.com

Innovation Durability Design Be floored by Bremworth wool carpets and rugs

For over 60 years Bremworth carpets have been synonymous with the finest quality, style and innovation. Experience has taught us that for design and performance on the floor, nothing comes close to wool. All our stunning carpets and rugs are made from 100% New Zealand wool, a miracle fibre that’s 100% sustainable, renewable and biodegradable – not to mention soft to touch and luxurious underfoot.

Customise Your Rug

Handcrafted Rug Collection

Our customisable rugs are beautifully designed and made in New Zealand from 100% pure NZ wool. You can choose your preferred style, colour, size, shape and edging best suited to your interior space. There are four different edging options to choose from including fabric, felt, concealed and overlocked. Each edge finish has been expertly matched by our designers to ensure the colours and bindings match the style of the rug.

Inspired by the rugged landscape of Aotearoa, our handcrafted rug collection features bold textures, earthy tones and uses 100% pure New Zealand felted wool. Each rug is beautifully crafted by hand using our exclusive felted yarn for a far thicker, stronger and more luxurious woollen rug. They come in border or borderless options and feature a premium cotton backing for extra stability on the floor.

For a bold statement on your floor, the Britomart Rug features rich terracotta tones and soft textures. The Britomart Rug can be seen in Maggie Marilyn’s new flagship Auckland store (interior design by Katie Lockhart).

Verve readers can enjoy an exclusive 20% off using promo code VERVE20 at checkout* *Promo code expires 30th April 2021. VERVE20 not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount.

Shop our rug collections at bremworth.co.nz

CONTEMPORARY RUGS OF DISTINCTION

SOURCE MONDIAL CARPET | RUGS | SISAL

SHOWROOMS: 70 Stanley Street, Parnell 1010 | Auckland Mainland Design Centre - 323 Madras St 8013 | Christchurch CONTACT 0800 767 847 | sourcemondial.co.nz

Gift Mum a Subscription to Verve this Mother's Day — AUCKLAND’S FAVOURITE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE — ISSUE 173 — MARCH 2021

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Model, Mother, Magnificent

Walking Wonderlands

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Jazz Beats Blues

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And be into win this stunning Verve Beauty Bundle Send a loved one a monthly dose of life and style straight to their door, with a subscription to Verve. Verve Mother’s day special: Just $60 for 12 issues posted anywhere in New Zealand.

APRIL 2021

The Verve Beauty Bundle

VERVE MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL $60 for 12 issues posted anywhere in New Zealand

Valued at over $500

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BEAUTY ENGINE Hand Cream

TRIUMPH & DISASTER Ritual Face Cleanser, Eye Sérum, Deodorant 'Blanco'

GLOW LAB Age Renew Retinol Booster Oil, Renew Resurfacing Cleanser

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Perfect Picks for Mother's Day

BIRKENSTOCK

KENSAL

birkenstock.co.nz

kensal.nz

Gift her the gift of comfort with Birkenstock Zermatt slippers. Thanks to the wool felt upper and their iconic cork footbed, a pair of these slippers will keep her feet warm and toasty all winter long. Available at Birkenstock Newmarket and online.

With seasonal flowers gathered from local farms, KENSAL creates relaxed, garden style bunches for delivery across Auckland. from $70

GEORGE STREET LINEN

GLORIA

georgestreetlinen.com

gloriagloria.com

Gift her some quality snooze time on George Street Linen. Their selection of natural, neutral and white linens will create that timeless ontrend look in her very own sleep sanctuary.

GLORIA; the new creative project by designer Kristine Crabb. A classic luxury set, the red silk pajama's; for day, night or out. Visit gloriagloria. com or @highascandywine for more. Morpheus Shirt $290, Polly Jean Pants $350

The 2021 Verve Mother's Day Gift Guide reflects the sorts of presents any mum would like to receive: thoughtful, unusual and most importantly with enduring appeal that will outlast autumn. With ideas and items designed for everyone, from cookbook enthusiasts to design connoisseurs, we hope this selection sparks inspired gift buying.

GROUNDD

HAWKEYE VINTAGE

groundd.nz

hawkeyevintage.com

Gift a Groundd Weighted Blanket. Its gentle weight & luxe Eco-silk cover will create a deeply calming sensation. Think of your mom or grandmother cuddling on the couch with their Groundd blanket and a fresh cup of tea: so comfy!

Up your gifting game this year and give artful, classic, high-end pieces that are always on trend, no matter the age. Visit hawkeyevintage. com for a finely curated choice of jewellery, bags, homeware, clothing and accessories.

FRAMEFOX

LOUISE DOUGLAS JEWELLERY

framefox.co.nz

louisedouglas.com

Framefox gallery walls are simply stunning. Create an arrangement of framed memories with their step-by-step website. Hang it yourself in just a few minutes. The result, museumquality frames made-to-order and delivered to your door.

Embrace the shift into autumn with Louise Douglas's selection of nature inspired jewellery and find the perfect pieces for the changing season. Necklace $195, earrings $185

MOTHER'S DAY

Gifts · Homewares Fashion · Kids Takapuna Ponsonby Auckland CBD Newmarket Wellington Christchurch shutthefrontdoor.co.nz @shutthefrontdoorstore

It’s Mother’s Day, So Treat Mum To An Extra $10 On Us Buy a $50 voucher between now and 3 May 2021 and you’ll get an extra $10 voucher, plus free delivery!*

*Vouchers can be used at any of the businesses listed on the Mission Bay website and never expire.

Because your mum is worth it!

Visit www.missionbay.co.nz for all the details @ MISSION B AY

@M I S S I O N B AY P RO M

vervemagazine.co.nz

101 THE STRAND | PARNELL | AUCKLAND NESTLED IN-BETWEEN MATISSE & DAWSON & Co. EASY FREE PARKING RIGHT IN FRONT OF OUR SHOWROOM

e. sales@sleepgallery.co.nz | p. 09 369 1273

Bottega Veneta Fall 2021

Knitwear

For All Occasions

2 3

6 5

1. Maggie Marilyn Crew Neck, $265 2. Acne Fall 2021 3. Elle + Riley Cashmere Robe, $759 4. Paris Georgia 03 Collection 5. Elle + Riley Ribbed Cashmere Biker Short, $249 6. Wynn Hamlyn Loop Chunky Sweater, 550 7. Paris Georgia Clara Dress, $590 8. Wynn Hamlyn Cable Knit Key Hole Sweater, $595 9. Wixii Ira Cashmere Cotton Bra, $150 Haru Cashmere Cotton Pants, $325

Curated By Paris Mitchell Temple

Dewy Inspired by a drop of dew just before it is about to fall, the two hand-blown hemispheres with a single bulb can be hung solitary, or grouped for a rain-like effect. The thickness and curve is designed to mirror the natural play of sunlight on water. The organic character of the design allows the light to blend like a ‘whisper’ into most environments.

Blues

Dew & Drop Hand Blown Pendant Light Occrum Studios

1. Cora Shirt Camilla And Marc

8. Pop Garden Print Silk Scarf Marni

Cut from airy linen to let your skin breathe on warmer days. Designed with a relaxed classic cut, dropped shoulders and tonal buttons. Wear yours half-tucked into denim.

Add a pop of colour to your wardrobe with this stylish garden print scarf. Made in Italy with 72% cotton and 28% silk, style this accessory with a crisp casual shirt, or with a plain t-shirt.

2. The Dewy Skin Cream Tatcha

7. Pale Blue Shearling Ballerina With Buckled Strap Marni

This moisturiser promises intense hydration and an instant plumper glow. Tatcha’s signature blend of three anti-ageing Japanese superfoods supply and promote optimal skin health and a youthful appearance.

This is not your average pair of shoes! Made from lambskin, the pale blue shearling shoes with contrasting-coloured leather string; metal buckle are comfy and statement piece.

3. Pyjamas & Casual Wear The Sleeper

6. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 The Ordinary

Specialised in ethically crafted, high-quality, multipurpose garments designed to make the wearer feel confident and comfortable. Whether that be in the confines of home, the streets or bed.

This serum has three forms of hyaluronic acid, with varying molecular weights for multi-level hydration to the skins deeper layers. Adding a hydrating serum is a vital step in the fight against skin-damage.

4. Blue 'The Pouch' Clutch Bottega Veneta

5. Black Issimo Sunglasses Retrosuperfuture

Nappa calfskin clutch in blue. Magnetic hinged fastening at throat. Embossed logo at interior. Tonal buffed calfskin lining.

Handcrafted rectangular acetate-frame sunglasses in black. Blue lenses with 100% UV protection. Integrated nose pads.

Photography – Nicole Brannen

Our Story Alice And Kiki

Alice Kiki and I met in Dunedin in our first year of university. We were at the same hostel and then flatted together in our second year. She’s super energetic, up for anything and always making people laugh. When we were living together, we would start projects like teaching each other to knit, and Kiki had a sewing machine. We did a lot of cooking together and always knew that we liked being creative. I was studying graphic design and then moved to Auckland to study pattern-marking. Kiki moved to Taipei and later, when I was living in Sydney, my partner and I decided to travel and we ended up in Hong Kong. Kiki and I always stayed connected and both fell in love with Asia—there’s a feeling there that anything is possible to create. We were so inspired by the fabric markets and possibilities that we started talking about working together. Eventually I returned to Auckland and Kiki moved to Shanghai and about four years later we said, “Okay, let’s do this now.” It was a long process, but when we finally said “this is the time”, it happened quickly. The more we do Hej Hej, the more we have to trust each other and like any relationship, communication is key. We communicate so well and if there’s a problem, we come from different angles to solve things. Kiki is creative, very analytical and she loves pulling data. She’s a perfectionist and has taught me to always check everything, as I have a habit of rushing. She never gives up, which is a very inspiring trait and she doesn’t let things get her down. I’m probably more emotional and Kiki really balances me out as she can bring me back down to earth. I absolutely love working with Kiki and sharing it with someone makes it that much more exciting and special.

Kiki Alice and I met in our first year of university and we’ve been friends ever since. She’s fun, chatty and always keen to do things. Even though we haven’t lived in the same country for ten years, every time I see her it’s always the same. We bonded over clothes at the start and whenever we meet up, we always go shopping or to fabric markets, or to get things tailored together. We always talked about starting a label and when I moved to Shanghai, I had access to resources such as suppliers, so we got started on making a few samples. Alice had a lot of connections as well from her work in fashion, so it was just the right time to finally get started. I always say Alice is the best business partner because she’s good at everything I’m not good at as she’s got completely different skills to me. She’s always keen to give anything a try, and she gets things done, whereas I can sit on a decision for quite a while and she’s more decisive.

Alice Isles and Kiki Judd met in their first year of university back in 2003. Fifteen years later, they established their clothing brand Hej Hej, which they manage from their respective homes in Auckland and Shanghai. hej-hej.co

Working together, we’ve learnt how important it is to keep in touch and there’s no shortage of communication. She’s probably the first person I talk to in the morning and I’m probably the last person she talks to before she goes to sleep. I think we’ve learnt that over-communication works really well for us. Alice is really creative and really good with the technical aspects of design and a good business hustler. She can manage a lot of tasks at once and somehow remembers to get it all done, which is really impressive. She’s also really good at building relationships with people; it’s a real talent and skill of hers. Everyone always likes Alice.

Decent Hangers

Get wooden hangers for shirts and dresses, clip hangers to hang your pants and skirts, and hangers with 'shoulders' for your jackets and coats. All of these ensure that your garments keep their shape and you’ll get more 'life' from them.

A Steam Iron

Next time you buy an iron consider upgrading to a steam version — I swear you'll NEVER go back. Not simply a 'shot of steam' function, you want an iron that you can use to vertically steam your clothing. Yes, this will set you back the price of a decent jacket but they are great. Freshens, removes creases and doesn't make things go shiny.

Lint Roller

Little pieces of fluff that stick to your clothing will always detract from a polished image. A little wonder you can pick up at the supermarket, a lint roller will keep you looking sharp.

Shoe Tree or Shoe Boxes

Store your shoes in their boxes with a description on the outside. Stack these on shelves (or a cheap bookcase). Failing this, a shoe tree keeps shoes in shape. Storing those worn-less-often in shoe bags is a good idea. Also, handbags should be stored in dust covers (use an old pillowcase if you don’t have any).

Baby Wipes

Emergency ‘on the go’ quick cleaners that are worth having in the wardrobe, your handbag and the car. Work miracles with shoes, bags and marks on your clothing.

Sewing Kit

A little fix can save a big fix or even having to throw out a garment. Stitch little holes when you find them, tighten or move buttons, un-pick crosses on the back of jacket vents, even do a quick waistband tuck on a pair of pants.

7 Essentials

For Your Wardrobe There are some tools you need in your wardrobe arsenal that really do make a difference to how well you are dressed each day and as with so many things in life — it's all about the details.

A Razor

Favourite cashmere knit gone bobbly? A quick shave with a razor will have it looking like new again. JACKIE O’FEE IS THE OWNER OF LEADING PERSONAL STYLING CONSULTANCY SIGNATURE STYLE. SHE’D LOVE TO HELP YOU GET YOUR WARDROBE LOOKING SMART. GET IN TOUCH ON 09 529 5115 OR CHECK OUT HER WEBSITE: SIGNATURESTYLE.CO.NZ

稀攀戀爀愀渀漀

䐀攀攀愀渀攀䠀漀戀戀猀

䴀攀最愀渀匀愀氀洀漀渀

vervemagazine.co.nz

匀椀爀攀渀

VERVE TRAVELS

LUXURY RETREATS

TAKE A TOUR AROUND NEW ZEALAND IN STYLE.

APRIL 2021

A NEW TREND IS EMERGING IN TRAVEL WORDS — S USA N ROBERTS

Mass accommodation is becoming less popular as more visitors favour the personal touch of hosted luxury lodges, boutique hotels and villas. Boutique Hotels & Lodges New Zealand offers a diverse collection of unique accommodation owned and operated by locals passionate about showcasing the best of Aotearoa. Guests receive a genuine warm Kiwi welcome. Hosts offer suggestions of walks, fishing, heli-hiking, visits to local art galleries or wineries. They find it takes a long time to drink a cup of tea or glass of wine beside the window and simply gaze at magnificent views. Hosts love food and wine and enjoy chatting with guests – many leave as friends and stay in touch, returning again to repeat the experience. The feeling of coming home to authentic Kiwi hospitality impresses guests who experience a stay at a boutique hotel or lodge – it’s a balance of unique and comfortable. Cuisine is a highlight – fresh, seasonal, local and sustainable could be the mantra for all chefs at these luxury lodges and hotels. Imagine soaking in an outdoor bathtub – with a glass of champagne gazing at those divine views. Or maybe a stoked hot tub set in the heart of a beech forest. Jaw dropping views from your infinity pool or spa pool. Arrange a star gazing experience and be enthralled by the night skies. Watch little blue penguins return to their nests. Experience the wild ruggedness of the majestic West Coast. Planning time away from friends or family why not choose a luxurious villa. Take the kids along too and lay down some memories exploring, or simply lazing beside a luxurious pool gazing at beautiful bays, a pristine lake with a backdrop of mountains. Source your ‘inner chef’ and craft a family dinner in the sumptuous kitchen, or relax outdoors enjoying a Kiwi barbecue. As the Māori proverb says “He aha te mea nuiu ote ao? He tāngata he tāngata, he tāngata”. Which means; “What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people. "

P HOTO —DONKEY BAY INN

Over the next few pages Verve showcases a selection of outstanding accommodation offerings, each with its own unique selling point, each so worth a visit.

vervemagazine.co.nz

OA MARU

PEN-Y-BRYN LODGE

“Cooking and hosting have to be my two favourite things to do,” says James Glucksman, owner of Pen-y-bryn lodge, nestled in the heart of Oamaru. “For me, there’s no other place I would rather be. We want our guests to feel both on holiday and at home, taken care of and relaxed.” — 41 Towey St, Oamaru — 03 434 7939 stay@penybryn.co.nz penybryn.co.nz

Both originally from the United States, James Glucksman, and James Boussy have travelled extensively, and wherever they visited, they carried a piece of each adventure with them. But in 2010, when they arrived in Oamaru and saw the lodge at the top of the hill, they knew this was home. Ever since, they have spent

countless hours ensuring guests are well taken care of, restoring the heritage homestead and preparing exquisite evening meals. Today there’s no place else like Pen-y-bryn. Each room provides a space that is inimitable, comfortable, and inspirational, and a wide array of holiday packages provide guests with a customisable experience unlike any other. At Pen-y-bryn they know your time off is valuable and understand that the small details make a big difference which is why Pen-y-bryn is the place from which to explore this incomparable corner of New Zealand throughout the year.

WAIHEK E ISLAN D

THE BOATSHED HOTEL

The Boatshed Hotel has quietly been looking after guests for almost 20 years. It is the sort of place that on arrival instantly feels like you might have just discovered a little secret that no one knows about.

— Cnr Tawa and Huia St, Little Oneroa, Waiheke — 09 372 3242 enquiries@boatshed.co.nz boatshed.co.nz

Tucked up on a quiet hillside overlooking Little Oneroa, it's a short stroll to the island village and close to local vineyards, eateries and relaxing beaches and coves. A collection of buildings in nostalgic seaside forms from boatsheds and bungalows, to cottages and viewing towers all offer a different feel, like a good bach it shows its slow evolution – it feels thoroughly modern

and still effortlessly timeless, where little details are highly considered. Waiheke has always offered a relaxed pace, and once you get away from the bustling ferries and busy vineyards The Boatshed really feels like a place that it is okay to just do nothing and to take in a slow holiday vibe, wander around the garden, dive into the library of books, quietly enjoy a meal – just sit and be. There can be no other location that feels so far away, and yet so close to home—relaxed, sophisticated “sand between your toes” luxury – what a sleepy little gem.

S TAY 3 N I G H T S, ONLY PAY F OR 2 NIGHT S

VIS IT T HE A HURIRI VAL L EY, OTAGO & D IS CO V ER LOCAL LUXURY T HELIND IS GROUP.COM

T&Cs - Offer valid until 31st October 2021. Rates are quoted on per room basis. Maximum occupancy 2 people. Pay for first 2 nights and receive final night free of charge. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability.

AL BAN Y

WARBLERS RETREAT LUXURY LAKEVIEW APARTMENT L A KE TEK AP O

Luxury Lakeview Apartment is recognised as one of Tekapo's best, the stunning 180 degree views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains provide a serene backdrop from the exquisite kitchen dining living space and master bedroom – all taking advantage of the world renowned views. The luxurious master bedroom with local stone walls comes with a spacious super king bed, walk-in wardrobe, TV and an ensuite with a large bathtub to immerse yourself in. With fireplaces inside and out picture yourself sitting around the fire after a day of activities. Outdoor entertaining can be enjoyed year-round with a sheltered private courtyard and the outdoor stone fireplace to take the edge off brisk nights. If you would like to holiday with family or friends the adjoining fully self contained Lakeview Studios may also be booked. The studios share the same outstanding views of Lake Tekapo and allow you to holiday with up to two other couples or family members, with all guests having their own privacy and full luxury facilities. Everything has been thought of for your stay in this outstanding apartment even a drying room for your ski gear.

Contact Discover Tekapo Accommodation info@discovertekapo.co.nz discovertekapo.co.nz

In the heart of Auckland, there lies a hidden oasis; a romantic, 5-star, eco luxury nature retreat that lives and breathes the art of the boutique hotel experience. Warblers Retreat is the perfect destination to celebrate a special occasion such as a birthday, wedding proposal, wedding anniversary, honeymoon, or to spend a romantic time away together. Here, you can truly experience that wonderful feeling of being pampered, while being immersed in nature. The retreat has been created with love and warmth, in harmony with nature, by its creators and caretakers, Dave and Barb Milina. A soak in the outdoor forest bath, gazing at the stars enjoying the ambience of a mesmerising outdoor fire, exploring the forest tracks to find glowworms at night, feeding the eels and native fish, or simply sitting back and watching the wildlife - there are plenty of ways to relax at Warblers Retreat. A range of selfcatering accommodation choices include staying in a romantic ‘Couples Cottage’, to glamping in a secluded 1970s retro caravan overlooking the forest. Whichever option you choose, you are bound to feel relaxed. Sustainability is at the core of what Barb and Dave do. A wide range of fruit and vegetables are grown organically, while the onsite hens lay eggs and perform their compost recycling duties with the utmost of ease! Being an eco celebrant, Barb assists couples in having eco weddings at Warblers Retreat. Here, there is minimal or no waste, you can ‘feel’ the natural ambience that nature provides, and it’s the birds that provide the background harmony to each special day. The marrying couple gets to plant a kauri tree on their own love site, or a similar native tree is planted on their behalf. A great way to lower your carbon wedding footprint. Considered one of the top nature retreats in New Zealand, Warblers Retreat is known for personalised care and service. Dave and Barb’s focus is to ensure every guest has a memorable experience. They are the recent recipients of the 2021 LUXlife award for client service excellence as an Eco Wedding Venue. — Paremoremo Rd, Albany

— 0275 430 288 info@warblersretreat.nz warblersretreat.nz

A LUXURY STAY AWAITS YOU There are few places in the world where you can enjoy opulent luxury and true wilderness at the same time. Falcon Brae Villa is one.

STANLEY BROO K

FALCON BRAE VILLA

— 3256 Motueka Valley Highway, Stanley Brook — 03 522 4479 info@falconbraevilla.co.nz falconbraevilla.co.nz

Nestled in a secluded valley with panoramic views of soaring mountains and the mighty Motueka River – Falcon Brae Villa is a one-of-a-kind property. Book a stay here and you can expect the ultimate luxury experience, flawless service and even a private chef. The villa itself is a sight to behold with its architectural designed and unique elliptical falcon wing roofs. “There’s not a single person who doesn’t walk through the front door and say ‘wow’. It has 360-degree views over the mountains of Kahurangi National Park, and a quiet, calming atmosphere,” says managing director John Kerr. Inside, there’s a central lounge with a 5m-high ceiling, sunken bar, grand piano, high-tech gym, media theatre, three dining areas and a games room. The lush outdoor area boasts views of the mountains and Motueka River and includes an outdoor pool, heated spa, outdoor dining area and even a helipad terrace. Thanks to its location 50 minutes from Nelson and between three of New Zealand’s most scenic national parks, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do.

