Verve. August 2020. Issue 167.

— AUCKLAND’S FAVOURITE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE — PRICELESS ISSUE 167 — AUGUST 2020

Bringing Food to Life A Beautiful Union From Bauhaus to Our House

— FASHION BEAUTY HEALTH HOME DESIGN/ARTS FOOD/WINE TRAVEL SOCIETY SWERVE

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UP FRONT

What's Inside Women Who Inspire 22 Sarah Morini of Morell 32 Louise Gray 34 Shaping Better Futures

Best In Beauty 72 Verve's Best In Beauty 2020

Home & Design 46 From Bauhaus To Our House 60 City Botanics: Bespoke Gardens For Small Space Living 64 Selling First Impressions

Food 100 Bringing Food To Life 107 Mission Bay Promenade

Health, Business & Fitness 84 Smiles & Styles

Win 144 Win With Verve

46

From Bauhaus To Our House

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UP FRONT

Editors-in-Chief Fran Ninow and Jude Mitchell Senior Writer Jamie Christian Desplaces

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.

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IN THIS GUIDE YOU WILL LEARN: • Why the first step in your painting job is to identify your I.O. (And why this is so important) • The three expensive mistakes to avoid when painting a multi-million dollar Auckland home • How to quickly tell which painting contractors will do the perfect painting job and which ones won’t • A clever way to make sure you compare ‘apples with apples’ with any painting quotes you receive • How to future proof your painting investment so it lasts at least 25% longer • A simple technique for identifying a common painting problem that 63% of multimillion dollar homes have 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

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Head Graphic Designer Zanalee Makavani Graphic Designer Ken Khun Social Media Ashlee Lala Contributors Manish Kumar Arora, Paris Mitchell Temple, Aimée Ralfini, Jackie O’Fee, Nadia Klaassen, Melanie Dower, Vicki Holder, Kennedy Cavey Subscriptions online@vervemagazine.co.nz Published by Verve Magazine Ltd 160 Broadway, Studio 10, Newmarket, Auckland 1023 GST 90 378 074 ISSN 2253-1300 (print) ISSN 2253-1319 (online) Advertising Enquiries (+64) 9 520 5939 jude@vervemagazine.co.nz / fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Editorial Enquiries (+64) 9 520 5939 fran@vervemagazine.co.nz / jude@vervemagazine.co.nz Cover Image Blood Orange Styling and photography Vanessa Lewis ww.vanessa-lewis.com

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 Parnell, Newmarket, Remuera, Meadowbank, Epsom, Mission Bay, Kohimarama, Herne Bay, Takapuna and Devonport. Verve Magazine is placed in magazine stands for free collection from locations in Parnell, Newmarket, Remuera, Epsom, Mission Bay, St. Heliers, Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay, Auckland City, Takapuna, Devonport, Stonefields, Milford and Mairangi Bay. Visit ververmagazine.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. vervemagazine.co.nz

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Editors' Notes

Things I wish I'd known at 20.

At 20 I wanted nothing more than to experience the world first hand, and so I did by spending the next six years travelling and living abroad. I waitressed, taught primary school, and worked as a flight attendant. There is almost nothing about this time in my life that I would change, as I loved every moment, even the heartache of various break-ups, and the learning of some tough life lessons.

However, had I the luxury of hindsight there are some things I would tell my 20-something self: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Don’t waste time and energy caring about what others think. Give yourself a break!

Shit never stops happening. It’s an integral part of life. So get over it and move on.

If it feels wrong, it is wrong.

Seems too good to be true, than it is.

Pay attention to what brings you joy.

Purchase a property as soon as you can.

Buy good art.

Eat more ice cream. Life’s too short not to try all the flavours.

Ditch the high heels. Buy gorgeous shoes – but note that pain means no gain.

Stay out of the sun and apply sun block daily.

Drink more water.

Cherish the lulls in life. There is absolutely no need to be busy or going places all the time.

Always carry a map of where you are and know the address of where you are staying.

Putting Verve August 2020 together has been a rare treat for many reasons, but especially because it has allowed us a privileged view into so many extraordinary women’s lives. We have enjoyed dealing with you all, and hope that your stories will inspire Verve readers as much as they have inspired us. Here, instead of our regular editors’ notes, are a few light hearted musings. Enjoy!

When we posed this question to ourselves, I knew I was going to find this difficult! The main reason being, I was married at 20, which perhaps feels somehow young in today’s world, however, it’s just a number.

My life could not have been better at 20. I was in love, we travelled on a ship to the United Kingdom where we danced the night away on board, and continued when we got there! When I arrived in London, I worked for two years in various places, and then we travelled extensively throughout Europe in a VW Combi van, where met some amazing likeminded people and I saw with my own eyes sites I’d only seen in images. In each country we visited, we scoured for business ideas to bring back to New Zealand, and we happened upon some wonderful ones. All in all, at 20, life was wonderful and full of adventure, and I was excited about the future.

And so, rather than try to dredge up the past for lessons to give my younger self, I am instead doing the opposite — to write a few words about being the age I am now! I love being my age (68). Wow — it’s difficult for me to even comprehend I am this age — but, that said, I am so proud to be this age, as many of you reading this will be as well! I feel healthy, I feel incredibly grateful, I love publishing Verve each month, I love being surrounded by young people (they are more interesting than older people!) as well as having my children and work colleagues in my daily life — I cherish all of their opinions and I love learning from them — as small a thing as when one of them recommends a song. At my age, I always remind myself to ask questions, learn, listen and most of all to laugh — and specifically about the mistakes I make because as we all know, we learn from our mistakes, and we all make them — we have that in common.

I’m still learning and intend to keep learning for many years.

Enjoy this month Verve's — it’s full of inspirational women who I am sure are all still learning too.

Fran Co-editor

Jude Co-editor

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WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

Interview with

Christine Kearney of Auction House, Webb’s

WORD S – AIM ÉE RAL FI N I

Ballet makes the impossible look easy. The physical agility required in this field requires enormous strength and dedication. Christine Kearney started ballet when she was just three years old and danced well into her 20s, teaching in London and dancing in France. To subsidise her income, as all artists must, she was involved in hospitality, working as a chef for a Royal Warrant holding catering company in service to the royal family. This saw her working at some of London’s most prestigious events like Kate Moss’s wedding, events at Buckingham Palace (yes, she’s met the queen), and finally settling at the Ritz Hotel in London, a living cultural institution in its own right.

At the Ritz she worked her way up through hotel operations and marketing and communications. Upon returning home to New Zealand, she continued to work alongside some of the best luxury brands within the hotel industry. After 10 years as a hotelier, Kearney was looking for a new challenge to enrich her professional experience and diversify her skill set.

AUGUST 2020 Webb’s is New Zealand’s longest running multi-departmental auction house, a liquid museum of sorts, forever in flux, exchanging various items of cultural significance with an ever evolving clientèle. This is Kearney’s stage now, which her background has prepared her for so perfectly, as operations and marketing director of the cultural theatre that is one of Aotearoa’s most iconic auction houses – Webb’s.

During her two-year tenure, auction numbers have nearly tripled, her staff has grown nearly fourfold. Testament in itself to Kearney’s agility, dedication and mastery within the hightier cultural sphere.

We sat down with Christine to find out what has made her the inspirational woman she is today, and gain some insights into what working for a cultural institution such as Webb's is like.

What role did you start off in, and how has your career progressed?

I joined Webb’s in the same capacity as my current position, operations and marketing director, however the scope of this role has evolved significantly as the business has grown so quickly. Over the last two years our auction schedule has increased from around 25 auctions a year to 70. With this incredible growth has come the opportunity to increase our workforce, adding highly skilled and passionate individuals to our team across all disciplines. When I began at Webb’s two years ago, we had a team of eight full-time colleagues, we are now 30 strong. It has been exciting to be a part of this exceptional growth over the last two years as we constantly look to innovate and develop new strategies to engage new clients and grow our market share. A further highlight has been the diversification of our offering into the primary market with the acquisition of a contemporary gallery, Visions, which offers a full-time program of exhibitions by leading New Zealand and international artists.

of which have also encouraged me to gain experience across multiple industries allowing a richer professional experience, a more diverse skillset than average and the opportunity at a senior level to transfer knowledge, principles and practices from different industries to create unique and elevated experiences for clients that truly set you apart from your competitors.

Where did you grow up and how do you think it influenced your career direction?

I was very fortunate to grow up with a loving and supportive family. My mum, as a single parent, moved myself and two siblings to New Zealand when I was 10 years old from South Africa. We grew up in Sandspit, a small community which is still one of my favourite places in New Zealand. I was heavily influenced by my mother’s determination and strength, despite the adversity she faced, which shaped my attitude towards hard work, persistence and resilience.

As soon as I was able, I got my first job, rolling ice creams at the local dairy at the age of 13 and have been careerfocused ever since.

As a young woman working at a senior level, there have been times in previous roles where I have had to work harder to achieve milestones than my male counterparts and having this foundation of resilience has assisted me in pushing forward despite the challenges.

“I am a strong believer that it does not matter what industry or position you choose, if you work hard, are committed, passionate and focused, you will be successful.”

Roughly how many auctions does Webb's host per month?

We have a very busy auction schedule at Webb’s. The calendar includes a variety of online sales across all our disciplines, featuring lower priced items that look to engage a new generation of novice collectors or entice those wanting to extend an already established portfolio. In addition to our online sales, we run an exciting calendar of live auctions including significant single owner collections, classic and collectors’ car auctions and our highly anticipated quarterly live auctions which include fine jewels and watches, decorative arts, fine and rare wines, Asian art and our high value art sales. On an annual basis we deliver up to 70 auctions, sometimes more, so around five to seven auctions per month on average.

Operations and marketing director for Webb's sounds like an all-consuming role. What does a typical day look like?

I arrive at work around 8am each morning. The office tends to get busy from around 9am so this gives me an hour to work through emails and focused tasks. When my team arrive, we touch base and discuss what marketing and design tasks we are focusing on, always with a coffee in hand. We are often working on creative content creation plans, video content or catalogue production. We have seen exceptional growth across our social channels and this success acts as constant motivation for the team to keep going. We have also developed some amazing relationships and collaborations this year with the likes of WORLD Fashion and Pernod Ricard; this is my favourite part of my marketing role, collaborating with other likeminded brands to create amazing and memorable content and experiences for clients.

What drew you to work for an auction house?

Before coming to Webb’s, I had spent over 10 years working at a senior level in the luxury hotels industry, representing and working alongside some of the best luxury brands in both New Zealand and abroad. After climbing the corporate hotel ladder, I felt I needed a new challenge that would give me the freedom and opportunity to grow in different directions. I am very fortunate to have had some exceptional mentors throughout my career, all

I also direct the day to day running of the operational function of the business. This includes a variety of tasks that keep me on my toes. My days often include various meetings and planning sessions with our managing director, Paul Evans, and the senior team, around our auction schedule, event planning and execution, and financials and forecasts as well as directing other areas like HR, recruitment and team building, project management and all other administrative and organisational processes for the company.

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"One thing I love about Webb’s is that no day and no auction are the same. We work in such a fast-passed environment which involves a lot of multi-tasking and focus across various areas of the business, but this ever-changing environment keeps things interesting and exciting.”

Webb's has a regular roster of auctions, each requiring an enormous amount of work and research. What is one of the main drivers that keeps you motivated in such a fastpaced environment?

Simply, my team. I am so fortunate to work with an incredible team of highly skilled, knowledgeable and passionate individuals who all have something different to offer. We are a diverse group of different ages and genders which has created a great balance and working environment. We have built quite a close-knit group over the past two years, bonding over times of challenge. We all support each other in our one common goal: to be the best auction house in New Zealand.

There are often pressure points with such a busy schedule, however we always work as a team to get the job done. In a small business like ours, no job is beneath you and I love getting stuck in to help the team no matter the job.

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Over the years you must have experienced some pretty special moments. What is one that has stood out?

Moving into our very own premises on Normanby Rd in Mount Eden was a very special moment for the team. Our gallery is a purpose-built 800-square-metre converted warehouse space, now state of the art gallery and exhibition space, fit to house and showcase items from across our multi-faceted departments. Designed by interior architect Rufus Knight of Knight Associates, our Mount Eden Gallery and Webb’s Wine Room has given Webb’s a brand-new home and space for clients to enjoy for years to come.

What has been a career high?

I was recently awarded Outstanding Young Executive of the Year, as part of the New Zealand Hotel Industry Awards. This award is in honour of a young executive who has made an exceptional contribution to their employer and engaged with the wider industry in a significant capacity above and beyond their scope. As a young woman working in a competitive industry, it was an amazing feeling to be recognised, giving me the confidence, motivation and courage to continue driving forward for those things I want to achieve in my career.

What has been one of the hardest career lessons you have learnt to date?

As I have grown in my career and developed into senior leadership roles, I have learnt that being a hard worker and delivering results is much more important than being popular. I take my obligation and responsibility to our investors very seriously and being a great leader means having to sometimes make hard decisions for the greater good of the business.

Do you have any advice for our readers about auctions?

Buying at auction has so many benefits. Not only is it a more sustainable and conscious way to shop, but it offers the opportunity for each buyer to inherit an item of provenance, becoming the new custodian of each unique piece they purchase, each with their own story and history.

This connection to each piece makes the entire buying experience that much more rewarding. Buying at auction also offers an alternative investment opportunity with the right items bought at auction often appreciating in value and gaining further interest and demand as the years go on.

‘He who does not surpass his master fails his master’ Leonardo da Vinci This has always resonated with me, reminding me that there is always so much to learn not only from those you look up to, but those around you and below you also. I learn as much from my junior team about how to be a better manager and leader as a I do from my most respected mentors. This is a reminder to continuously look for ways to evolve our practices in anything and everything we do.

A more personal quote which has become my daily mantra was passed on to me by the head concierge and longest serving staff member at The Ritz London, Michael DeCoza.

On my final day with the company, he said to me, "Christine, no matter what you do, remember to always be Ritz." This constantly reminds me that excellence is a mindset and to never accept mediocrity.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON WEBBS AUCTION HOUSE AND TO VIEW AVAILABLE ITEMS, VISIT WEBBS.CO.NZ

HAUS O F FLOX

The Art of Nature

The distinctive work of Flox, aka Hayley King, needs little introduction. Flox’s depictions of ferns, flowers and native birds, blazing with colour and sometimes stretching several metres high, speak louder than words.

An eco-warrior with a fine arts degree, her tools of choice are lovingly handcrafted stencils and vibrant aerosol colour.

Flox first began taking on the grey walls of inner city Auckland in 2003, transforming them with uplifting messages through the beauty of native flora and fauna. Her intricately, hand-cut stencils are a labour of love, devoted to honouring the natural world.

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Flox’s roots can be found in Northland, where she grew up immersed in nature and surrounded by beaches. Her love for the environmental taonga of Aotearoa is a clear theme of not just her work, but who she is.

Today Flox is one of New Zealand’s most recognised contemporary artists. Using site-specific murals, she gives voice to local narratives and reflects on environmental issues of the area, often in collaboration with the community.

As awareness of her work has grown globally, Flox has travelled ever wider, lending her skills to creating works that celebrate native, endangered or rare flora and fauna around the world. Her deep connection with land and culture is reflected wherever she picks up her artist tools, whether in the US, Hong Kong, Taiwan, India or Germany.

Sharing is quintessentially Flox. As she travels, she shares her unique skills through workshops for schools and wider communities. Her goal is to empower and improve the wellbeing of others through creativity.

Although renowned for her iconic murals, her practice extends to artworks on wood, paper, prints, and cut works.

Flox has also created a range of reusable products and collaborates with like-minded organisations, combining her beautiful designs with practical objects to encourage a more sustainable approach to daily life.

Even amid commercial success, Flox remains true to her craft and her love of the environment, inspiring the world with the magic of nature, wherever she goes.

B LUNT X FLOX 2020 UM B RE LL A L IM IT E D E DIT ION M E T RO $1 2 9

AVAIL AB L E FROM : HAUS OF FLOX 13 Great North Rd, Grey Lynn PH: 09 963 4293 or online at: www.flox.co.nz

P hoto g ra p hy — Ke nne d y C avey

Nicola Manning of NM Design The level 4 lockdown was far from a holiday for Nicola Manning of NM Design.

What was downtime for some proved a particularly busy yet gratifying period for Nicola and her colleague Katherine Lightfoot. The restrictions meant they couldn’t physically visit clients – which created time for Nicola to look at new opportunities provided by the wider uptake of online technology.

As they emerged out the other side of lockdown, they were ready to launch some exciting options to make their successful design service more widely available, particularly geographically.

WO RD S — VICKI H O L D E R

Nicola now has three distinctly different ways clients can access her service, depending on the scale of the project, geographical location, and the amount of hands-on involvement a client wants. She says that an important part of this offering is potential clients like to understand, in advance, the cost of using their services.

1. There’s the original Full Service option The core of the business. This involves taking a brief from the client to fully scope the project and providing a detailed proposal of the work involved for a fixed fee.

These full service projects focus on new house builds, more substantial renovations, significant refurnishing of a new apartment or house.

New options include: 2. Designer for a Day A new service where clients pay a fixed fee for four to five hours of the designer’s time. This initially involves a phone call to plan the best use of the allocated time to be spent together.

"If someone has bought a home, we might go through the existing

furniture and talk about what they’d like to keep and gaps they need to fill.

We can go into their home and check what the client should do to improve a space. Or we might accompany them to stores to help source new furniture, accessories, art, tiles or any other design elements. It’s highly tailored to the specific needs of the client.” It has proven popular, she says, particularly as an introductory step, for those who have never used a designer before.

3. The Online Design Service For those who love interior design and enjoy doing it themselves, but need professional advice from an expert. “Clients need to photograph the space, take the measurements of their room and send it in. From there, we’ll do a detailed design with a floorplan, one elevation, a mood board, and prepare a shopping list, so they can put it all together.”

Initially Nicola began a career in the finance industry, progressing to her role as a marketing manager of a bank after graduating with a commerce degree.

She always had an underlying passion for design and decided to pursue this career change. She completed an online diploma in interior design at Rhodec in the UK, and in 2002, Nicola was ready to launch her business.

Problem solving and adapting to changing circumstances is something she has always been good at. In 2004 Nicola completed her NKBA Kitchen Design certificate, gaining a plethora of knowledge and expertise.

Katherine Lightfoot, who has a spatial design degree, has been working closely with lead designer Nicola for the last four-and-a-half years. They have created a very tight, collaborative design team.

Looking back, Nicola says she’s seen huge changes to the industry since she started nearly 20 years ago.

“Technology in terms of CAD and other presentation tools make it easier to show clients design concepts.

Many clients find it difficult to visualise spaces, so any technology that can help them with this is very useful. The ongoing development of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) is exciting as this takes visualisation for clients to the next level.”

Her Top Tips on Working with a Designer

Then there’s the wide variety of interior products available. With Instagram, Pinterest, magazines and websites like ArchiPro and Houzz, clients can easily search and access images from around the world. But the huge variety all adds to the sense of being overwhelmed for people.

“One of our functions is to simplify the process for clients. We take a detailed brief then give the client a few suitable options so they don’t feel overwhelmed.”

One of her favourite aspects of the job is spatial planning. She thrives on the challenge of taking a brief, looking at the space with all its constraints, and working out how to achieve the plan.

But she also loves the softer, tactile aspects of working with fabrics and colour too.