A short walk from the property, you’ll find some of New Zealand’s (and the world’s) best fly fishing in the Motueka River, known for its population of oversized wild brown trout. Guests also have access to a helicopter for scenic heli-tours over the stunning Abel Tasman, Nelson Lakes and Kahurangi national parks or get amongst it with walking, hiking and cruising on the lakes. Falcon Brae is less than an hour’s drive from 28 world-class wineries and has 24 boutique art and craft studios for guests to explore. The villa is usually only available for exclusive use. For a limited time, individual suites can be booked at a fraction of the usual price and exclusive use is also available at a discounted rate. Large groups of up to 16 can book the villa and the adjacent Stonefly Lodge (owned and operated by John and Kate Kerr). For bookings and more information visit falconbraevilla.co.nz or contact John Kerr on (03) 522 4479 or at info@ falconbraevilla.co.nz.

ROTORUA

KOURA LODGE

— 209 Kawaha Point Rd, Rotorua — 07 348 5868 stay@kouralodge.co.nz kouralodge.co.nz

Get a taste of life by the water with a relaxing, romantic escape to Koura Lodge — a boutique bed and breakfast on the edge of Lake Rotorua. With only eight rooms – all with 180-degree lake views – an outdoor hot tub and kayaks available for guests, this intimate lodge transports you to the heart of a natural wonderland, yet it’s just a five-minute drive from the town centre.

Lodge Rooms are the ideal couple's retreat, this intimate yet generous lodge-style space is the perfect spot to admire Lake Rotorua without needing to leave your room.

Unwind in the peaceful surrounds or ignite your sense of curiosity and explore this idyllic destination. Rotorua is a place where fascinating Māori culture, geothermal activity, adrenalinefuelled adventure, and wellness come together to create an experience to remember.

The Apartment is perfectly equipped for families and groups. Savour stunning views from your private balcony in this two-bedroom apartment with space for up to six. Enjoy the expansive lounge with pool table, full kitchen and dining area.

Suite Rooms are beautifully positioned and offer exceptional views of the lake, and feature a separate lounge with a day bed, plush bedding and a private ensuite.

RIMU LODGE BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATION

HOK I T I K A

Located in Hokitika, Rimu Lodge Boutique Accommodation is the only 5-star luxury lodge/ bed & breakfast in West Coast. Imagine a place so pristine, beautiful and peaceful that you will be immediately struck by the absolute silence and the sheer majesty of your surroundings. Where you can truly relax and take in the splendour of native bush, snow clad mountains and the Hokitika River.

— 33 Seddons Terrace Rd, Rimu 7883, Hokitika

— 03 755 5255 stay@rimulodge.co.nz rimulodge.co.nz

Rimu Lodge is a purpose built luxury boutique lodge accommodation situated just a 10-minute drive from Hokitika and its award-winning cafés and unique tourism attractions. Rooms are casually elegant, yet intimate, and tastefully decorated. Each guest room takes maximum advantage of the wonderful views of the Hokitika River Valley, and facing northeast to capture the sunrise. The two ground floor rooms open onto a large deck to enable the guests to enjoy the sunny outdoors and listen to the birdsong and in the evenings guests can enjoy star watching from the deck. As the perfect retreat, you will be surrounded by warmth, beauty and in winter the ambience of a roaring open fire.

S TA Y 3 NI G H T S , O N LY PA Y FO R 2 N IGH T S

Visit the Winterless North & Discover Local Luxury Luxur y Vill as | Boutique Winer y | Sage R estaurant

T&Cs - Offer valid until 31st October 2021. Rates are quoted on per villa basis. Maximum occupancy varies per villa. Pay for first 2 nights and receive final night free of charge. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability.

THELINDISGROUP.COM

RU SSELL

CLOUD 9 LUXURY VILLA

This luxurious villa offers dreamy sea views from every room. Wander out to spacious decks, the infinity pool and a bubbling spa overlooking the water.

— 43 Russell Heights, Russell — 09 403 7188 bookings@cloud9.co.nz cloud9.co.nz

Elegant and contemporary décor creates a feeling of sophisticated simplicity and spacious luxury. Open-plan living, dining and kitchen feature floor-to-ceiling windows opening to the deck and views. Cloud 9 accommodates up to six guests in three bedrooms.

Indulge in the spacious ensuite with its walkin shower and double basins. Toiletries by L’Occitane, robes, slippers and delicious fluffy towels. Surrounded on three sides by cedar decking and terracing you’ll enjoy sea and coastal views from sunrise to sunset. Outdoor sofas, a barbecue, dining table and chairs entice guests to dine outdoors on a starry evening.

The luxurious master bedroom with its private deck offers a haven – waking to those views.

Through winter, put your chef’s hat on and craft a gourmet dinner in the superb kitchen. Snuggle up by the fireplace with a background of soft music and simply relax.

Take a break away in Wānaka and indulge in a luxurious stay at Edgewater’s recently refurbished deluxe suites.

All suites feature lake views to admire and well-appointed bathrooms with twin tubs, twin shower and divine, deep bath.

Over the past few months these rooms have enjoyed a makeover in a unique and gracious style. General manager, Catherine Bone has personally selected the finest furniture and fittings to give these suites a truly luxurious feel.

The deluxe rooms are nestled within the hotel which offers guests resort-style amenities including Elements Day Spa and the Wineglass Café.

WĀ NAK A

EDGEWATER

— 54 Sargood Drive, Lake Wānaka — 0800 108 311 reservations@edgewater. co.nz edgewater.co.nz

Bed throws and lounge cushions are made from authentic Southern Lakes Tartan. The occasional furniture was selected for both comfort and style, delivering a more lodgestyle feel to each suite.

Guests can enjoy the vibrant autumn colours, so characteristic of Otago, while walking or biking along the lake-edge trail at the front of the hotel. Winter is just around the corner, with the promise of a pristine snow on the slopes for downhill, cross country or heli-skiing which are all within easy reach of Edgewater.

BETHELL' S BEAC H

FLAXMERE HOUSE

Flaxmere House – luxury family and large group accommodation with event spaces. Flaxmere House is situated on a tranquil 10 acres in the Te Henga wetlands, of Bethell’s beach, Waitakere, 30-40 mins from the Auckland airport or CBD. The property consists of 8 bedrooms all sizes for group bookings of up to 20 guests. Three living spaces and open plan Butlers Kitchen and has a commercial kitchen for onsite catering if you choose to have catered meals.

— 129 Bethells Rd, Waitākere — 09 810 8188 vanessa@flaxmerehouse.co.nz flaxmerehouse.co.nz

Vanessa the manager at Flaxmere House has more than eight years' experience with events and accommodation. Her background means that she can help with styling and décor, giving her clients their dream day, weekend, or week away. Vanessa also helps clients with booking extra activities in the area, including: golf, 4WD experiences, vineyard tours, shuttle services, horse riding, mountain biking, massage, facials, beauty, and nails.

Close to the Bethells beach and Lake Wainamu with its beautiful, serene bush walks and 180-degree views of the west coast beaches this is a place you need to put on your bucket list.

Vanessa can also organise contractors to help with your event such as: photographers, celebrants, hair and makeup, florists, videography, musicians, entertainment, and nanny services.

The extensive outdoor lounge area can hold events for 20 to 80 people. Flaxmere House has experience with weddings, birthdays, special occasions, anniversaries, retreats and conferences.

Your time at Flaxmere House promises to be relaxing and stress-free. To find out more contact Vanessa on 027 278 5656 or vanessa@flaxmerehouse.co.nz

Q UEENSTOW N

QUEENSTOWN HOUSE

— 69/71 Hallenstein St, Queentown — 03 442 9043 stay@queenstownhouse.co.nz queestownhouse.co.nz

500 metres from the heart of Queenstown, this intimate, luxury bed and breakfast offers magnificent uninterrupted views of Lake Wakatipu, homemade goodness, and unique Kiwi hospitality. A variety of rooms and apartments available. The perfect base for your Queenstown holiday.

Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat Wellness, Wilderness, Wine, and Whisky...

Landscapes millennia in the making and skyscapes that stretch for eternity, stupendous splendour abounds at Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat. Bordering the Unesco-listed Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and sitting beneath the ethereal national park that is the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, this isn’t just one of Canterbury’s best kept secrets, but among Aotearoa’s most eminent accommodations. PASSION AND WELLNESS An ongoing labour of love, husband-and-wife team Luke and Kaye Paardekooper began building in the Mackenzie Basin in 2011, and within 18 months were welcoming their first bed and breakfast guests. Today, the sprawling countryside complex comprises a cluster of secluded European-influenced lodges and villas that boast private hot tubs and log fires all fed by the purest of waters—‘the tears of Aoraki’—courtesy of the surrounding ancient glaciers. Kaye says that the couple were inspired by their own travels, as well as “guests who told us they liked our authentic Kiwi hospitality”. World-class services take the shape of yoga sessions, and wellness and massage treatments, as well as tennis and pétanque. “Our wellness menu draws inspiration from our indigenous land and culture,” says Kaye. “The treatments are based on holistic therapies connecting our guests to their wairua (spirit) and to our natural environment, encouraging a sense of hauora (wellbeing).” Spa experiences incorporate saunas and spa pools, while massages may be enjoyed in the privacy of your luxury villa. Yoga sessions may also be private and bespoke, conducted outside in the shadow of the Southern Alps if the weather allows, while the in-house chefs use foraged ingredients and produce grown in the garden on-site. “We wanted to be able to grow our own fresh fruit and vegetables and offer table-to-plate cuisine,” continues Kaye. “With our granddaughter, Ashley, we planted the orchard while developing an extensive vegetable and berry garden following a traditional Italian Renaissance design.” They imagined a “lush garden” to serve as “an oasis in the dry, brown surroundings, heavy with fresh vegetables, berries and flowers”. Luke reveals that the high-quality cooking and produce are regularly among the most complimented aspects of the stay by guests, as well as the retreat’s “unpretentious luxury”. “We have two chefs on board who provide dinner, with guests able to dine privately, or with is and other guests if they wish,” he adds. As well as its proximity to the national park and all its activities—think tramping and kayaking and heli-hiking and glacier exploration—the estate’s 66 hectares incorporate more than 5km of gentle trails that snake through forests and mediation gardens, past glacial remnants and

“With our granddaughter, Ashley, we planted the orchard while developing an extensive vegetable and berry garden following a traditional Italian Renaissance design.”

waterways—including a life-affirming view of Lake Pukaki—all patrolled by the resident goats, ducks and fallow deer.

up, and gaze into one of the world’s purest, clearest, night skies,” says Kaye.

“We’re just 30 minutes away from some of the world’s best walks, like the Hooker Valley Track and the Tasman Glacier Walk,” says Luke. “There’s adventure for everyone—from those who want an easy walk through to more adventurous souls looking to get up to Sealy Tarns. And, of course, we can help arrange helicopter flights and glacier tours.”

“We can also do deep space photography through the telescope, which is a real coup for us, as well as astrophotography,” says Luke. “We have the knowledge of what is really good to see in the Dark Sky each month, taking photos of clusters and nebulas such as Orion, and the Tarantula, which is basically up here throughout the year.”

STARS AND ROMANCE

The southern lights—or aurora australis—may also be viewed, though this heavenly phenomenon is less regular and even more difficult to predict.

The retreat’s pièce de résistance is arguably its on-site observatory, purpose built and replete with a well-stocked wine cellar adorned with some of the nation’s finest vinos— not to mention the occasional bottle of top-drawer whisky, too (it is Mackenzie Country, after all). “Every dark sky experience in our Pukakai Wine Cellar and Observatory begins in the wine cellar,” says Kaye. “Guests enjoy nibbles and a glass of wine or tot of whisky whilst being introduced to the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve.” When bestowed with Dark Sky Reserve Status in 2012—owing to its pristine, pollution-free heavens—the region was not only the southern hemisphere’s first, but the first in the world to also be given Gold Tier status. “We encourage visitors to take the time to step outside, look

“I really enjoy taking photos of the moon, too,” says Luke. “The deep space photography is fantastic for capturing the craters.” And with the colder months approaching there is no better time to marvel at the likes of the Milky Way and its surrounding majesty. “It’s the stillest, clearest time of the year,” says Luke. “And each of the villas have their own open fires and underfloor heating.” That sure sounds romantic! “Yes, we do get a lot of honeymooners, as well as those celebrating special occasions such as birthdays or wedding anniversaries, and those just wanting to take time out. It’s a great mix.”

VERVE AND MOUNT COOK LAKESIDE RETREAT BRINGS YOU A VERY SPECIAL DEAL • Amazing views over the Ben Ohau Ranges • Generous 1-bedroom villa (110 square-metres) just for you! • 3 nights accommodation for up to 2 people • All dinners in your villa • Breakfast provision each day supplied in your villa • Welcome cake • Free mini bar including bottle of sparkling wine • Either: 2 x 45min in-room massage or star-gazing in our onsite observatory • Full use of the retreat on site activities

ALL THIS FOR $2,995 (USUALLY $4,205) BOOK NOW & SAVE $1,200

Invite your friends to share in your Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat experience and receive and even better deal. To find out more or to book: Call Anna 0274 370 820 or email anna@ mtcookretreat.nz. Quote 'VERVE21' when booking. Available for stays until 30 September 2021 Ts and Cs apply.

JOURNEYS

Supporting Local On the Hauraki Rail Trail As summer fades and autumn fills our lungs with cooler air, there's never been a better time to explore New Zealand with fresh eyes. The Hauraki Rail Trail is one of 22 Great Rides which form part of The New Zealand Cycle Trail - known in Māori as Ngā Haerenga (The Journeys). The 197km trail showcases some of the region's best scenery, and although the trail can be enjoyed as manageable day rides, the versatile trail lends itself to multi-day adventures. With multiple access points from Kaiaua, Thames, Paeroa, Waihi, Te Aroha, Waikino, Karangahake Gorge and Matamata, all options are within a two-hour drive from Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga. The Coromandel’s temperate climate also means the trail can be enjoyed all year round. Choose from day or multi-day rides taking in the Shorebird Coast, quaint historic Waikato towns, lush farmlands, and the historic railway corridor through the Karangahake Gorge. Factor in a little extra time too, for interesting detours to enjoy walking, arts, culture, local hospitality and the wealth of attractions along the way.

We've put together a 34km day ride from Thames to Paeroa on the Hauraki Rail Trail. This leisurely section of trail is suitable for everything from children’s bikes and uprights, to touring bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes. With some great options for eateries, accommodation and things to see and do, you can make the most of the trail’s official partner businesses who work hard to enrich the Rail Trail experience. Take the morning to explore the gold-mining heritage of Thames before heading east, travelling through verdant farmlands to Paeroa. Fascinating Māori, industrial, education and geological history converge at the Thames School of Mines, one of New Zealand’s largest and best-preserved mining schools in the heart of the Hauraki gold fields. Guided tours bring this special Heritage New Zealand site to life with captivating stories about the area’s people and places. Thames School of Mines is an ideal venue for school or group tours, and an interesting place to start your adventure.

Photography: @kjbnz on Instagram (Sir Edmund Hilary Mural on the Eastern side of The Refinery Cafe, Paeroa)

If you’re a lover of all things artistic, keep an eye out as you approach the Kopu Bridge, as riders are greeted by an array of sculptures. Part of an ongoing initiative, the sculptures are intended to enhance local and visitor experiences in the region. Michael Smither's Harmonic Assembly has been a focal point of the Thames waterfront on the Coastal Walkway for several years. →

JOURNEYS

Make sure you arrive into Paeroa early enough to fossick through the many antiques and collectables shops.

Jandal on the Mandel by artist Ricks Terstappen is situated between Kopu and Thames, just past the airport entrance heading south. The jandal was the first of 10 sculptures to be installed. It’s a positive, fun piece that captures the laid-back summer spirit of Thames and The Coromandel. The Cheese Barn at Matatoki is a must-do if you love cheese. There is a licensed cafe, cheese tastings, store, and a fabulous animal farm. The family of alpacas, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, budgies, quails, canaries and Cookie the spotty sheep offer great entertainment for the whole family. Complementing the delicious array of food, homemade gelato and sorbet have been added to the mix to keep you cool on your ride. Paeroa's Historical Maritime Park was once New Zealand’s most inland port, and the museum has significant links dating back to pre-European settlement and the arrival of Captain James Cook in 1769 aboard HMS Endeavour.

Plan, Research & Book

The Hauraki Rail Trail showcases the best of New Zealand’s landscape, environment, culture and heritage. No matter how fast or far you want to ride, if you’re ready for an adventure there’s a great option for everyone. For help with planning your adventure, you can find information about the trail and its support services for bike hire, supported tours, shuttle services, luggage transfers, accommodation, cafes and restaurants, and things to see and do on the Hauraki Rail Trail website. haurakirailtrail.co.nz

The port was the main catalyst in the expansion of the Waihi gold mines prior to the introduction of the railway in 1905. This important collection of Maritime history relates to the role Paeroa played as a port for unloading mining machinery and equipment in the late 19th century. There are three new pontoons along with a refurbished riverboat, which transports visitors and their bikes from the Park along the Ohinemuri River into Paeroa. Make sure you arrive into Paeroa early enough to fossick through the many antiques and collectables shops. "World famous in New Zealand" for its giant L&P bottle on the main street, there’s also accommodation and places to eat for riders looking to refuel or overnight. A good option before leaving Paeroa is The Refinery Cafe. Firmly set in the history of the area, the building was originally commissioned as the National Bank Gold Refinery in 1914. Massive concrete walls, double height stud capped with huge timber beams and rimu roof structure certainly fitted the grandeur of purpose. The large, light filled space is cosy and welcoming, with armchairs and a roaring fire over winter and rustic outdoor tables and ivy covered walls in summer. It’s a great place to enjoy a coffee and reflect on your adventure, or plan the next one.

Auckland

Kaiaua

Thames A

The Hauraki Rail Trail is one of the easiest trails in the country to

Waihi

Paeroa

cycle, with the 160km track made up of 5 sections. This allows for a range of scenic day rides to comfortable 3 to 4 day tour rides.

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Te Aroha Hamilton

Tauranga

Matamata

For up-to-date track information and things to see & do visit:

www.haurakirailtrail.co.nz

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APRIL 2021

BOOK anytime midweek (Sun-Thur)

and get 20% OFF of the cost of your stay (selected apartments only)

ONETANGI ∙ WAIHEKE ISLAND

141 THE STRAND, ONETANGI, WAIHEKE ISLAND 09 372 4484 ∙ 021 225 3929 INFO@THESANDSWAIHEKE.CO.NZ WWW.THESANDSWAIHEKE.CO.NZ

Needing a break? Be My Guest manages a boutique portfolio of luxury holiday houses in Waiheke's most sensational locations.

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Beauty at the Beach

Takapuna on Auckland’s stunning North Shore is an elegant and well-established hot spot for work and socialising. Rivalling any other Auckland suburb for the most incredible beach views, it is a compelling place to shop, eat, relax and play. But what is it about Takapuna’s retail offering that makes it so irresistible to locals and visitors alike?

WO R D S —ZAC H TH O M P S O N

Takapuna is rapidly becoming Auckland’s most popular beachside fashion destination. Many major international brands have taken up residency on the racks of local clothing stores—Tosca & Salome, Superette, Lulu Lemon and Federation, for instance. Then there are fabulous homegrown designer labels and accessories - including The Coop (Trelise Cooper), Max, Kilt and Chantal’s, whose manager Therese remarked: “Part of the attraction of working so close to the sea is being able to take a leisurely lunch time stroll along Takapuna Beach.” For a truly chic selection of menswear fashion, slip over to Life for Men (Hurstmere Rd), soon to celebrate its twentieth birthday, and a Takapuna Beach landmark. From top end to the classic, more affordable favourites at Glassons, Farmers, Jacqui E and Hartleys, a great selection of styles are waiting to acquaint you with exactly what your wardrobe is missing. Of course you’ll need jewellery to complete the look. Fifth Avenue is an iconic Takapuna goto for those looking for exquisite customised pieces and Robinson Designer Goldsmith (RDG) is dedicated to hand-making, creative, high quality jewellery.

Left-right: Lunch feast @ Bird on a Wire, Eat Street Lane

Whatever your personal aesthetic, you’ll find the right pair of shoes to complement it—from high fashion to resort style or sporty.

Shopping at Shore City Shopping Centre with over 60 outlets

GET THE DO TOO What better way to show off that new outfit than paring it with a new hairstyle? With more than 20 hairdressing businesses including many of New Zealand’s award-winning salons, it’s not difficult to get your glam on.

Opposite page, topbottom: Overview of Takapuna Beach Street Organic’s Corn Fritters Beachside views at Regatta Bar & Eatery

But to get in the mood, why not start by indulging in one of Takapuna’s many luxurious relaxation treatments? How about some enzyme therapy at a Japanese day spa? Or maybe you’d prefer to unwind with a massage? Now you’re feeling pampered, how about topping up on your skincare over at Mecca where all the mega brands await? NOT JUST HIGH STREET If you’re coming from the bridge, head along Barry’s Point Road for some really cool places including a pet shop, surf shop, cycle store and a flower market. If you’re shopping for your home, check Collect Living or explore the latest outdoor furniture styles at Design Concepts.

ilovetakapuna.co.nz

Speaking of homeware, you won’t be able to resist the beautiful bedlinen from Wallace Cotton and the many options available at Shut the Front Door. Just an easy 10-minute stroll from the beach, the compact and friendly Shore City Mall makes shopping super relaxed. Here you will find many of Australasia’s top boutique stores located all under one roof with free parking for up to three hours. At places like Duck Limited, Yoyoso, Creative & Brave or Smiggle, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect gift. Pick up your designer fashion eyewear at Bailey Nelson. Aktivworx, Takapuna’s iconic swimwear store, is so worth a visit pre that next island holiday. Menswear stores include Barkers, Rembrandt, Life for Men, 3 Wise Men, Amazon, Country Road and Rodd and Gunn.

EATERIES FOR AFRICA After all that shopping and self-care you’ll probably feel peckish. Wherever you go, there’s a café handy for your caffeine fix and if you’re in need of a culinary pick me up, you’re spoilt for choice. The dining experiences have really blossomed in Takapuna. If you really want to feel as if you’re on a beach holiday, try the Takapuna Beach Café – it bustles with couples and families. Other favourites along the shoreline are Regatta and Tokyo Bay. There are lots of little cafés, bars and juiceries in this area and Jam Café on Hurstmere Road is always reassuringly busy. Tok Tok is a unique Asian fusion restaurant with fabulous food and Josh Emett’s Madam Woo is a must. Inspired the laneways of Melbourne, Eat Street at Fortieth & Hurstmere, a market lane in the heart of Takapuna, features an enticing array of interesting and delicious food. Wander along and enjoy a great flat white and a snack in one of the many eateries—from rotisserie chicken at Bird on a Wire, a bagel at Best Ugly Bagels or sushi at Glass Sushi Boutique. Maybe share a delicious woodfired pizza at Dante’s Pizzeria – rated New Zealand’s best pizza. NIGHTTIME NIRVANA Nightlife more your thing? Many popular dining spots around Takapuna offer a variety of authentic ethnic food – perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic evening with your partner. For a more casual setting, the bars along Hurstmere Road are a great place to have a beer with mates too. Aucklanders from all over come to Takapuna Beach to check out the Sunday Market. It’s a popular weekly destination for a variety of clothing and antiques to all your fresh fruit and veg. What could be nicer than shopping to the tune of live music? Whatever your reason for visiting, there is a lot to explore in this beachside suburb. So next time you find yourself wanting to spice up your retail experience, put trendy Takapuna on top of your must-do list.

Amaia:

The Rainbow’s Pot of Gold

Amaia—meaning ‘halo’ or ‘lunar rainbow’ in te reo Māori—promises to be a crowning residential centrepiece overlooking the Takapuna coastline. An innovative and inspirational “new generation, mixed-use urban village”, Amaia sits on 2.1-hectare elevated oceanside site with views of Waitematā Harbour, Auckland Harbour Bridge, and the CBD. “It is a unique site with unique history and geography,” says Dean Kimpton, project lead and spokesperson for KBS Capital Ltd. “The name was chosen in consultation with Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki, with cultural advice from the local iwi that have a relationship with the site. It’s also fitting when considering the curving orientation of the peninsula.” BUILDING A COMMUNITY Developer KBS Capital, alongside awardwinning architects Jasmax, have been “rethinking New Zealand’s emerging apartment-life culture and how we live together in our urban centres”.

New urban neighbourhood at 48 Esmonde Road

“New Zealand is not a country synonymous with ‘apartment life’,” Dean tells Verve. “There is a false perception that the standard of apartment living doesn’t compare with owing a house and a quarter-acre of land in a suburb, but with ever-longer commutes, a growing

population, and the decreasing accessibility of real estate close to metropolitan centres, rethinking how we live together in our urban centres has never been more timely.” Amaia’s aim is to “build community through diversity of residents and connections through walking, cycling and shared spaces that inspire meaningful interactions between neighbours”. Cycle and walking paths are joined by communal courtyard-level retail, fitness and cafe spaces will be open to both residents and the public. Residents will also enjoy access to a community room for meetings. “An open double-height sheltered undercroft ‘lobby’ will overlook the civic plaza and welcome residents and visitors alike to Amaia, creating an inviting sense of place,” continues Dean. “And Amaia is a pet-friendly development with ample green space for walks. Owners will be welcome to bring their pets.” A full-time building manager will ensure that Amaia’s buildings, shared spaces, and green areas are well-maintained to the highest standards. BUILDING BETTER A total of 81 apartments, with up to three bedrooms, will be built over five years, a $350 million project that will create 250 construction jobs, with further opportunities in the managed operations and commercial activities that follow. The solid concrete complex sits surrounded by a 7,000sqm green reserve that springs from an island-like formation. “Amaia’s structure is designed to stand the test of time,” says Dean. “A mix of textured sandstone cladding, shimmering metal panels,

and charcoal banding gives the building a contemporary look and feel. It is inspired by the canopies of forest islands. Apartments overlook the central civic plaza as the beating heart of the development, and the surrounding green spaces create connection to nature and the waterfront in a relaxed setting.” The green space supports the regeneration of native coastal bush, including pōhutukawa, while a seafront boardwalk on the southern side looks towards Auckland City and the Waitematā Harbour. “Environmental impact research has been conducted and all development will ensure the protection or enhancement of local native plants and wildlife,” adds Dean. BUILDING CONVENIENCE Front and centre of the team’s thinking has been to encourage and enable sustainable transport options in order to mitigate congestion and enhance transport projects being led by the NZTA and Auckland Transport, including that much anticipated SkyPath to connect North Shore foot and pedal traffic to the CBD. The walk and cycleways are an integral part of this, backed by bike storage, basement carparks and electric vehicle charging stations. “Combining city-edge living with beach-side leisure, Amaia is conveniently located close to State Highway 1, Akoranga Bus Station, and is within walking and cycling distance from Takapuna and Auckland’s east coast beaches,” says Dean. “And opportunities are being explored to partner with DevonportTakapuna Local Board to fast-track projects such as the Francis St to Esmonde Rd cycle and walkway.”

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Not only will the project enhance and improve Takapuna’s public gateways and functions through public and private partnership, but also “contribute to a future where Takapuna’s car traffic is less congested, foot, cycle and public transport traffic is growing”. “I cannot think of many other developments that combine that edge-of-the-city living and modern apartment experience right on the coastal edge,” says Dean. “The whole team has committed to this incredible design philosophy that flows the whole way through, and though there has been some serious challenges this past year with the pandemic and the housing market that have seriously impacted the construction sector, they’ve still held true. You can see that determination around the vision and philosophy playing consistently true, and I think that that bodes well for everybody that chooses to live there.”

AMAIA FIRST LOOK Amaia of Takapuna’s 400sqm display suite is open to the public at 10 Northcroft St, Takapuna’s well-known ‘Department Store’ site. The display suite brings to life a premium apartment floor plan including bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and living area. The suite is open from 10am to 4pm daily. Takapuna hospitality favourite Takapuna Beach Cafe has an on-site cafe serving coffee and treats for visitors to the display suite.

OVERVIEW OF AMAIA •

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At 48 Esmonde Road, Amaia’s one-, two-, or three-bedroom configurations include integrated balconies or winter gardens. Apartments are designed to appeal to first home-buyers as well as downsizers, Kiwis returning from overseas, couples, young families and singles. A range of floor plans and sizes range from one-bed at 53sqm to threebedroom at 130sqm.

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Prices range from $789,000 for onebedroom plus study to $1.6m for a three-bed apartment.

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Safe and convenient basement carparks with building access are available for all apartments.

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Secure bike storage or alternative storage space is available for all apartments.

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Electric vehicle charging stations will be provided.

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Rubbish and recycling bins will be located within the development.

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Takapuna perks include beach and city living, great entertainment and hospitality scene, and excellent local schools like Westlake Girls and Westlake Boys and Takapuna Grammar.

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Construction will commence mid2021 pending resource consent, and completion is scheduled for late 2023.

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Chantal’s Boutique

Premium Real Estate

French Rendez-vous

The Face Place

Collect.Living

Sunworld Tanning Studio

The Fairy Light Shop

Fifth Avenue Diamond Experts

The Pump House Theatre

The Grange Bar & Bistro

Soho Works

*Places listed in random order

Takapuna

What's In Takapuna

Takapuna

We are a unique boutique operating in Takapuna offering our customers one-on-one specialist service for the ultimate exclusive shopping experience in clothing, furniture and giftware. Our friendly team are here to help you and we love doing what we do. We stock brands from around the Globe, including: New Zealand: Trelise Cooper, Curate, Paula Ryan, Anne Mardell, Vassalli, Macjays (Knewe), Visage, Standard Issue, Noble Wilde, Me The Label, Le Forge, Le Monde, State of Art, Stella & Gemma and Lemon Tree Canada: Joseph Ribkoff, Frank Lyman and coming soon Dolcezza Italy: Lilliano and Ridley Australia: Zacket and Plover Europe: Mos Mosh, NYDJ and Ilse Jacobsen Proud Stockists of Weave: Cushions, Rugs, Throws We are known for our events and love supporting the local community. We have had Trelise Cooper to our store and 80 ladies thoroughly enjoyed the experience. We have regular supplier fashion parades, whereby our customers are treated to a night of fun, fashion, food and bubbles! We have drinks here at the boutique on the last Friday of every month, where we sit around catching up with all our customers.

CHANTAL’S BOUTIQUE — 10 The Promenade, Takapuna chantalsboutique.co.nz

If you would like to be included in any future events (including our extremely popular Christmas event each year) then email us at hello@chantalsboutique.co.nz We send a newsletter out monthly to keep you updated with events, sales, labels and ‘what’s new’. We look forward to welcoming you, Chantal and Therese.

FRENCH RENDEZVOUS — 2a Manurere Ave, Takapuna 09 487 0009 The French Rendezvous team invites you to their French restaurant in an amazing and unique lake-view location at the heart of Takapuna. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (to be booked 24 hours in advance) with traditional French dishes like onion soup, beef bourguignon and also lots of gluten-free galettes and sweet crepes. Please book your table through out website: www.french-rendez-vous-caferestaurant.business.site or via our facebook.com/FrenchRendezvousTakapuna and on Instagram @FrenchRendezvousTakapuna

Takapuna

COLLECT.LIVING — Studio 1 - 13 Barrys Pt Rd Takapuna collectliving.com

A hidden gem you must all find! A mindfully curated collection of homeware furnishing and lifestyle—globally sourced— supporting traditional artisans and craftspeople. Offering creative styling and decor advice instore - from layering to full room makeovers. One of Aucklands hidden treasures right here on the North Shore—Studio Showroom open 6 days. Down the drive (ample parking), Studio 1-13 Barrys Pt Rd Takapuna.

THE FAIRY LIGHT SHOP — 32D Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna thefairylightshop.com

With our large and exclusive range of high quality fairy lights, festoon lights, lanterns and candles, The Fairy Light Shop will help you turn the most ordinary places into magical spaces. Feel free to come and visit our showroom where our experienced staff will give you design advice on how to create the most stylish solution for your indoor and outdoor areas all in line with all the latest international trends. Located conveniently just over the bridge you can find us at 32D Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna. Alternatively browse and order our products online at thefairylightshop.com

Takapuna

JOIN FRIENDS OF THE PUMPHOUSE THEATRE — The PumpHouse Theatre, Killarney Park, Takapuna 09 486 2386 pumphouse.co.nz

Whether you enjoy professional and community theatre seasons throughout the year, concerts, creative talks, or workshops, become part of a community of artists and theatre lovers and play a special role in supporting our vision to be a thriving art, cultural and educational space for Auckland. Find out more at pumphouse.co.nz/friends

SOHO WORKS EXECUTIVE OFFICE SUITES — 138 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna

Located in the heart of Takapuna, Soho Works Executive Office Suites offers your business an opportunity to thrive in a modern and sophisticated environment. With eight suites for businesses to lease, Soho Works can accommodate teams of 2-6 people. Beach, cafes, gym and car parking all on your doorstep. Contact: Maree Levien – 0220 829 346 / 09 486 1462

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When special shampoos and gummy supplements don’t make the slightest difference, there’s a safe and simple medical treatment that can. The Face Place is renowned as a leader in skin treatments, dermal fillers and Botox, but one of their most popular treatments right now is none of the above. In fact, it’s an innovative treatment for thinning hair called platelet-rich plasma (PRP). The beauty of PRP is that all you need is your own blood— it’s highly effective but also very safe. Platelet-rich plasma is simply the best parts of your own blood, taken from a blood sample and concentrated in a centrifuge machine. One vial of blood will yield about 20 little syringes of PRP. When this solution is injected into any area on the body, it floods the area with growth factors and rejuvenates at a cellular level. When injected specifically into the scalp, it stops the hair from miniaturising (getting smaller and thinner), and helps 'wake up' existing hair follicles, reversing hair thinning. While the treatment is innovative, it’s also simple and straightforward. The injecting part of your appointment is only about 20-30 minutes. However, you would first need to have a full consultation to ensure you don’t have any underlying conditions, and are fully informed and prepared to get the best results.

THE FACE PLACE — Level 1/10 Northcroft St, Takapuna thefaceplace.co.nz

Thinning hair is a very common concern for both men and women, although there are often different underlying causes. Hormonal changes mainly affect women, while stress and ageing affect both genders. We also treat men who have had hair transplants and want to nurture their new hair growth as much as possible, as well as women who suffer from traction alopecia (hair loss due to tension from extensions or braids). For both men and women, losing your hair can negatively affect self-confidence. On the flip side, our clinicians report that PRP is such a rewarding treatment to perform, because it truly makes a positive difference in people’s lives. Interested? Call 0800 COSMED to book in for a PRP Consultation at our beautiful Takapuna clinic on Northcroft Street or at our city-side clinic in Britomart.

SUNWORLD TANNING STUDIO — Shop 4, 453-459 Lake Rd, Takapuna sunworldtakapuna.co.nz

Located in the heart of Takapuna for the last 15 years, Sunworld offers supreme tanning technology with high quality Ergoline sunbeds. The team at Sunworld really care about your tanning experience, so your first visit involves a free consultation, a skin type assessment and a tanning schedule best suited to your tanning needs. No appointment needed!

Takapuna

The secret to thicker hair

Takapuna

FIFTH AVENUE DIAMOND EXPERTS — 5 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna 09 489 8461 fifth-avenue.co.nz

Fifth Avenue provide you with a personable, professional, and pleasurable experience. They are a unique store that offers top customer service and knowledge in diamonds and design.They would love to be a part of your personal jewellery journey that is special and unique to you. Let them create your dream ring today. For more information visit www.fifth-avenue.co.nz

TAKAPUNA’S ULTIMATE

DINING EXPERIENCE

TALK TO US ABOUT YOUR NEXT FUNCTION OR EVENT, WE HAVE VARIOUS SPACES FOR GROUPS OF ALL SIZES. BOOKINGS P 09 972 9060 | www.thegrangetakapuna.co.nz

Yvonne Marvin. Practitioner for coolbody.

APRIL SPECIAL: 4 AREAS + $600 of BOTOX* Coolbody has joined Sapphire Appearance Medicine in an April special FAT FREEZING 4X AREAS + $600 of BOTOX or another Sapphire clinic treatment of your choice* For only $2,400, saving $600. Visit the Sapphire Appearance Medicine website: sapphireclinic.co.nz

An example of the 4 area treatment

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2) Treatment finished. Protecting 3) Areas that were done. Next cloth exposed after machine you massage area flat to start the removed treatment time 70mins. elimination area. No down time.

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HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

A Brief History of Breast Surgery WORD S —JAMI E C H R I STIAN DES P LAC ES

“Plastic surgery and breast surgery in particular are the expression of art and science which both restores and improves the norm,” says Auckland plastic surgeon, Dr Katarzyna Mackenzie. “It is about blending innate artistry with technical excellence.”

Breast surgery to treat cancers has been performed for at least 3,000 years, but cosmetic breast surgery, or breast augmentation, is a relatively newer practice dating from the late 19th century. “Plastic surgery is a noble profession, but the public view of plastic surgery saddens me,” says Katarzyna. “It is often forgotten that plastic surgery covers a wide range of different surgical procedures that repair, reconstruct or replace structures throughout the body.” FOR CANCER For much of history, breast surgery was a brutal affair. It wasn’t until 1804 that the very first mastectomy was performed under general anaesthesia, but even by 1844 a major medical review concluded mastectomies to be more harmful than helpful. The development of radiation in the early 20th century allowed for non-surgical treatments, though various forms of mastectomies remained the standard. By the 1980s, lumpectomies—the removal of cancerous lumps and some immediate surrounding healthy tissue—were found to be as effective in treating early-stage cancer as removing the entire breast. “By far, the reduction in mortality in breast cancer over the last 20 years is the most significant evolution during my career,” world-renowned French surgeon Dr Krishna Clough tells Verve. “There is a trend towards individualised treatment and using genes to help with those decisions,” adds Dr Ineke Meredith, a Wellington breast surgeon and wife of Dr Clough. “In breast surgery, using such gene testing on tumours means we can save many women from undergoing toxic systemic chemotherapy when their benefit would have been minimal.”

FOR COSMETIC German surgeon Vincenz Czerny was the first to attempt breast augmentation when, in 1895, he transplanted a woman’s lipoma (a fatty mass) to fill a defect that resulted from the removal of an adenoma (a benign tumour). In the first years of the 20th century, some implants took the form of paraffin injections that comprised petroleum jelly and olive oil and often resulted in the formation of hard masses, with severe cases even leading to pulmonary or cerebral embolisms. In 1962, Timmie Jean Lindsay made medical history when she voluntarily received the world’s very first silicone implants at Jefferson Davis Hospital in Houston, conducted by pioneering surgeons Frank Gerow and Thomas Cronin. Breast augmentation remains one of the most common cosmetic procedures both in New Zealand, and worldwide, says Ineke, and one that is prone to trends: “Recently, I was being referred women who were desperate to get their implants out because a couple of celebrities or influencers had taken theirs out and they felt better.” Katarzyna is often tasked with reducing the size of natural breasts, with many young girls “embarrassed about the way they look” and wanting “to be able to play sport”. “With some breast implants being pulled off the market and awareness of anaplastic large cell lymphoma and the breast implant illness phenomenon, patients increasingly choose to have implants and capsules removed and when possible, have the breasts augmented with their own fat,” she adds. “Fat transfer can also be used to correct a breast asymmetry. I think we will get to the point where we don’t use breast implants anymore.”

BEYOND THE THEATRE

The Artist Surgeon Dr Katarzyna Mackenzie hails from Poland and always knew she wanted to be a doctor. Her love of art meant that she “considered reading art parallel to medicine”. “I enjoy old and contemporary art. Each piece is a kind of world in itself. I like Michelangelo and Bellini who showed us harmony and impressionists who recorded daily life via the effects of light and colour. Modigliani, whose portraits with unapologetic stares and poses, also fascinates me.”

What attracted you to specialise in breast surgery?

I love the fact I am a woman helping women and breast surgery. I think as a female plastic surgeon I understand the pressure that society places on women to look a certain way. I want to not only help women to feel comfortable in their bodies. but empower them to be the most confident and content version of themselves.

You’ve practised internationally, have you noticed differences in the industry between NZ and other countries?

Transforming the culture through exemplary patient care and innovative leadership and pioneering holistic approach has become a practice internationally. Patients are increasingly encouraged to chase things which are in harmony with their body—bigger or pulled is not better and I am a strong believer in that holistic approach. People don’t want to look like they have had surgery.

What part of your work gives you the most satisfaction?

My short- and long-term goals are to ultimately help empower women to live a life of confidence and self-love. Happiness and gratitude from my clients are what fulfil me and give me a reason to excel at my work. Additionally, by rotating, reducing, enlarging, or suturing tissue, I perform what the Greeks originally meant when they used the term plastikos–sculpting and moulding living tissue. I can’t think of anything else I would rather do for a living.

The rise in Zoom calls during the pandemic has said to have increased interest in face- and necklifts, has this period affected your industry in any way?

After months of conducting conversations via Zoom calls, many of clients started to both analyse and criticise their appearance. Certainly, plastic surgeons around the world, and that includes my practice, have reported a surge in surgical and non-surgical procedures. We call it a ‘lockdown face’ phenomenon. Injectables, such as Botox, fillers and skin resurfacing are the most asked for treatments, followed closely by eyelid surgery, breast augmentation and liposuction.

Any grand plans once life gets back to normal and borders reopen?

Definitely going home to see my family and friends back in Europe. I used to travel back with my children once or twice a year pre-Covid. Despite the turbulent times there, I miss Europe as it is filled with diverse countries, cultures, art, history, cuisines and languages.

BEYOND THE THEATRE

The Husbandand-Wife Team Husband-and-wife plastic surgeons Dr Ineke Meredith and Dr Krishna Clough met through their work, and rather than leave their work ‘at the office’ the pair say that their out-ofhours discussions makes them both better at their jobs, through their “constant sharing and learning”. Since childhood, Krishna has been interested in biology and medicine,

but for Ineke (who also founded dog health and beauty company, Fur Love) life could have turned out very differently having previously enrolled in Ardmore Flying School. “I changed my mind 20 times before I turned 17!” she laughs. “I had enrolled in the flying school when I won a full scholarship for medical school, so I ended up doing that.”

What attracted you to specialise in breast surgery?

K: The integration of biology, medicine, and radiology. The obligation to interact with other specialties, and the desire to reduce the aggression to the female body, both physically and psychologically.

I: I fell into breast surgery. I was in San Francisco for the American College of Surgeons Meeting in 2015, on a path to a different specialty programme when I decided to listen to a speaker in the breast programme. Breast Cancer is a very dynamic field, and very intelligent. So, there was that, and the reconstruction component was very attractive as at that moment it was largely done by plastic surgeons. I decided I wanted to do breast cancer surgery and the reconstruction, which in combination, is a very satisfying specialty.

What are the biggest misconceptions about your job?

K: In Europe, there is very low public awareness about the existence of hyperspecialised breast surgeons. And, of course, subsequently, the public have an idea that any surgeon could perform breast surgery.

I: That we are cold. That we don’t feel. Someone once said to me that I must be cold to do what I do. To give bad news over and over again. But we give good news, too. Most of the time we give good news. The bad news still hurts, and we definitely feel it when we go home at night.

What are the biggest challenges?

K: In order to stay on top in breast surgery, you have to keep up to date across all specialties which intersect with breast surgery – oncology, radiation, genetics, pathology, radiology, plastic surgery

I: Doubt. I am a breast surgeon and a general surgeon. We make decisions every day that can impact a patient’s life. I try to make the best decision in conjunction my patient that will get us to our goal – cure, or leaving hospital to be with family, or improvement in quality of life. Most of the time we get that right. But until that moment is staring me in the face, and I am 100% sure of it, I am watching.

What gives you the most satisfaction?

K: Two stories out of thousands can answer that question. The smile of a patient when she wakes and looks at her reconstruction, and a letter from a patient a few years after I last saw her to tell me that her life is beautiful and that I played a part in that

I: I once received a card from a patient that said: “You were the shining star that I needed in the worst moment of my life.” That brought tears to my eyes. She was in her 20s. She had a horrible breast cancer. I deal with breast cancer largely, but I see acute cancer in general surgery also. My job is to make someone feel that they are going to get through this, and that this moment will be behind them. This is what gives me the most satisfaction, making someone feel safe.

Grand plans once life gets back to normal and the borders reopen?

K: Yes. One professional and one personal. Professionally, go back to exporting all the surgical innovations we developed. Personally, achieve what Ineke and I had planned for our lives.

I: We are pretty lucky here in New Zealand. We just spent a brilliant week on the water watching the Americas Cup. But when our borders reopen, then yes, we have wonderful Paris and general world plans.

Finally, how do you relax?

K: I smoke a cigar, but don’t tell the lung cancer specialists!

I: Breathe.

SMOOT HER MORE CONFIDENT YOU! Finesse Face and Body Clinic is proud to be the first truSculpt iD provider in New Zealand, as part of an exclusive partnership with Cutera.

TruSculpt iD is the latest technology available to permanently and noninvasively remove body fat. “We have been leaders in non-invasive cellulite and body contouring treatments in Auckland for 19 years,” says Sue Crake, owner of the Remuera salon. How does truSculpt iD work? truSculpt iD uses a unique form of monopolar radio frequency energy that penetrates evenly and deeply and is able to treat the entire fat pad — from skin to muscle. Given each patient’s unique biological complex, the truSculpt iD is able to adjust the energy output to ensure the most effective treatment for each person. Realtime temperature control and monitoring sensors ensure the therapeutic temperature level is reached in the fat, while maintaining a skin temperature of 3-4°C cooler.