Unlike many designers, Nicola and Katherine provide a one-stop shop for everything interior design-wise, from spatial planning whole projects to kitchens, bathrooms, designing custom cabinetry, furniture sourcing and selecting soft furnishings. ”From a client’s perspective, it’s much more efficient than having to coordinate all those trades. The client only has to deal with us. Our skill is in listening and interpreting. The clearer the brief, the better,” she says.

“It’s all about professionalism. We offer a quality service using a quality process to be consistent in how we work. Communication is the key. It’s very collaborative.”

1. Do your homework first and think about what’s important to you.

2. Work with your designer to create a complete plan for your whole house.

You can split it up into phases and do a section at a time. Without an overall plan you may need to rework spaces later for a cohesive look.

3. Create a wish list and prioritise.

4. If you have collected inspiration images on Pinterest, think about why you like them, is there a pattern or a theme about what you like coming through.

5. Invest in quality pieces especially beds, sofas and chairs. As well as looking good, they have to be comfortable.

A Beautiful Union WO RD S —VICKI HO L D E R

They locked eyes across the dinner table at an international waterskiing championship event in Portugal.

Kiwi traveller Andrew Terris was smitten by the beautiful Spanish businesswoman Maria Bamio. After a whirlwind romance, they married, holding wedding receptions in both countries, then Andrew moved to live on the Iberian Peninsula that is Maria’s home.

But neither wanted to turn their back on New Zealand. “Both our countries have beautiful products that deserve to be shared. So we decided to build a bridge between Spain and the Antipodes,” explains Andrew.

They established that link through Aroha Iberica, a two-way business exchange that imports and represents luxury products with provenance.

In Australia and New Zealand, they represent Bovi and Graccioza linen and Selmark Lingerie which are all made in Portugal and Spain with multigenerational pedigrees.

Aroha Iberica arohaiberica.com

Rose + Heather

roseandheather.com 366 Great North Rd, Auckland

In Spain and Portugal, the couple represent Marisco Vineyards and King Salmon, among others.

While they were in New Zealand, they met Maryjane Heather (MJ) from furniture manufacturer and designer Rose + Heather at a promotional evening.

Says MJ: “As much as I loved the romance of the story about how they came together as a couple, I also loved the product. Just the touch of the 100% pure long staple cotton and linen — it feels so beautiful.

There was nothing like it in New Zealand.

Having that crisp, clean linen look with the delicate lace is unusual.

“It’s a classically inspired idea but the designs are absolutely contemporary, which makes it the perfect complement to Rose + Heather furniture.

“The timing couldn’t have been better as we were moving to our light, bright new location up the road at 366 Great North Road, with its strong focus on individual bedroom settings. The fact that we no longer had the dusty workshop behind the showroom meant we were in a better position to dress our beds in a beautiful new product.”

MJ also liked the synchronicity of the idea that Bovi is a third generation family owned company with an artisan background, just like Rose + Heather.

Andrew explains: “Famous for their high quality cotton and both contemporary and classical linen, the third generation family is based at the centre of the weaving dying and embroidery mills in Guimaraes in Portugal, which has a long history of textile manufacture, dating back to the 1700s.”

It’s about 90 minutes from where Andrew and Maria live, and they visit often.

MJ selected just four styles that look great with Rose + Heather beds and which she believes will appeal to her clients. But she can source other product through Andrew and Maria if people are looking for something different.

The flagship linen product from Bovi available at Rose + Heather is the Vintage range in beautiful Portuguese linen with an embroidered edge in flax, white or grey. Other favourites are the Sylvia (beautifully embroidered cotton sateen), Milan (in relaxed stonewashed linen) and Lineia (a touch of linen with the classic style of cotton). These are complemented by beautiful coverlets and bedspreads.

Most duvets sets have five pieces with pillow cases, Euro shams and the duvet. Luxurious cotton sateen and cotton percale are available and all are manufactured in an eco-friendly dye process.

“As much as I loved the romance of the story about how they came together as a couple, I also loved the product.

Just the touch of the 100% pure long staple cotton and linen - it feels so beautiful. There was nothing like it in New Zealand.”

MJ, Rose + Heather

He continues: “Our Graccioza bath linen range has a similar pedigree from a third generation Portuguese family-owned company. These unique and stylish towels are pre-washed and feature bias binding to give a nice neat edge. The Egoist range is often used by owners of European superyachts because of its fade resistant, anti-bacterial qualities.”

He says New Zealand has previously been poorly served by suppliers of bath linen and those who come across Graccioza and touch it usually buy it because they know they can’t find such quality here.

Aroha Iberica, through its New Zealand company, market the product made to New Zealand and Australian sizing.

It is only available through high-end homeware stores like Rose + Heather and selected interior designers.

Bespoke beds meet luxury crafted linen — a marriage made in heaven for a perfect night’s sleep.

Business/Education & Society

Stay Warm and Cosy with a Covid-19 Exclusive Limited Edition Blanket or Throw and Help Women and Children Escape Domestic Violence This Winter With the constraints and challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, now more than ever before we are aware of the need to support each other and our communities.

During the lockdown Cheryl Eldridge from Stansborough worked on designing a special limited edition blanket and throw that would be a symbol of this time. These unique blankets and throws were released to help support Women’s Refuge, a beacon of hope for many, who feel they have lost it all— including their dignity. This $50 donation ensures a nights accomodation for someone in need and it is during times of increased stress such as the present where the demand for refuge space increases.

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The Linen Store are proud to be long-time supporters of New Zealand made products and Stansborough is one of our favourites. During lockdown, Cheryl and Ingrid of the Linen Store and Harrowset Hall, stayed in touch sharing and considering the many challenges we faced by small businesses in this reshaped economy,and the sorts of things we could do to support each other, our business and the wider community. “We are pleased to be given the opportunity to be involved in this fundraising initiative while at the same time enabling our customers to invest in something truly special," says Ingrid Memelink.

Symbolising Compassion, Kindness, Hope and Community Exclusive limited edition blanket or throw Individually numbered and registered. One hundred percent Stansborough Grey wool, soft subtle twill design, with high lustre and stunning drape and handle.

For every blanket sold at retail, $50 will be gifted to Women’s Refuge, covering the cost of a twonight stay for a woman or child in need during these challenging times.

vervemagazine.co.nz

February 2020

Taking years of development and commitment, Stansborough Grey Wool features properties of strength and resilience. This is truly a product that will last the test of time and give years of lasting pleasure.

The team at Stansborough are an inspiring example of a NZ company doing things differently for a better future.

Post lockdown we have found a greater willingness to purchase NZ made goods and the interest in Stansborough and NZ wool blankets is growing.

Wool is still one of the best fibres in the world and NZ wool growers need our support as concious consumers. We hope that our customers will support this worthy cause.

BRUSHED WOOL COVID THROW

BRUSHED WOOL COVID BLANKET

• Sophisticated style at its very best, to gift, wear or throw over your favourite chair • Gift boxed, with tissue and story • 1.4 x 1.8m with 15cm fringe • $355 plus freight

• Stylish cosy blanket, perfect essential winter piece to envelop and snuggle the whole family • Tissue and story only • 2.4 x 2m without fringes • $495 plus freight

Support NZ made and support our future tamariki and mokopuna at the same time. Stansborough, NZ Wool, NZ Team, woven together.

Purchase blanket and throw from our website: thelinenstore.nz Use the code ‘linen’ to ensure the donation is made to Women’s Refuge

About Stansborough Stansborough is a family-owned wool farm and mill located in the Wairarapa that makes textiles from a unique breed of grey sheep: the Stansborough grey. The wool of a Stansborough grey has a strong fibre that occurs naturally in three shades of grey.

Once shorn, Stansborough workers hand-separate the fleece into these colours, and weave the fibres completely undyed. All these textiles were woven on historic looms which date back to the 1890’s – which is why their textiles are so unique and of such high quality. Operating out of a mill in Petone, Wellington, the brand creates a bespoke range of textiles for a wide range of end uses, from the blockbuster movie industry to boutique hotels, top lodges, super yachts, interior and fashion designers, boutique stores and through its website where they export all over the world, to retail and wholesale clients.

vervemagazine.co.nz

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Interview with Award-winning Bookseller:

Wendy Tighe-Umbers Wendy Tighe-Umbers, never thought she would own a book store, but 18 years ago she purchased Time Out in Mount Eden, and has never looked back.

Wendy spoke to Verve about bookstores as community touchstones, her favourite books, and what she would be doing if she wasn’t bookselling.

What do you believe provides the magic fairy dust, that makes Time Out stand out? Situated in the heart of Mt Eden Village, Time Out is a community hub and haven for bibliophiles. We have great books and are open from 9am to 9pm every day! The magic fairy dust however, is that I have always hired staff that are smarter than me. Time Out's team of 11 have been handpicked for their passion and diverse knowledge.

and does the trend continue? We may be biased but our customers tell us every day that they love the printed book. Digital fatigue is real and opening a paperback is the perfect analog activity. One of the most wonderful things we've recently experienced was that Mount Eden residents covered our window in poetry during level 4 lockdown, which have all been collected for the Auckland Museum's Covid collection.

What do you love most about owning a business?

Eighteen years later, I still do enjoy owning a business but I'm sure it's because owning a bookstore means I'm surrounded by things that I love, people that share the passion of reading and being part of a community. I love working with our team and hearing their passionate ideas.

At 73 years old, I still really enjoy coming to work.

Favourite Time Out memories or stories? When I bought the shop, I inherited the shop cat, Oscar, who used to sleep in the window. He passed away 10 years ago but I loved having him wandering around the browsing customers. Our 30-year anniversary was just wonderful, we had founder Sue Lees and second owner Joy Draper celebrating with us. Many of our staff have gone on to work in different parts of the book industry and this makes me so proud - and of course, when the store and our staff have won awards.

Time Out has won numerous awards. Tell us more about these and the most thrilling experience of all.

We have been very lucky to win many awards over the years including the Albert-Eden Business Awards, Westpac Business Awards, and Metro magazine, as well as three of our staff winning 'Young Bookseller of the Year' at our NZ Book Industry Awards and two winning scholarships to the American Booksellers Association's Winter Institute.

However, it was incredibly meaningful when Time Out won New Zealand's Bookshop of the Year for the first time in 2004, only two years after my buying the store. It gave me confidence that I was doing something right! I was also incredibly proud of being shortlisted for the London Book Fair's top three international bookstores in 2017.

When we are able to travel abroad, which bookstores would you most like to visit? I've been incredibly lucky to travel and visit bookstores all around the world already, so I'm looking forward to seeing more bookstores around New Zealand! I would love to see the tiny Twizel Bookshop and my first manager Jane Arthur is just about to open Good Books in Wellington.

We heard that during lockdown people were craving the experience of print. Did you find this to be true,

Do you have favourite books and authors, or a genre, that you’d like to share? My absolute favourite author is John Boyne. He's just released a novel called A Traveller at the Gates of Wisdom and it hasn't disappointed! I love William Boyd, William Trevor, Lionel Shriver, Elizabeth Strout, Margaret Atwood, Rupert Thompson, Ann Patchett and Anne Enright - so many!

Are there any titles that you consistently recommend to customers? My favourite book for 2020 so far has been Colm McCann's Aperigon, it has just been longlisted for the Booker Prize. It's about two men going through the same grief but one is Israeli and the other is Palestinian. I really like books that weaves facts into the narrative and this does that fantastically. This year I've also loved Christos Tsiolkas' Damascus, A Burning by Megha Majumdar and Ockham Fiction prize winner, Auē by Becky Manawatu.

Anything else you would like to add? We just hope your readers see the true value in spending locally, it's the reason that we're still here! Time Out is in wonderful hands with our manager Jenna Todd at the helm and we aim to be around for a long time!

www.timeout.co.nz

Love Your Home Love Your Life

FACE BO OK .C O M /J O S E P HTAYLO RH O M EWARES 12 6 MAN G AWHAI H E AD S ROAD, MAN GAWHAI

After many road and boat trips between Raglan, Waiheke and Mangawhai, with the desire to find a place they could call home, a place with a good spiritual connection to the earth, real people and of course affordable, Angela Chamberlain and boyfriend, Wayne Bowden found their new home in the magical seaside village of Mangawhai. For Angela, Wayne and her sons, Seth and Jackson, it has fast become an anchor and their sanctuary. It is here that Angela realised her dream of Joseph Taylor Homewares could be actualised. Angela had spent eight years dreaming and planning her escape from the city lights; here’s her inspiring story.

Tell us about how you brought Joseph Taylor to life?

The name Joseph Taylor is a combination of my two sons’ middle names—the names of their grandfathers. The idea was in the conceptual phase for years: While I was both Mum and working part-time behind the scenes in TV and film on projects like Go Girls, Westside, Annabel Langbein TV and cookbooks, my love of interiors was always brewing. It was after purchasing our home in Mangawhai and deciding to make the permanent move I realised I could make Mangawhai the home of Joseph Taylor. On holiday in Bali I had the aha moment, found an agent and with the ongoing encouragement from my boyfriend I went for it.

“Life is a gift, and the world needs us all to shine bright” What do you stock?

We currently stock a selection of homewares and furniture. It is becoming more eclectic as the range and business grows. From daybeds, mirrors, pots, artworks, glassware, stools, cushions and more. We like to stock a small range of the bigger ticket items so as not to repeat the special pieces and keep things fresh.

Where do you source your merchandise?

Indonesia, India, Bangkok, Amsterdam, Europe as well as a selection of New Zealand designers, it’s evolving all the time.

When buying items for your store, is there particular aesthetic you favour?

We have an understated, stylish yet practical ethos, that has a beachy-country-coastal vibe. The craftspeople we work with are using the best quality materials and we choose them for their integrity and workmanship. At Joseph Taylor we want our homewares to look great and they should generally have a purpose.

What do you consider your unique selling points to be?

I am surrounded by an amazing team, who love the brand as much as I do. We have created a warm and friendly environment, and always greet our customers with a smile. Our ethos is to be hospitable and inclusive: It must be my Southland upbringing!

We get many customers coming in who are in the process of renovating. I chat to them about what stage of the build they are at, which gives me an idea of how to steer them around the shop and how we can work with them specifically. I think that this personal design process is something we are fast becoming known for.

Also we offer appro which our customers love.

How do you use technology to improve your offering?

We are on Instagram @josephtaylorhomewares and yes we are currently working on a website. We are growing the business at a slow and steady pace to be certain we get things right.

Based on your experience, what advice would you give to a new retail start-up?

Be a billion percent in love with what you’re creating and doing. Do your research, get a mentor or a team of advisors around you helping with the stuff that you are not so good at, do the figures and go for it. It will be all consuming yet you won't know until you try. Better to have a go than wonder, 'what if?'.

VERVE CHATS WITH

Sarah Morini of Morell

morell.co.nz (09) 600 3259 bookings@morell.co.nz 93 Upland Rd, Remuera

Morell is a modern bistro and bar that is located on the corner of Upland and Benson Roads in Remuera. Verve chats to Sarah to discuss all things food and business.

and family I try to be present. And when I’m at the bistro, it’s work mode. But honestly half the time, I’m phone in one hand, child in another, and one foot stirring a pot on the stove!

WHAT WAS THE MOTIVATION TO RUN YOUR OWN RESTAURANT? It’s something I’ve always wanted to do.

The timing was right. I’d spent years running other people’s restaurants and I was ready to go! The location of Morell is such a beautiful spot. It reminds me a lot of Woollahra in Sydney. When the site came up for sale I just thought, "Potential!"

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE WITH THE BISTRO? The opening! We had a massive refurb and one month into it I found out I was pregnant with Mataya. I spent much of my pregnancy waddling around a building site. Mataya was born two months before we opened. It felt like I had two babies at the same time! It was full-on, but I have an incredible support system, so I count myself very lucky.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE WORK AND FAMILY? How long is a piece of string! I’m always working on finding the perfect balance.

I think we all wish we could wave a magic wand and get it just right. I try to focus my energy on the moment. When I spend time with Mataya and my friends

TIPS FOR MUMS RUNNING A FAMILY AND BUSINESS? Don’t stop until you’re insanely proud of yourself. Do your best to keep the selfdoubt at bay. Make sure you have time to yourself, just you. And always, always family first.

SARAH YOU HAVE A SPECIAL WAY WITH PEOPLE AND A POSITIVE ENERGY—HOW HAS THAT HELPED YOU IN YOUR BUSINESS? Thank you. Hospitality is all about people. I’ve always loved people from all walks of life and been a social butterfly.

I get a lot of joy from what I do. I’m passionate about food and wine and everything behind the bar! I love how a delicious meal, a glass of wine and a big fat smile can turn someone’s day around. When our guests say they’ve had a wonderful experience it’s truly the ultimate gratification.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO RELAX? I love to go for a hot spa or cold swim.

Water always chills me out. A good massage never goes astray either!

YOUR FAVOURITE MEAL ON THE MENU? This is the hardest question to answer!

At the moment I’m all about our pasta.

It’s winter after all. Our spinach tortellini is divine. Tortellini is really Italy’s dumplings. We stuff ours with ricotta, pinenuts and spinach, and smother it in a truffle cream sauce. So decadent.

I love our fried bread to share first. It’s the ultimate Māori-Italian fusion, topped with Mortadella ham, smoked cheddar and mustard mayo. To finish, our profiteroles, with a whole jug of our own choccy sauce to pour all over them.

DO YOU HELP WITH THE MENU? Everything we do is a joint effort. I wouldn’t want anything on the menu I didn’t personally want to dig into! But ultimately Daniel is the creative force behind our cuisine, I’m just the lucky taste tester! My staff would laugh and say “nothing gets past Sarah’ and they’re right.

IF YOU WEREN’T RUNNING A BUSY RESTAURANT WHAT WOULD YOU LIKELY TO BE DOING? Lying on the beach in Hawaii drinking pina coladas. I would love to write about food, travel and eat. I love the history behind food. It fascinates me. The history is the people and the people are the soul of the food. I can’t ever imagine not being a part of the industry in some way.

About Morell Morell Bistro is owned by husband and wife team, Sarah and Daniel Morini, who shared their love for exquisite food, quality ingredients, and warm New Zealand hospitality to establish their dream restaurant.

The bistro is about the overall dining experience, acknowledging that kai is more than just food but also about family and wellbeing, and feeling well looked after.

The mouth-watering menu is created by head chef Daniel who is of Māori and Italian descent. Morell takes pride in its roots and culture, using it as a guide for excellent hospitality and food preparation.

Both owners have an impressive background which includes working with incredible local and worldwide chefs and restauranteurs such as Neil Perry, Frank Chek, Simon Gault, Mark Wallbank and Chris Rupe.

This vegetarian- and child-friendly restaurant never misses a beat with its chic decor and funky atmosphere. The menu is filled with limitless options that is served by a warm and knowledgeable team.

The leafy corner in which Morell is located adds to the overall look and feel of this establishment, with comfy, plush velvet booths and loads of spots to bask in the afternoon sun.

If you take one look at the customer reviews you will quickly learn that Morell is frequently packed and good value for money, while the owners are described as being passionate about what they do.

This top service and highly recommended bistro is always worth the stop.

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Bees Up Top

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Verve talks to urban beekeeper, Jessie, who with her partner Luke, has been rescuing bees from exterminators and rehoming them on the rooftops of Auckland City for the past eight years.

PHOTO GRAPHY – JO E L MC D OWE L L

AUGUST 2020

Did you know that bees only make one quarter of a teaspoon of honey in their lifetime! Think about how many bees it takes to make one jar!

How did Bees Up Top come about? Bees Up Top came to be when I realised that bees were being exterminated as pests. One third of the food we eat is pollinated by bees. They are already under a lot of stress from pesticides, disease, and planting of mono-cultures, so I felt compelled to do something to stop our pollinators from being exterminated.