How is treatment performed? An initial evaluation is performed to frame the desired treatment areas. A total of six hand pieces may be used to target an area that is larger than three CoolSculpt cool max applicators (approximately 12 SculpSure applicators). Each hand piece is gently applied using a piece of double-sided tape. A cummerbund is then wrapped around the body, ensuring full contact. Patients experience mild heat, with an overall high level of comfort during the 15-minute session.

Call to book your FREE consultation and assessment

How do I know if I am a candidate? Unlike other non-invasive fat removal procedures such as CoolSculpt and SculpSure, truSculpt iD does not have any body mass index (BMI) or weight restrictions. Almost anyone can be treated with the truSculpt iD.

TruSculpt ID Benefits — — BEFORE

TWELVE WEEKS AFTER ONE TREATMENT

— — — — BACK ROLL BEFORE

BACK ROLL TWELVE WEEKS AFTER ONE TREATMENT

—

— 591a Remuera Road, Remuera 09 520 5331 finessefaceandbody.co.nz

Unlike CoolSculpting, there is no mark where treatment ends Treats an area 3x larger than CoolSculpting’s coolmax (largest applicator) From just 15 minutes! Painless Suitable for males and females Tightens the skin by remodelling collagen Amazing results — some patients have reported over 35% reduction in fact (***measured by ultrasound in clinical trials) Treats ALL areas including the abdomen, love handles, bra rolls, chin, thighs, arms and calves

How many treatments will I need? Ninety-five percent of patients will only require one treatment per area! We can treat as many as three areas in a single 15-minute session!

Is the treatment painful? No! Patients report the treatment feels like a warm stone massage. Some feel the heat in the first minute to be a bit intense but then adjust to the treatment.

How long before I see my results? Results such as firming, improved skin tone and texture, and some reduction, will be noticeable immediately; however, fat cells are removed over a period of time and maximum results will be achieved at 12 weeks. There's an average of 24 percent fat reduction on a treated area, in one treatment.

Breast Reconstruction A Conversation with Dr Michelle Locke

On a sunny day in Auckland, Verve chats with Dr Michelle Locke, renowned plastic and reconstruction surgeon at St Marks Breast Centre, Remuera, and the first female head of department (HoD) of the largest plastic surgery department in Australasia (Department of Plastic, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, Middlemore Hospital). Michelle has a hugely impressive CV, from her advanced qualifications (MD), leadership (HoD), mentoring activities (Wāhine Connect, Women in Surgery), academic appointment (University of Auckland), and everything in between. Plastic and reconstructive surgeon MBChB, MD, FRACS (Plast)

When did you know you wanted to be a breast reconstruction surgeon?

I was drawn to it during my plastic surgery rotation as a junior doctor. I could see what a difference it made to women’s quality of life after cancer and how it really helped them to heal psychologically. Specialist reconstruction was appealing because it is a personalised branch of surgery that involves problem solving and finding solutions that are specific to each patient.

What services do you offer at St Marks Breast Centre?

I focus solely on breast surgery in my private practice — both reconstructive and aesthetic. I’m really fortunate to work with two great breast cancer surgeons at St Marks, so we offer the full spectrum from cancer diagnosis and treatment to the full range of specialist breast reconstruction options after breast cancer. My favourite operation is the DIEP flap. This involves microsurgery techniques to transfer the woman’s own tissue and blood vessels from the lower tummy to create her new breast. This procedure has really good outcomes for fit and active women because the core tummy muscles are left in place. Many women prefer it to implants, as it is all natural and has the added bonus of lasting for life.

How importance is your aesthetic surgery training to your reconstruction work?

Aesthetic considerations are critical. Breast reconstruction really needs to look good, and be a suitable size and shape match for the other breast. Many women don’t realise that it’s common to have surgery on the other breast too so that the breasts look more similar. Having a year of additional fellowship training in both areas helps me give my patients the best possible outcomes.

How do you discuss reconstruction with new patients?

It’s really important to me that my patients feel comfortable and supported throughout the breast reconstruction process. When a woman is first referred to me, I will initially spend an hour with her, getting to know her, understanding her life and situation, and only then do we talk about options for breast reconstruction, so that together we can come up with the best solution for her. I’d encourage all women who’ve had a breast removed, no matter what age, to have a consultation with a plastic surgeon to find out about their options, even if they decide it’s not the right thing for them.

What is your proudest achievement professionally?

Late 2019, I was unexpectedly offered the HOD role in plastic surgery at Middlemore. I experienced imposter syndrome as many women do, but decided to challenge myself, accept the offer and have confidence in my abilities. Three months later, the Whakaari/White Island eruption happened and I helped lead the department’s response. My amazing team pulled together so well, and treated the patients with empathy and care over many months. It really is this teamwork, combined with the ability to improve people’s lives, that makes surgery so worthwhile.

What do you do in your leisure time — if you have any?!

I and my two daughters (aged eight and 10 years) are all keen hockey players. My husband Mike is at home fulltime with the girls, and I couldn’t do my work without his unwavering support.

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

LO UI SE G RAY

The Darker Side of Pigmenation WORDS— SJ

Skin pigmentation can be caused by a number of factors, hormonal influences, age, sun exposure, skin injuries or inflammation are all factors that can all play their part. 98

For me personally, growing up, I lived at the beach during my holidays. Like most New Zealanders, we divided our time between being either on the water or in it. One of my most vivid memories is of our infamous Aloe Vera After Sun Gel. This was always faithfully stored in the fridge, always brought out at the end of a day filled with sailing, water skiing or spending time in the surf. These were the days when sunblock was not considered and only the legendary coloured zinc (which was a fashion statement at the time) was a token gesture. Roll on 30 years, and I am left with the constant reminder of this magical time. Thankfully I don’t have skin cancer as I have been checked numerous times, but the bands of pigmentation in the form of freckles, ephelides and larger lesions have really decided to set up home. So today, after a lot of research, I sat down with Louise Gray from Louise Gray Skin Care to talk about Cosmelan, her Depigmentation Programme that has been changing many people’s lives. I was so intrigued by her last article for Verve where she talked about her own journey with Cosmelan and I needed to know more! So, what did I find out?

S H O P 2/224 KEPA RD, MI SSI ON BAY 09 528 9010 / LOUI SEGRAY.C O. N Z

vervemagazine.co.nz

Cosmelan can be performed at any time of the year, though it is advisable to do it at times when sun exposure is not so intense or prolonged. So now would be the perfect time for you.

Firstly, does cosmelan work on any type of pigmentation?

Yes, with Cosmelan we treat all types of pigmentation. Cosmelan is effective to treat: melasma, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, solar, senile lentigo and freckles.

What is the best time to use Cosmelan?

Cosmelan can be performed at any time of the year, though it is advisable to do it at times when sun exposure is not so intense or prolonged, such as the winter and autumn. So now would be the perfect time for you.

If you do not follow the home regimen, you are interrupting the treatment programme and will therefore not obtain your expected results. By not applying the depigmenting cream with the regulating action means the melanocyte is not regulated. Therefore, a persistent uncontrolled, excessive production of melanin is produced. The pigmentation will reappear as the skin layers are renewed. Melanin migrates to the surface making the pigment increasingly evident.

When we have treated people in summer, they are under strict instructions that they need to completely avoid very intense or prolonged sun exposure.

Also not using sunscreen, involves a very high risk that the pigmentation returns, as skin is more sensitive and receptive to external aggressions during the treatment.

How long does the treatment last?

How long should it take to see results? And should I stop using it if I am seeing results?

The Cosmelan method consists of four phases which are necessary to achieve the target result. Intensive depigmentation in phase 1 and treatment for home use in phases 2, 3 and 4. The total duration of treatment is about seven months, that can change based on the severity of the case. It is a commitment on your part, but we work closely together to ensure that you are on track to obtain the best result. Thank you for asking this question. The most significant change takes place a few weeks after applying the initial treatment in clinic, it improves skin texture and pigment decreases noticeably. This can give you a misleading feeling of success. During this period, melanin has been removed from the outermost skin layers, and therefore we see pigment fade and the skin become smoother and softer, but the origin of the problem has not been controlled yet. The melanocyte, a cell where melanin is produced, is still uncontrolled and continues to produce pigment (melanin) in excess. To re-educate the melanocyte and control this overproduction, it is important to continue a home treatment with regulating action, so that the cell returns to a normal active state and therefore prevents pigment from reappearing.

What happens if I stop applying the treatment at home?

Can I combine the Cosemelan treatment with other pigmentation treatments?

During at least the first three months of the programme, it is not recommended to use any other type of minimally invasive treatment that can cause a skin lesion, as well as peels, microneedling, exfoliations, and so on, as it can even cause repigmentation. In the last months where we reduce the application guidelines of Cosmelan 2 only to the night, we can combine it with treatments that help prolong the results.

Does the treatment effect my ability to perform my daily activities?

As it is not an invasive treatment, it does not make you unable to fulfil your activities of daily living normally. Caution must be exerted when fulfilling some activities especially during the first days however.

Can the pigmentation return after treatment?

It is essential to apply a daily depigmentation treatment and sunscreen throughout the year to prevent re-pigmentation, even if the pigmentation is not visible. Remember it is a dynamic process where the imbalance forming them can cause the recurrence. After my consultation with Louise and seeing my Reveal Digital Skin Images, I am booking in!

Heaven Sent: Hemp

Hemp seeds are particularly rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids which help in reducing cholesterol, blood pressure and triglycerides, great for promoting heart and brain health.

It’s not unusual for the worlds of cuisine, fashion and beauty to take unconventional products and turn them into everyday use, and hemp is the new ‘in’ product being used in beauty products, food, health supplements and even clothing. Hemp is not actually a new ingredient, however. It dates all the way back to 8,000 BC when it was cultivated in Iraq. It was also used in weaving the original Levi’s jeans, as well as the first-ever American flag. So what is hemp? Hemp is always associated with the green ‘erb, and rightly so. It is indeed a variety of the cannabis plant but grown for industrial use only, and has no psychoactive properties.

WOR D S — AN NAB ELLE TAURUA

Green Goddess Green Goddess products are totally natural, they do not contain synthetics, phosphates, preservatives, artificial fragrances, or plant derived substances. Scented only with pure essential oils they are hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin. —

greengoddess.co.nz

Hemp has been dubbed a superfood, and for good reason. Hemp seeds are particularly rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids which help in reducing cholesterol, blood pressure and triglycerides, great for promoting heart and brain health. It’s antioxidant effects can help in improving your heart,

skin and joint health. Plus, it’s a great source of protein! As well as being a natural, holistic health product, hemp is also planet friendly. It essentially acts as natures very own purifier as it grabs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and makes our air much cleaner to breathe. Hemp also absorbs toxic metals and was famously used after the Chernobyl nuclear disaster to absorb radioactive strontium and cesium. Hemp doesn’t require any pesticides or herbicides to grow and only needs little water. Clothing made from hemp is durable, breathable and is also ideal for people with chemical sensitivities thanks to the natural processing techniques. Because hemp only takes four months to flourish, it promotes sustainable farming. It’s also completely biodegradable which is obviously a huge plus for Mother Earth. Overall, hemp is a highly beneficial material that offers numerous benefits for both ourselves and our planet. Below and opposite are a few of the best hemp products available.

HEMP DIRECTORY

Hemphouse NZ

omeganz

— hemphouse.co.nz

— omega-oils.co.nz

Hemphouse NZ was founded by a couple of lads from Christchurch with a vision of making hemp clothing mainstream in New Zealand. They firmly believe that style and sustainability can go hand in hand! Hemphouse NZ stocks casual everyday wear to high-end fashion pieces for both men and women. At least half of their clothes are made of 100% hemp fabric and the rest are hemp blended with other organic fibres. Follow Hemphouse NZ on Facebook and Instagram @hemphousenz.

Unleash your beauty from within by consuming omega fatty acids. Evening primrose oil (high in omega-6 and GLA) and hemp seed oil (balanced omegas 3, 6 and 9 with GLA) have been shown to have an uplifting effect on skin, hair, nails and joints. They also help maintain healthy hormone levels. omeganz captures the stunning health benefits nature offers, crafting natural, cold pressed, NZ grown oils for wellness.

Enter promo code: VERVE21 for 10% discount on any order*

Pure Heart Aotearoa — pureheart.co.nz

Based in Dannevirke, Pure Heart Aotearoa is a company established by Ngāti Kahungunu ki Tāmaki nui-a-Rua, located in the Tararua district. They are one of six rohe (regions) belonging to the Ngāti Kahungunu. Ngāti Kahungunu translates to 'people of Kahungunu'. Kahungunu , the chief, grew crops and created prosperity by ensuring the availability of food for his community. This was the inspiration behind the creation of Pure Heart Aotearoa and continues to be their guiding principle. Photo credit: Brad Hanson Creative. bradhansoncreative.com

Hemp Connect

— hempconnect.co.nz Hemp Connect is New Zealand’s first vertically integrated hemp company. We grow, process and distribute our hemp, keeping careful eyes on everything from the moment planting begins to the final label being attached. This allows us to stand behind our promise to produce the highest quality and best value hemp foods in New Zealand ensuring unparalleled quality from field to meal. * (limit 1 per person).

Five Brands. One Team.

Which of your brands came first and how did each evolve? Each brand has evolved through natural progression towards our goal of eliminating chronic disease. We started with The Brothers Green selling hemp food products at the Christchurch Farmers Market. With hemp’s anti-inflammatory properties and our pharmacy background, we developed Kōaka to showcase hemp's incredible skin healing properties. Hemp’s fibre produces a strong and anti-fungal fabric. We started the journey to find everyday hemp clothes and along the way discovered how much better hemp fabric is for our environment and our skin. We created Original Canvas to provide an accessible option for natural, sustainable everyday clothing. Tell us about Tāpapa Store and why is this such a unique space? Tāpapa Store houses all our hemp brands under the one roof. It is also an educational and social meeting place where whānau can come together. Could you give us a sneaky insight into your next venture? When we first discovered hemp more than three years ago, we fell in love with its protein content. Ritual & Rise has been our project for a few years―a flavoured, high percentage hemp protein powder to match any other performance and lifestyle protein powder on the market. We are very excited to launch Ritual & Rise at the end of April with three delicious flavours; Double Choc Brownie, Banoffee Pie, and Maple. What makes you and your team so passionate about hemp? As a Māori pharmacist, I’m very passionate about the nutritional aspect of the hemp seed. It is the most nutrient dense seed known to man and I especially like how I can make my kids a nice hemp milk at night knowing it’s high in magnesium to help them get to sleep. We are lucky to have the calibre or people in our group with backgrounds ranging from fashion, pharmacy, farming, cooking and even banking, all who see hemp as having the ability to change their respective industries.

Tāpapa Store, The Brothers Green, Kōaka, Original Canvas, and Ritual & Rise (launching soon) are five incredible brands all created and managed by the same team, with a mission to eliminate chronic disease using hemp.

How do you draw inspiration from New Zealand life, culture as well as our environment? Generally Kiwis are known for being clean and green, and we want to make sure this remains our reality. This motivates us to make it as easy as possible for people to choose our products knowing that they tick all the boxes of what it means to be a healthy, environmentally conscious Kiwi. We also pay respect to our tangata whenua by incorporating te reo into our products and product descriptions as our attempt to revitalise it.

Tāpapa in Te Reo means ‘the seed bed for kūmara plants’. Tāpapa NZ is the seed bed for their four local, regenerative hemp-based companies, all embarking on journeys to shake up their respective industries in Aotearoa. It is common knowledge now, the benefits that the hemp plant has to our soils and surrounding environment. Tāpapa NZ was born with the ultimate goal of covering the South Island of Aotearoa with industrial hemp, this is the driving force for each of their brands. Tāpapa NZ’s businesses have strong missions; eliminating chronic disease through nutrition, putting a stop to petroleum-based clothing, and providing better lifestyle choices that dont harm Papatūānuku.

Kōaka’s essential organic skincare range offers a chance for people to care for their skin and the environment naturally. Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil contains a full spectrum of vitamins, antioxidants, trace minerals, healthy omegas and active botanicals that work to naturally keep skin nourished, hydrated and protected. Shop the range at your local pharmacy. www.koaka.co

koaka.nz

Original Canvas is a premium hemp and natural organic cotton apparel company with garments designed to stand the test of time. We are on a mission to change New Zealand’s future for the better, with sustainable hemp textiles! BLANK CANVAS is a blank wholesale offering by Original Canvas for businesses such as yourself to customise as you need, while improving your environmental impact. www.originalcanvas.co.nz

originalcanvas_nz

The Brothers Green are setting a new standard for the way in which humans interact with food. The Brothers Green proudly provide New Zealand Hemp food, from the Hurunui District in the South Island. Their vision is to encourage awesome New Zealanders to make educated decisions around food choices, ultimately increasing the connection to their food and local food producers. www.thebrothersgreen.co

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Ritual & Rise is a platform facilitating people to feel empowered by living a healthier, happier life through health, nutrition and movement. They are New Zealand’s first supplement company providing plant-based protein, grown and produced in New Zealand. Reflect, refine and rise to your new ritual. Launching end of April! www.ritualandrise.com

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HOT YOGA WORKS

BASECAMP POWER YOGA

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Nestled in downtown Auckland, this vibrant hot yoga and hot HIIT pilates studio is an oasis with classes ranging from total body workouts to free meditation and accredited teacher trainings. If you want to try hotyYoga or pilates, their two week $49 intro package will ease you into the warm studio, away from the hustle and bustle, plus get you in the draw to win a free month of yoga.

Basecamp Power Yoga is a movement creating a powerful community in the heart of Grey Lynn—a place where you can cultivate power and strength in your body. Experience the physical, mental, and spiritual results. Power yoga, with consistent practice, will help you have better focus, feel energised, reach new heights, and support you in getting where you want to go.

— hotyogaworks.nz

— basecamppoweryoga.com

Centred and Powerful

Become physically and mentally strong at these Auckland studios.

KIA KAHA STUDIOS

THE METHOD NZ

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Kia Kaha Studios in Takapuna is a welcoming space with a range of fitness classes and health professionals in a variety of modalities that cover all your holistic fitness needs. The well-trained team is commited to exposing people to approaches that they might not normally take, developing a well-rounded approach to life. Kia Kaha Studios will challenge your expectations and assumptions of what you’re capable of, physically, intellectually, emotionally and energetically.

Already hooked on yoga and pilates? If you’ve ever considered becoming an instructor, 2021 could be your time to shine. The Method NZ is NZ’s very own group fitness instructor training. They quickly sold out of their first teacher training last year and this year’s courses are shaping up no differently! As the world responds to Covid-19 many of us a are looking to retrain and upskill. Become a barre instructor, jump on their pre & post natal workshops, TRX, pilates and online short courses. All REPs certified. Want more info? Check out @themethodnz on Instagram.

— kiakahastudios.co.nz

— themethodnz.co.nz

PH OTO G RAPHY – JAS ON H E I DRI C H

Yoga vs Pilates Karl Henare, the owner of Kia Kaha Studios in Takapuna, discusses the physical and mental benefits of each.

Is yoga mainly about movement and fitness, or something deeper?

How do yoga and pilates complement other HIIT and cardio training?

Yoga is a modality for self realization. Fancy words but it basically means to know yourself better, how far this takes you is your choice. So yes if you choose it can be just a way to maintain fitness... but if you decide it could mean a whole lot more. Coordinating your breath with movement helps to bring awareness to how you are moving physically. As we deepen our awareness of how we move our bodies it begins to illuminate where we may have limiting thoughts about our abilities, where we may be living through fear or where the ego may be in the driving seat. We get to then assess if these behaviours that come to light are serving us or not and if not, take steps to making change in the way we relate to ourselves and the world around us.

The essence of HIIT training is to work hard and fast for short intervals. Other cardio training such as running, swimming and cycling all basically work off doing the same movement fast and repeating it a lot. HIIT and cardio workouts are great but can cause a lot of injuries. This isn't due to them not being designed workouts, simply your body needs more than this. It needs stability and strength in the joints as well as flexibility. The control of yoga and pilates allows your body the strength, stability and control so that you can listen to your body before you injure yourself.

If someone is looking to develop core strength and balance, would you send them to a yoga class or a pilates class?

What about for strength and flexibility?

The term 'core' gets thrown around a lot and subsequently is often misunderstood. Your abs aren't your core, they are part of your core. An easy way to think of it is to think of wearing a corset and your core is that area. This includes your back and sides. Good core strength comes from control and balance. Your whole core needs to work together to hold everything stable and in balance. Yoga and pilates are both exceptional for this. The difference is that the very root of pilates stems from holding a stable spine. It is also very evidence based in physiology and only focuses on the connection between mind and body. Yoga has a lot more involved in it as the focus isn't necessarily about your spine, but who you are as a person. There are many different types of yoga, as there are in pilates, so it really depends on what style you do and what your focus is, as a whole your posture is more likely to be the focus in a pilates class.

Both are great for your physical strength and flexibility but as a generalisation I would say that pilates focuses more on the physical strength and flexibility and yoga focuses more on your inner flexibility and strength, your mana. They do tie in closely and both offer development in each respective area but again if we draw our attention to the purpose of why each of these were created then we can find a way to get the results that we want more effectively. The combination of these two work extremely well together as they complete rather than compete with each other.

09 600 1890 KIAK AHASTUDIO S .C O.NZ

HAIR TREATMENTS FOR EVERY HAIR TYPE

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Henna

A Hair T 10 6

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ncient R A th

Henna is a dark green-black strong smelling powder made from the crushed leaf of the shrub Lawsonia inermis. Traditionally major producers include countries like India, Sri Lanka, and Egypt, where the hot dry temperatures see the plant flourish.

harmful chemicals, kills lice and gives a radiance no chemical dye can, and the more it is applied the better it is for the hair. Henna use was really popular during the 1970s and '80s, but use faded as that space became filled with the use of foils, balayage, and other colouring techniques.

The leaves of the henna plant contain the pigment lawsone which interacts with keratin in the skin, nails and hair, to provide a vivid red-burnt-orange colour, and has over the centuries (since the era of the pharaoh 9,000 years ago) been widely used in traditional forms of body art for ceremonies like weddings and other festivals, as well as for hair dying purposes.

Everyone’s hair is so different, some more and some less porous. So while one person’s hair may not change colour much, another person’s hair could end up being a much brighter reddish colour. So, if you feel like experimenting a bit, note that it would be wise to do a strand test on a little bit of hair prior to coating the whole head with your henna paste.

It was discovered that not only did henna provide a good dye job, but that it has a bounty of health benefits for the hair; with regular use, hair becomes stronger, as well as more lustrous and shiny. It has an amazing ability to retain the pH balance of the scalp, so henna naturally and effectively cures dryness and dandruff, as well as premature greying of hair. It is also free from

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Apart from not smelling that good, using henna to colour your hair can be really messy, so plan the process well before you start your treatment. Henna is not really suitable for use on blonde hair but will add a beautiful dimension to hair that is auburn, brown, mahogany or darker. Post henna treatment, stand in the sunshine and enjoy the myriad of pretty reddish highlights as they reflect the light.

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Available in all VIVO Hair Salons nationwide.

All About The Brows

UP® Lashes & Brows

Great eyebrows don’t happen by chance, they happen by appointment.

Voted 'Most Trusted High-End Beauty Services Provider, Auckland,' UP® Lashes & Brows are your trusted brow specialists. The internationally-awarded team has 30-plus years experience in helping clients achieve bold, beautiful brows, both natural and augmented. One of the first salons to introduce brow lamination to New Zealand, UP® leads the field, alongside shaping, tinting and highly specialised microblading, and ombre treatments. Obligation-free consultations available.

upsalons.com

Bindu’s Brow + Beauty

Spring Spa Brow Package

With more than 17 years in the beauty industry, including running three Shahnaz Husain Ayurvedic Beauty Day Spas in Auckland, in 2019 Bindu started Bindu’s Brow + Beauty to give a new shape to the brow industry. Her signature brow service includes personalised consultations and brow mapping to help you get the best brow shape to accentuate your features. Bindu has created a more tailored approach to brows, including brow sculpting, lamination, brow henna, and custom colours tint: "We don’t do five-minute Brows, but we fix five-minute Brows.”

After an expert brow job? Look no further than Spring Spa, Ponsonby. Their eyebrow-sculpting package will leave you with bold, groomed arches that will inspire eyebrow envy everywhere. Believe us, you are only four steps away from your perfect brow, i.e. – Book an eyebrow tint, eyebrow shape with threading or waxing, finished off with a tweeze and trim.

bindu.co.nz

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*Please specify your preferred shaping method when booking. *For a complete list of lash and brow services available at Spring Spa Ponsonby, please visit the website.

Clinic 42’s Fabulous New Treatment

09 638 4242 321 Manukau Rd clinic42.co.nz

Before and after of Sculptra 2 treatments 6 weeks apart Sculptra, while having been around for many years has been slow to reach our shores. It has proven very popular in the USA and Brazil with its lifting abilities being utilised in a range of face and body treatments including butt lifts! Here at Clinic 42 we are utilising both its lifting properties and its 'glow to go' effects. We also use it in combination with hyaluronic acid dermal fillers in new procedure, 'Firm and Lift' invented and taught to Dr Ellen Selkon (NZ’s Sculptra trainer) by renowned Brazilian plastic surgeon, Luiz Avelar. Sculptra is a biostimulator that is injected in the facial tissue to stimulate and revitalise natural collagen production. As collagen production is gradually stimulated, the skin starts to regain its structure and volume. Not only is collagen produced, but also elastin and hyaluronic acid giving the tissue its strength and luminosity. These results are definitely noticeable! The results develop slowly over time and continue to develop, lasting over 25 months after the last treatment. It is a course of 2-3 treatments approximately six weeks apart. After that you can maintain the result with an annual treatment. In the 'Firm and Lift', Sculptra works on the lateral part of the face like a facelift, lifting and firming the tissue, and then the HA filler works in the medial, movable part of the face to allow for natural expression and volumisation where required. This is a very exciting new treatment that is ideal for those experiencing sagging who want natural, gradual results that will last.

Sculptra Including The 'Firm And Lift'

But wait, there is more! There is also an amazing effect on the skin itself which results in a beautiful glow and improved skin texture. For this reason, Sculptra is almost for everybody! Younger women will only have 1-2 treatments focusing on skin texture and luminosity, while older women who are dealing with volume loss and ageing will require 2-3 treatments.

Dermal fillers and botulinum toxin have been on the market for many years now and give a close to immediate response with a 'wow' result. But now the focus is turning to investing in the future of your face and skin with products that provide biostimulation. In a consumer study done in Australia, 75% of women between the ages of 35-69 preferred gradual long term (over two years) results over the immediate result that lasted only six months.

Results start to show after about six weeks and last as stated over the two-year mark. If you are interested in learning more about Sculptra or any of the wide range of cosmetic treatments available at Clinic42 please contact them to arrange a 30-minute complimentary nurse consult. Alternatively, call and book with one of our four cosmetic physicians, who will be happy to discuss your concerns, and the best treatment approach for you.

The Beardstache Why Do We Do It? Because We Can

The what? The Beardstache. It’s the like the facial hair version of the mullet. Reined in beard, full above the lip. To be clear here, OneMan 100% condones and in fact encourages this facial hair trend. We are just letting you know. This author’s position is that today should be the day. Let’s face it, a long beard can look a little odd with fewer clothes. Go shorter, sharper, and more straightforwardly sophisticated with a no nonsense, no maintenance moustache style to avoid lips covered in beeswax and drooping hair. The Beardstache, is a shortish mowser kept just a little longer than the stubble on the rest of your face. A classic workmanlike moustache, paired with a lightly developing beard. A look that suggests you did have a well-kept moustache, but a week or so of fishing, defending your property and generally being rugged has let it slip a little. Less eye-catching than a clean-shaven face as there’s a reduced contrast in the skin-and-hair tones, but you do need a decently even stubble growth to make this work. David Beckham does it well.

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It is a good time to cut the beard back and allow the skin the chance to feel a little fresher air. This will give you a fresher, sharper look while wearing your more relaxed threads. The Beardstache is a way of saying, “Yeah, I trimmed it, but I left this manly badge of honour right here on my top lip to remind you that I’ve still got it.” While it is clearly a departure from the traditional full beard, its spirit is in the same place. At least it’s 'beard-ish' and not totally clean-shaven. After all, growing different combinations and patterns of facial hair is one of the perks of manhood. Why do we do it? Because we can. Gentleman, start your clippers. Maybe it’s time to trim that beard down to stubble and leave your moustache full-strength. So what’s it going to be, guys? Are you going to give the Beardstache a try, go clean-shaven, or stick with your glorious beard? WORD S – MAX DAWS ON OF ONE MAN

Elstree Pharmacy Professional pharmacists serving the Glen Innes community. Come and see us for fantastic gifts for all ages, all of your family’s health needs and excellent advice. Ample free parking. Stockists of Innoxa Cosmetics and Skincare, Stella + Gemma and Antler ranges, NZ brand Moana Road sunglasses and readers, and a fabulous and ever-changing range of homewares. 145 WEST TAMAKI RD, GLEN INNES 09 528 3636 ELSTREEPHARMACY@XTRA.CO.NZ

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What The Face! explains radiating health The cutting-edge science behind how our inner health reflects in our faces is a key driver for New Zealand book What the Face! The fifth book in the internationally best-selling What the Fat? series, by authors Dr Caryn Zinn, Professor Grant Schofield and Craig Rodger, What the Face! is about how to look and feel good from the inside out. It reveals how what we eat impacts on the health of our hair, skin and nails, and helps maintain a youthful appearance as we age. Dr Zinn, a whole food dietitian and head of research at Auckland University of Technology’s School of Sport and Recreation, says the scientific field of skin-gut-brain health is still young. “Once you throw in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, it’s actually quite hard to know who and what to believe,” she says. Professor Schofield, widely known as 'The Fat Professor' and director of the Human Potential Centre at AUT Millennium, says in researching for the book he again found another whole field where conventional ‘wisdom’ does not match scientific reality. “As soon as you realise that the condition of the body on the outside almost perfectly reflects its condition on the inside, then you connect the dots.”

FACIAL INJECTABLES & MICRONEEDLING at Greenlane Dental – Implants & Cosmetics Institute Had enough of skin problems? Dry skin? Wrinkles? Oily face? Acne? Sweating?

Repair, heal and solve any problems your skin is facing with our range of injectables. Our 1-hour sessions include •Numbing •Select PRP or Serum •Needling Treatment •Facial Mask 1 session 2 sessions 4 sessions 6 sessions

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All scientific research is referenced throughout the book.

For amazing results don’t delay your second session more than six weeks. All other treatments can be done quarterly.

Chef Craig Rodger, who worked in Michelin-starred restaurants in his native Scotland, says for What the Face! he has focused on a how-to approach and has created recipes he hopes readers will want to return to again and again.

Also available Dysport, Fillers RHA, Fibre threads face-lift, PRP microneedling, PRP injections after hair implant surgery.

The WTF trio has also taken the opportunity to revise and update the book that started it all – What the Fat? Fat’s In, Sugar’s Out. whatthefatbook.com

09 5201521 205 Great South Road, Greenlane

info@gld.co.nz gld.co.nz

Alfresco Feast

↑ Good To Gather In a climate where year-round outdoor living is very much an option, this large covered patio is in constant use by the homeowners. It’s a much-used entertainment area too, with spaces set aside for both dining and lounging. A clean-lined dining table is paired with a mix of simple wooden chairs and a slatted bench, making dining arrangements easy to reconfigure depending on how many guests need to be accommodated.

From the romantic to the playful, the elegant and the easefully everyday, these enviable outdoor dining spaces add an extra dimension of wellbeing and charm to the lifestyles of the homeowners who relish spending time in them. Words – Robyn Alexander Photography – Greg Cox

→ Cast In Stone At this Mediterranean holiday home, the outdoor living area is a study in texture: natural stone, poured microcement, timber, river pebbles and a variety of vegetation come together to create an integrated and welcoming space. For alfresco eats, a large cast concrete built-in table is provided.

↑ Dessert Dreaming “The Karoo landscape heightens the senses because there’s no clutter,” says the homeowner and creator of this contemporary farmhouse-cum-holiday home. “There’s a simplicity there – openness and a sense of freedom.” All these elements are heightened in this outdoor dining space, which is glassed in on one side to protect it from strong prevailing winds while still allowing its users to enjoy the expansive vista.

← Heritage Haven Summer lunches with the family are regularly taken in this alfresco dining area, which is set in the courtyard between the living and kitchen wings of a storied homestead on a Cape wine farm. Shaded by a vine-covered pergola that ensures the space is sheltered from the intense summer heat – and fills it with dappled, green-tinted light – this dreamy space is redolent with heritage elegance.

↑ Tree Tops Tucked discreetly away behind a stone wall in a lush, landscaped garden, this island holiday home is a perfectly private retreat for its celebrity owners, who love to linger over meals in this outdoor dining area. The tranquil scene is completed by a pair of pendant lights sourced by the homeowner and hung from the branches of the tree that shades the space during the day.

← Perfect Symmetry The dark exterior walls of this suburban house work wonderfully to emphasise the lush greenery of the garden, while the formality created by the box hedges and olive trees gives it a timeless quality. The symmetry of the planting means that in spite of being located outdoors, this space really does feel rather like an 'exterior room'. And when the air is scented with lavender and a family of quails quietly pecking at garden pests close by, the hours simply melt away

→ Designer Vista The roof of the deck of this spectacular holiday home, which is situated close to a river mouth near the sea, is supported by a curving pillar that is an element of organic sculpture as well as a structural essential. “This special column becomes the main feature,” says architect Silvio Rech, although the breathtaking view is certainly lovely enough to compete for alfresco diners’ attention.

← Technicolour Cool This boldly colourful, extensive veranda really is an 'outdoor room': it includes both dining and lounging areas, and via the use of glass folding doors on two sides. It adjoins a compact, formal garden and an inviting swimming pool, and as an added bonus, the views from the space are spectacular.

← White Light This formerly forgotten urban backyard was transformed into a sun-splashed, terraced garden – and outdoor cooking and dining area – that has since been the setting for many a party on weekend afternoons. Its renovation, which was accomplished on a strict budget, included adding a built-in barbecue and creating a shaded dining zone. Painting the floor a crisp white has also added to the box-fresh feel of the space.

↑ A Vine Time The stylish owner of this historic villa says its outdoor living area – which features a swimming pool as well as this delightful vine-covered gazebo – is like “having an extra room”. And located close by is a wood-burning oven that’s as perfect for pizza-making as it is for a long, slow roast. Situated at the heart of a large, lush garden that includes mature trees, water features and vegetable boxes, this space is all about rustic charm.

NOW OPEN IN PARNELL! 92 PARNELL ROAD, PARNELL | 09 889 1200 @JARDIN.NZ | JARDIN.CO.NZ

Chalk and Cheese By their own admission, Julie and Ian Williams were going around in circles trying to find inspiration for their new kitchen; that was until they came across the team at Kitchens By Design. Then everything became clear. Their existing kitchen was the original in an '80s-style house that they’d been living in for two years. “We always knew a new kitchen was on the shopping list, and it had got to the point where it was looking old, and our girls were getting bigger – we weren’t a family with little kids any more. We needed to do something. The kitchen wasn’t working for us, but we didn’t know what we wanted or where to go,” says Julie. “We found Kitchens By Design online, but it was their showroom that clinched it for us. It was very impressive – chalk and cheese compared to the others we visited. We started speaking to Jane Fergusson, one of the designers there, and she immediately got who we were and what we were trying to achieve. We clicked straight away. Jane made it easy for us to visualise what our new kitchen could look like.” Julie laughs that they didn’t give much of a brief to work with, just that they liked open shelving and wanted a bit of wood in their new kitchen, and also somewhere to have a casual meal.

Kitchen By Design’s showroom is at 3 Byron Avenue, Takapuna (09) 379 3084. They are open Mon-Fri 10am-4.30pm, Sat 10am-2.30pm, or by appointment. kitchenbydesign.co.nz

“Jane asked us lots of question about how we lived, cooked and used the kitchen. She was the only one that did that of all the people we spoke to,” says Julie. “She then came up with three different concepts – one was the original footprint, upgraded, the other was a partial change, the third was a complete change with all the bells and whistles… and that’s the one we went for." Seeing the mood board for the first time, with all the samples of colours and materials was

one of the most memorable moments of the whole process for Julie and Ian; also, choosing the benchtop material, then selecting each slab individually before it was templated, so they could see where the veining would appear on the final benchtop. "That was a special service," says Jane. Now their new kitchen is finished, the couple say that they both really love the bamboo breakfast bar. “We never thought of using bamboo – that’s was Jane’s suggestion – but it gave us that touch of wood we asked for. It’s also a very durable and hardwearing material, which is ideal for the counter top. The window seat is wonderful. It has completely changed how I use the space, because I can now lounge in the kitchen. Our daughters can hang out there, too. It’s great in the morning because it catches all the sun. We also love our new scullery. “Working with Kitchens By Design was so easy. Jane was great to communicate with, and she listened and ran with any ideas we had. Everything was so well planned out – she just instinctively knew where everything should go. Also, the whole team at Kitchens By Design fought our corner through the whole process, ensuring everything was done properly and we got exactly what we wanted, which saved us time and energy. They were definitely value for money. “In the end it comes down to trust. We trusted Jane and went with what she recommended, and it worked out really well. The kitchen speaks for itself, just look at it!”

Visit Visit our our showroom showroom today. today. 33 Byron Byron Avenue, Avenue, Takapuna Takapuna (09) (09) 379 379 3084 3084

Light filled and clean lined.

kitchensbydesign.co.nz

HOME & DESIGN

CRYSTAL DIFFUSERS IN STORE NOW

ACHIEVING EXTRAORDINARY RESULTS Ingrid was the perfect choice of agent for the sale of my townhouse in Parnell. I live in the UK and wanted an agent who was honest, hardworking and easy to communicate with. Ingrid more than fulfilled the role. Ingrid was professional in suggesting options for marketing, she listened and I never felt I was being pushed in a direction that I did not want to go. At all times I felt that Ingrid had my interests at heart. I would highly recommend her. Vendor

INGRID GRIEVE M +64 21 659 673 ingrid.grieve@nzsir.com nzsothebysrealty.com Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

T HE R IALTO CENT R E 16 3 BROADWAY , NEWMARKET 09 5 24 5 8 9 0 RET REAT NZ.CO.NZ

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CURATE YOUR WORLD WITH CORSO DE’ FIORI ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE COLLECTIBLES

FURNITURE | HOMEWARE | ANTIQUE & VINTAGE COLLECTIBLES

THE FOUNDATION | 8 GEORGE ST, NEWMARKET | AUCKLAND | TEL 09 307 9166 | CORSO.CO.NZ

HOME & DESIGN

Stylish Retirement Living Awaits In Parnell’s Historic Precinct We all aspire to keeping energised and safe, especially as we get older when tranquil and eloquent surroundings help to nurture our independence and natural sense of belonging. It’s about not compromising, even on the little things.

Historic and contemporary architecture will intertwine throughout the Foundation Village in keeping with the precinct’s unique history and its three Category 1 heritage buildings, as well as the wider Parnell neighbourhood.

That’s why the attention to detail will be second to none once high-end, bespoke retirement village, The Foundation, opens in the historic Parnell precinct. This is a village modelled on providing hospitality comparable to a luxury hotel.

Construction is soon to begin on the village’s first building on the corner of Parnell and Maunsell Roads, incorporating 46 apartments with basement parking and new ground floor offices for Blind Low Vision NZ.

Retirement living has become more diverse as seniors look for greater choice, just as New Zealand’s hotel market has diversified over the decades to meet demand.

There’s already strong demand for The Foundation’s quality apartments to be completed in 2023, reflecting the appeal of people wanting upscale retirement living.

The Foundation is a once-in-a-generation opportunity offering premium retirement living with boutique amenities.

The spacious apartments with their innovative design have a timeless elegance with discreet features and the latest technology. Each residence will have double glazing and air conditioning, while large windows and expansive balconies will create a light and airy environment.

The $300 million development is a unique partnership between village operator and developer, the Generus Living Group, and Blind Low Vision NZ (formerly the Blind Foundation). The Foundation will provide a sustainable revenue stream for the charity, which retains ownership of the land. The Foundation will ensure Blind Low Vision NZ can continue to help blind, deafblind and low vision New Zealanders for generations to come, as well as provide up-scale retirement living with security, care and a sense of community. Designed by respected architects Peddle Thorpe, The Foundation’s buildings are contemporary yet respectful in style with limestone facades to complement the precinct’s surroundings and treasured heritage buildings.

Landscaped gardens will bring communal spaces to life with walkways and courtyards in keeping with the urban environment. Later stages of the village development include further apartments and village facilities, as well as hospital and memory-assisted care. This is the sixth village for Generus Living Group, which has an outstanding reputation for creating and managing distinctive retirement villages in Auckland, Mount Maunganui and Christchurch.

HOME & DESIGN New Ze a l

Looking at Lawn Alternatives

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2021 ★ rs • ★ de

2021 • Vo te

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Garden Centres

GREEN THUMBS & GOLD MEDALS

Low maintenance and suited to different growing conditions, lawn alternatives are a great way of filling in your yard, especially if you have struggled with growing a traditional lawn in the past. Here are our top eight lawn alternatives.

We’re proud to be plant-people, but we’re chuffed to find out our customers think we’re as good with people as we are plants. So good that we’ve won a gold medal in the Reader’s Digest Quality Service Awards. Thanks to everyone who gave us a big green thumbs up!

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PROUDLY KIWI OWNED SINCE 1992 8 STORES AUCKLAND-WIDE KINGS.CO.NZ | 0800 PLANTS

BABY'S TEAR

MESEMBRYANTHEMUM

Best for shaded areas with bright, indirect light. Plant in moist soil and let it spread over areas that get little foot traffic.

This succulent groundcover has long-lasting flowers and spreads over dry exposed soil and is hardy to coastal areas.

DICHONDRA

GAZANIA

A popular soft groundcover. Plant the green variety in the shade and under trees, and the silver in parts of the yard that get full sun. Plant as seeds, seedlings or full-grown plants. Water as you would a lawn for best results.

Hard-wearing, dry tolerant and happy in coastal conditions. This groundcover’s silver foliage will spread over hot banks and exposed soil, blooming in summer with an array of colourful flowers.

MONDO GRASS

THYME

Fast-establishing, it is perfect for shaded areas that gets little direct sun. They look fantastic in between stepping stones or garden tiles and will fill any gaps once they have become established.

A groundcover herb that loves the heat, plant thyme in areas that needs some greenery that doesn’t necessarily need to be grass. Plant on the side or the middle strip of driveways, and on slopes.

ACAENA PURPUREA

OTHER ALTERNATIVES

A groundcover that is best planted under trees, the Acaena purpurea adds beautiful purple hues to your garden, as well as being easy care.

Japanese-style stone gardens accompanied by moss and grasses, an extra veggie garden or three, herbs in pots or a dry-tolerant/cacti garden are all great alternative options.

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Upcycling Clay Planters

A year ago, we were all locked down in our homes, with plenty of time to take critical looks at what needed doing to improve on interior and exterior décor. I made an overly long mental list and have, over the past months, managed some — admittedly painfully slow — progress. One of the tasks on my list was to address the planters at our front entrance, as one of them simply wasn’t working. I love oversized statement pots, but to buy just two can easily set you back $1,000-plus, so I did an extensive search on Trade Me to see what I could pick up for less. I found a pair of earthenware pots a few weeks ago that were a good price, but not the right colour (I was looking for black or close to), so I decided to paint them. Never having painted a clay pot before, I did what any sensible person would do, I visited my local Resene ColorShop. First, clean and prep your pots: As mine were in good condition, all I did was remove the dust and any dirt. I also made sure that they were dry before I started with the next step. Next, apply primer: Both to the inside as well as the outside of the pot. This helps to ensure that any moisture from the soil won't damage the paint you are about to apply. I used Resene Aquapel & Terracotta Sealer. It was easy and quick to apply. And finally, paint your pots: My Resene helper suggested Resene Lumbersider which is ideal for a wide range or exterior projects including cementitious surfaces. I applied two coats of black.

WORD S – FRAN N IN OW

A week later, we filled both pots with a citrus potting mix, and two beautiful healthy citrus trees (one lime and one lemon). As they are near our front door, I get to enjoy my handy work daily, and hopefully by next summer limes and lemons will abound.

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The Art of April Karangahape Road has long been the place of artist studios and creative start-ups, and although the street is increasingly gentrified, the area in and around still plays host to many artist collectives, and houses the highest concentration of galleries per metre in the Auckland region, making it our Arts District. With that in mind, it’s worth allocating a leisurely afternoon this April for an autumnal gallery crawl, after which, you can enjoy an early dinner in one of the many eateries also located on the famous strip. Here are some galleries, artistrun spaces and creative hubs worth making a beeline for. Words Aimée Ralfini

Nicole Brannen Courtesy of Mercury Plaza

Monster Valley

Monster Valley’s Pop-up Shop Revolving Group Show Always worth a squiz, Monster Valley is a creative agency and social enterprise with a permanent pop-up shop at the front of their gallery allocated to local alternative and emerging artists.