How much does it cost to get the bees rescued from one’s home or premises? Bees Up Top rescues bees for FREE! We are in touch with exterminators all over Auckland who call us instead of poisoning the bees, if a swarm lands in your backyard or makes a home in the wall of your house, we will rescue it for free too.

Why did you decide to re-home the bees on the rooftop of Auckland city? I decided to re-home them on the rooftops of Auckland city because cities are a safe haven for bees due to less competition for food and no crops being sprayed with pesticides.

It was the perfect way to raise awareness about the extinction of bees and the bees get the best views in town! Did you know that a bee will fly 5km to find food? Auckland city is full of food for bees because of all the parks, gardens and residents’ balconies and backyards that are in bloom all year round.

How does the rescue process work and what are the benefits?

Once the bees are rescued I take them to The Bee Sanctuary at Bethells Beach to rehabilitate before being re-homed.

Rescue hives are placed on the rooftops of businesses and in the backyards of people's homes and I am the beekeeper who checks the hive once a month. I always bring extra suits along to educate staff or families during inspections. Each Christmas I extract the raw honey and give it to the them in personalised jars.

What makes the honey you sell so different? The honey that I sell comes from pockets all over Auckland. Each has a distinctive flavour, smell and texture depending on where the bees forage nectar from. For example, the Coatesville honey is woody and almost caramel like because the bees forage in the surrounding farmlands and native bush. Whereas the Parnell honey has a lighter, more floral note with hints of blossom because the bees forage in the Parnell Rose Gardens. The Lavender nectar is collected from the hives at Lavender Hill Farm. When you open these hives, waves of the Lavender scent drift out of the hive and take over the smell of the smoker! It's delicious! There are no processes between it coming out of the hive and going into the jar. That means all of the goodness is left in the honey instead of being pasteurized (like supermarket honey), especially the pollen that is so good for our health.

What are some of Bees Up Top’s goals? Bees Up Top is a small business with big goals. Education about the importance of bees is the passion that drives our business. 80% of honey proceeds go back into building new homes (hives) for rescued bees and we run free kids’ classes during the school holidays to educate our future generation on how necessary bees are to human survival. All of our packaging is recyclable/compostable and we don’t use plastic.

We also have an option to return used honey jars because we are very aware of our environmental footprint.

What do you love most about Bees Up Top? I run Bees Up Top by myself with the help of my husband, Luke, on the weekends.

He's a builder and helps me make hive roofs and we construct frames together. It truly is the best job in the world because bees are so mesmerizing and it's good to know that Bees Up Top is making a difference.

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WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

All Heart, No Meat

Billed as “the spiritual successor to Flight of the Concords”, Kiwi comedy web series Immi the Vegan is an insightful and heartfelt ode to all things love, life and veganism. A wonderful soundtrack comes courtesy of show co-writer and producer Immi Paterson who knows a thing or two about penning catchy numbers having fronted the band George and Queen during the mid-2000s. Taking on the eponymous lead of the online show was, however, Immi’s first stint at acting, not that you’d ever know. Verve sat down with her for a cup of tea on K’ Road (where much of the show was filmed) to find out more.

Was there a specific incident that turned you towards veganism?

“It was gradual having first became vegetarian when I was 10 years old. I had always been aware of the relationship between humans and animals, and it was something that I’d always thought about, but when I found a vein in my steak mince pie, that was it.”

Immi describes herself as an “anxious, perfectionist” child, who could be “hard on herself and others”, foibles, she jokes, that she has passed on to her 11-year-old son, Melvin (who also has a small cameo in one episode). “He likes a lot of the show, but not the crass parts,” giggles Immi. “He disapproves of the dick jokes!”

Did you raise him to be vegan?

“Absolutely. But rather than show him the horror side of things, like what goes on in factory farming, I always showed him the positive side of veganism, like taking him to animal sanctuaries.”

WORD S — JAM IE C H RI STIAN D ES P L AC ES

Immi, who grew up in Dunedin, says her parents were always supportive of her meat-free life, though her dad especially thought veganism was phase she would likely grow out of. Until, that is, she converted him too.

AUGUST 2020

“I hate to use the word ‘converted’ because it’s patronising—everyone makes their own decisions—but I do believe that you can influence people.”

“I hate to use the word ‘converted’ because it’s patronising—everyone makes their own decisions— but I do believe that you can influence people. I challenged my dad to make a vegan Christmas dinner—he’s a really good cook—and so he did. And he’s been vegan ever since.”

Is your dad an old-school ‘man’s man’?

“Not really. He’s a university lecturer, very left-wing, a door-knocker for the Greens. So, I don’t know why he didn’t do it earlier really, he was just being grumpy!”

How are your cooking skills?

“Adequate! Everything will be cooked properly, wellbalanced, and nutritious. Will it look good? Probably not. I am actually thinking of doing a comedic vlog series called Immi the Lazy Vegan, about my honest attempts at cooking and hating it.”

Have you always been a creative soul?

“The music started when I was about 14. Mum had a bunch of instruments that she didn’t like anybody to touch, but I remember during a rebellious phase getting really mad and strumming the hell out of this guitar and loving the feeling. My grandmother then really encouraged me and bought me my first electric guitar, I learnt three chords and joined a band! Later I did a music degree and was also a music teacher for a while. My grandmother has always been so supportive—she even helped fund Immi the Vegan.”

Immi has been vegan since 2004, the food industry has come a long way since then, and so too have people’s attitudes. “There used to be a real stigma around veganism,” she laments. “People often think that vegans consider themselves more superior, which, although unfair, is also slightly true! You do sometimes think that you’re a little further along in that way of thinking, but only in that one specific area, and wonder why the rest of the world hasn’t caught up.”

One of the show’s main themes is Immi’s attempt to find a vegan boyfriend, and I ask if she would date a meat-eater in real life.

“I give people a chance,” she says. “I met my partner Steve online around the time we were filming, and his profile said that he was open to veganism. He actually went vegan without telling me because he wanted to see how he went.”

There’s an amusing line about someone having ‘meat breath’, is that really a thing?

“No, but the idea of someone eating a whole lot of meat then me putting my mouth to it is quite offputting! Steve and I actually shared our first kiss during his secret vegan trial period.”

How did that go?

“I told him that he tasted like a vegan.”

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

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Gourmet & Delicious

Tell us more about Gourmet Delicious – the café group In 2015 we opened a small retro café called Suburban Kitchen which has a very loyal local following, particularly well-known for our delicious doughnuts (the recipe took a year to develop). Suburban Kitchen is currently number one in Cambridge on Tripadvisor. Our delicious menu is co-created with Belinda McDonald, winner of MKR 2014.

In 2017 we built and opened Podium Café at Lake Karapiro: it has a contemporary design and is very busy in the summer months. Podium is in the centre of the event site during rowing regattas at the lake. It has amazing views and benefits from the shade of large trees in the summer. Salmon hash cakes are the go-to choice for many of our Podium diners.

In March this year we opened Clementine Café at Amber Garden Centre, an awesome business collaboration.

Clementine has a playground for children and an alcohol licence. Our Spice Shovel is delicious — a lamb burger presented on a shovel!

During level 3 we opened Suburban Chippy, next to Suburban Kitchen, with a menu again designed by Belinda McDonald. Not your usual run-of-the-mill chippy! We have six different types of fries with many different salts and our kumara fries come with a zesty pomegranate splash.

We will soon be opening Ophelia Café in Leamington across town. It is in an old villa, will have a hipster vibe, and will serve mainly plant-based cuisine, and Raglan Roast Coffee.

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Fresh local flavour is at the heart of everything that Gourmet Delicious serves up – be it for a catering gig or at one of their five (well, soon to be five) cafés. Owners Kim Moodie and Alison Foers believe that if you start with fresh, in season, yummy ingredients, the results will be mouth-wateringly good, and they are! Cambridge’s own food tycoons, Verve was stoked to be able to catch up with these impressive women a couple of weeks back.

Where To Find Them & Go-To Menu Items Suburban Kitchen: Delicious Donuts 25 Robinson Street, Cambridge Surburban Chippy: Six Different Types Of Fries 25 Robinson Street, Cambridge Podium Café: Salmon Hash Cakes 601 Maungatautari Road, Karapiro Clementine Café: Spice Shovel Lamb Burger 7 Peake Road, Cambridge Ophelia Café: Plant-Based Cuisine 18 Campbell Street, Cambridge

And a bit about yourselves? We are the owners, both chefs, and have a keen interest in food, travel and our families. We both have children working alongside us in the businesses. One of the highlights of our careers would be catering for the New Zealand Rowing Team at the Olympics both in London and Rio de Janeiro. We were supposed to be going to Tokyo with the team this year.

Your food philosophy? Our food philosophy is to provide fresh, tasty, inspired food blended with excellent service and to exceed our clients' expectations. We use local produce where we can, for example - Silver Fern Honey, Boyd’s asparagus, Kane’s strawberries (the best in the country) and Kelly’s microgreens.

You catered for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge when they visited Cambridge. Must have been an amazing experience? It was a huge day, with lots of planning to get it right. Security was very important with us having police checks prior to being able to enter the venue. All they wanted was simple yet delicious food.

You have won several small business awards, tell us more? Gourmet Delicious has previously won Excellence in Business (Small) twice, in 2008 and 2014. Our staff member Pieta Ward won Employee of the Year in 2014.

Gourmet Delicious also won the Supreme Award in 2019 with Excellence in Business (Large), Excellence in Innovation and one of our staff, Lara Lo Nobile won Employee of the Year.

Cathy Mellett: Net Branding Guru Digital marketing was something that did not exist 12 years ago. Cathy Mellett had a gut feeling that this was an opportunity for businesses to brand themselves online, to be seen and to be heard. Her first project was her husband’s business. She took his business online, and created a digital marketing plan. It was successful. Before she knew it his clients were beating a path to her door to do the same for them. In a very short time, she had created ‘Net Branding’ – a name for her business that tells the world exactly what she does.

Since then, Cathy has built a strong database of clients, and continues to do so on a daily basis. This business has such an interesting back story and is so relevant in today’s fast paced online market; we sat down with Cathy herself, to chat about the business she has created.

How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?

I have worked hard on building long-term relationships with my clients. I know these are based on trust and credibility.

Because of this baseline relationship, they are my strongest referrers of opportunities for SEO services, social media services, website development services or Google Ads and anything else that is digital-related. They know that they can depend on me, they know we have their back and that’s why they continue to use our services.

Can you explain the motivation behind your capacity to create new ventures and ideas? I lead from a heart space.

I’m guided as to where those new ventures are and what my ultimate purpose in life is. I listen intuitively to what comes before me and see exactly how I can apply my past, my skills, and my knowledge to that idea or opportunity so as to make a real difference in all aspects of my life.

How does a usual day look? There is no usual or typical day in the digital environment. Usually your inbox is full, you will be constantly notified of a variety of notifications from a variety of social media profiles and analytics reports. Search engine optimisation and online ranking statistics will be top of mind. It is about taking a step back and identifying where your priorities are and letting that actually become the focus for your day. If you are dealing with a crisis online or a troll, then naturally that will take priority.

What are some of the things you’ve learnt during the entrepreneurial journey? I believe life will always throw you curveballs. However, keep your eye on the bigger picture, and understand that curveballs can in fact also be facilitators for your next growth step.

How are you a different woman today than you were when you first started out in business? Being in business for an extended period of time brings a level of confidence around making decisions, specially hard decisions, and also a far greater ability to sit contentedly in your own power, in your own space, and know that you are strong enough to do what needs to be done. This confidence shines through in the way you talk, the way you communicate and the way you interact with others.

What do you feel has changed about you? Grounding perhaps? With grounding comes strength and a certainty around the decisions you need to make. And understanding that you will take some wrong decisions but that is part of life and a wrong decision can (in many situations) be corrected.

If a close friend wanted to start a business, what advice would you give to them? They should start with a market analysis. Followed by an understanding of what their communication strategy is and what their point of difference is. I would say that they need to get out there and work their network in both the online and offline worlds. They need to be prepared to work harder than they ever thought possible.

Tell us about your charity, I’m Enough. My charity is called ‘I’m Enough’ and focuses on digital coping strategies for our young people and those that care about them in the real world. It encourages the starting of those real and important conversations with our young people so that they always understand that they are loved and supported and that they are absolutely enough. In this charity work, one of our objectives is to support a reduction in and underpin the alarming suicide rates amongst our young people. I know that we have already made an impact and saved lives, and this is my why and purpose.

netbranding.co.nz | imenough.co

What must you to do to build credibility as quickly as possible? You stand up, show up, and deliver more than the client is expecting. At Net Branding we offer true and honest ethical advice, which will always reflect our clients' best interests.

WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

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Melissa Woods

Tides of Change

AUGUST 2020

A love of the ocean has led Melissa Woods and her husband around the world, inspired the design of sustainable products and most importantly helped their child to fully recover from a serious brain infection.

For Melissa Woods, the ocean has always had a strong influence on where she and husband Reuben will live. After living on Auckland’s North Shore, the pair surfed their way around the world before returning to New Zealand to settle in the Bay of Plenty.

design experience with Melissa’s own research to develop a growing range of custom solutions for the home and industry. Their alternative to bubble wrap, Mirumiru, is made from recycled paper and is designed to help keep plastics out of the oceans.

In 2004 they established Woods Agency, combining work experience gained in Auckland and overseas with their passion to create world-class purpose-driven brands. As a full-service agency, the Woods team is made up of creatives, writers and designers who work with brands looking to make a real impact while considering the environment.

For Melissa and Reuben, the importance of protecting the oceans was reinforced six years ago when one of their children developed encephalitis after a bout of chicken pox. The virus led to a brain infection which left their child temporarily unable to walk or talk.

"For example, we encourage our clients to consider the impact their packaging will have and how consumers will deal with the waste," Melissa explains.

Married in 2000, she and Reuben now have four children and soon found they needed creative ways to reduce the waste that inevitably built up after each trip to the supermarket.

"We ended up with piles of reusable bags made from plastic fibre that are marketed as green but are bulky, shed microplastics and never go away," says Melissa. "I started researching how different cultures carry things and came across furoshiki, a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth."

Launched as Salt Bags in 2018, Melissa’s take on furoshiki provides what she describes as an opportunity to use a well-designed product to create behavioural change. "We are trying to attach an education philosophy that empowers consumers to take ownership of their impact," she says. "While selling a product is obviously great for us, the bigger picture is about showing how good design can create change."

Next came Salt of the Earth packaging, combining 20 years

"There was no follow-up care once we left hospital as encephalitis is often misdiagnosed and misunderstood," says Melissa. "The more I read about the calming effect the ocean has on the mind and how the body responds to water, I understood why the ocean is so good for us and why we need to take care of it."

During this period Melissa spent a lot of time in or near the sea as part of her child’s rehabilitation as well as for her own stress-relief. "It was important for me to surf whenever I could to ensure I didn’t crash and burn," she recalls.

With their child now fully recovered, Melissa has returned to working on projects such as The Modern Forager, a free online farmers’ market connecting local producers with consumers, developed by Woods Agency during Covid-19.

Outside of work she is committed to maintaining a work-life balance, while still striving to bring about positive change.

"Life is busy but I have a new kind of freedom now our children are healthy and well that allows me to exercise and surf more with friends," she says, "which still leaves me time to develop new ways of empowering people to reduce their environmental impact."

WO R D S – M EL ANIE D OWE R

WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

Louise Gray

Skin health expert, beauty therapist, business owner and entrepreneur.

Louise Gray travelled the globe before her fascination with skin saw her pivot, change careers and establish Louise Gray Skin Care.

WO RD S —JENNA MO O RE

Launching a business that stands the test of time is no small feat. This year marks 15 years in business for Louise Gray Skin Care in Mission Bay so we got to know the woman behind the brand.

32

Louise’s career began when she trained as a registered nurse at Palmerston North Hospital. “It was a time when nurses were trained on the job,” she says. “When I finished I set off on my OE and worked in Australia for a couple of years followed by five years in the UK.” Returning to New Zealand she became an intensive care nurse. “I liked the adrenalin of working with trauma patients. It’s a type of nursing that makes you realise how the body works as a whole,” she says.

On deciding to train as a beauty therapist Louise secured a nursing role in Saudi Arabia. “I’d had problem skin myself and I’d been fascinated by how facial skin responded to the stress from illness and medications in intensive care,” says Louise. “I wanted to help others with their skin at a health level, but the training was expensive so I needed to earn some good money. It’s now possible to become a beauty therapist by doing a two-year apprenticeship. I’m on the board of HITO (Hair and Beauty Industry Training Organisation) who have implemented this.”

Louise graduated from the Joyce Blok Institute. “I was all about the face, hair growth and the endocrine system; body work didn’t interest me at all,” she says.

At the time she was a single female and beauty therapy pay was low so she went back to nursing so she could raise a mortgage. “I purchased a small unit in Remuera and set up the spare room with a massage bed, electrolysis machine and a steamer to offer beauty therapy part-time," she remembers. “I called myself Every-Body Skin And Body Care - my customers were friends of friends - we were all nurses so it was a perfect market."

She enjoyed it so much she decided to go full-time and changed the name to Louise Gray Skin Care. “A friend of mine was instrumental in my going into business because she lit my challenging fires by saying: ‘You’ll only ever dabble in this, it’s just a hobby for you.' I thought ‘don’t you tell me that’ and made the leap.

I think that was her cunning plan all along!” smiles Louise. “I rented the flat next door and worked out of that but then it got so busy I realised I needed to make a change.”

Moving to premises on Kepa Road in Mission Bay 15 years ago has seen the business go from strength to strength. “I opened a second clinic in Ponsonby in 2010 but I didn’t like having two businesses. All I was doing was managing. It taught me a lot because I realise what lights me up is working hands on with people,” she says.

Louise’s passion is education. “I used to employ new graduates straight out of beauty therapy school to help broaden their knowledge and there have been times when I’ve had five

or six therapists working here. These days I don’t have to guide so much as Hannah and Bev have been with me for several years and are very experienced,” she says. “I’ve always had wonderful team members and we’ve won lots of industry awards including the Dermalogica Therapist of the Year twice and the Dermalogica Skin Care Centre of the Year. I won the premier Beauty Therapy New Zealand award ‘Beauty Therapist of the Year NZ’ in 2003 which I believe is a tribute to my desire to treat the largest organ of the body with respect and knowledge.”

In addition to running the business Louise is the vice president of the NZ Association of Registered Beauty Professionals (NZARBP), the membership organisation for the beauty industry. “The industry isn’t regulated so we self-regulate and support members through NZARBP.” After two decades my enthusiasm for this industry is strong as is my lifelong love of education, health and mentoring. “Beauty therapy for me is primarily about wellness and nurturing. I thrive on helping people understand how amazing their body is and how their facial skin often portrays what is happening internally.”

LOUISEGRAY.CO.NZ 09 528 9010 SHOP 2/224 KEPA RD, MISSION BAY

Have You Met My Team?

As we celebrate my 15 years of being in business in Mission Bay, we also need to celebrate my incredible team.

When you hear about Beauty Therapy Clinics, it is usually about the products they stock, their treatments and the fantastic results that they are achieving, but there is actually a whole facet that is often overlooked.

It is the therapists. They also perform the services, have the knowledge, advanced education and achieve the results. Who are they and why do they choose to work where they do?

Let’s take a look at my team.

BEVERLEY DANYALI Senior Therapist, Louise Gray Skin Care

HANNAH BROCKBANK Senior Therapist, Louise Gray Skin Care

OONAGH WOLFKAMP Senior Therapist/ Clinic Co-ordinator

I have been at Louise Gray Skin Care now for 12-and-a-half years, wow! I came to Louise fresh out of beauty therapy college, as a mature student where I surprised myself by winning a scholarship and top student awards. Part of the scholarship was an interview with one of Dermalogica’s top clinics, Louise Gray!

I have loved my four-plus years here as a team member at Louise Gray Skincare. Not only do I get to work with a dream team of positive women with varied and extensive experience, but ongoing education is made a priority.

I joined the team at LGSC over a year ago, having known Louise professionally for many years.

I have never looked back. My first job in skin therapy will be my last, and that is because I simply cannot do better than be in a clinic with an amazing teacher, Louise. I have had fantastic support both professionally and personally from Louise, outstanding access to ongoing education, the most advanced products and skincare technology, the best colleagues anyone could wish for and a client base to challenge, appreciate and give my help to. All of this is is a true reward.

I have learned so much and grown, not only as a therapist but also as a confident woman, and that is down to working at New Zealand’s best skin clinic, Louise Gray Skin Care.”

LOUISEGRAY.CO.NZ 09 528 9010 SHOP 2/224 KEPA RD, MISSION BAY

"This is one of my favourite aspects of working in the beauty therapy industry: it is always changing, evolving and updating.

This means we should always be learning and updating our skills and knowledge to remain relevant and up to date with best practice, ingredients, treatments and so on.

I value the philosophy of LGSC that encompasses professionalism and great service to our amazing clients.

I enjoy working with such professional, experienced and knowledgeable people, sharing ideas and constantly learning. And it is heartening to hear clients remark on the welcoming and friendly environment they experience at LGSC.

Louise makes sure to facilitate plenty of ongoing vocational training and I love the opportunity to keep on learning so we can bring the best service and advice to our wonderful clients.

We all know that great skin takes time but we have 15 years of skin transformations to celebrate. So it is time that you joined us!

OUR GIFT TO YOU • Reveal Digital Skin Image • 30 minute PRO Skin Treatment • Dermalogica Gift Bag with 5 Mini Personalised Products

Treatment valued at $209, Join the Celebration for $99.

Secure your treatment today as this is valid for the first 15 new clients.

Email: info@louisegray.co.nz with the code ’15 Years’

Shaping Better Futures

“We’re not just about insurance, our client base consists of people who are aligned with the same values. They care about community, they are gogetters, entrepreneurs, people wishing to create long-term relationships.”

Auckland-born, Hamilton-based Julia Vahry is almost apologetic when recounting her childhood so idyllic as to be almost “clichéd”. “It was such a warm, loving upbringing,” she beams.

“My parents were both amazing. Dad built a boat and summers were spent fishing and living off the land, just being together. During winter, we would explore mountains, ski, go four-wheeling driving and mountain biking. We were a people-orientated, outdoor family, now I am a Mum, I cannot describe how grateful I am for the experiences, love and endless support they have given me and my siblings for 34 years.”

Julia’s dad has won awards for his volunteer work, including a nomination for New Zealander of the Year, so with such influences, it’s little wonder she injects such a caring, communityminded spirit and people centric approach into her life, first in the New Zealand Police, through a number of charities and now as the founder of Vahry, an insurance firm like no other in Aotearoa. The Vahry brief goes way

beyond run-of-the-mill insurance, it is the only truly value-based financial solutions company that sets you up for a better outcome; their real strength, however, is giving you the opportunity to shape your best life.

DISRUPTING THE INDUSTRY “We’re not just about insurance, our client base consists of people who are aligned with the same values,” says Julia. “They care about community, they are go-getters, entrepreneurs, people wishing to create long-term relationships. What we do is more indepth, more personal. It’s not your traditional once-a-year appointment.”

Julia is looking to shake up insurance from the inside. The millennial motherof-three admits to knowing very little about the industry when she established Vahry four years ago, and was struck by how “pale, male and stale” it was. One of the advantages of being younger, she says, is being more relevant. And Julia knew she had already developed requisite skills to thrive.

“I built Vahry on the belief people should not be defined by their upbringing or circumstance. We all possess the ability within ourselves or with support from the community around us, to change our situation so that we can ‘shape the best version of ourselves’.

For when we are all truly living our best life, being our best person, we naturally lift up all those around us, too. Society as a whole benefits. We are a product of the previous generation, and each generation must strive to be better than the last.

handlers, she’s now an inspector of a different kind—for the SPCA.

"With my police background, seeing so many people struggling, I knew I could do a lot more to help. Knowing New Zealanders are so underinsured, I saw insurance as a way of levelling the playing field and as tool to create better possibilities.”

INSURANCE WITH INTEGRITY Vahry is redefining the industry with a fresh approach and clear belief system that attracts like-minded individuals and provides a valued experience.

Individuals who have worked hard to get where they are and have plans for their future. They realise nothing comes easy, so instead of leaving things to chance, they want to secure their future, for them, their businesses, and their families.

Julia spent a near decade in the police with skills as a qualified investigative interviewer and police informant handler. Known for her dedication, attention to detail, empathy and ability to work alongside multiple agencies, she was viewed as an asset within the organisation and regularly commended for going above and beyond. In 2011, Julia was even immortalised, chasing a fleeing offender, in a K’ Road mural by artist Otis Frizzell. Since 2008 she has been the face of the police recruitment, and, more recently one of the faces of the police high performance programme.

While many might understandably become hardened by dealing with crime and accidents and their aftermaths, Julia developed a greater sense of compassion, a greater appreciation— and sympathy—for humanity.

"With my police background, seeing so many people struggling, I knew I could do a lot more to help. Knowing New Zealanders are so underinsured, I saw insurance as a way of levelling the playing field and as tool to create better possibilities.”

“Being a police officer really shaped me,” says Julia. “I was raised so straightedged that I had zero awareness of the poverty even in my own backyard. It was pivotal, a definite changing point. I hadn’t previously considered the reasons why people would commit a crime. It’s easy to become institutionalised in the police, but you must always remember that you are dealing with people. I also enjoyed the fast pace, solving things, the camaraderie, and even the paperwork!”

Julia cites then-Inspector Tracy Phillips as having a mentoring influence that continues to this day. One of New Zealand Police’s first female dog

“Tracy really highlighted for me what it meant to lead and be progressive,” says Julia. “While some high-ranking officers were primarily office-based, she would attend frontline incidents and be sure to meet the young officers, get amongst it and stay relevant. I thought that showed true leadership. I was around 23 at the time and she took me under her wing for the remainder of my career. We still keep in touch, she’s a superstar.”

“Covid-19 has caused many to reevaluate their lives and highlighted the need to prepare for end-of-life,” says Julia. “As morbid as it sounds, we will all die or get sick and die at some point, the unknown is when. Getting prepared with documents such as a will, enduring power of attorney and ensuring a well thought out insurance plan are vital.”

Paying it forward, Julia aims to ensure her clients have the “opportunity to shape their best lives” by providing the “right foundations to give them confidence to live well, knowing that they’re covered with the best possible outcome from any event”.

“It’s hard to encourage people to take out life insurance,” says Julia. “People don’t want to insure themselves. They still have that she’ll-be-right attitude, then rely on GoFundMe and Givealittle pages when things go bad. Up to half of the population will experience some sort or trauma or serious illness before they turn 65.”

Julia also points to the fact that most wind up in hospital, or worse, through illness rather than accident, meaning ACC can’t help, either.

“It’s all about being prepared,” she goes on. “People don’t realise that many policies will include free insurance for children. Unfortunately, children get sick too and both parents want and need to be away from work to care for them, they need financial support during that time."

Finding the right insurance also means access to treatments and drugs not funded by Pharmac. Having access to non-Pharmac drugs can mean you have the opportunity to survive a serious illness or live longer – to meet or greet your children or future grandchildren.

“I hope to never ‘sell insurance’ to people, it doesn’t feel right. My business is about understanding people, supporting them to reach their aspirations and utilising the opportunities that insurance provides in that space. It is life changing for people when insurance is done right, and we are able to create absolute victories from adversity, that is a wonderful feeling.

It’s so satisfying to create an environment where everybody wins.”

C O N TACT

“A couple of years ago, my client’s 18-month-old son was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour. I got the call from them 12 months to the day that they signed off their insurance when they were at hospital,” says Julia. “Originally, they didn’t want the expenditure of covering him, and I told them about my experience and why it was so important.

Wonderfully, he has recovered and in remission, but there is the risk the cancer could return. However, he will have the best possible medical care for the rest of his life.”

Julia got the call from the family when they first went to Starship and within a few days she organised that their years salary would be paid, so they didn’t have to work and could focus and care for their son.

HORIZONS, BROADENED As a regular plasma donor Julia has recently partnered with NZ Blood, who are required to increase their donations drastically by 2022.

"I started my journey of giving blood and plasma after a young relative was diagnosed with cancer in 2018. At the time I was told the best tangible thing I could do was to start giving blood as they were having so many transfusions and there were so many other children

in need. Being healthy enough to be able to give blood is an honour and a privilege, it is something that costs nothing but your time and so many people benefit, including the elderly, those suffering traumatic injuries, patients with autoimmune disorders, mothers who haemorrhage during birth cancer patients. The list goes on, and these people are your neighbours, your co-workers, your family young and old.”

As Waikato Hospital is the largest in the southern hemisphere, Julia feels a personal responsibility to step up, support and drive a campaign to make Hamilton the nation’s biggest supplier of plasma and whole blood.

She is hopeful that the campaign will encourage national competition to drive more donors throughout New Zealand.

“There are so many opportunities in insurance to do so much more,” she says.

“I’m really excited about group wellness insurance paid by employers for staff that covers pre-existing conditions, this can be life saving for some people who have had either minor or major illnesses in the past or are currently suffering.”

It’s all about a new attitude, a new way of doing things, employers can really set the standard of how they want to lead and one of the best ways of demonstrating this is taking care of their staff and their health.

It’s about providing opportunities for people to not only live longer, but to free up funds for mortgages and investments. To create intergenerational wealth for families, to give the best possible prospects for the next humans to come.

“I have such a sense of purpose, and I love it,” she adds. “When people are feeling good about the decisions that they have made, it creates a positive

vahry.co.nz / (07) 849 1828 / julia@vahry.co.nz

AUGUST 2020

Best In The World!

Verve chats to Jo McColl of Unity Books, Auckland

What do you most enjoy most about your business?

Interacting with the customers, without a doubt. Ninetynine percent of them are enthusiastic, caring, interested, and so happy to be around great books. Every day is a treat, intellectually stimulating and fun.

What do you think the future looks like for independent booksellers, and how do you survive online competition? Independent booksellers are thriving. Online shopping is fine if you know exactly what you want to buy, but the fun of the Unity experience is that you don't know what you want or what you'll find. It's an adventure that will surprise and take you into reading experiences that you never knew existed.

Unity Books Auckland, has been around for a long time.

Not only has it outlived many of its competitors, but it recently walked away with top spot at the Gardners International Bookstore of the Year 2020 Award. Hardly surprising that Unity is adored by local bibliophiles and casual shoppers alike, as a visit to Unity Books will more than confirm the reason why, for Unity doesn’t just sell books, it sells the perfect bookshop experience, the sort one reads about and sees in the movies.

What are you reading at the moment? I am reading a novel called Betty, not due for release until next month. It's

by Tiffany McDaniel and it is truly magical and also heartbreaking. Betty is one of eight children to a Cherokee father and white trash mother. Set in the 1950s in the Appalachians, their world is one of poverty, racism, and violence, yet Betty finds resilience through storytelling.

This tale is so beautifully executed, I cannot recommend this highly enough.

Our conversation went something like this…

Any future plans for Unity Books Auckland? In September 2018 we opened Little Unity, our children's bookstore, right next door to Unity. It has been such a resounding success but did require a lot of energy, so I don't envisage any huge plans immediately. But never say never! Since lockdown finished, the store has been busier than ever. Booklovers from all over the country have been sharing their passion and frequently Unity is packed with shoppers. Another space nearby? Who knows?

Tell us a bit about yourself and how you got into the book selling business? I grew up in Wellington—home to the original Unity Bookshop. Travelling through the city centre to school and back every day, I discovered Unity early on and fell in love with the amazingly diverse range of books (even then). The store was in a much smaller space in the 1970s—pretty much across the road from where Wellington Unity is now. But it was such a treasure trove. I had worked at other book stores during holidays while at Victoria University and when I graduated in 1979 I landed a full-time position at Unity Willis Street.

Forty-one years later I'm still here, having opened Unity Auckland in 1989, along with the wonderful Nigel Cox. What has been one of the nicest surprises you have ever had? Discovering that I was three months pregnant when I was 39.

What in your opinion makes Unity Book Shop so special? One of our customers once described Unity to me as an Aladdin’s cave. I really liked that description.

Every single one of the 27,000 books across all categories is a perfect gem. What I strive for is the characteristic that attracted me to Unity originally—the possibility that when you enter the store you will discover books that you never knew you desired. Maybe it's The History of Silence, or the gorgeous Illustrated Soviet Graphics or the Ultimate Book of Sneakers.

What is your approach when selecting new books?

Again it's that 'gem' metaphor. In a shop our size there is no room for 'average'.

UN ITYBO O KSAUCKL AN D.C O. N Z 19 H IGH ST, AUCKL AN D

37

WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

Amy, tell us about yourself, including what you do and how you got here.

Benjamin, partner, and I have two jewellery brands and Black Matter Jewellery is one of them. We started in business together soon after we got together in 2013. I have two boys who are 15 and 13. Benjamin and I also have a daughter together, she's three-years-old and a real sassy-pants diva so you can guess who rules the roost!

Although I'm creative director for Black Matter we are a small team so I do a bit of everything. I'm often found in the bathroom knee-deep in Janola or chasing dust particles in the studio.

Our manufacturing workshop and studio are based in Nelson — we make everything for both brands here.

Apart from jewellery, I was a musician in a previous life and have a life-long love of sport. I'm in a band in Nelson and also still play netball, which isn't easy on the ageing bones but keeps me out of trouble.

While I was at university studying music I was introduced to modelling, which is where I became really interested in fashion. I love the vibrancy and energy of the fashion industry, so creating a fashion jewellery brand in addition to our custom jewellery business has been a fun progression.

Shooting the Breeze with Amy Cunningham of Black Matter Amy Cunningham is the creative director and co-owner of the beautiful new Black Matter Jewellery store at 182 Ponsonby Road (in the old ďŹ re station).

Tell us about your design style. What makes your collections unique in the industry?

Our design style is bold and beautiful with understated simplicity.

Black Matter is unique because our jewellery is made entirely in New Zealand. We craft everything to the highest standards in our Nelson workshop, using only solid sterling silver or gold. This means our pieces are of the highest quality and are made to be worn and loved for many years to come.

Describe a typical day in the life of a jewellery designer?

After getting the kids off to school, the day always begins with coffee and planning. I love chatting with Benjamin and our other amazing jeweller, Joel.

When we have settled on our music selection for the day (very important) we get on with the daily priorities. This usually consists of me planning, making sure new collections and orders are on track, and that the jewellers are doing their thing.

I'm at my desk during the day working while the jewellers manufacture right behind me in the workshop. It can be noisy, hot and stressful, particularly when working to deadlines (which is often), but we all love what we do and have a lot of fun in the process.

benjaminblack.co.nz | blackmatter.co.nz 182 Ponsonby Road

I leave work at 3pm so I can pick up Isla from Montessori, then either return to work with her in tow, or juggle emails and calls from home while playing Duplo, hopscotch or having my face plastered in three-year-old inspired makeup.

Verve Chats to Emma from Bohzali As a designer, where do you draw your inspiration from?

Sometimes inspiration comes from other artforms, such as music and dance. Other times it just comes from a place we can't pinpoint. What we do know is, when inspiration comes, you have to catch it quickly before it disappears. I'm sure a lot of people can relate to this — it's similar to waking in the night and recalling a dream vividly. By the time morning comes the dream has faded.

It's the same as song-writing. Inspiration comes in waves. We just have to roll with it when it comes and let it consume us for a short time.

Obviously this isn't always possible in the madness of life but when it happens it's a beautiful thing.

What is the most favourite piece you’ve ever created – and what made it so special?

The Statement Ring. This was our first design for the Black Matter brand. I remember talking Benjamin through my concept for this piece and it all happened so quickly. Before I knew it I had one on my finger and it's been there ever since.

This piece remains my favourite because it's simple in form, but it's designed to curve comfortably around the top of the finger. It's these little design nuances that can make a simple design a great one.

What advice would you have for aspiring jewellery designers?

Personally I have found the learning to be immense in this industry. As Maya Angelou once said, "I've learned that I still have a lot to learn."

Bohzali was born from my love of interiors and travel.

I am a midwife by trade and Bohzali began as my creative outlet. I started small with just a couple of rugs to fit with my homeware and accessories but it’s the rugs that have really caught people's eye and Bohzali has grown from there. Starting at the markets, which I still love to do, I then created a website before moving into a showroom as well as 1-2 pop-up shops a year.

My sights are now set on a shop or second showroom in Auckland, hopefully by the end of this year.

Each rug is a beauty and it can be very difficult restraining myself when on my annual buying trips in Morocco. Juggling three children aged five months to 16 years isn't always easy when it comes to working let alone trying to start up and run a business, but I love the flexibility I get from being self-employed, I work long hours but can do this around my children, I am also lucky, my husband doesn't have quite the same passion for travel, but he is very supportive of me going off on my buying missions.

I have met so many other amazing women in business along the way and the friendships and support I have found in these like-minded women have definitely been one of the key parts of Bohzali’s success.

b o h zal i . c o . n z • b o h zal i @ g mai l . c o m

39

WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

Q&A with NZ fashion designer,

Jane Sutherland

When did you first realise you wanted to pursue a career in fashion? I have always had an interest in several areas of design – architecture, interior design, photography and metalwork. When I realised that metalwork and fashion could collide, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in fashion.

How do you think that working from the tiny hamlet of Kingston has inspired your vision? To sit on the shores of Lake Wakatipu alone in the evening with my grandfather’s pocket knife and whittle a piece of drift wood gives me time to think, reflect and be inspired – there is no noise and no rush .

“Success is not final , failure is not fatal it is the courage to continue that counts”

40

Any clues as to how your Spring/Summer '20 collection is looking? On a recent trip to Riverton, my 11-year-old son Victor and I walked to the ocean at low tide just on dusk; he shone his torch into the water and I took a photograph.

What captured on film looked to be a bright light reflecting a magnificent sword — a motif which is strongly present through my collections over the years. This image is the inspiration for my next collection, tinged with sterling silver and possibly a hint of gold.

What fascinates you at the moment? With a holiday to Japan on hold, I am currently studying the art of bonsai and Japanese gardens.

Mentors who have inspired you both from a design and a business point of view? No mentors as such. However, there are so many incredibly talented New Zealanders, including Sam Hunt whose poetry books are always open in our house.

Anything else you would like to add? I took a risk last year and changed the direction of my business. I am no longer wholesaling to boutiques, instead I am selling direct to customers. The doors to my workshop/studio have just opened. All enquiries are welcome directly to Jane at janesutherland@xtra.co.nz or DM via Instagram or Facebook. Or visit janesutherland.co.nz P H OTO G R AP HY – JA X @STIL LVI S IO N.C O.N Z

It’s Tuesday We chat to Tuesday Label owner and designer Biddie Cooksley, about what inspires her, her business philosophy, the Tuesday woman, and the possible shape of things to come.

How did you end up as a fashion designer?

Fashion is in my blood. My family was in the ragtrade long before me, so I grew up in the industry.