Mercury Plaza

Open Thurs & Fri 10am–5pm 74 Karangahape Road monstervalley.co.nz

Mixed Bag Group Show Nestled along the famous Cross Street resides arts hub Mercury Plaza – named in homage to the recently lost Mercury Plaza Food Court, Games Room and Supermarket. This April a selection of passionate Auckland photographers come together under one roof to share a selection of their favourite recent artworks.

On until 15 April 4 Cross Street, Newton Instagram @themercuryplaza

Anna Miles

Fever Lung Barbara Tuck Just off Karangahape, with a beautiful outlook onto the leafy surrounds of Grafton Graveyard, is Anna Miles Gallery. This April the gallery exhibits a new series of paintings titled Fever Lung by Barbara Tuck.

On until 24 April 10/30 Upper Queen Street annamilesgallery.com

Yukari Kaihori Courtesy of RM gallery

RM Gallery

In Searching of Deities Yukari Kaihori RM Gallery is an artist-run space that celebrates and exhibits both emerging and established artists. This April they have several shows, of note is Yukari Kaihori – a visual artist based in Tāmaki Makaurau and Aotearoa’s next creative offering chosen for the Venice Biennale. In this exhibition Yuki focuses on the physical space of RM gallery and its connective energy with the community, bringing awareness to the “here and now”.

Artspace

I Think You Like Me, But I’ve Been Wrong About These Things Before Natasha Matila-Smith Artspace is conveniently located on the main drag, this April it features the sensual work of Natasha Matila-Smith, who transforms the gallery into a meta-space, through the intentional employment of obvious conceptual metaphors connected to the bedroom.

Melanie Roger Gallery

On until 10 April 3 Samoa House Lane, Newton rm103.org

On until 1 May 292 Karangahape Road artspace-aotearoa.nz

soft ware Karen Rubado Melanie Roger Gallery plays host to a delightful stable of Artists. This month Karen Rubado is on display. Rubado is interested in the aggregation and transformation of found materials through handmaking. Her enthusiasm lies in the connections between intention and action, the real and imagined, and the imperfection that often characterises the handmade.

On until 17 April 444 Karangahape Road melanierogergallery.com

Starkwhite

Birds of Paradise Martin Basher Starkwhite presents as a large loft style gallery. This April they have New York based artist Martin Basher’s solo exhibition up for view. Basher revisits the classic genre of still life painting with an eye on unstable times.

Tim Meville

Opening 13 April 510 Karangahape Road starkwhite.co.nz

Like Birds, Like Fishes Areez Katki Just off Newton Road before the overbridge is Tim Melville Gallery. This April the gallery features the work of multidisciplinary artist and writer Areez Katki, whose practice explores his genetic heritage and landscape through embroidery, tapestry, weaving, beading, painting, printmaking and sculpture.

7 April–1 May 4 Winchester St, Grey Lynn timmelville.com

Left: Lauren Winstone Courtesy of Two Rooms Right: Martin Ball Courtesy of Orexart

Two Rooms

Painting as Model Jude Rae Gathering and Scattering Lauren Winstone Two Rooms often has two exhibitions on at any one time, one taking over the main gallery space on the ground floor, the other is upstairs. This April Jude Rae is exhibiting a new suite of still life paintings and Lauren Winstone is presenting new ceramic work in the form of the lidded container. Inspired by the funeral object of an urn, Winstone’s works have a meditative and introspective quality.

Orexart

On until 17 April Level 1/15 Putiki Street, Arch Hill tworooms.co.nz

Echo Martin Ball Sitting on Ponsonby Road, Orexart is showing Martin Ball’s hyperrealist paintings this season. The artist’s interpretation of the Pink and White Terraces employs subtle pictorial elements to create the illusion of a reality through the medium of oil paint made to look like a photograph.

Opening 10 April 221 Ponsonby Road orexart.co.nz

Echo

Paintings by Martin Ball

OREXART Gallery 221 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby 021 213 4449 orexart.co.nz Tuesday – Friday 11am–5.30pm Saturday 11am–4pm

From 10 April — 1 May

Thomas Ball (Martin Ball’s great grandfather) painted the Pink and White Terraces from life, but his great-grandson’s suite of paintings are based on photographs, also from the time. Martin’s liberal use of titanium white reflects the silica in the geothermal water which, over hundreds of years, had crystallised to form the terraces. His paintings have a bleached quality, a ghostly spectral pallor, and are veiled as if to acknowledge the tragic cataclysm of 1886. The almost dreamlike landscape now appears as a memorial to Nature’s power and unpredictability, in this case the destruction of otherworldly beauty for which no description, it was said, could do justice. For Martin Ball, best known for his large hyper-realistic and full-colour portraits, this series represents a more historical, a more contemplative approach, painted as they are in shades of greys and soft browns the viewer is presented with another interpretation, this one more concerned with memory and wonder, loss and reverence, both for a great grand-father, and the majesty of a long-departed landscape.

Art; The New Escapism?

PARNELL GALLERY STAND AT THE AUCKLAND ART FAIR

Covid-19 is teaching us to expect the unexpected. While artists and galleries braced themselves for impact as the pandemic unfolded in early 2020, with international travel off the cards, New Zealanders have sought out a new avenue for escapism - art.

Parnell Gallery, co-directed by mother and daughter duo, Sally Souness and Anna Silcock, has been operating for over 40 years, specialising in New Zealand paintings, sculpture and limited edition prints. The Covid-19 lockdowns have meant people, particularly Aucklanders, are spending much more time at home, providing greater opportunity to think about how the spaces within our home environment can affect how we feel. Anna explains the inability to travel internationally and a change in priorities has, at least in part, fuelled the surge in art purchases. It appears that in the absence of travel, art is cementing itself as an increasingly popular avenue for escapism. Interest has been from both existing and new clients, some of whom are simply searching for decorative pieces that bring joy into their homes. However there has also been vast interest in investment pieces, by both the avid collector and those new to the art world who are keen to diversify their investment portfolios. An ideal opportunity for art enthusiasts to research and purchase has been the annual Auckland Art Fair, New Zealand's premier showcase for contemporary art, which was forced to shut its doors last year and go online. The 2021 event went ahead as planned in late February and, despite being cut

short by a day due to the most recent Auckland lockdown, saw a record numbers of visitors through the door. Anna says: “While also offering engagement for the seasoned collector, an art fair can be a casual, enjoyable, and welcoming introduction to the world of art, its diverse range of artists and the plethora of top galleries in New Zealand, and from further afield. You can get a good sense for the different galleries and find what resonates with you. Quite simply the idea of walking into a multitude of art galleries to find what you connect with can feel a little daunting, but the art fair format provides a unique opportunity to visit 37 galleries showcasing works by more than 150 artists from around New Zealand, Australia and the Cook Islands, in one central location.” For Parnell Gallery, Anna says their experience exhibiting at the Auckland Art Fair was extremely positive. They were able to connect with eager new collectors, reunite with a number of the country’s most avid collectors, network with other galleries and in general celebrate the wider art community. At a time when large gatherings can rarely be planned for, it seems only right to come together to celebrate the successes of an industry that had been preparing for quite a different hand to be dealt.

The Hermione Johnson is among Aotearoa’s most original, talented, and respected musicians, renowned for her experimental renditions and free-style techniques, with ethereal, improvised sounds often achieved by methods as imaginative as fixing objects between the strings of her piano. Though classically trained, she has transcended the genre, playing free improvisation for festival audiences in New Zealand, Australia and Europe.

Pianist

She has toured internationally and released several albums that have garnered critical acclaim in the jazz circles of Europe and the Big Apple—her most recent offering, Tremble, was named a Solo Recording of the Year for 2020 by The New York City Jazz Record. A keen collaborator, Hermione has worked with fellow innovators like choreographer Stefan Neville (Pumice) and dancer Zahra Killeen-Chance, along with international stars like Roger Turner and Magda Mayas. Her band Drorgan ('drums+organ') was formed with multi-instrumentalist Ben Holmes so that she may “learn how to jam!”. “It’s not quite pop,” she laughs, “but there are drums and a synthesizer, so it’s something you can dance to!” Hermione is also very kind. Embarrassingly, I must begin the interview apologising for my stupidity in asking how to say her name (I did Google it, but even that throws up a few different pronunciations, and for anyone else that’s struggling, it’s ‘Her-my-oh-nee’). She jokes (correctly) that I’ve clearly never watched Harry Potter, sweetly reassuring me that I’m not stupid, or the first to ask, before adding that it was the bane of her childhood (but then retracts the last bit for being overly dramatic). Hermione believes it was around the age of five that she first began to be drawn towards the piano. Her parents were “once artists” but changed to do other things (Dad, a sculptor and engineer; Mum, a painter and a lawyer) and always encouraged Hermione and her siblings to “do whatever we were interested in”. “I remember seeing someone playing a piano concerto on television and really liking it,” continues Hermione. “But then, who doesn’t love music?” I ask if she finds her artform therapeutic. “Well, it’s not why I do it, but I suppose it is,” she says after giving it some reflection. “It’s not the purpose of it. It’s intellectual, if anything—structured rather than cathartic. I create different elements, and let them develop, interact, and lead into other things that have direction and conclusions. When creating a piece of music, there is a tension that is followed by a resolution that has to happen in order for the structure to form. It’s not just a case of me sitting at the piano and letting it all spill out. I don’t want that.” When playing at speed, “putting in as many notes as I can”, Hermione describes a layering process that produces “various voices that then speak to each other”. “Then there’s the physical element,” she goes on. “Especially if I’m playing with drummers because they’re very loud and you have to keep up the momentum, which involves much energy—emotional energy, as well.”

How do you feel when playing—are you aware of the audience?

“Yes, I am aware of them, but I am not thinking of them so much. I am very focused on the music—it requires a lot of concentration. I’m listening deeply, trying to respond, to travel to places and construct a world, so to speak.”

Can you talk us through your creative process—do you hear the music before you play it?

“I’m so familiar with the instrument and its various registers, I generally know what sound will be released. So, I guess I’ll habitually go to places where I like the sound, but it’s not like I’m writing a piece then going to the piano and just playing it. It’s not composed; it’s improvised. All performance music has the element of circumstance, you know, of your psychological state or who’s in the room at the time. So, it’s always going to be unique, whether you’re playing Chopin or improvised or jazz.”

You play the church organ, is that more of a spiritual than a creative endeavour?

“I'm not religious, no. It's just a beautiful instrument that creates the most incredible, lovely sounds. They are built into churches and designed to fit each one uniquely, so you can’t really get your hands on one without being involved in the church. I particularly love the old baroque ones—the mechanical ones. It’s as if they are alive! When you turn them on you can hear the air coming into the baffles and everything warming up, and if you hold down the notes while pulling out the stops, the pitch of the note will rise as the pressure changes in the pipes. Organs are amazing things to play, and so powerful. So old. Such a profound atmosphere. They're very special.” I finish up by asking Hermione where we’d most likely find her when she’s not creating music, and she replies that she’s most likely teaching it. Or in the kitchen, cooking. Her five-year-old daughter, too, of course takes up a good chunk of her day—and the young girl’s love of drums means that Hermione might have a new jamming partner soon (“she’s definitely got rhythm and melody!”). And as for Hermione’s cooking skills?

Words — Jamie Christian Desplaces

“Sometimes they’re okay,” she says. “Like music, it depends on the circumstance.”

Abstract Art and all that Jazz

“I’m in the business of moving people,” says Richard Adams, before adding, after a brief pause, “emotionally, you know.” Though, as one of New Zealand’s most gifted jazz musicians, Richard is certainly in the business of getting people to move to his groove, too.

APRIL 2021

This most creative of multi-disciplined Kiwis is probably most well-known as the violinist and vocalist and driving force behind iconic jazz ensemble The Nairobi Trio, but he is an accomplished, internationally exhibited abstract artist who began his career first as an actor, then as a scenic artist and art director in the burgeoning New Zealand film and television industry, and has also published a book of poems. “It’s not an easy job being an artist and musician and managing your own career,” he muses. “Early on, I thought I’d be a Renaissance artist—if you roll back the camera a few hundred years, they did everything! Nowadays, you almost have to be multi-disciplined. Joni Mitchell for example, she’s a fantastic painter. I met her once, when she was touring down here. She said that she liked my violin playing, that you don’t often see them in the jazz and blues scene. We had afternoon tea at The Regent, and she said to look her up if ever I was in the US. Never made it over there though. I had a teenage daughter at the time, among other commitments.” Richard’s daughter, now in her 40s, has carved out a successful acting career across the ditch, while his teenage son has inherited the musical genes, as Richard did from his classically trained violinist mum (she gained a scholarship for the UK’s Royal College of Music). I ask Richard, who was born in the UK to Kiwi parents, if music was just always part of his childhood, or if he remembers the moment that he became aware of his mother’s art. “I do remember, actually,” he says. “She used to have a chamber music group, and she would take me to rehearsals. I would sit under the grand piano and watch them play. It was then I remember thinking that the violin was for me, and it was obviously a given that my mother would teach me.” Moving back to Wellington from the UK was, back in the early ‘70s, “quite the anti-climax” for the then 14-year-old. Within a couple of years, he was playing in the Wellington Symphonia but would fail his audition for the National Orchestra due to his poor sight-reading having learnt to play by ear. This inadvertently turned him on to rock and jazz, laying the foundations for his idiosyncratic style. “The violin is a tricky instrument,” says the musician. “Vocals aside, it’s the lead sound in an orchestra—a melody, rather than a chordal instrument. And it’s emotional, like a voice. I used to listen to the guitars of Uriah Heep and wonder how I could replicate that on a violin. I had the dexterity thanks to my classical background—and then discovered the wah-wah pedal which made it far more exciting!” Richard says that Stéphane Grappelli’s tour of New Zealand around that time had a massive influence on him, too. I ask what his mother thought about his reinterpretation of her beloved instrument. “She knew I had something, because she said that I always used to make the fiddle sing, but she always hoped that I would join the

orchestra. Though she thought it was fantastic, she wondered if there was a future in it. Fortunately, she lived long enough to just see us start out, which was great.” In true Renaissance style, Richard had plenty of irons in the fire. 1979—the same year he published his first book of poems and etchings, Translations—saw the release of Artman, a surrealist film that he co-scripted, co-directed and starred in with the film maker and great friend George Rose, and which was shown at the ninth International Wellington Film Festival. For most of the 1980s, he continued to act before serving as head scenic artist for the New Zealand Film Industry, working on the likes of Heart of the Stag, Came a Hot Friday, Sylvia, in which his then 12-yearold daughter played the lead child role, and Merry Christmas Mr Lawrence starring David Bowie (outside of filming, Richard even had a chance to jam and play soccer with Bowie, as well as Ryuichi Sakamoto). “It was such an exciting time, with the NZ film industry really just starting up.” Richard first began exhibiting his paintings in Wellington in 1982 and has since been shown in galleries around the globe, gracing cities such as Tokyo, Sydney, London, New York, and Dubai. Richard Wolfe from Art NZ describes the painter’s work as hovering between the “natural” and “non-representational” forms of abstract art. But it is music that remains Richard’s first love, co-founding The Nairobi Trio in 1989 and, pandemics aside, touring New Zealand, Asia, Europe, and Australia pretty much every year since. “The incredible thing about music, like live acting, is that it happens, it takes place, it’s instant, and the audience responds,” he says. “Painting is a far more individual kind of creative process, so different from performing.” Richard says that he still gets butterflies before taking to the stage, and enjoys feeding off the audience’s energy and “feeling what they feel”. The best music he ever plays he says that he almost doesn’t have to play: “It’s as if the violin just plays itself, the instrument and I become one.” Looking back over his three-decade-plus career, it has, muses the musician, been a “remarkable journey”, “constantly in demand” and playing alongside some of his heroes such as Stéphane Grappelli, John Scofield and James Morrison. Though he does add, somewhat wistfully, that there’s been some artistic flak for playing gigs for the corporates over the years. But even those Renaissance artists had to pay the bills, I say, hired hands for the Catholic Church who were the largest corporation of the day. “Exactly, crossing the board to make ends meet," says Richard. "One has to make sacrifices in order to do the things that one loves—as 10cc sang: 'Art for art’s sake, money for God’s sake'.”

Words - Jamie Christian Desplaces

ART & ABOUT

NZTrio.

WHAT'S 8 APRIL Longroom, 114 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby

PAINT AND WINE STARRY NIGHT

9—10 APRIL Kiri Te Kawana Theatre Aotea Centre

BLUE PLANET II

ON Van Gogh Alive. Credit: Rebecca McMillan Photography.

The Starry Night is one of the most recognisable pieces of art in the world. In anticipation of the globally acclaimed Van Gogh exhibit, why not grab a few friends and have a relaxing but fun night out with this ‘Paint and Wine Night’ event. We’ve heard the pairing of a glass of wine or two really helps to get those authentic dabs and swirls. Tickets are available online; the event runs from 7pm-9pm.

David Attenborough’s BAFTA award winning Blue Planet II is a masterpiece. The message, visuals and narration are a perfect blend, further highlighted by Hans Zimmer’s epic score. Auckland’s Philharmonia Orchestra are taking this a step further, with a live performance to accompany a screening of the series key moments. You won’t want to miss this breath-taking and informative experience, suitable for all ages.

10 AND 18 APRIL Nathan Homestead & Concert Chamber, Auckland Town Hall

NZTRIO DRAMATIC SKIES 1: STRATUS

15 APRIL—6 MAY Spark Arena

VAN GOGH ALIVE

NZTrio, one of New Zealand’s leading classical ensembles, have announced three exciting performances for 2021, starting with Dramatic Skies in April. This piece is inspired by Aotearoa’s eponymous clouds that hug the horizon. The series guides the audience through a voyage of intense emotional contrasts as it travels between sweetness, drama, light and darkness. The second show, Cumulus, will arrive in September; followed by Cirrus in December.

It’s Auckland’s turn to host the most visited multi-sensory exhibit in the world. Saunter through Sunflowers as if you were in the painting itself. Immerse yourself in The Starry Night as its projected swirls sweep over and around you. Let yourself be captivated with this expansive exploration into Van Gogh’s life and mind. Enjoyable for all ages, tickets are available online.

APRIL 2021

WORDS—BELLA SAMPSON

16—18 APRIL Aotea Square

LATIN FIESTA Get ready to experience the vitality of Latin American culture right in the city centre. For three days, the free all-ages event will showcase live Brazilian bands, Samba parades, a 15-piece Latin band and DJs. Learn to dance with the free salsa and tango classes, enjoy some delicious authentic food from the market and explore the vibrant culture.

17-18 APRIL Westhaven Marina, 137 Westhaven Dr, Westhaven

SWIM THE BRIDGE

17 APRIL 17-19 Turua St, St Heliers

ST HELIERS CRAFT, DESIGN AND FINE FOOD MARKET St Heliers market is a celebration of the creative talent in the community. Highlighting the expertise of unique designs, luxurious handmade goods and fine foods one won’t find anywhere else. Suitable for all ages, you’re bound to find a few appealing treasures or treats. The market runs from 10am-2pm.

30 APRIL Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre

BEST FOODS COMEDY GALA The Best Foods Comedy Gala is back with a legendary line-up to kick off the 2021 New Zealand International Comedy Festival! Join New Zealand’s comedy queen, Justine Smith, as she guides us through Aotearoa's superstars' bite-sized sets. This year features a multi-talented and award adorned bunch: The genius Taskmaster champion Angella Dravid, 7 Days’ darling Ben Hurley, TV/social media/felting legend Chris Parker, as well as half of the Laughing Samoans and the fringe favourite; Tofiga Fepulea’i! The Gala is guaranteed to be an abachingly hilarious evening, that you won’t want to miss.

Yotam Ottolenghi and Ixta Belfrage.

Harcourts Cooper and Co are once again hosting the popular end of summer Harbour Bridge Swim. There’s something quite cool about being able to point to the Harbour Bridge and say you’ve swam one of the country’s most iconic landmarks, with a medal to prove it! The event is free, monitored for safety and suitable for all ages confident in swimming.

16 JUNE The Civic, Auckland

YOTAM OTTOLENGHI – FLAVOUR OF LIFE Chef, author and much loved foodie Yotam Ottolenghi is touring New Zealand in June 2021. In an event sure to stimulate the senses, Yotam will reveal his nextlevel approach to cooking explored in his stunning new book Ottolenghi FLAVOUR. It will be an exclusive opportunity to hear directly from the man himself about the taste sensations and ingredients that excite him and will inspire your own cooking. The live show Flavour of Life is all about sharing and caring. The internationally acclaimed chef and writer talks about his influences and experiences and offers insights about being a restauranteur and how you can dial up the flavour and be a surefire hit at mealtimes.

Out & About Lightworx Gallery

lightworxgallery.co.nz

Lightworx Gallery by Artbay has recently opened their doors at Viaduct Harbour. Here you'll find the spectacular and innovative works of awardwinning NZ and internationally light artists including Max Patté, Trish Campbell, Wendy Hannah, Robert Jahnke, Shannon Novak and Tim Christie. See images from their opening night.

Shop 1/110 Customs St West, Auckland

NZ Booklovers Awards 2021 Winners

nzbooklovers.co.nz is a wonderful site created by book lovers for book lovers, a bookworms’ hub in fact. Dedicated to bringing you everything you need to know about the book world, including author interviews, reviews and latest book news. Recently they announced the winning titles of the 2021 NZ Booklovers Awards as shared below.

Addressed to Greta Fiona Sussman

Wins the NZ Booklovers Award for Best Adult Fiction Book 2021. Published by Bateman

The judges said, "You must meet Greta, one of the most wellrealised and endearing figures in recent New Zealand fiction. Sussman, a Ngaio Marsh Award winner for Best Novel, takes an oft-traversed path – protagonist receives an unexpected inheritance with strings attached – and then rejects predictability, letting Greta loose on a global adventure that turns her quiet life on its head. If a woman in her later 30s can be the subject of a bildungsroman, that’s Addressed to Greta – but categorisation aside, this novel is something special, and a passage set in Rwanda is a superb example of historically informed storytelling."

Aroha Dr Hinemoa Elder

Wins the NZ Booklovers Award for Best Lifestyle Book 2021. Published by Penguin Random House

The judges said, "Dr Hinemoa Elder shares timeless Māori wisdom for a contented life, in harmony with our planet. Each of the 52 whakataukī – traditional life lessons – is expertly explained by the respected Māori psychiatrist. Aroha is an extraordinary book offering an alternative way to view the world, our place within it and how we live alongside each other. Dr Elder’s accessible writing makes this a delightful guide, inspiring readers to find aroha in the modern world. This must-have hardback incorporates traditional art and decoration in its thoughtful design."