Throughout school I worked in my parents’ manufacturing business before moving to Auckland in my early twenties to carve out my own independent career. After many years and a world of experience working in different roles for other brands and production companies, with the support of my husband, and my children, and a little bit older, it felt like the right time to move on and do my own thing.

How would you describe your brand aesthetics?

Tuesday Label is unapologetically feminine. Our branding is soft, pink and white; beautiful florals are a strong inspiration. I love looking to international fashion trends for direction and then creating more classic options that don’t have a ‘fad’ feel about them. Our designs are fun and fresh, but there’s also a timeless element to the colours and prints we use.

t ues dayl ab el.co m

Who is the Tuesday Label woman?

She really is an extension of me. She wants to be the best version of herself every day because she knows that if she looks good she feels good. She doesn’t want to save that feeling for a party or a special occasion, and so she wears the pretty dress! It doesn’t matter if it’s to attend a meeting, walk the dog, or to do the grocery shopping. At her core she’s softhearted yet strong-minded, and wearing nice things every day is part of her self-care. She’s lots of things to lots of people (often a busy, working mum) and so her wardrobe needs to be versatile with beautiful pieces that can be worn equally well with sneakers or heels, boots or sandals.

Any aspects of the fashion industry you would you like to change?

With Covid-19, we saw a flash of worldwide discussion around seasonality and working more closely to match collection offerings with our actual weather patterns. I’ve long been an advocate for delivering closer to season so it was really exciting to see those conversations happening. With new part-payment options to secure our wardrobe updates instantly shoppers no longer need to ‘layby' winter coats in February like they used to, so why are we still delivering

them then? Everyone wants to be the first one out of the gate but it makes no sense to be launching winter product in our hottest month, or summer in August when it’s still freezing. I’d love to see the industry come together and align a fashion calendar that works differently.

Fashion designers that have had an influence on you and your work?

I love how Marcia Grazia Chiuri has reinvented Dior. She’s given the brand a topical voice that women resonate with, and there’s heart in that, you can feel it. At Gucci Alessandro Michele has flipped luxury on its head and somehow made it super wearable, accessible to everyone, but still something to aspire to. It’s very clever.

When starting a new collection, where do you begin?

Always with the fabrics! I constantly have shapes and designs floating around in my head, but it’s really the fabrications that pull a Tuesday Label collection together. I’m so drawn to colour, texture, and print— there are always fabrics that scream out to me to be worn. I’m very picky with the print designs and colour palettes we use, and the hand-feel has to be right too.

Nothing happens by accident.

What are three pieces every woman should have in her wardrobe?

Too easy; a stand-out dress that makes her feel a million dollars, a classic pair of rigid blue denim jeans, and an incredible coat that elevates any outfit.

What helps you get in the zone when you’re designing?

An elusive combination of ‘quiet' and music! I need my mind to be clear—stillness is my friend. And old favourites playing in the background keep me from getting distracted. Plus a cup of tea. And probably chocolate biscuits!

Anything else you would like to add?

We’ve recently opened our gorgeous Takapuna showroom to the public so you can now shop with us in person during office hours at 56 Barrys Point Road. Just look for the pink sign or get in touch via our social media channels @tuesdaylabel on both Facebook and Instagram. Also see more pics alongside our interview online, and shop Tuesday Label’s full collection at tuesdaylabel.com

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WOMEN WHO INSPIRE LURING LEADERS We are here to meet general manager Fiona Webby (Fee), to discuss a couple of new cutting-edge adult learning programmes, Leading Change for Good, and Digital Skills for the Workplace. Two of her team, marketing manager Britta Sisam-Jones, and project manager Bex Taylor, sit tapping away on their laptops on adjacent couches and contribute with the occasional anecdote and plenty of laughter. Since lockdown, The Mind Lab has allowed its staff greater freedom to work from home, but they say that they’d rather come in to work, and it’s apparent why—aside from being a space that inspires creativity, it’s clearly a whole lot of fun to boot.

Fee is an assured and articulate communicator but struggles to find the words (“look at me getting all emotional!”) that capture her pride about how the team “stepped up” during lockdown. “From a personal perspective, I loved being able to spend more time with my husband and daughter and walking the dog every day,” she says. “I also did a lot of baking and finally signed up to that photography course.

But I felt more connected than ever to the team. We were all in touch through Zoom and Google Hangouts. There was a lot of checking in on people as we were aware of the mental health challenges.”

At the start of lockdown, The Mind Lab moved all of its programmes online, with the crew also busy developing new offerings such as Leading Change for Good, a postgraduate certificate that “focuses on leadership and transformation for social or environmental good”.

“We recognise that the hierarchical, traditional western way of leadership is changing,” says Fiona. “Sympathetic, values-based leadership is coming through stronger.”

Leading Change

“We recognise that the hierarchical, traditional western way of leadership is changing,” says Fee. “Sympathetic, values-based leadership is coming through stronger.”

Collaboration, too, is ever more vital.

It’s been a few years since Verve last caught up with the good folk at The Mind Lab—so long, in fact, that this writer very nearly headed straight to their old base on Carlton Gore Road. The esteemed educational facility’s uber-cool new HQ sits at 99 Khyber Pass; the converted space embraces its industrial architecture, with exposed shiny metallic ducting and concrete flooring complemented by indigenous artworks and plush sofas adorned with cushions dotted with native birds. Walls are painted green, much of the space is open plan, and when there are partitions, they are often glass.

“There’s a big difference between cooperation and collaboration,” she continues. “True collaboration leads to growth and innovation, creating an environment where everyone is successful. You must create a platform of trust so that people feel comfortable to put ideas forward and are not afraid to fail.”

The Mind Lab philosophy dictates people “fail fast then have another go”. Kids, paradoxically, are generally more mature than adults when it comes to accepting critical feedback.

“Failing is nerve-wracking, but it’s how we learn,” insists the GM. “We try to teach people to be reflective: ‘Why didn’t that work?’ ‘How could I have done it differently?’ We know that when you fail, and start to take different paths, that leads to progress. There are so many ways to do the same thing, particularly with digital technologies.”

AUGUST 2020

The programme took shape thanks to feedback about the leadership module of an existing course aimed at teachers.

“Teachers don’t necessarily think that they’re leaders, but they are,” says Fee. “They lead classrooms and they lead communities. We give them the skills to go and take on leadership, and there are many more industries out there that we want to share that with.”

ALL ABOARD THE WAKA The Mind Lab is looking to target the likes of government agencies, iwi, non-profits and entrepreneurs: “It’s about providing authentic value back to people’s organisations.

Value that’s based on a purpose, and for good. On the programme, they identify what authentic value is—it will be specific to them and their context.”

Regarding both staff and students, authenticity is at the heart of The Mind Lab approach. Fee has learnt that “the magic happens” when you “allow people to be themselves”.

“We want people to bring their whole selves to work. I don’t want them to leave their real personalities at the door. We believe anyone can be a leader, and we provide the platform to do that.” And it’s often the most unlikely leaders that make the best ones. Fee tells of a quote she learnt in a meeting

with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei: ‘kāore te kumara e kōrero mō tōna ake reka’ (‘the kumara does not say how sweet he is’). “So, there may be some shoulder-tapping required as people might be reluctant to put themselves forward!”

This almost echoes Fee’s appointment as The Mind Lab’s general manager, with her at the time telling founder and CEO Frances Valintine that she knew nothing about the education sector. “Frances said that that’s exactly why I was being hired,” continues Fee. “Because there were already so many amazing educators, but they needed more out-ofthe-box thinkers, and people from diverse industries to help disrupt the market.”

Fee studied arts and politics at university and has lived in Europe and travelled South America for four months. She’s previously worked—and is the first to admit, with varying degrees of success—in industries as diverse as interior design (“I was rubbish at it!”), digital publishing with the Illustrated London News Group, digital marketing with Wunderman, and advertising at Saatchi & Saatchi. She cites her mother’s progressive attitude in always urging her to explore new avenues.

“Mum’s generation didn’t have the opportunities that we do, and there have been several pivotal moments in my life where she could have been quite negative about decisions I have made but she actually encourage me to pursue my dreams. Now that I’m a parent, I realise how important that is, to give your kids confidence to do what they want to do. You must give people the platform to fly, then back them to fly.”

“Mum’s generation didn’t have the opportunities that we do, and there have been several pivotal moments in my life where she could have been quite negative about decisions I have made but she actually encourage me to pursue my dreams.

Now that I’m a parent, I realise how important that is, to give your kids confidence to do what they want to do. You must give people the platform to fly, then back them to fly.”

Fee’s a big believer in going with your gut-feeling and credits her Wairarapa farmer-cum-tourist operator father with her intuition. A recovered “control freak”, her five years at The Mind Lab have instilled the importance of trust and teamwork and allowing herself to let go. “We all share the same drive, values, vision and purpose,” she says. “We attract a lot of people who, though successful, have been in positions where they just felt that there was something missing, that something wasn’t quite right. Then, they come here, jump in the waka and realise we’re all in this together!”

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WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

Many small business owners simply don’t realise how digitising can free up time, resources and cash. The Mind Lab can help increase efficiency, which in turn will hopefully increase profits. They have partnered with BNZ in the hope of helping everyone from small businesses to large governmental organisations.

“All of our programmes are about building confidence so that people can take on the next step. So far, we’ve helped people from all ages and backgrounds, with varied skill levels. There has been a real sense of community that

“All of our programmes are about building confidence so that people can take on the next step. So far, we’ve helped people from all ages and backgrounds, with varied skill levels.

There has been a real sense of community that has, at times, allowed the teachers to step back as people exchange advice and ideas.

There is magic in that. We can learn so much from each other.”

44 Such ‘a-ha’ moments are also regularly evident during classes of Digital Skills for the Workplace, a programme that sees the coming together of community, collaboration and computers.

LET’S GET DIGITAL “All of our programmes are based on a need in the market,” says Fee. “As a nation, we haven’t kept up with digitisation.

We’re expecting people to be digital without showing them how.”

People forced to work from home during lockdown is the most glaring example, though it wasn’t the original driver— the course was actually launched in January.

“We are helping people to upskill, rather than just teach them the tools,” continues Fee. “This allows them to adapt to using different online platforms. We teach how to collaborate, to communicate, to think critically and get creative in solving problems.”

The Mind Lab takes pride in disrupting the education sector, pushing boundaries and “providing a safe platform to rethink careers, roles and personal values”. “With more people working remotely, businesses are asking how to communicate with staff and keep productivity high,” says Fee. “There are other challenges around sustainability— becoming paperless, for instance.”

has, at times, allowed the teachers to step back as people exchange advice and ideas. There is magic in that. We can learn so much from each other.”

In fact, day one of Digital Skills for the Workplace incorporates a communications platform that requires immediate collaboration.

“People often arrive with that fear that they might break something,” chuckles Fee, “but you can’t break it! What you can do is give it a go, collaborate. You can’t know everything in the digital space, it’s forever evolving, but we give people the chance to evolve too, through collaboration.

We’re changing people’s lives, and that’s so very cool. It’s powerful. People have these ‘a-ha’ moments and you can actually see it happen. That’s why we do this.”

Since Mum’s been here, she’s just blossomed

Summerset Serviced Apartment resident, Alma with daughter Maree

From growing up in a big family in Christchurch to being happily married for 63 years, Alma’s had plenty of company throughout her whole life.

So, when the option to move to a Summerset serviced apartment came up, Alma and daughter Maree were naturally a little nervous it might be a bit on the quiet side for her. But, since the move, they’ve discovered it’s been anything but quiet.

herself again. “She’s involved herself in things that she hadn’t done for years…choir, exercising. She’s just taken it with both hands…made friends…and it’s all been just amazing.”

“I think mum was just so delighted when she came here….and realised how welcoming and how well-run [the place is] and what care is here for her.”

A self-professed ‘fussy’ person, Alma was also delighted with the high standards of the staff. “They do all the cleaning and upkeep. Everything is just how you’d love it to be if you were at home or with family.”

Alma hasn’t had time for boredom at all since moving to Summerset. “There’s so much to keep you occupied. Music.

Happy Hour twice a week. Little outings. It’s a lovely place to be.”

When she first arrived at her serviced apartment, Alma’s daughter Maree recalled “I thought it might take her a little while but it was quite amazing really how quickly she settled, and I think that was down to the staff”.

While the move was a big decision, the whole family feel that Alma has “blossomed” since and has become more

“It’s a relief for us to know that she’s taken care of. Dad would be so pleased to see she’s in a place like this. It’s just been a godsend.”

Summerset at Heritage Park in Ellerslie has a brand-new range of serviced apartments available now from $349,000.* *Licence to occupy

For more information, contact Frank Booth, our Sales Manager on 09 950 7962 or email frank.booth@summerset.co.nz

SUM2282_VM

“I don’t think you’d ever need to feel lonely here. It’s just like a big family…and there’s [always] something going on,” remarks Alma.

Alma also fills her time with a cheeky bit of cleaning, even though she doesn’t need to lift a finger. “I don’t think she leaves a lot for the staff to clean, but that’s mum,” laughs Maree.

From Bauhaus To Our House Words – Robyn Alexander Photographs – Greg Cox

Above: As one approaches the front of the house, its Bauhaus-inspired lines are very evident. A pair of tree aloes stands out graphically against the white-painted exterior of the house and, with the other greenery, sets off the terracotta paving.

Left: The kitchen area as seen from the garden. Laureen and Renée created the double-volume kitchen space – which incorporates areas for dining and lounging – by removing the small bedroom that had occupied the first floor above it.

This covetable mid-century home in Cape Town has been sensitively renovated and is now the centre of a family’s life as well as a unique showcase of 20th-century design.

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Above: The steel-framed windows were custom made by Jambmax for the new double-volume space, by removing the bedroom that was previously situated above the kitchen. The result is what Laureen calls "a proper view of the height of the forest trees" in the garden and park beyond.

HOME & DESIGN

In the second bathroom, the tiles were sourced from Moroccan Warehouse, and their patterned placement was custom designed by Renée Rossouw.

Right: This very feminine sitting room is situated adjacent to Laureen’s en suite bedroom, and is furnished with a round table and Josef Hoffman chairs that were sourced from the now-defunct Wynberg Antique Shop. The rattan ceiling fan is from Newport Lighting and the fluted copper wall sconce is by Ernst Eloff and was sourced from Liam Mooney, Laureen designed the rug herself.

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Above: In an open-plan format, the dining room connects with both the main living room and the kitchen, and opens to a patio and the garden beyond via double-volume, steel-framed windows that were custom made by Jambmax. The large porthole window was added during the renovation. "I wanted to put a big circular window in to emphasise the special round shapes that the house already had," says architect Renée Rossouw. The green glass table top is by Architectural Glass Design and the brass table base by Alexander Abrizzi,

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HOME & DESIGN

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AUGUST 2020

In the main bedroom, the bed is covered with a linen throw in a magnolia print by Isobel Sippel. The bedside pedestal and vintage Kaiser lamp are both from The New Modernist and the lotus cushion is by South African textile designer Jenny Gifford.

55 Right: Laureen and RenĂŠe removed the old kitchen ceiling to create a dramatic, double-volume space that opens onto the garden beyond and incorporates a petite dining and living area too. The floor is finished in custom-made tiles by Moroccan Warehouse, which works very well as a complement to the original wall tiles. Open shelving allows Laureen to display a variety of kitchenware pieces collected over the years including wooden spoons, glassware and vintage crockery.

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HOME & DESIGN Resene Irish Coffee Resene Bardot

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Resene Amulet

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Resene Awol Resene Bush

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HOMESTAGING

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RETAIL

+64 9 579 1930 | HOMESTAGERS .CO.NZ 69C ST GEORGES BAY RD, PARNELL , AUCKL AND 1052 WWW.HOMESTAGERS .CO.NZ

HOME & DESIGN

City Botanics

Bespoke Gardens For Small Space Living WORD S — DANIELL E RAMAE KE RS

These days Martin Steel is chief plantscaper and designer of City Botanics, but as a kid, he simply loved spending time in the garden with his father. Together they tended the annuals corner and maintained a colourful vegetable patch. They built sturdy bird cages. It was easy to lose track of time outside in nature, but it was never time lost. These experiences connected Martin early on to the healing power of plants. Over time, his passion for horticulture grew into specialised garden design.

Plus, three complimentary visits at the end of each installation allows City Botanics to provide clients with everything they need for a successful transition into plant care.

Now, Martin specialises in designing gardens for small (and tiny!) spaces, helping bring other people's dream green scenes to life. His innate creativity, combined with the incredible inspiration gathered on his travels, generates into gorgeous one-of-a-kind garden creations.

After he left his childhood home and purchased his own Sydney abode, Martin filled out the quarter-acre section with scratching chickens and plentiful fruit trees. Then his corporate work bought him closer to Sydney's bustling CBD. Soon, Martin's high-rise apartment was bursting with lush plant life, inside and out. It was his natural ability to create gorgeous gardens big and small that led him to study garden design and horticulture.

"Because Europeans have been living in apartments for years, their balconies complement their lives as well as the architecture," he says, remembering his trip to Europe that provided him with an array of balcony-blooming design inspiration. Then there's Chicago's famous Lurie Garden. "That had me collapsing with excitement," he laughs.

027 215 7884

CITYBOTANIC S.C O.N Z

Alongside his excellent communication skills, Martin's honest love for his work enables him to develop gardens that "match people's lifestyle and commitments". With a strong desire to get to know people's plant priorities better, Martin is a natural in bespoke garden design.

By helping burgeoning plant parents maintain (or develop) their green fingers, Martin aims to encourage others to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Teaching people to care for their freshly planted gardens allows him to share his genuine love for nature that has been a lifelong development.

He has a desire to push the principles of horticulture and transform "bare balconies with broken terracotta pots" into small urban oases. By merging his clients' dreams with their lifestyle, Martin successfully installs beautiful gardens that people love coming home too.

"Hearing that someone loves to have their morning coffee on their balcony, or that they can't wait to spend time in their new garden, that's what I love," he says.

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MARTI N STE E L P H OTO G R AP HY — KE NNE DY CAVEY

HOME & DESIGN

Martin's deep-seated understanding of how a garden functions fit an individual's space and lifestyle stems from personal experience. His many examples of outfitting urban jungles with downsized gardens include successfully sustaining a snug planter bed in a worker's cottage narrow concrete courtyard.

027 215 7884

CITYBOTANIC S.C O.N Z

And as living spaces evolve, garden design moves with it. After relocating from Sydney to New Zealand, Martin noticed a change in Antipodeans' longstanding dream to own a "house with a lawn". Apartments with petite patios and tiny terraces are on the rise.

Not only has moving across the Tasman provided Martin with an insight into housing's changing landscape, but it's also given him a strong education in native plant care. He's found his gift for garden design has flourished. "When clients say to me, 'Oh but I kill plants,' or 'I can't have that plant in my place, that would never work,' I say, 'You let me worry about that,'" he laughs.

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There's no doubting Martin's ability to merge modern Kiwis' love of nature with the beauty of garden design.

His team at City Botanics are paving the way in customised courtyards and bespoke balconies. And as well as sowing the seeds of respect for nature, their brilliant garden creations are helping to enrich the lives of every client one small space at a time.

L u x u r y Fu r n i t u r e G a l l e r y 1 5 - 3 1 We l l e s l e y S t r e e t , A u c k l a n d C B D 0800 994 930 www.deluxinteriors.co.nz

Selling First Impressions

HOME & DESIGN

It famously takes just seven seconds for someone to form their first impression of you, and according to one British study it takes only around 20 more to form an impression of your home. For those trying to sell a place, those seconds are precious; research by the Bank of Montreal concluded a whopping 80 percent of potential buyers feel if a home is right for them the moment they step inside the door.

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AUGUST 2020

“Decluttering is key, remove family photos and draw attention to architectural features so buyers can picture their own family in the space.”

So, how to create that magic moment? The solution could be home staging.

How much of an influence the environment and architecture have on the approach?

According to Wellington interior designer Alicia Walker, home staging “highlights your home’s strengths, downplays any weaknesses and appeals to the greatest possible pool of prospective buyers”.

“It’s a massive influence. Who the architect is will often even dictate how you style. For example, with Fearon Hay properties, you know the buyers like that specific look so you must style it to suit. The area counts a lot too, Ponsonby, Remuera and the Bays all require different approaches. It’s very much bespoke.”

Julie Dana, New York interior designer and co-author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Staging You Home to Sell, says decluttering is key, remove family photos and draw attention to architectural features so buyers can picture their own family in the space, “not the family that already lives there”.

It may even add a few extra bucks to the sale price. Though home staging costs around $1,500 to $5,000, it adds five to seven percent value to the house—which averages a cool $30,000 to $50,000. A study by the Real Estate Staging Association also discovered homes remain on the market for 143 days on average, but staging shaved off more than 100 days.

Staging is also guaranteed to be fresh and fashionable as the stylists are up to date on the hottest trends.

“I call it interior design on steroids!” says Philly Lyus, general manager of DMI Homestagers and Interior Design, in Parnell. Philly’s mum first established the industry in New Zealand more than 20 years ago, so she has “lived and breathed it” since she was a teenager.

Though she’s handled some of Auckland’s most prestigious addresses—including what was at the time, the country’s expensive apartment, in Mission Bay—Philly says she gets as much of a kick from the “cute villas” and brick and tile units that enable her to “jump from one style to another, often in a single day”.

Stagers also provide all furniture, furnishing and accessories.

“We own around 130 house lots, so we never run out!” says Philly. “We have items sourced internationally and from New Zealand suppliers, all very tasteful and to suit all styles.

We’ve doing this a long time so get a good feel for a space pretty quickly, and can do whatever, wherever, whenever.”

While interior design jobs, may take months home staging is a lot more fast-paced resulting in two or three completed jobs a day and a similar kind of satisfied rush: “Transforming a house is just an amazing feeling.”

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Alabaster, chalk, ivory, cream, black-white...which should it be?

After visits to my local Resene store without making a final decision, I hit their website, something I should have done in the first place as here I found all the information and insights I needed.

The Resene Whites and Neutrals collection is made up of 28 palette cards, with 12 individual colours on each card, often organised into colour ‘families’ or varying strengths of the one colour. Some of the colours have up to six strength variations, which comes in hugely handy when you are building a tonal colour scheme.

Understanding the paint codes helps too. Beneath each paint swatch is not just the name but a code which starts with a letter.

That tells you the base colour of the paint. Y is for yellow, BR for brown, G for green and N is for neutral (which means black, or rather grey, once you put it with white).

Some paint colours cross from one base to another depending on their strength. For example, Resene Half Pearl Lusta’s code starts with a Y but Resene Quarter Pearl Lusta starts with a G. The science of paint is intriguing indeed.

Deciphering Whites I have just had the excitement of having my home freshened up with a complete paint-over. My taste has always been towards the understated more minimalist end of the decorating scale and of course I wanted my walls, all of them, to be white.

Never did I expect deciding on a white/a shade of pale to be so tricky. - Fran Ninow

The last three numbers of the colour code tell you where the colour sits on the colour wheel (ie. from red 0 through to 180 for green, and then on to the blue-purple end). This is important with off-whites, as it’s the subtle undertones that you notice when they are used in a room.

Still confused? Then go the testpot route. Paint little areas with the whites you like best, and live with them for a week or so. You will soon know which white is best for you. I did, and it certainly helped with the decision-making.

BOB AND FRIENDS OFFERS A COMPLETE HOMESTAGING SERVICE .

From initial consultation through to complete staging. If you are selling your property and need help with staging, be it a partial or a completely staged job, art, flowers, magazines, everything included, then call us. We will help you make your property look its best and hopefully attract the most buyers to achieve the best price. So if you are looking for a modern contemporary look and a friendly and professional service please contact and call Ron at Bob and Friends.

Ron@bobandfriends.co.nz

022 021 0455

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AUGUST 2020 JANINE KING DESI GN

Tips For Selecting Your Stager Selecting your home stager should be seamless and simple with a few key things to bear in mind: • Allow 2 – 3 weeks’ notice to book in a stager before you organise your photoshoot. In the height of the season top stagers are often booked out well in advance and do not like to disappoint you if they can’t offer the best selection of furnishings in stock for your property.

• Interview your stager to ensure they understand your potential target market’s psychographics who are looking to buy your property.

• Buyers decide on your home within the first 3-7 seconds (a bit like speed dating!), so ensure your home is uncluttered and fresh inside and out. Decluttering before your stager arrives allows them to do what they do best in styling your home.

Top: The kitchen after the colour and styling consultancy with Janine King Design.

Left: The kitchen before.

• Staging is often completed during the week so no need to be there. A good stager will take a brief on what is needed and weave their magic while you spend your time doing what is important to you.

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I HOMESTAGING & INTERIOR STYLING

n staging a home to the right target market we're inspiring the potential buyer with the perceived lifestyle that the property portrays. Janine King Design is an award winning self-professed furniture fashionista and “maker at heart”. A love of style and design permeates every project and creates elegant spaces to ensure your home looks its best during the selling process. The execution is key, and we bring together every space in your

home with expertise than spans more than 6 years.

We focus on offering a bigger picture marketing experience when selling your property. Janine King Design coordinates packages tailored made for specific needs ensuring a fast and successful sale and maximising the marketing campaign. We excel in creating inspiring Auckland properties for all occasions whether you are selling, buying or seeking a fresh look.

For A Free Quote Contact Janine Today 021 276 2048 • janine@janineking.co.nz • janinekingdesign.com VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

HOME & DESIGN

Winter Wonderland WO RD S — NAD IA KL A AS S E N

Curve Line Print – Papier HQ

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01. Zanadoo Chandelier Coco Republic

02. Wool Blend Plaid Blazer & Other Stories

03. Angle Chaise TRNK

This modern sphere-shaped starburst chandelier features 12 lights and an antique brass finish. The chandelier brings glamour into any home, and the small bulbs create mood lighting when turned on. The light can be mounted from the ceiling or in covered outdoor areas.

A blazer is a winter essential, especially one made of wool. & Other Stories has a select range of high-quality blazers made from only the best materials. The wool blend plaid blazer in navy blue brings a classic element to the piece and will pair well with any type of pant.

The upholstered seating combines an appreciation for elegant, yet practical design with the enduring qualities of American manufacturing. Simple, striking and deceptively comfortable, the Angle series is striking and sculptural, yet smallspace friendly.

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04. Nano Belt Bag Celine

05. Kennedy Ribbed Ottoman Alex and Corban

06. The Arizona Boot Khaite

Did someone say crocodile? Why not add some texture to your winter wardrobe with a Celine ‘nano’ bag. The super versatile shape allows it to be easily taken around town during the day, or out to dinner in the evening. The crocodile embossed calfskin makes it all the more special.

The shape and striking colour combination of this ottoman is sure to give interest to any space. The burnt orange velvet provides a soft and smooth texture for the winter months to accompany any furniture and décor items. It makes for a great stool for sitting or as an ottoman.

Khaite’s footwear debut is unlike any other; the classic style with a bold pattern is something to swoon over. Made in Italy of zebra-striped haircalf, this square-toed shoe is free of closures for pull-on ease.

Creative director Catherine Holstein aimed to create the perfect everyday boot.

JUST RENTALS

What A Year It’s Been, And It’s Not Over Yet! Landlords Be Aware Of The Changes. Make Sure Your Property Is Compliant Before The Deadline Is Reached.

The Residential Tenancy Amendment Bill is going for a second reading under government soon and it contains many changes that will give the tenants much more power if passed!

There is also the Healthy Homes Standards which requires properties to have a Compliance Certificate which must be completed by 1 July 2021. It seems that we have only just finished organising the insulation to bring our properties up to compliance and now we have another set of compliance regulations to meet.

Tenants are very much aware of the changes ahead and if the landlord does not provide a compliant residence certificate the tenants can take the landlord to the tribunal and seek damages. Landlords can be fined up to $4,000 which may be increased with the new changes currently with government to be passed.

Landlords must maintain their rental properties up to the standard required and by the date required. Landlords should be organising now: outside vented rangehoods, outside vented fans

in bathrooms, all windows must close securely (no draughts), efficient drainage, downpipes and guttering.

We are busy organising quotes for our landlords and getting tradespeople in to do the work.

The heating side is very difficult. There must be a fixed heater in the lounge that will heat the living area capable of achieving at least 18C. Landlords are required to do a heating calculation on this area – many think they will just get away with a simple wall heater, but we are finding most are requiring a heatpump.

My advice to all landlords is to get organised and get these jobs done NOW as 1 July 2021 will come around fast.

Just Rentals will not take on any property that is not compliant; we also could be fined. These changes must be done, it is the law.

Good Renting Sylvia Lund, AREINZ

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Best In Beauty

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Welcome to the Verve Best in Beauty 2020!

An annual celebration of effective beauty finds from six categories across skincare and makeup, and for the first time, Best Beauty Supplements. Add these to your shopping cart!

If you’re in the market for a new hair-do, or still haven’t attended to your mane post lockdown, there’s also Best Hair Salons. Or for those who want to be pampered, check out Best Spas.

Read on for our curated edit of beauty finds helping you look and feel your best.

And don’t forget to check out our website for chances to win some of these amazing products!

Try us for half price Live Your Best Skin™ with Clear Skincare.

Try one of our favourite treatments for the first time, and get half on us. T&Cs apply.

CLEARSKINCARECLINICS.CO.NZ

Auckland 09 220 6520

Howick 09 600 3850

Mission Bay 09 600 3860

Newmarket 09 520 0057

Ponsonby 09 220 6000

Takapuna 09 485 3290

Best Moisturisers 1

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Linden Leaves Essential Facial Moisturiser Nurture beautiful skin with Linden Leaves Essential Facial Moisturiser a light, easily absorbed lotion that soothes and nourishes the skin with organic white tea, comfrey and calendula. Now in a better value 100ml size and recyclable glass packaging.

Certified Natural by NATRUE and made with love in New Zealand. lindenleaves.com

essano Vitamin C Brightening SPF15 Moisturiser Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help battle the damaging effects of free-radicals to leave your skin positively glowing and radiant.

Rich in Vitamins A, B and C sourced from exotic fruits mango, papaya and pineapple, this Vitamin C SPF15 Moisturiser nourishes, smooths and protects skin. Enjoy radiant skin every day with this easily absorbed formula. essano.co.nz

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The Skin Wardrobe Scandinavian brand, Lernberger Stafsing S.O.S Barrier Repair Cream This luxurious multi-action 24-hour barrier cream, from Scandinavian brand Lernberger Stafsing, strengthens the skin protective barrier to calm, restore and defend sensitised skin. Highperformance ingredients like gluconolactone and hyaluronic acid hydrate deep into the skin layer, while simultaneously forming a weightless barrier against environmental assault. Bisabolol, allantoin and niacinamide reduce redness and soothe sensitive skin. Ideal also after professional skin treatments or chemical peels. Ten percent of profits go to Save the Pollinators, a bee charity product, created by The Perfect World Foundation. theskinwardrobe.com

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Snowberry Rejuvenating Night Cream This luxuriously hydrating night cream contains active ingredients to repair the day’s damage and a higher concentration of moisturisers to replenish, rejuvenate and repair dryness overnight. It combines hydrating harakeke seed and echium oils, 100% plant-derived saccharide isomerate and hyaluronic acid, cell-regenerating antarcticine, superfruit and skin-softening wolfberry (Goji), New Zealand kanuka honey, with an exotic blend of natural herbal oils to help you wake up glowing! snowberry.co.nz

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Best Facial Oils

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1 01 essano

Certified Organic Rosehip Oil with Acai essano Rosehip Oil is proudly New Zealand’s #1 facial oil and #1 Rosehip Oil*. It harnesses the unique healing power of certified organic Rosehip Oil, which clinical studies have proven to be effective in minimising the appearance of fine lines, scars, stretch marks and sun damage. Enriched with antioxidants from Acai Berry, this oil will nourish, hydrate and renew for radiant skin. You will love the way it fells on your skin. It is light, non-greasy and quickly absorbed. essano.co.nz

0 2 Dermalogica

Retinol Clearing Oil Dermalogica’s NEW Retinol Clearing Oil combines two powerhouses into one formula for the first time: salicylic acid to rapidly clear and prevent breakouts, and potent, timereleased retinol to help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Best of all, this high-performance night oil visibly renews skin overnight, delivering clearer skin and reducing signs of premature ageing within seven days.

A gentle yet effective form of retinol, this product is suitable for most skin types. Use sunscreen and limit sun exposure when using this product.** dermalogica.co.nz

03 Glow Lab

Rosehip Oil +Plus The next generation in Rosehip Oils, this powerhouse goes a step above traditional rosehip oils. Boosted with vitamin C for a brighter more radiant complexion, this fast absorbing facial oil also contains active ingredient Beracare BBA™ which boasts an impressive clinical claim of increasing the skins hyaluronic acid levels by up to 82% after nine days Available in supermarkets nationwide. glowlab.co.nz

04 Dermalogica

Phyto Replenish Oil Dermalogica’s Phyto Replenish Oil is a feather-light treatment oil that rapidly absorbs to reinforce the skin’s protective barrier. The advanced formula takes a three-phase approach to replenishing protective lipids that are depleted by ageing and environmental stress. First, phytoactives from Camellia and Tamanu oils help restore the skin’s natural barrier.

Then, an essential lipid blend that includes Orchid Flower and Chia Seed Oil smoothes visible lines and locks in critical moisture. Finally, Sunflower, Rice Bran and Rosemary Extracts create a luminous antioxidant shield against free radical damage. Ideal for daily use on normal to dry skin, can also be added to your Dermalogica Moisturiser or Foundation for show-stopping luminosity.** dermalogica.co.nz

0 5 Seed and Soul

Turn-Back-Time Face Tonic A luxurious blend of oils to reduce the appearance of fine lines and boost hydration. Ingredients include carrot seed oil, full of vitamins to heal and gently balance moisture, marula oil to stimulate collagen and promote new cell growth, and last but not least, prickly pear to improve elasticity and leave your skin feeling velvety soft. seedandsoul.co.nz

0 6 Snowberry

Soothing Facial Massage Oil An extraordinary blend of precious plant oils (including macadamia, inca inchi and sunflower) and antiaging plant extracts especially suitable for sensitive skins, that helps to reduce inflammation and irritation. It is also perfect to apply after exfoliating to reveal luminous skin! The beautiful colour and scent of this 100% natural product comes from an extract of the German chamomile flower. snowberry.co.nz

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Source: IRI Dollars, Total skincare, New Zealand Grocery MAT 19/04/2020

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Find it at authorised Dermalogica skin centres, Skintopia, department stores, Life Pharmacies, Louise Grey Skincare and online at dermalogica.co.nz

Best Eyecreams

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Arture Orchid Power Rejuvenating Eye Cream This amazing eye cream harvests the power of orchid stem cells to activate communication among cells to relaunch their rejuvenating activity. It gives an eye opening effect by visibly lifts, tightens, and redefines the eye area.

Effects can be seen with just two weeks of use. arture.co.nz

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Snowberry Snowberry Smoothing Eye Serum A moisturising blend of specific nutrients, with a unique 'natural botox' peptide (argireline) and vitamin complex blended with hyaluronic acid and natural herbal extracts, specifically targeted to help reduce the signs of tiredness such as eye bags and puffiness, and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This next generation eye serum will have an eye opening effect on the overall skin condition in this delicate area. snowberry.co.nz

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Swisse Skincare Argan Revitalising Eye Cream Swisse Argan Revitalising Eye Cream is an ultra-hydrating formula that replenishes and refines the delicate under-eye area to prevent signs of premature aging for a more youthful and rested appearance. Contains Argan Oil to nourish, replenish and helping to prevent signs of premature aging, plus Squalene and Grapeseed Oil to help preserve, nourish and intensely hydrate the skin. swisse.co.nz

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essano Collagen Boost Eye Crème essano Collagen Boost Eye Crème contains Rosehip Oil and Eye-Fective™ to smooth fine lines, lift eyelids and reduce dark circles, all in one! The entire essano Collagen Boost range is designed to boost your skin’s natural collagen production to help reduce the visible signs of ageing. The range is enriched with plant-based extracts to improve elasticity and firmness, helping women to age positively and look youthful for longer. Vegan friendly. essano.co.nz

Best Lipsticks

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1 2 Revlon Super Lustrous Glass Shine Revlon Super Lustrous™ Glass Shine lipstick delivers saturated colour and this buttery-soft lipstick instantly melts onto lips for a glass-like finish.

Formulated with a blend of aloe, hyaluronic acid and rose quartz to soften lips. Available in 12 buttery, high-shine shades. Available from Farmers stores, farmers.co.nz and selected pharmacies.

Revlon Super Lustrous Luscious Mattes Super Lustrous The Luscious Mattes lipstick saturates your lips in velvety, high-pigment matte colour. The formula is infused with a botanical complex including agave, moringa oil and capuacu butter to help your lips feel supple and look smooth. Available in 12 New Velvety Matte Shades.

Available from Farmers stores, farmers.co.nz and selected pharmacies.

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Glow Lab Tinted SPF15 Moisturiser The first natural tinted moisturiser in supermarkets, this multi-tasking, lightweight formula provides a natural looking colour wash to even out skin tone while luminous pigments give skin a natural, dewy glow. Enriched with plant-based oils for long-lasting hydration and the added benefit of Broad Spectrum SPF15 to protected against UVA and UVB damage. Available in supermarkets nationwide. glowlab.co.nz Juice Beauty Stem Cellular CC Cream The Stem Cellular CC cream is ideal for all skin types, particularly those showing the signs of ageing, fine lines and wrinkles.

It offers a radiant finish for a glowing complexion and is rich in antioxidants.

Available in five shades to match and enhance any skin type and colour. meccabeauty.co.nz

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Living Nature Glamorous Lipstick A beautiful rich red with a silky satin finish, Living Nature’s new natural lipstick Glamorous is the most powerful shade to pull out of your purse.

Crafted in New Zealand, the creamy formula is enriched with all natural waxes, butters, and oils, offering long-lasting lip nourishment and intense colour pay off from the very first stroke. Available at selected pharmacies, health stores and online at livingnature.com

Best BB Creams 03

The Skin Wardrobe From Swedish makeup-infusedskincare brand MAKETHEMAKE Vitamin C Tinted Moisturiser SPF30 A lightly moisturising and sheer coverage tinted moisturiser with SPF30 protection. Provides a light to medium coverage and creates a natural glow.

Vitamin C Tinted Moisturiser is a state-of-the-art, multi-tasking fusion of skincare and make-up that combines luminous, skin-like coverage with all the benefits of ingredients with antioxidant, hydrating and UV protection properties.

This ultra-lightweight, sheer finishing moisturising tint gives a flattering, dewy and even skin tone while protecting your skin both immediately and in the long term. theskinwardrobe.com

Best Beauty Supplements

01 Qt Internal Cosmetics

Bellē The only professional grade solution, designed to revitalise your health & beauty from the inside out. Qt Internal Cosmetics delivers excellence in ingestible beauty, through the delivery of premium quality ingredients that are synergistically designed to work together to achieve the best results.