I am the Universe Vasanti Unka

Wins the NZ Booklovers Award for Best Children’s Book 2021. Published by Penguin Random House.

The judges said, "Wonderful illustrations combine with sparse, yet vibrant, descriptions to create a deftly structured book beginning with the vastness of the universe which then gradually narrows its focus to the earth and, finally, to the domestic lives of people living here. This is a book which informs through entertainment, and children – and adults – will be tempted into it again and again by the vivid and detailed images."

ST MATTHEW PASSION J.S. BACH

APRIL SUNDAY, 5PM AUCKLAND TOWN HALL

ELIZABETH MANDENO · SOPRANO CATRIN JOHNSSON · ALTO IAIN TETLEY · EVANGELIST LACHLAN CRAIG · TENOR JOEL AMOSA · CHRIST WILLIAM KING · BARITONE CONDUCTED BY RITA PACZIAN with AUCKLAND GIRLS’ CHOIR

BACH

MUSICA NZ

TICKETS: Ph 09 970 9700 www.ticketmaster.co.nz

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Sophie Vincent Acting Up

Stepping into someone else’s shoes is one of the things Sophie Vincent most loves about acting. It is, she muses, a “strange privilege to understand someone’s circumstance” and one that can be mentally challenging. It encourages you to explore previously unexplored parts of your inner psyche, developing intuitiveness and self-knowledge “at the deepest level”.

Among Aotearoa’s most promising creatives (read: actor, singer, writer, and theatre-maker), Sophie is currently majoring in drama at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, and has already performed in the UK as well as New York, singing in Carnegie Hall, Windsor Castle, and Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod festival. “Since I can remember, I’ve been an extremely extroverted and animated person,” she says. “Chatty and bold like my parents! Our piles of home videos are full of concerts I’d put on for them. My sister—who is a makeup artist—would dress my cousins and I up, do our makeup, and we would act out talk shows, dance around and sing songs. I’d put on voices, play different characters and make my parents hysterical with my silly impressions that I’d stolen from watching Disney Channel. I got such a thrill from entertaining.” Sophie’s first public performance was as Mary in her kindergarten nativity play, then, she says, drama classes became her “safe haven” where she could “express myself and transform”. “The feeling I felt from being on stage with people I had grown to love, and the rush it gave me, I knew I would be chasing that feeling for the rest of my life,” she says. “There was simply nothing else like it. Anyone who has grown up around the theatre knows that there is a certain magic to it. It has brought me endless joy, a sense of community, and most of my closest friends.” Not to mention a few life lessons, too. “Acting has taught me that the human experience is truly the most fascinating thing to exist. I constantly find myself curious about why

we are the way we are. I love that each character is a new challenge, there are not two characters who are the same, and that from the outside you can never be sure of what someone is going through. So, the main thing that acting has taught me, is to always lead with empathy.” Sophie’s mum, Sandi, she says, as taught her much also. A constant source of inspiration, Sophie beams that she’s “bold and driven and doesn’t let anyone tell her what she can and can’t do”: “She successfully runs a business and raised my sister and I to believe that we could do and be whatever I put we put our minds to. I’m so eternally grateful for this example of strong femininity growing up.” Professionally, Sophie names icons such as Nicole Kidman, Cate Blanchett, Kate Winslet, and Viola Davis among those who have inspired her by “reshaping the entertainment industry” in order to allow “more opportunity for women every day”. Younger heroes include Zendaya, Elle Fanning and Saoirse Ronan. I ask Sophie if she prefers acting in front of a camera, or on stage. “I think the stage will always have my heart,” she says. “The physical energy present within theatre is unmatched to anything I’ve ever experienced. Being in a room full of living, breathing people is a part of the theatre experience that makes it so unique. Though I find that recently I’ve found myself falling in love with the intimacy of film and television and working with a camera. I’m mainly focusing on film and TV work at the moment as I’ve spent most of my college career at NYU doing theatre through the Stella Adler Studio of Acting, but now am continuing my studies at Stonestreet Studios.”

ART & ABOUT Do you get stage fright?

“Nerves are always a part of performing. I’ve started to enjoy them, as strange as that sounds. I welcome them. They remind me that I care, that I’m invested, that what I’m doing has significance and that I’m about to create a little magic. I don’t try to fight or avoid them, but rather use them to propel me on stage, or in front of the camera. Plus, I’m usually not playing myself, so that makes things a little easier as I have the mask of a character to play behind.”

Is there a particular piece you always perform at auditions?

“It changes depending on the audition that I’m doing. But if I have the choice of my piece, I pick scenes with strong and complex women as that is something I always want to see more of in the industry.” Though she’d always dreamt of studying acting, by the end of high school, Sophie says that it seemed more and more like an “unrealistic pipe dream”. Thanks to the persistence of a handful of teachers who showed belief in her she applied to three of Australia’s leading acting schools… but didn’t get in. “I felt pretty lost,” she admits. “I remember crying on the floor of the shower as my mum sat on the other side of the glass saying, ‘Your time will come.’ I then planned that I’d take a gap year and reaudition the following year.” When applying for some short drama courses (including the Actors Centre Australia in Sydney where she was accepted and spent five months), Sophie’s mum convinced her to apply for New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. “I thought, maybe the idea of going overseas wasn’t so unrealistic so I also applied, and was luckily accepted,” she says. “Some things really do happen for a reason. Since being in New York, I have grown astronomically. I love the energy of the city, and its restlessness is similar to mine. The thing about New York City is that you can be whoever you want to be. I feel like there is room for me to expand here and claim my full potential. I’m still growing and learning this every day. I love to sit in the various parks and people watch, as well as walk through the West Village and along the Hudson River. I deeply miss seeing live theatre, going to the movies, and sitting in little coffee shops since the pandemic began.”

14 6

Post-pandemic restrictions, Sophie says that the first thing she’ll do is get herself a ticket to a Broadway show. “Just thinking about sitting in a theatre makes me want to cry, I miss it more than anything. That and going out dancing with my friends, since my year of being a 21-year-old in NYC was mostly in lockdown.” What do you most miss about Aotearoa?

“Currently, a lot. I always miss my family and friends who are there. I’m in a long-distance relationship, so obviously missing that too. Being in America during the pandemic, but also throughout the Trump administration, has been strange and a bit scary. I don’t find myself wanting to move home but do miss being able to visit since Covid-19 has made travelling much harder.” Even though it’s been such an isolating period, with much of her courses and training conducted online, Sophie says that the Big Apple “never lost its charm or sense of community”: “Just taking a walk around the village is a pretty quick way to remind myself how lucky I am to be here.” A “proud Kiwi”, Sophie says that she was amazed to discover just how many Americans didn’t even know where Aotearoa was when she first arrived, but in a bitter-sweet twist, that has now all changed, too. “New Zealand has really become a country that Americans wish they could move to,” says the actress. “People here love New Zealand and view it as a safe and wonderful place to live. They aren’t wrong.”

vervemagazine.co.nz

Six Minutes To Midnight

O ffi x o ce B

01 April

22 April

Two By Two: Overboard!

Six Minutes To Midnight

Noah’s ark drifts on the open seas, with best friends Finny and Leah on board. But, after weeks with no land in sight, food stocks are running low. The fragile peace between carnivores and herbivores could break any second. After a series of unfortunate events, the kids find themselves inadvertently washed overboard – along with the last of the food supplies! Leah and fellow castaway, their new friend Jelly, are marooned on a remote island. While Finny wakes in a strange colony filled with oddly familiar creatures living in harmony – under the threat of a menacing volcano! In a race against time, tide and terrifying tremors, Finny must rescue his friends, reunite with his family and save a whole colony from total destruction.

Based on incredible true events and starring Dame Judi Dench, Eddie Izzard and Jim Broadbent.

Twist A modern take on the classic tale of Oliver Twist. A chance encounter with a gang of grifters led by the charismatic Dodge sees Twist caught up in a high stakes heist to steal a priceless painting for a master thief, Fagin, and his psychopathic business partner, Sikes.

22 April

In the summer of 1939, influential families in Nazi Germany have sent their daughters to a finishing school in an English seaside town to learn the language and be ambassadors for future-looking National Socialists. A teacher there sees what is coming and is trying to raise the alarm. But the authorities believe he is the problem.

The Godmother Based on the novel by Hannelore Cayre, the story centres around Patience Portefeux, an underpaid, overworked French-Arabic translator in charge of phone surveillance for a narcotics police unit. When she realises she knows the mother of one of the drug dealers, Patience decides to cover for him and gets herself more and more deeply involved in the world of drug trafficking. Soon, she is using her insider knowledge and police resources to build her own crime network and earns the name Mama Weed.

29 April

Cooking Conversations

Emma Galloway

APRIL 2021

We first came across Emma Galloway around eight years ago, having discovered her delightful food blog online. Loving the healthy, homely cuisine, and excited to know that it's created in one of our favourite beach side villages, Raglan, we reached out and invited Emma to send in a few sample recipes for publication in Verve. Now, many years later, we are proud to be able to share a few more of her recipes - this time from her latest book, My Darling Lemon Thyme: Every Day. We also chat to Emma about cooking, blogging and family life.

What did 2020 remind you of when it comes to the importance of good quality home cooking? It reminded me of how beautiful simplicity can be and that we definitely don’t need expensive or hard-to-find ingredients to make a nourishing and flavour-packed meal. You’ve been running your award-winning food blog, My Darling Lemon Thyme, for over a decade now; what prompted you to start it? I discovered US-based food blogs around the time and it blew my food-obsessed mind. I was at home with two young kids and missing being creative in the kitchen, so it seemed like the perfect outlet for me. I had no idea what I was doing, but I taught myself food styling, writing and photography along the way. Have there been any shifts or changes in your approach to cooking since you started your blog? My approach to cooking has pretty much stayed the same from day one, focusing on simple, real food, made from scratch that just happens to be vegetarian and gluten-free, as these ethos have always been important to me. But one thing that has changed is society’s views on vegetarian and/or gluten-free cooking! I was one of only a handful of food bloggers around the world when I first started out, who shared vegetarian and gluten-free recipes, so my style of cooking was still looked upon as ‘niche’. I remember when I first shared how to make kombucha at home back in 2010 and people were like ‘um, sounds interesting’. Nowadays my style of cooking is almost mainstream! What has been the most rewarding part of running your blog? Seeing the community grow around it. I’m still in touch with many of my blogging friends from around the world, and also many of my first readers too. You mention on your website that you and your children are gluten and lactose intolerant; have these restrictions forced you to be more creative when it comes to coming up with new food ideas? Yes, these limitations have definitely forced me to think outside the box on more than one occasion. For me texture and flavour are super important components of what makes a recipe delicious, so I use these as my guide when forced to consider alternative ingredients.

How did you develop the idea for My Darling Lemon Thyme, Every Day? Over the years I’ve heard from so many people struggling to create affordable, achievable and nourishing food for themselves and their families, so the idea for this book has been brewing for some time. It’s also honestly just how I approach cooking! Simple, waste-free, seasonal, utilising leftovers, using simple everyday ingredients and recipes which are highly adaptable. Dotted throughout my Every Day recipes, you’ll find my base or ‘anything’ recipes, with examples of how you can change things up to suit your tastes or what you might have at hand at different times of the year. This is how chefs have always cooked but, I’ve noticed it’s not something home cooks always know how to do. I want to help change that, to empower the reader to be bold and cook with confidence. As well as creating really simple recipes, I also purposely paired back my already minimalist styling in a lot of the images. Some recipes I didn’t even bother with garnishes. I wanted to present the recipes in as honest a way as possible, so when people cook my recipes at home, they look the same as what they see in the pages of my book. There are over 100 recipes in this book; were there more that you had to leave out and if so, do you have a process for deciding which ones make the cut? All the recipes that I turned in with my manuscript made it into the book! We nearly had to cull a couple to make room for more photos and to get the layout to fit, but in the end it all fitted. There were of course recipes I worked on in the early stages of creating this book that sounded like a great idea in my head but when I actually started testing them, they either simply didn’t work or I really just wasn’t feeling them anymore. So those ones were tossed aside. I don’t have a process for deciding which ones make the cut as such -it’s more of a gut instinct for me- but if it’s not utterly delicious, something I’d want to make again myself, or if the process turned out to be too lengthy or used ingredients that were either expensive or hard to find, it’s fair to say it didn’t make it into this book. What is your favourite recipe in this book? I don’t have a favourite, that’s like picking a favourite child! But a few of the many I love are: everyday buckwheat sourdough, speedy nachos with the lot, beetroot curry, shredded carrot salad bowls, anything pizza, any-fruit cobbler.

149

Makes 12–14 Slices

Gluten Free

Vegan Based

Cardamom + Dark Chocolate ‘Cheesecake’ Bars This ‘cheesecake’ makes a great plan-ahead dessert and will store happily in the fridge for 4–5 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. I prefer to use freshly ground cardamom seeds because their flavour is superior, but you could use 1–2 teaspoons ground cardamom at a pinch. In recipes like these, where the cashews are blended, you can use cashew pieces instead of whole nuts because they’re usually cheaper. Start this recipe the night before to soak the cashews.

Ingredients

Method

Base

240g (11/2cups) dried pitted dates, roughly chopped 100g (2/3 cup) raw almonds 1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil, melted

Filling

375g (3 cups) raw cashew nuts, soaked overnight in cold water + drained well 185ml (¾ cup) virgin coconutoil, melted 125ml (½ cup) freshly squeezed lemon juice 125ml (½ cup) pure maple syrup 2 teaspoons vanilla extract ¼ teaspoon fine salt seeds from 20 cardamom pods (or 2 teaspoons ground cardamom)

Topping

85g dairy-free dark chocolate, roughly chopped 60ml (¼ cup) coconut milk 2 tablespoons pure maple/brown rice syrup

To make the cheesecake base, line a 28cm x 18cm slice tin with baking paper, overlapping the sides by 2cm. Put the pitted dates, almonds and melted coconut oil into a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Press the mixture into the tin, using the back of a spoon to pack it in firmly.

To make the filling, place all the filling ingredients into a highpowered blender and blend on high until smooth. If you don’t have a high-powered blender, finely grind the cardamom seeds in a mortar and pestle first, before adding to the blender. Pour the mixture over the base and smooth the top. Allow to set in the fridge for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight.

To make the chocolate topping, place the dark chocolate into a small heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of boiling water, making sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl. Add the coconut milk and the maple/brown rice syrup and heat gently until melted. If it starts to look a little split (this can happen because of the coconut milk), whisk to bring it back together into a smooth sauce. When just melted, remove from the heat and set aside to cool slightly, before spreading over the cheesecake. Return to the fridge until set. Once set, slice into 12–14 bars, using a sharp knife warmed under running hot water.

Serves 4

Gluten Free

Vegan Based

Mushroom + Lentil Spaghetti Youll probably notice I’m not the biggest fan of pasta. I much prefer to eat rice, gluten-free grains or vegetables … with the exception of this Mushroom + Lentil Spaghetti (and a couple of recipes in Chapter 8: Plan Ahead). This is a riff on the lentil spaghetti recipe I grew up eating and shared in my first cookbook, My Darling Lemon Thyme. There are so many more gluten-free pastas available now than when I started eating gluten-free, nearly 15 years ago, when they’d dissolve into a gluggy mess at the bottom of the saucepan! Gluten-free pasta sure has come a long way and many wouldn’t be able to tell the difference now.

Ingredients

Method

‘Recipes extract from Every Day by Emma Galloway (HarperCollins NZ RRP $60)’

115g (1/2 cup) puy-style lentils, rinsed 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 onion, finely diced 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped 250g button mushrooms, trimmed + finely chopped 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme leaves 1 teaspoon dried oregano pinch of dried chilli flakes 750ml bottle passata (tomato puree) handful of black olives, pitted + roughly chopped fine salt + freshly ground black pepper pinch of unrefined raw sugar gluten-free spaghetti, cooked according to packet instructions, to serve handful of basil/flat-leaf parsley leaves, to serve

Place lentils into a small saucepan over medium heat and cover with plenty of cold water. Bring to the boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until just tender. Drain well.

After cooking spaghetti, drain, drizzle with a little olive oil, cover and set aside until needed.

Meanwhile, make the sauce. Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat, add onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until soft. Add garlic, mushrooms, thyme, oregano and chilli. Cook, stirring often, for a good 5 minutes or more, until the mushrooms are cooked and their liquid has evaporated. Add passata, cooked lentils and chopped olives, then season to taste with salt, pepper and sugar. Bring to the boil then reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes, adding a touch of water if the sauce gets too thick. Serve hot over cooked spaghetti, scattered with torn herbs, if using.

Any leftover lentil sauce is delicious heated up the following day. Serve it over hot buttered toast, or add a couple of spoonfuls to a cheese toasty, if you eat dairy.

FOOD & WINE

15 4

Juno Gin 2020 brought us a year of change. So, in 2021 in order to promote and enhance the local creative and design industry, the masterminds behind award winning Juno Gin, Jo and Dave James, ran a social media competition inviting submissions for their upcoming seasonal gin labels. With a total of four prizes up for grabs, one for each season, and an honest $1,000 cash plus a 2021 seasonal release four-pack of gin, the competition started to gain traction. Narrowing down the entries was a difficult task with strong competition for each of the seasonal labels. After careful consideration and guidance from Strategy Collective, Juno’s brand and marketing partner, four winners were chosen with a winning design for each season. Summer 21 Seasonal Gin has been released with the label designed by aspiring graphic designer Abbey Barlow, currently studying at AUT. Shrouded in mystery, Juno’s Summer 21 Gin has a splash of citrus sourness, and a hint of smokey exotica; is best enjoyed on a sunny day. Serve with Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water and mint for the ultimate refreshment. Complement with a fruit and cheese platter and enjoy a fine moment together. The next limited release seasonal gin is set to be released 24 April with an exclusive First Pour evening at Begin Distilling. Following a La Niña summer, we have paired cranberry and a hint of fig leaf for a full autumn flavour. Lightly berry, fully refreshing, delightful with tonic or soda. Garnish with a slice of fig or orange for an earthy tipple. The label for Autumn 21 Seasonal Gin, named Red Martini, was designed by Niels Yuan who abstracted a woman enjoying a martini at a garden party amongst the autumn leaves.

Styx Barrel-Aged Gin Limited to only 256 bottles, Styx is a creative collaboration with artist Phil ‘Suspect’ Jones who has individually decorated each bottle in a distinguishing style. This unique gin, inspired by the mythical underworld river Styx, is barrel-aged in a refurbished French oak port barrel for distinctive flavour. This strictly limited release, the second from the team at Juno Gin, has a bright juniper note, and a classic vanilla and toffee finish. Served best neat or with water for maximum tasting pleasure.

“Let your mind do the travelling, and your tastebuds roam the world.”

Aotearoa’s goddess of gin.

Taste the divine. Pure New Zealand mountain water. Botanicals—fresh, local, hand-selected. Freeing mother nature to become spirit through artistry in the copper still.

Order online junogin.co.nz Available at: Liquorland Newmarket, Caro’s Wines, Liquorland Boutique Remuera, Cahn and Finlay Wines and Spirits, Kiwi Liquor Ponsonby

FOOD & WINE

The Wine Rack

WO R D S : D E NNI S KNI L L Wine lover and writer extraordinaIre

For the venturesome here are a selection of red and white varietals produced by Yealands Estate, one of our most progressive wineries: 1. ’19 Yealands Estate Single Vineyard pinot gris, gewürztraminer, riesling An exceptional well balanced aromatic trifecta lined up with rich fruity characters that are intense, clean and fresh. A first class blend that will not disappoint, RRP $25.

15 6

When purchasing wine, grape variety, price, winery and even the label deserve respect. And as the winds of change continues to sweep the New Zealand wine industry with new and interesting varietals there is much to report. Long gone are the days when MüllerThurgau and Chasseur were the only table wines produced. While some wine lovers prefer to drink the tried and true thanks to a new generation of winemakers we are blessed with enterprising wineries that are breaking new ground in their endeavours to producing an increasing range of red and white varietals. As wine drinkers become more adventurous vineyards are producing more of the lesser known varietals . When it comes to white wine some wine lovers are content to sip on sauvignon blanc, chardonnay or pinot gris but if its adventure you’re after you can take your pick from riesling, rose, gewürztraminer, viognier, albarino, arneis, verdelho, chenin blanc, semillion and gruner veltliner. And for those drawn to red wines with cabernet sauvignon, syrah and pinot noir leading the charge the magic of merlot, malbec, pinotage, chambourcin, tempranillo and montepulciano offer more than just a small voice.

2. ’19 Yealands Estate Single Vineyard gruner veltliner Bright, fresh and full bodied with an intense crisp richness and texture boasting complex aromas. Assertive and big on the nose and a fine example of what has been done with this grape, RRP $25.

3. ‘19 Yealands Estate merlot This fruit driven deeply coloured full-bodied Bordeaux-style wine is in good hands. With concentrated lively fresh flavours and ripe supple tannins that carry all the way across the palate. Great buying at this price, RRP $17.

4. ‘18 Yealands Estate Single vineyard tempranillo One of Spain’s greatest and impressive indigenous varieties. An intensely concentrated tannic delicious red wine that is bold in colour with deep ripe fruity flavours, RRP $30.

vervemagazine.co.nz

Stunning Central Otago A haven of incredible mountain and lake views, Central Otago is also a haven of fantastic wines. With distinct subregions, with differing soils and climates, there is more to Central Otago wine than meets the eye. Words – Angie Atkinson

Akitu A1 Pinot Noir 2017 Wanaka The northernmost subregion, the close proximity to the lake moderates the climate. A small subregion in production, but one of the most picturesque. 38% whole bunch and aged in French oak barrels for 10 months of which 20% was new. The colour of crushed red velvet with striking aromas of dark cherry, red plum, baking spices and herbaceous notes. Medium bodied with a generous mid palate filled with ripe berries and a hint of smoky oak and a long savoury finish. Serve with roast lamb or venison.

Peregrine Methode Traditionelle NV Gibbston The closest subregion to Queenstown and the first to have commercial success. Gibbston is a high altitude and cooler subregion. Made from handpicked pinot noir (60%) and chardonnay (40%) from certified organic vineyards. This sparkling wine is fermented in both stainless tanks and old oak barrels. Lovely aromas of freshly baked brioche, stone fruit and floral notes with underlying red berries. A dry wine with flavours of apple and ripe citrus with fine, persistent bubbles. Perfect for any occasion!