The difference is noticeable thanks to a unique combination of hydrolysed marine collagen, vitamin c, lotus, silica & tremella, nature's own hyaluronic acid. Tremella hydrates skin, producing anti-ageing benefits through its ability to hold up to 5 times more water than hyaluronic acid and naturally increasing the production of HA by the body. qtforyou.com

02 Swisse Beauty

Collagen Glow with Collagen Peptides Swisse Beauty Collagen Glow with Collagen Peptides is a premium beauty supplement combined with vitamin C, grape seed and co-enzyme Q10.

This unique formula contains collagen peptides from type I and III collagen to support collagen production and skin integrity from within. It also contains antioxidants, which help reduce free radical damage to body cells, and vitamin C to support healthy, firm, supple skin, and skin repair and regeneration. Swisse Collagen Glow is the No.1 collagen product in NZ pharmacies.

0 3 Adashiko

Collagen Ultra There is collagen + then there is Adashiko! Adashiko offer the highest grade collagen on the market due to the tiny molecular weight + advanced Japanese manufacturing techniques.

Adashiko is readily absorbed to then be utilised by the body. ULTRA is the ultimate anti-ageing formula provides superior anti-oxidant + extra skin loving ingredients to support the whole body.

Resulting in all over health, vitality + radiance from the inside out. New look: Adashiko goes sustainable!

Best Mascaras

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02 Arture Lash Serum The one and only New Zealand made lash growth serum! It is a peptide based growth serum that stimulates the growth of eyelashes to give you longer, fuller lashes.

Formulated with no nasties and packed full of natural botanicals to visibly improve lash length and density within two weeks of use. arture.co.nz

Osmosis Curling & Defining Mascara Curling & Defining Mascara thickens, lifts, and separates from root to tip. This lash-pampering, clump-free formula resists water and smudges while nourishing lashes.

Intense mineral pigments, free of synthetic dyes, formaldehyde and parabens, only containing healthy ingredients for healthy lashes.

Swertia japonica extract increases blood flow to lash follicles, improving lash health, and promoting growth. osmosisskin.co.nz

0 3 Define your lashes naturally with

Living Nature Living Nature’s certified natural thickening mascaras enhance your lashes naturally without clumps or chemicals. Made in Kerikeri, the award winning formula contains locally sourced halloysite clay to naturally thicken and define lashes, plus active manuka honey and organic carnauba wax to protect and nourish.

Available in Jet Black or Blackened Brown, this gentle mascara is fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive eyes. Available at selected pharmacies, health stores and online at livingnature.com | Thickening Mascaras | RRP $33

Best Hair Salons

Lenski Visit: Lenski, 305 Parnell Road, Parnell Shop online: lenski.nz Follow us: @lenski.nz

LENSKI is a destination hair salon nestled in the heart of Parnell. The team, led by an award-winning stylist Sasha Lenski, specialises in creating elegant and effortlessly chic hair cuts, colours, treatments, and styling. The salon is designed to be a welcoming place for its clients, where each visit is a much-deserved treat. With a recent addition of an online store, lenski.nz is fast becoming a go-to platform for an assortment of luxurious products, delivered to your door.

D&M Ponsonby institution D&M has been consistently recognised as the top salon team in the country since they were opened 14 years ago by Danny Pato and Michael Sisaengrath.

They are famed for their colour work, creating flawless blondes, sophisticated balayages, rich chocolates and dazzling reds. They are a team of master cutters, attracting a diverse range of clientele from celebrities, media and corporates to artists, housewives and local icons.

Danny Pato is the current, fourtime consecutive NZ Hairdresser of the Year (Hair Expo, Australia 2016–2020), the country’s only AIPP

International Trophy winner (UK 2019), and top-three finalist for International Hairdresser of the Year (Spain 2020).

D&M has forged ahead as a leader in the green revolution.

They are a concept Davines Sustainable Beauty salon, with 95% of their salon waste recycled or repurposed.

The salon team is actively involved in giving back to the community by raising funds for charities including Victim Support, Mercy Hospice, Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, CureKids and KidsCan. dandm.co.nz

Best Spas 01

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White Spa Relieve stress, anxiety and fatigue with a float session at White Beauty Spa and Float Lounge. Experience the ultimate in relaxation and healing—Floatation rest restricts or eliminates all of the external stress-factors or stimuli that normally affects us every day. We are often not consciously aware of it but this can take up to 95% of our physical and mental energy. Reward your body and mind with floatation therapy on a regular basis and feel renewed and revitalised. whitespa.co.nz

Chuan Spa Chuan Spa is a modern retreat located at Cordis Auckland.

In Chinese, chuan means flowing water. As the source of life, water represents the re-birth and rebalancing of our whole being. At Chuan Spa guests are provided with a journey to wellness combining superior service with holistic treatments that nurture, heal and restore. The contemporary Oriental designed spa creates an opulent retreat from the chaos of the outside world. Providing individual and dual treatment services, a heated outdoor pool and spa pool combined with saunas, herbal steam rooms, ice experiences and snail showers. Chuan Spa Auckland is a haven of holistic, luxurious spa experiences. Combine this with exclusive treatments and exceptional service and you will leave refreshed, relaxed and totally rejuvenated. www.cordishotels.com/en/auckland/wellness/chuan-spa Call 09 300 2960 to book.

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HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Little Salties Natural Deodorant

Use coupon code VERVEMAG at checkout for a 10% discount

Why should we use natural deodorants and how do they work?

Can you give us a few natural deodorant life hacks?

Traditionally we have used deodorants on our armpits to mask our sweaty scent but ironically the chemicals used in commercial antiperspirants to prevent a sweat process are the exact elements that cause the smell in the first place. Chemical laden deodorants work to clog the pores and toxins are unable to be released, which in turn creates a cycle of stink that can only be continuously masked by using more chemicals.

Ditch the idea of applying your deo once in the morning and going about your day. Your armpits will sweat and you’ll need to use your natural deo as much as you need it. A good natural deodorant will clean and freshen your pits so you can confidently go about your day knowing you smell great. The use of a body scrub on your armpits is amazing for helping to open your pores and release bacteria, especially during a pit detox. Attending a regular hot yoga or spin class, where you can sweat, sweat, sweat is great for promoting a pit health balance that will have you coming up smelling like roses every time.

A good clean deodorant should contain natural bacterial fighting ingredients – the Little Salties formulation uses only nine locally sourced ingredients including salt, bicarb, witch hazel and aloe vera.

What is underarm detox?

An underarm detox can be a harrowing thing, especially if you have used an antiperspirant for a prolonged period of your life. The pores in your armpits have been clogged up with gunk and you will be releasing all the yuck stuff that has built up over the years. The detox time will vary from person to person which is why it’s essential to pick a natural deodorant which smells great and that you can apply whenever you get a whiff of stink. The active ingredients in Little Salties also help to fight the bacterial detox process.

PURCHASE YOUR LITTLE SALTIES NATURAL DEODORANT AT LITTLESALTIESNZ.COM

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Smiles & Style

L EF T TO R I G HT: R E B EC CA P H EMI STER TOM ED G ELEY JAM ES STO N E

The impeccably styled, minimalist mood of The Tooth Company reception at Eastridge is more akin to a hip social media office or independent publishing house, perhaps, than a dental practice. Signage aside, bespoke tooth-shaped sculptures suspended in chic, globular light fixings hanging from the rafters are the only hint towards the building’s true purpose. And beyond the stretched reception desk sits a handful of state-of-the-art rooms with cutting edge equipment and widescreen TVs angled from the ceiling toward the dentist chairs.

AT EASE “It was so important to create a welcoming and calming environment for our patients,” says practice director Dr James Stone. “The equipment is not like the traditional dental tools that people are used to, and everyone who works here are extremely personable to make our patients more comfortable still; it’s at the forefront of everything that we do.”

Little wonder then that The Tooth Company, Eastridge, has developed a reputation as the area’s go-to family practice; but is there still a certain dread from the public about stepping through the dentist doors?

“Totally,” says James. “A lot of patients—especially the older ones—have had bad experiences that stay with them. Some haven’t had their teeth checked for 10 or 20 years. They’ll usually be nervous the first time, but then they’ll be okay—and that’s one of the most

rewarding things about the job, changing those perceptions. And for those that are extra-anxious, we can take the edge off with some gas and air.”

see how happy it makes people, being able to eat whatever food they want, or finally being proud of their smile. It’s about mental as well as physical health.”

The dentist says that he recently finished some work on a crown for a patient before the documentary he was watching on one of those suspended TVs had finished, “so I recorded the time in his clinical notes so that he can watch the rest when he comes back for the fitting!”

COMMUNITY SPIRIT James actually began his career with the intention of becoming a facial surgeon, which involves studying dentistry and medicine, but enjoyed general dentistry so much that he decided to stick with it, and now, here he is.

Crowns and bridges are now created courtesy of a 3D scanner that is so accurate that they fit straight away, eliminating the need for adjustments and further “making the time in the chair as pleasant as possible”.

“I did do a couple of years as a junior facial surgeon, so I do have that experience of doing complicated extractions also,” he says. “We really do offer everything here.

Our two dentists, Tom and Rebecca, are up to date will all the newest techniques, both highly skilled in extractions, oral surgery and dental trauma.”

REDUCING THE PAIN Financial pain is eased through options like Afterpay and 12 months interest-free with Q Card, while those with injuries are covered through ACC. “For those especially hard-up, we can work through WINZ as well,” says James. “The most important thing is to get a plan.”

If a patient requires lots of work, James and his team will structure a plan, prioritising the most urgent procedures first. “We let them know what needs to be done immediately, and what can wait six months, or even a couple of years,” he says. “We try to break it up, matching our plans to our patients’ time and financial constraints.”

A contract with the DHB means kids from Year 9 through to age 18 years get their dentistry for free.

James says people are putting more value on dentistry, especially as they become more aware of the links between oral hygiene and the health of everything from their gut to their heart.

“Research coming out has shown how oral health can affect people with diabetes and even dementia,” he says. “But more obviously, it’s hard to be happy if you have a toothache or are paranoid about your smile. We also do a lot of cosmetic dentistry like veneers and whitening, and I love that aspect of the job because you can

Originally from the UK, James was only supposed to stay in New Zealand for a year or two, but even before he fell in love with his wife-to-be, Lisa, he’d already fallen in love with the country and decided to stay long-term.

“I actually got the job through Skype,” recalls James. “Andrew Campbell, who owns The Tooth Company and is now a good friend, had just opened the first practice on the North Shore, around nine years ago.”

Now James and Lisa have two young sons and live just around the corner in Kohi.

“There’s a lovely community spirit around here,” he says. “A lot of the patients turn up through recommendations, which feels great as it confirms that you’re doing a good job.”

The team even worked through level 4 of the lockdown when most other practices were closed.

“We were seeing people from all over Auckland, and some were in agony,” says James. “We were in full hazmat suits, with masks, and it was really intense. But had we not, many of the people would have wound up in hospital. People were very grateful, and we were glad to be able to offer that service, to give something back.”

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HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

The New Kid On the Block, Profhilo®

Biostimulator Extraordinaire

The most exciting development in injectables in years has finally reached our shores.

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Profhilo® is new to our neck of the woods, however it has been widely used in Europe for the past five years.

Over a million syringes have been administered, and crucially, it has a very well-established safety profile.

Profhilo® is made in Italy by IBSA pharmaceuticals, and represents a new concept in anti-ageing medicine.

Clinic 42 is happy its doctors are amongst the first in New Zealand to be using this innovative new product.

It first caught the eye of Dr Ellen Selkon when she was attending a conference in Sweden three years ago, and the team have been eagerly anticipating its arrival in NZ ever since!

SO WHAT IS PROFHILO AND WHY THE FUSS? Profhilo Hydrolift® is a bio-remodelling product that works through the slow release of both high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid. While it consists of pure HA, it is not a dermal filler in the traditional sense as its function is not to volumise but to induce bio-stimulation of cells. This means it stimulates the laying-down of new collagen and elastin in the superficial layers, just under the surface of the skin.

Once injected Profhilo® spreads and becomes integrated into the skin. The result is lifted tissue with fewer lines and wrinkles, improved texture and intense hydration.

09 638 4242

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HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE? Well that’s another good thing about this procedure.

While an appointment is 30 minutes, there are very specific injection points used and the actual treatment takes only 10 minutes. It is relatively painfree and there is no downtime required. Perfect for a quick lunchtime appointment or running an errand! A second treatment is required one month later.

WHERE CAN PROFHILO BE USED? You can use it on the face and neck and soon there will be treatment options for the décolletage, arms and legs too!

WHAT IS THE COST OF PROFHILO? Two treatments, one month apart, will cost $1,600.

HOW LONG WILL IT LAST? It is recommended to repeat annually, but the treatment can be repeated every six months.

WHO SHOULD HAVE IT? Everyone! With our natural collagen and elastin formation slowing from as young as 20 years of age, anybody and everybody can benefit from Profhilo®.

Whether you are 30 or 70, male or female, you will notice the difference.

So if you want to get your skin into its best shape ever, call Clinic 42 now and make an appointment to discuss starting your Profhilo® treatment regime.

321 MANUKAU ROAD, EPSOM

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CLINIC42.CO.NZ

Auckland Obstetric Centre is a unique practice in Parnell made up of six leading specialist obstetricians and support staff. Together we have many years of experience and feel privileged to be able to share in the care of women during their pregnancy. To find out more about how we can care for you and your baby call our team or visit our website.

09 367 1200 | obstetrics.co.nz

Lynda Batcheler Astrid Budden Eva Hochstein Katherine McKenzie Kirstie Peake Jason Waugh

FREE Seminar

Covid-19 Medical Research – the First 100 Days In April the Auckland Medical Research Foundation (AMRF) awarded more than $500,000 to seven emergency, fasttracked projects through its extraordinary AMRF Covid-19 Research Fund.

New Zealand’s largest independent medical research funder, AMRF, received requests for more than $3.38 million of project grants. AMRF accelerated the application process to ensure research could start immediately in response to the unprecedented need during this pandemic.

Sue Brewster, the foundation’s executive director, said: “There is a real demand for financial support for work that provides medical solutions for this virus and research-based insights into the impact Covid-19 will have on our society.”

This month the registered charity will host three online seminars showcasing three of those researchers who will reveal initial findings in their first 100 days of research.

Professor Merryn Gott, 3 Aug, 2pm

IMPACT OF SOCIAL ISOLATION AMONG OLDER PEOPLE Professor Gott is partnering with Age Concern and the Ministry of Health to immediately inform their work.

“Older people have been identified as the group most vulnerable to Covid-19 and subject to particular restrictions.

Whilst this strategy will hopefully protect them physically, the potential for a second wave of harm relating to increased levels of social isolation and loneliness has been identified,” she says.

“Loneliness has a similar impact on health as smoking or obesity. Our findings will place the voices and experiences of culturally-diverse older people at the centre of public health responses to Covid-19.”

THE IMPACT OF THE PANDEMIC ON NURSE WELFARE Taking a clinical standpoint, Dr Roskruge is investigating how the nursing workforce is managing in the crisis and what measures are needed to sustain an already-pressured sector of healthcare.

“Nurses are working on the front lines and experiencing the risks and vulnerabilities not only to themselves but also their whānau. Serious mental health consequences such as anxiety and depression may result, harming wellbeing and undermining our health system,” he says.

His work aims to “change the way we value and support our nurses” and address workforce sustainability with resilience strategies for nursing staff and their employers.

To register for these free seminars, go to medicalresearch.org.nz or call 09 923 1701 A registered charity, AMRF was established in 1955, and in its 65 years has invested more than $80 million into a wide range of medical research.

Dr Daniel Furkert, 17 Aug, 2pm

Dr Matthew Roskruge, 10 Aug, 2pm

ANTI-VIRAL TREATMENTS AGAINST COVID-19 Dr Furkert’s work forms a small part of an encouragingly rapid and highly-cooperative worldwide effort to develop and evaluate many possible antiviral drugs, to identify those few that can be advanced through clinical trials into therapeutic use.

Working in drug discovery and medicinal chemistry, the fund enables the research group and the wider antiviral collaboration to apply core skills in chemical synthesis and drug design to an immediate medical need with important social implication.

“It is very exciting for us to be able to contribute in a meaningful way to combating this dangerous pandemic.”

Elstree Pharmacy

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 Skincare, Styli Style, Cosmetics and Stella and Gemma Jewellery.

145 WEST TAMAKI RD, GLEN INNES | 09 528 3636 ELSTREEPHARMACY@XTRA.CO.NZ

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Oatmeal Face Scrub Homemade facial scrubs are a great place to start if you’re new to DIY skincare. Not only are they easy to make using familiar, inexpensive ingredients, they’re also an important step in a healthy skincare routine. Facial scrubs can slough off dead skin cells, soften skin, and reduce the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. Ideally, they should be used one to three times a week, after cleaning the face and before applying a toner or moisturiser. Although scrubs can be made with a variety of exfoliants such as sugar, salt, and baking soda, I like to use a base of oatmeal, which has been used for thousands of years to gently cleanse, exfoliate, heal, and moisturise the skin. It’s safe for all skin types and is excellent at soothing sensitive skin. Makes 1⁄2 cup powder for the scrub.

Ingredients 1⁄4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats 1⁄4 cup raw almonds 2 tablespoons dried chamomile or lavender buds (optional), jojoba or sweet almond oil, lavender essential oil

Directions Grind the oats, almonds, and herbs in a food processor until finely ground. Sift through a mesh screen to remove large pieces, and store the powder in a sealed glass jar until ready to use.

To Use

THIS IS AN EDITED EXTRACT FROM SIMPLY LIVING WELL BY JULIA WATKINS PUBLISHED BY HARDIE GRANT BOOKS $39.99 AND IS AVAILABLE WHERE ALL GOOD BOOKS ARE SOLD. PHOTOGRAPHER: © JULIA WATKINS

Combine 1 tablespoon of jojoba and 1 drop of lavender essential oil in a small bowl and mix well. Add 2 tablespoons of the powder to the bowl and mix well to create a thick, spreadable paste. Massage the paste into the face using gentle, circular motions, then rinse with lukewarm water.

I N T E R N A L

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C O S M E T I C S

Smoother, 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 18 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. Real-time 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 have reported experiencing mild heat with an overall high level of comfort during the 15-minute session.

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 BMI (body mass index) or weight restrictions. Almost anyone can be treated with the truSculpt iD. How many treatments will I need?

Ninety-five percent of patients will only require one treatment per area! We can treat multiple (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 will be noticeable immediately (firming, improved skin tone and texture, some reduction), 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 treated area, in one treatment.

BEFORE

BEFORE

TWELVE WEEKS AFTER ONE TREATMENT

TWELVE WEEKS AFTER ONE TREATMENT

TruSculpt ID Benefits • Treats an area 3x larger than CoolSculpting’s coolmax (largest applicator)

• From just 15 minutes!

• Painless • Safe for use in obese and morbidly obese patients • Suitable for male and female • Tightens the skin by remodelling collagen • Amazing results-some patients have reported over 35% reduction in fact (***measured by ultrasound in clinical trials)

• Treat ALL areas including the abdomen, love handles, bra rolls, chin, thighs, arms and calves • Men and women

CALL TO BOOK YOUR FREE CON S ULTAT I ON 591A REMUERA RD, REMUERA ∙ 09 520 5331 ∙ FINESSEFACEANDBODY.CO.NZ

FATHER'S DAY '20

THE RELAXATION HE DESERVES. SUNDAY 6 SEPTEMBER

This package includes our latest Hemp seed oil muscle meltdown massage, the ultimate therapy in relaxation and pain management.