Lamont Pinot Gris 2018 Bendigo

Burn Cottage Riesling Gruner Veltliner 2018 Lowburn & Pisa

Planted on north-facing slopes, Bendigo is the warmest subregion and has plantings on both the steep ridges and the lower valley. Fermented in both stainless steel and old oak barrels with less stirring to develop complexity. Stunning aromas of baked apple, Nashi pear and white blossom with touches and white spice. A dry wine with a textured palate and flavours of poached pear, ripe citrus, and hints of vanilla and ginger with a splash of lively acidity. Delicious!

Running along the highway connecting Cromwell and Wānaka, this subregion is mostly planted on the valley floor, with varied soil types and microclimates. A blend of riesling (65%) and Grüner Veltliner (35%) that were harvested, lightly foot crushed and pressed separately and fermented in old, neutral oak barrels. Complex and vibrant aromas of lemon, green apple, and kaffir lime with crunchy mineral and light vegetal notes. A dry palate with concentrated flavours and a perfectly zesty finish.

Dicey Chenin Blanc 2020 Bannockburn

Two Paddocks Rose 2020 Alexandra

A short drive from Cromwell, this subregion is home to some of Central Otago’s most well-known brands. Warm and dry, Bannockburn produces complex and intense wines. A new brand by brothers, James and Matt Dicey. Gently pressed and fermented with indigenous yeast, the wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered making it vegan-friendly. Intense aromas of apricot, red apple, wildflowers, and sweet citrus. The aromas carry onto the textural palate and are highlighted by linear acidity that balances the sweetness of the wine. Perfect with or without food.

The southern most subregion, Alexandra was the first area in Central Otago to be planted with vines. It has a very dry climate and extreme variations in temperatures. A single vineyard expression, the grapes are hand-harvested from the certified organic The Last Chance vineyard and then spent four days on skins to extract the desired colour and flavours. A powerful style of rose with flavours and aromas of juicy red and dark cherry, apple blossom and raspberry. Structured and lively, match with squid, tempura vegetables or charcuterie platters.

Serves — 4

Hearty Chickpea Chicken Soup While this is fabulous cooked in a stockpot, there is something very comforting about coming home after a long day and smelling this beautiful soup gently simmering in the slow cooker. The chicken becomes incredibly tender and the chickpeas become so creamy.

Ingredients – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

300g (1 1⁄2 cups) dried chickpeas 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling 1 onion, diced 2 celery stalks, diced 1 fennel bulb, chopped, fronds reserved salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper 2 garlic cloves, chopped 2cm piece of ginger, chopped 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 litre chicken stock 4 chicken drumsticks 2 large handfuls of baby spinach leaves zest and juice of 1/2 lemon 80g (1/3 cup) plain yoghurt or sour cream 3 tablespoons crispy fried shallots chilli flakes, to serve (optional)

Method 1. Soak the chickpeas in plenty of water overnight, then drain and rinse well. 2. Heat the olive oil in a stockpot over medium–high heat and add the onion, celery and fennel. Add a pinch of salt and pepper and cook, stirring regularly, for 4–5 minutes until softened with a little colour. Add the garlic, ginger and cumin seeds and cook for a further 2 minutes. 3. Add the chickpeas to the pot and stir well before adding the chicken stock and enough water to cover everything by 5 cm. Bring to the boil and skim off any impurities that rise to the surface. Turn the heat down to low, cover with the lid and cook for 1 hour. Add the chicken and cook for a further 1 hour, or until the chickpeas are tender and the chicken is falling off the bone. 4. Remove the chicken from the soup. Shred the meat from the bone; discard the fat and bones. Remove half a cup of the cooked chickpeas from the soup and reserve to serve. 5. Spoon 3 ladlefuls of chickpeas and broth into a blender and blend until smooth. Alternatively, use a hand-held blender and pulse three or four times. This gives a creamy finish to the soup. If using the blender, pour the puree back into the soup. Check the seasoning; it may need a little extra salt at this stage. Return the chicken to the soup and stir through the spinach, lemon zest and juice. 6. Divide the soup among bowls and add a dollop of yoghurt or sour cream. Scatter over the crispy fried shallots and reserved chickpeas and fennel fronds. Add a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of chilli flakes (if using) and serve.

Notes Alternatively, use two 400g cans of drained and rinsed chickpeas.

The Slow Cook by Justine Schofield RRP $39.99

If cooking the traditional way, cover the canned chickpeas with 2cm of water (instead of 5cm) and cook for 1 1/2 hours; if using the slow cooker, cook on low for 6 hours.

Serves — 4

Lamb Shank Pies What’s not to love about saucy, red wine–braised lamb shanks crowned with flaky, buttery puff pastry? I make this when I want to wow my guest as there is something so theatrical about an exposed shank piercing a golden pastry top. What I love most about these pies is that the pastry is cooked separately so it’s crispy on both sides. If you’re super organised, make the shanks a day ahead and gently reheat the following day while you bake the pastry.

Ingredients – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

4 lamb shanks, French trimmed salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 onion, diced 1 carrot, diced 1 celery stalk, diced 300g button mushrooms, quartered 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1 rosemary sprig 1 star anise 1 tablespoon tomato paste 500ml (2 cups) red wine (such as shiraz or cabernet sauvignon) 1 litre beef stock 375g good-quality butter puff pastry, rolled out to 3mm thick 1 egg, whisked 3 flat-leaf parsley sprigs, chopped

Notes Follow steps 1 and 2. Place the lamb shanks and sauce in the slow cooker. Place a cartouche (a piece of baking paper cut to fit the dish) on top, then cover with the lid and cook on low for 8–10 hours, or until the meat falls easily away from the bone. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Follow step 4. Bake the pastry rounds for 15–20 minutes, or until puffed and golden. Follow steps 6 and 7.

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 160°C. Season the shanks with salt and pepper. 2. Heat half the olive oil in a large, flameproof casserole dish over high heat. Sear the lamb shanks on all sides for 5–6 minutes, then remove from the dish and place on a plate. Add the remaining oil and sauté the onion, carrot and celery for a few minutes until softened and golden. Add the mushroom, garlic, rosemary and star anise. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a further 30 seconds, then add the wine and boil for 3–5 minutes until almost evaporated. Pour in the stock and again bring to the boil. Return the lamb shanks to the dish. 3. Place a cartouche (a piece of baking paper cut to fit the dish) on top, then cover with the lid. Transfer to the oven to braise for 2 hours, or until the lamb is soft and pulls easily away from the bone. 4. While the lamb shanks are cooking, cut out four pastry rounds using the rim of your chosen pie dishes as a guide (my dishes are 11cm in diameter). Place the pastry rounds on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Using a 3cm diameter cookie cutter, cut out and discard the centre from each round (the pastry will be a doughnut shape). Lightly brush with the whisked egg and chill, uncovered, until ready to bake. 5. Increase the oven temperature to 200°C. Bake the pastry rounds for 15–20 minutes, or until puffed and golden. 6. Remove the lamb shanks from the sauce and shred the meat, reserving the bones for presentation. Reduce the sauce over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, or until rich and reduced by one-third. Fold the meat through the sauce and add the parsley. 7. Place the bone in the centre of each pie dish and spoon in the meat sauce. Top with the pastry, allowing the bone to poke through the central hole.

The Slow Cook by Justine Schofield RRP $39.99

PETS

16 2

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vervemagazine.co.nz

APRIL 2021

The Strand •VETERINARIAN•

Auckland's favourite locally owned and operated vet. Visit the clinic at the Textile Centre 1 Kenwyn Street, Parnell or call to book an appointment.

09 377 6667

thestrandvet.co.nz 163

Time to rug up in cozy sweaters, warm merino and stylish coats for winter.

mrsofttop.com • 021 419 888 vervemagazine.co.nz

FROM LEF T: MOBEENA HILLS ( BRANC H MANAGER C HRISTC HURC H) . ANGELA PARLANE ( MANAGING D IRECTOR) AND NATALIE TOFILAU ( GENERAL MANAGER) .

BUSINESS, EDUCATION AND SOCIETY

16 4

Shining a Light On the Underdog Lawyers don’t always have the best reputation among the general public, but Shine Lawyers do things differently, entirely shunning the corporate dollar to lend their voice—and expertise—to everyday Joes.

“We act for individual people, not large corporations,” Angela Parlane, Managing Director of Shine Lawyers, proudly tells Verve. “We provide access to justice for those that wouldn’t ordinarily be able to stand up for themselves, including people taking on a corporate giant or the government. We never act for insurance companies or for banks or large corporates. That's our point of difference.”

Little wonder then that their principled stance has attracted the attention of Erin Brockovich, who serves as brand ambassador for this innovative law firm. “I picked Shine Lawyers to partner with because they get it,” she says. “Shine care about people; they have families of their own. They respect the law and protect those that have been hurt.”

APRIL 2021

No Job Too Big

The Auckland- and Christchurch-based legal firm specialises in civil and insurance-related litigation, helping thousands of people across Aotearoa “get the justice they deserve”. In Christchurch, their team of lawyers are revered for their formidable representation of hundreds of homeowners against the EQC where they were successful in the representative court action against the Commission for substandard repairs of homes following the quakes. “We weren’t afraid to take on the NZ government and through the legal pressure Shine exerted, a resolution was reached that not only helped our clients, but all Cantabrians who purchased a quake damaged home scoped, assessed or ‘fixed’ by EQC.” Suing insurance companies who fail to pay claims is Shine’s bread and butter. “It can be extremely daunting for people to take on their insurance companies,” says Angela. “Insurance companies make money by selling as many policies as possible and charging premiums. They don't make as much money if they pay out on claims. So, what that means is at claim time, an insurance company is going to look and see how they can decline it or avoid paying. It’s really just a question of economics for many insurers.” The most common method for rejection of a claim is through “the interpretation of wording” of the policy and if the claim falls into a policy exclusion an insurance company will reject the claim. Angela says that some paragraphs of an insurance policy say what an insurer will

cover, but the bulk of the policy is the exclusion section. “At Shine Lawyers we look at whether or not a declined claim is valid based on the policy wording and 9 times out of ten, on cases that come across our desks, the declinature is incorrect and it’s a question of interpretation. “Another tactic insurance companies deploy if they accept a claim, is to pay out as little as possible or say you're only covered for a minimal amount. It might sound legit, but if you don't know where to look, or you don't know that you can do something about it, you'll just bend over. So, that's where we come in. We can help a client stand up against the claims tactics of insurance companies so a client gets a better deal.” Angela is well-versed in tactics employed by insurers having previously worked for their lawyers: “I learnt all of the tricks of the trade early on in my career acting for insurance companies—the insurance companies will often send the claims to their lawyers first to find a way of declining them.” Apart from insurance law, Angela reveals that the lockdowns and general stress of the Covid era has been a catalyst for employment law, divorce and separations. Shine saw a need to add a relationship property practice to their offerings and its employment practice is thriving. Shine also acts for clients in claims to do with real estate agents, professional service providers such as valuers, engineers, and other lawyers, and have recently launched a practice helping survivors of abuse in state care, churches and schools.

Looking Out For The Little Guy

Angela Parlane: Both Sides Of The Bar

Like Angela, many of her Shine team have also worked on the other side for the insurers so are all familiar with the tactics used to decline claims—and between them, they have decades of invaluable litigation experience.

- Angela Parlane has been practising law since 1994, beginning in a rural firm before moving to Auckland.

“Our tenacity and commitment to client service mean that we will leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice,” says Angela. “We will do everything we can to help you secure the result you are entitled to.” Not taking the large corporate dollar also means that Shine Lawyers need to get creative in their revolutionary approach to justice. “Most legal firms target those big clients because they pay the big bills,” says Angela. “So, we need to be quite innovative in how we charge for our time because not everyone can afford it”. Shine has worked closely with litigation funders in cases it has run and has undertaken work on a pro-bono basis, deferred fee or funded some actions themselves. “Our firm values are to always stand up for the little guy, to dare to be different, and be ahead of the pack. We go above and beyond in what we do, and, most importantly, are not afraid of anyone.”

- She joined Shine Lawyers in early 2018, having run her own boutique practice, Parlane Law, which specialised in civil litigation, insurance litigation and building defect cases, for the best part of a decade. - She has extensive experience in leaky homes and earthquake cases having represented many Christchurch homeowners in disputes with EQC and their insurers. - Angela also has international experience, having worked in Switzerland on an arbitration tribunal established to decide claims to bank accounts from the World War II era (the Claims Resolution Tribunal for Dormant Bank Accounts in Switzerland). - She later worked in Lloyd’s of London before moving back to Switzerland as in-house counsel for a large corporation. - Angela is commentator on legal matters for the national press and has appeared on Fair Go and Breakfast television. - Angela is Managing Director of Shine Lawyers NZ Limited.

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BUSINESS, EDUCATION AND SOCIETY

Eden Village

Tucked away amongst the leafy Mt Eden streets, Oceania’s Eden Village has added brand-new apartments and community facilities to create a luxury boutique village in the heart of it all. Situated in the highly-sought-after central suburb, residents can enjoy the convenience of popping out to their favourite shops and eateries and living close by to family and all the things they love. For many, village life ticks a lot of boxes in terms of being able to maintain the vibrant Auckland lifestyle they’re accustomed to, something that Oceania resident, Trisha, really appreciates. “It is always important to know that if things change you are still able to get around," she says. "And having the shops and public transport nearby is a sense of relief if I could no longer drive.” Eden Village’s one-, two- and two-plus-bedroom apartments have been architecturally designed and feature open-plan living areas, designer kitchens and quality fittings. They’re private and modern and — music to any homeowner’s ears — there’s no upkeep to worry about in a village. “Not having to worry about any maintenance issues or putting the bins out each week is one less thing to think about,” explains Trisha. Outside the front door there’s plenty more on offer. A purpose-built community centre for independent living residents is destined to become a hub of activity. Boasting its own café, gym, cinema, library, dining and barbecue area with fantastic indoor-outdoor flow, residents can look forward to the convenience of having a workout at the gym, then grabbing a coffee with friends without stepping foot outside the village.

Central Auckland living in a boutique environment

And that community aspect is a real drawcard for the Eden Village lifestyle. Specially designed as a boutique village, and significantly smaller than many retirement villages with only 89 apartments in total, its size makes it easy for residents to get to know their neighbours. Equally though, privacy has been considered from the get-go and independence is something that is highly valued in a village. “You can do exactly what you want to do, which allows you to pick and choose what you want to get involved in,” says Trisha. Just a hop, skip and jump from Ponsonby, the Eden Village lifestyle will appeal to many central Auckland dwellers looking to get the most out of their retirement years.

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EDEN

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To find out more, call Barbara on 0800 333 688. 8 Sydenham Road, Mt Eden, Auckland oceaniahealthcare.co.nz

BUSINESS, EDUCATION AND SOCIETY There’s a cycle in politics – political success, leading to arrogance, leading to defeat, leading to a rebuild, leading to success. Jacinda Ardern’s Labour Government appears to be moving to second phase more quickly than most governments. She and her ministers have become used to the fuss, the limousines and public servants at their beck and call. They don’t want to hear criticism.

PG COMMENTS

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A case in point is Jacinda Ardern’s recent decision to drop her weekly slot with Mike Hosking. It’s been a long (not always pleasant) tradition for prime ministers. Now the PM has said she will only do it when it suits (her) – not regularly, week in week out. The whole point of regular slot is that the PM is forced to turn up on the bad days – now she doesn’t have to. This follows the deputy PM and finance minister, Grant Robertson’s decision to drop his weekly slot on Magic radio with Peter Williams. Apparently Mr Williams said something offensive and that was enough. Robertson was out the door quickly. Again, a weekly slot is inconvenient and Peter Williams was in the habit of asking impertinent questions. Here’s a third example. Labour’s 2020 Manifesto, page 23 on local government

states: “Labour will ensure that major decisions about local democracy involve full participation of the local population from the outset”. They did not discuss removing the ability of local populations to have a referendum before introducing Māori wards in local councils. Now in government they have a shameless contradiction to their preelection promise. They’ve rammed the law change on Māori wards through parliament under urgency, with a laughable one day for the public to make submissions. Usually this process takes months. Their argument is that referendums on Māori wards nearly always lose, therefore we have to do away with referendums. Now, more than ever, we need the prime minister and her deputy to be confronted regularly in the media with difficult questions. And when we’re grappling with constitutional changes – such as how we arrange our voting systems, with quite possibly permanent effect – we should have a proper discussion, with all voices heard. And when we’re dealing with a pandemic, the response to which has burdened future generations with untold debt and has dealt a heavy blow to small business owners particularly in affected areas, we need simple, clear and straightforward communication – without the spin.

16 8

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APRIL 2021

BMW 420i Coupe

WO R D S —ANDR EW KERR

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BMW’s bold new 4-Series Coupe is brimful of character.

IN A NUTSHELL BMW 420i Coupe

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The 4-Series Coupe and Convertible range has enjoyed huge global appeal since its debut in 2013. Now BMW has added spice to the recipe for the second generation Coupe. They’ve tweaked the dimensions to give it more road presence and gone quite radical with the styling to distil a distinctive identity. This sleek two-door shouts performance from its dramatic grille backwards and the design turns heads and triggers conversations at every intersection.

you’re immediately struck by an absence of noise, the smoothness of the ride, and fast, seamless shifts from an eight-speed auto. It’s not only a more engaging car to pedal quickly on a winding country road, it’s also a formidable long-distance proposition that will see you conclude a road trip feeling fresh as the proverbial daisy.

The new nose is dominated by large air intakes either side of an unmissable interpretation of the iconic kidney grille. The vertical grille design features raised elements for a 3D effect and is said to be inspired by the grille from the classic 328 coupe of the 1930s. The rear is all about an impression of width, with slim jewellike LED lights mounted high on the hips and sculpted exhausts set low. Two particularly strong character lines run through each flank to give the profile real strength.

If cabin quality reflects more upmarket positioning, so too does the performance in the top-ranked M440i xDrive. Its 275kW straight-six is super-smooth, offers an ocean of thrust and an exquisite soundtrack. But even the entry 420i has a pleasing urgency about it in Sport mode, plus its efficiency is unmatched. In either model, adaptive suspension allows a driver to choose a setting that suits them on the Comfort-Sport spectrum, and surefooted handling and steering response are helped by a lower centre of gravity thanks to extensive use of aluminium up front.

The cabin features a high-end material mix in a familiar layout that includes 12.3in digital instrument and 10.3in infotainment displays. You view these from a low-set, sporting driving position set well back from the steeply-raked windscreen. Once underway,

The new Four makes a bold style statement, then, and backs it up with a high-grade cabin and nicely-honed driving dynamics that make it very relevant on our roads. Reward yourself by viewing it at the new Continental Cars BMW showroom.

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HOROSCOPES WORDS & INSPIRATION — MANISH KUMAR ARORA

manish@manishastrologer.com

ARIES

21 MAR – 19 APR

You are mentally adventurous, ready and willing to learn about 'mind expansion', and less attached to your values. You are forced to begin seeing others as separate individuals, and to improve the manner in which you relate to and with others. Make sure that you are engaging in due diligence regarding your body and health through this period, as it will be all too easy to forget those needs and slide into physical difficulties.

TAURUS

20 APR – 20 MAY

GEMINI

21 MAY – 20 JUN

You might find that inner and personal experiences are more important to you than more worldly ones during this cycle. You might recycle a fond old memory into a new chapter in your career, no matter how far you've come since. How you entertain yourself, how you have fun, and issues surrounding how you manage your ego are now coming up for 'inspection'.

You might consider fine-tuning your talents and skills with higher education or experience during this cycle. You might have the opportunity to reach a broader audience and share your ideas and projects with more people. You would likely make significant changes to your relationships, leave behind a romance, or strengthen your stance on how you will derive pleasure from your life.

CANCER

21 JUN – 22 JUL

Furthering your personal ambitions and interests comes more easily during this cycle. At times, you may feel like the sky is the limit. Ideals and spiritual goals that you may have taken for granted or worked with for many years might suddenly seem superficial or not particularly useful anymore. This is a cycle in which you need to define, understand, and crystallise your significant relationships with others.

LEO

23 JUL – 22 AUG

You may be laying groundwork and building a long-term project that eventually has much significance in your life. The amount of satisfaction you are deriving from your relationship, the quality of the relationship itself, and how you view your partner are all things that you are examining now. Disillusionment is a possibility, as you are beginning to see your relationship without rose-coloured glasses now.

VIRGO 23 AUG – 22 SEPT You need to make a few changes in your life, and you now have the courage and drive to do so. Just be careful that you recognise the areas of your life that are dear to your heart. New learning experiences as well as life experiences (travel, adventures, contacts with others of a vastly different culture than yours, and so forth) are likely to emerge.

LIBRA

23 SEPT – 22 OCT

You will learn through the course of this period to depend on yourself and to take pride in yourself for what you really are, not only how others see you. Romantic relationships might be tested during this time. You might feel overwhelming pressure coming from your casual love affairs, or the flaws in an existing romance seem to be screaming out at you.

SCORPIO

23 OCT– 21 NOV

SAGITTARIUS

22 NOV – 21 DEC

If you work hard at self-improvement, you will be one step closer to knowing where you are headed, and you will have re-built faith in yourself and your beliefs. A shaky feeling that causes you to sputter and avoid risks will be replaced with a more mature attitude towards adventure and facing the unknown. You are worth something, and you deserve compensation for what you do.

It’s time to be more conservative with your money, and feel more accomplished in so doing. You would learn to love yourself and take pride in yourself. Looking outside of yourself for 'ego strokes' (whether through romance or other such 'applause') may prove to be fruitless. You might encounter opposition or resistance to your personal plans and goals, which forces you to re-evaluate your current projects or commitments.

CAPRICORN

22 DEC – 19 JAN You may find new and exciting channels for self-expression. You want to know what you can do, in terms of raw potential, in real terms. Your mind is on your purpose or 'mission' in life, and your desire for success is stronger than ever. Your potential is called up for inspection. You are called to express your worth and calibre in measurable, concrete ways.

AQUARIUS

20 JAN – 18 FEB You have a more mature grasp of your own capabilities, you project a more responsible, perhaps serious, and selfassured personality to others. You are especially open to receiving grounded, practical advice, and benefit from humbly learning from others. You are likely to discover your true needs from partnerships, as well as what you can realistically give to a partner. You may take special joy in sharing a common cause or ideals with others.

PISCES

19 FEB – 20 MAR

This month brings a fair measure of reality and objectivity, so that whatever relationships you have will be defined and re-defined. Relationships are seen now as serious things. Responsibilities to partners, the need to compromise, and the realities of the needs of others, become clear. Your spiritual world, compassion, private life, and tolerance expand and grow. Matters from the past are magnified in your life now.

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