In addition to this, Dad gets a COMPLIMENTARY class pass to Studio Box in Auckland, where he can try the boutique fitness studio’s signature immersive boxinginspired workout.

60min + 45min Class - NZD 110 Available for purchase online and in-store 17 August - 7 September 2020

WWW.SPRINGSPA.COM

AUGUST 2020

HOROSCOPES WO R D S & I NS P IR ATIO N — MANIS H KU MAR ARORA

Leo

Aquarius

You can be more optimistic about the direction your life is taking, and feel good about your goals. You are more sensitive than usual, with everything impacting you at a deeper level, but you try to hide it from everyone and retreat when you feel upset.

This is a good time to get a lot of work done, and to deal with your health and daily life. You can come across as more logical, judgmental, and quiet.

You feel most like yourself when you’re taking time to do the things you love to do most, and allowing yourself to embrace your inner child. You want to be playful and have fun, and need breaks from work regularly or you get grumpy. If you’re in a relationship, you can be more emotional with your partner, or vice versa. If you’re single, you can meet someone you feel a karmic link to.

23 July – 22 August

20 January – 18 February

Virgo

Pisces

You can be more inspired, creative, and artistic, and want to create something special. You can also seem more like your true self. Your dreams can be a focus, and you can get closer to achieving your dreams if you’ve been working hard and smart, or encounter more roadblocks if you haven’t. Love is complicated, private, and intense this month. You can also be more emotional if you feel things are out of place.

You begin the month with broad vision and enthusiasm. This is a good month for travel and exploration, but career or reputation matters can get tricky at times. Some of you are up for a promotion or raise. You derive less pleasure from being with those you’re closest to, and may opt to spend more time alone.

You come across as more scattered, social, and intellectual.

23 August – 22 September

19 February – 20 March

Libra

Aries

Your creative self can become more dominant, and a creative outlet can be good for you now. You may get a chance to expand your business and this expansion will increase your earning and ultimately you will also be able to save a lot of money. You have the chance to improve your financial position, either by stabilising cash flow or finding new ways to make money altogether.

You feel more confident and secure, and can do more to increase your sense of security and safety in life. Love matters are mostly easy and amiable. You need to be nurtured and encouraged, and you’ll do the same for those you’re close to. You’re more open to other cultures and ways of living, and want to learn more about them. You may come across as more emotional, moody, and sympathetic.

23 September – 22 October

21 March – 19 April

Scorpio

Taurus

You are especially magnetic and persuasive in this month. You are willing to work especially hard for security, and you are also quick to defend your values. You can be more organised, try to bring more structure into your life, and demand perfection of yourself. You’re driven to have better financial security, and the more money you have, the more secure you feel.

You want to expand your life and your world. The more boxed in you feel, the more you want to blow through the walls around your life and run free. You have more mental energy and can do a lot of investigating into subjects and ideas before pursuing any of them. You see how much the world has to offer you, and you want to have new experiences, and see new parts of the world for yourself.

23 October – 21 November

Sagittarius

22 November -21 December

You need more balance in your life so you feel mentally at ease, or it becomes difficult for you to process anything intellectually.

You’re willing to make compromises with anyone, and are good at negotiating deals and being a mediator. You can pay attention to the details, do work in your community, or see a sibling or neighbour in the spotlight. You may find that you’re on the go more than usual.

Capricorn

22 December – 19 January

You can get further along your life path, or feel that you need to change your direction completely. You have energy to deal with your spirituality, and are driven to explore your spiritual self.

You can become interested in the metaphysical, and explore spiritual topics. You love conversation and want to be around other people. You may also expect your love relationship to be deeper this month.

20 April – 20 May

Gemini

21 May – 20 June

You can pursue new money-making opportunities, take on a second job, or start a side gig for extra money. Your confidence may be higher than usual. You’re compromising and fair, and you strive to bring balance and harmony into your life. If you’re in a relationship, you can commit more fully to your partner. If you’re single, you crave more commitment in your life. You can commit to a project, idea, or person in some way.

Cancer

21 June – 22 July

You can begin a transformation of some part of yourself or your life. You can research anything, and you do so thoroughly.

You’re interested in the darker side of life, things that are taboo, and take a serious approach to everything. You can be informed of some secrets, and are more secretive yourself. You can bring more intimacy into your life, or start an intimate relationship.

manish@manishastrologer.com

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Beauty & Wellbeing WO RD S — PARIS MITC H E L L-TE MP L E

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1. DEFY GRAVITY FACIAL AT SKINOGRAPHY

The Sculptural Facial Massage technique removes tension and stress in muscle tissue by softening and strengthening the muscle fibres. Facial muscles are manipulated by massaging deep inside the cheek and jaw area to sit higher, creating a more lifted structure and defined facial contours. Lymphatic drainage effectively removes toxins, draining and eliminating puffiness while increasing blood circulation. Tighten sagging skin and wind back the years. $280, 60 MINUTES SKINOGRAPHY.CO.NZ 2. INFRARED SAUNA AT HANA

Hana provides a space for you to immerse yourself, to nourish your whole being and release what you no longer need, leaving you feeling replenished.

Treatments offered at Hana include full spectrum infrared sauna therapy and full body photobiomodulation (red and near infrared light) therapy. These treatments are designed to support detoxification, inflammatory conditions, immunity and skin health, providing relief from a variety of mild-to-chronic health concerns.

The radiant heat from the infrared sauna helps to remove impurities from your cells, specifically the cells inside our fat where our body stores waste and harmful toxins such as cholesterol and heavy metals. When used regularly, the infrared sauna will help improve your overall wellness.

HANA.NZ

3. DERMAPEN AT CLINIC42

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Dermapen takes collagen induction therapy to the next level, giving amazing results with less damage, less pain and recovery time.

Skin needling allows for controlled induction of the skin’s self-repair mechanism. By creating micro 'injuries' in the skin, new collagen synthesis is triggered. The result is smoother, firmer and younger looking skin.

CLINIC42.CO.NZ 4. THE SKIN REMODELING SYSTEM AT ILLUMINATE ME

SRS, is a soothing, relaxing treatment that targets the underlying problems associated with ageing skin and scarring. The soothing HVPC Technology, works to stimulate cell renewal, activating neocollagen production, toning sagging muscles and adding elasticity to the skin. $150 ILLUMINATEME.CO.NZ 5. BROW PACKAGE AT SPRING SPA

Our new eyebrow-sculpting package will leave you with bold, groomed arches to inspire eyebrow envy everywhere. Introducing: Spring Brow Package specialists will perform three steps to creating the perfect brow.

EYEBROW TINT, EYEBROW SHAPE WITH THREADING OR WAXING, TWEEZE & TRIM SPRINGSPA.COM

PARI S G EORG IA PARI S G EORG IASTORE .C OM

Slow Fashion

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As consumers we need to be more environmentally conscious than ever, that includes the choices we make when it comes to buying clothing. Moving the flow of money to conscious fashion labels who are responding to the evolving fashion system and embracing responsible practices is a good place to start.

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3

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1. PULLOVER $462, CARGO TROUSERS $562 PARIS GEORGIA | 2. SINGLET $75 MAGGIE MARILYN | 3.

FAUX-LEATHER STRAIGHT-LEG TROUSERS $1,150 STELLA MCCARTNEY | 4. PHANTOM DUFFLE $999 DEADLY P ONIES | 5. UNIVERSE DRESS $1010 GEORGIA ALICE | 6. OVERSIZED BOXY TEE $89 KOWTOW | 7. ARC JUMPER $289, KOWTOW

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TH E WO O L C OM PANY

The Eco Choice With a sustainable conscience, The Wool Company ticks all the boxes for those of us who are becoming increasingly concerned about the impacts our purchases are having on the environment. Their merino and merino-possum clothing is all New Zealand made from renewable and sustainable natural fibres. They offer a range of merino garments that are traceable back to the growers who are equally as passionate about the health and welfare of their animals and wool they produce. They also use environmentally friendly packaging where possible.

Keeping warm never looked or felt as good as when you shop at The Wool Company—their range of clothing

and yarn is extensive. They carry a selection of New Zealand made knitwear labels as well as their own labels Utiku Wools and The Wool Company, which includes babywear, socks, lingerie, merino tops and cardigans, sweaters, and yarn. Many of these garments are exclusive to The Wool Company, designed with their customers in mind.

The Wool Company is family owned and operated, spanning three generations and more than 60 years.

They are passionate about wool, and are committed to supplying quality New Zealand made garments and yarn. Find them at thewoolcompany.co.nz. To request a Look Book, phone 0800 60 70 10.

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A carefully curated collection of bespoke handpicked European Vintage Clothing

W

164 Kitchener Rd, Milford paintedbird.nz paintedbirdnz

paintedbirdnz

LUXURIOUS KNITWEAR Made In New Zealand LOOKBOOK AVAILABLE NOW: 0800 60 70 10 SHOP ONLINE: www.thewoolcompany.co.nz

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SHADOWBOX JACKET 6821TX 319 REMUERA ROAD, CNR NORANA & REMUERA RD S H O P S 2 0 9, W E S T F I E L D N E W M A R K E T 3 0 9 B R O A D WAY, N E W M A R K E T W W W. H A R T L E Y S . C O . N Z

FASHION

C LOTH ING G IR L D ES IG NER R ECYC L E

Designer Clothing At A Fraction Of The Cost Based at Greenwood's Corner, Epsom, Clothinggirl Designer Recycle has fast become a popular place to shop if you want top quality designer clothing at a fraction of the retail price.

Janine has samples as well as end-of-lines, and only takes as-new items to sell on behalf. With a passion for quality and style she only selects the best and has a great reputation for her fair prices.

Open 7 days with plenty of free parking right outside.

Visit Clothinggirl Designer Recycle at 553 Manukau Road, Greenwood's Corner, Epsom or call Janine on 09 623 0993 for more information.

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Clothinggirl D E S IGN E R R E C Y C L E

A gorgeous collection of homewares, accessories and more...

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5 5 3 Manu k au Rd, Gre e nwo o d 's Cn r, Ep s om 0 9 623 0 9 9 3 Mo n-Fri : 1 0am- 4pm | Sat : 1 0: 3 0am- 4pm Su n : 11am- 3 pm

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AUGUST 2020

Here are my favourites: • Under-layers. By these I don’t mean merino knitwear (too bulky), instead I’m thinking more a fine layer of thermal fabric specifically fashioned into singlets and long-sleeved ‘spencers’. These are a lifesaver and trap heat underneath your longsleeved dress or top. When we can travel again I encourage you to visit a Uniqlo store and stock up on their HeatTech range, but until then check out Silkbody (silkbody.co.nz) or see the range available at Farmers or Smith and Caugheys. Special mention must also go to Country Road with their very toasty camisoles and slips in a particularly thickly woven synthetic.

• Thermal socks. Not just the domain of hikers and trampers, you can buy thin woollen socks that are 'invisible' inside your trainers or ankle boots. These add immeasurable warmth and prevent cold feet (the source of much misery), meaning you can still wear your dresses and tights but have warm feet.

Icebreaker do a great range of these. Of course, with the return of the knee-high boot, you can go all out with a longer pair. Bliss!

Adding Warmth

• Hats. This season adding a hat looks stylish, not silly. The beret in particular is making a strong play for hat of the season, while a felt fedora still works.

Both look chic styled back with a blazer worn over jeans or a dress. It’s a great way to stay cosy while looking very stylish and is definitely more sophisticated than a knitted beanie.

As always, the coldest days of winter follow the shortest day and this year it feels as if Auckland has been particularly cold. Perhaps this is due to less rainfall than usual and the colder temperatures just feel, well, colder. In Auckland we don’t really do the big, heavy winter coats or bulky knits that our southern counterparts wear. In my years of doing wardrobe audits, these are the things that I’ve discovered hanging forlornly at the back of the wardrobe. Bought on a whim but seldom worn as we just don’t need them in our more temperate climate, unless of course you travel to Wellington or further south regularly. With that in mind there are a couple of essential items for your wardrobe that mean staying warm when it’s really cold up here. These are hidden secrets that add warmth without sacrificing style or adding bulk.

While winter always seems to drag on, let’s take heart that we are in August already and there’s not too many weeks to go until we’ll be seeing the daffodils in Cornwall Park. Before we know it, I’ll be writing a column about how to wear your spring wardrobe – I’m looking forward to that already!

Jackie O’Fee is owner of Auckland’s leading personal style consultancy, Signature Style. If you’d like to create your ultimate wardrobe no matter what the weather, she’d love to help. Call 529 5115 or email crew@signaturestyle.co.nz

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Bringing Food To Life with 3 stellar food stylists

Photo by Vanessa Lewis

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Food Styling brings food and ingredients to life, combines cooking and aesthetics, and is a visually stunning addition to any platform.

Magazines, cookbooks, advertisements, websites—wherever food is shown professionally, it has most likely been staged and photographed by a food stylist. It’s all about presenting food in a desirable way and creating an image of mouth-watering food and drink. It takes sheer talent and dedication

to create stellar pieces of art through food styling and photography, and whether it be styling the food that they have cooked, or styling other people’s food for photography, the options and opportunities are endless.

Food stylists are who fill our magazines and advertisements with stunning and inspiring imagery, so let’s take a look at a few of our most treasured.

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AUGUST 2020

Vanessa Lewis

Photo by Vanessa Lewis Award-winning food photographer Vanessa Lewis is no exception when it comes to creating fresh and sophisticated imagery. With over 15 years of food photography under her belt, she has a multitude of impressive achievements, such as publishing numerous cookbooks and photographing celebrity chefs like Jamie Oliver and Roger Vergé, not to mention French chef Paul Bocuse’s kitchen. Her beautifully styled work has been featured in various magazines, including Nadia, and her collaborations with Meadow Fresh, Fererro Rocher, Silver Fern Farms and McDonald’s have been nothing short of marvellous.

Vanessa has also written an inspirational cookbook, Little Tables: Breakfasts from Around the World, which comprises 72 breakfast recipes for kids, from 32 countries across six continents. The exceptional photography and recipes demonstrate Vanessa’s extraordinary eye for detail and aesthetic. It truly is a testament to her skill, as Vanessa is able to produce stunning imagery from modern and sleek, to country and rustic, and everything in between.

We chat with Vanessa to find out more about her career as a food, décor, and lifestyle photographer.

When did your career in food styling begin and what attracted you to the role?

I am a food photographer who sometimes styles my own work. The styling part started when I photographed my first cookbook, Little Tables, in 20142015 and decided to style the images for that.

What does being a food stylist mean to you?

I am no food expert, I just know what usually works visually. I work closely with the chef/cook on set, I would supply the props and together we would decide on styling that would work from a technical and visual point of view.

What does a day of work look like for you as a food stylist?

There are pre-production days: meetings with the art director, clients and the chef/cook involved, and planning the look of the shoot. Then, a shopping day to gather all of the props and items that were agreed on to use for the shoot.

What is the most rewarding aspect of working in the industry?

I love food. I have learnt so much about food preparation and food trends. I photographed three cookbooks in 2019 and they have all taught me different

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things about food. One was Vegful by Nadia Lim — so much more to veg than you think! Another was Summer with Simon Gault — real easy but ‘chefy’ stuff at home, and the third was for a health retreat where I learnt about pre- and probiotics, pH in food and the correct balance required for a nutritious meal.

How does your personal creativity fuel your work?

I’m always looking for a fresh way to shoot a subject. I’d often try a range of backgrounds or techniques to see what suits the subject matter (usually food) the best, given the brief. I like to try new things and turn the old on its head.

Is it a job that allows for a successful work-life balance?

Yes, I think so. It depends on how you manage it. Sometimes you have deadlines, as an example with one cookbook, I ended up shooting on Sundays which was not ideal, but I was happy to make this sacrifice.

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Jane Collins

Jane Collins, photo by Helen Coetzee

Sydney-based food stylist Jane Collins has been surrounded by food since she was a child, cooking in the kitchen with her mother and grandmother. This interest in food became a passion, and her professional career began as a formally trained chef under the likes of Kylie Kwon and Neil Perry. Having worked in some of Sydney’s top restaurants, Jane has curated exceptional skills in cooking, which has led her to forge a career in food styling. Over the past 15 years, her freelance work has landed her in leading Australian magazines such as Women’s Day, Bauer custom media magazines, Coles Magazine, Westfield Food Magazine, Weight Watchers, and many more. Jane has worked with large companies, and has also produced exquisitely styled food for Masterfoods, Muffin Break, Subway, Dolmio, Breville, and Sanitarium, among many others.

Alongside food styling, Jane has started her food blog – Sizzle and Swirl, a space to share simple and delicious recipes that can be created right from your own kitchen.

When did your career in food styling begin and what drew you to this job?

I had always been drawn to the visual aspect of food in magazines and photography. It seemed a natural progression to move into the publication industry where food stylists

are employed usually on a freelance basis to style and produce images for magazines. So after 10 years of cooking for a living, I changed tack and began my new career. I started by styling a few images with a photographer called Andre Martin-whom I still work with today. I had about five images in my shiny black portfolio, and I walked the streets of Sydney, showing my work to potential publishers. Soon I was booked, and had regular jobs, with Murdoch books, ACP books, and monthly styling jobs in magazines. This was the groundwork to producing my style. I believe having the chef background and training also had me well-placed for working in food publishing. It provided me with the skills to know how food works on the plate.

Briefly tell us about working for yourself and owning your own food styling business: how did the idea come about, and what are the benefits?

I love the flexibility of working for myself. I have many repeat clients which I believe is the best compliment.

Working for yourself, you can control what clients you style for, who you target in marketing, and believing in their product is essential for showcasing its worth. The benefits for my own brand shine through when you love what you produce, and it shows in the images and stories you create.

Which food companies have you worked with that stood out?

These days I mostly work for web clients, food producers, or food industry products and packaging. I started my career in traditional publishing, which was an amazing learning curve, and gave me the experience and knowledge to develop my style and fine tune my food styling. This led me to working on videos, TVCs , and social media content. I love working for Breville, their products are high quality and produce beautiful images. We produce lots of videos, and recipe cards.

This makes my job easy as the food is always photo-worthy and tasty.

Outback Steakhouse has some seriously delicious burgers, which are sometimes difficult to shoot. Getting all the layers right, you need the right amount of ooze, drips, and drool-worthy deliciousness. I have also worked with Nadia Lim from My Food Bag when she was in Australia, on her books and Food Bag recipe cards. Other food clients include, KFC, Lindt Chocolate, Muffin Break, Kurrajong Kitchens, Doritos, Veggie delights, Soda Stream, Coca Cola, Woolworths, Primo, Goodman Fielder, and Rowlee Wines, White Wings and ICC Sydney.

How does your own personal creativity fuel your work?

I have a particular style, I suppose. I like to cook Asian foods, and experiment

AUGUST 2020

Fiona Hugues

Fiona Hugues, photo by Maude Hugues Fiona Hugues’s endless creativity and experimentation has allowed her career in styling to soar, she was recently named Editorial Food-Stylist of the Year at the NZ Food Media Awards. Her talent spans many fields, including interior design, food and recipe development, fashion, and photography. Fiona has over 20 years of experience in the creative industry, not only working with brands such as Watties, Sanitarium, Best Foods, Sealord, Puhoi Valley, Huntley & Palmers, Essano, and Nespresso, but cooked and styled outstanding food for some of the most influential New Zealand magazines like Denizen, NZ House and Garden, Woman’s Day, Nourish, Woman’s Weekly, Metro, MiNDFOOD, and internationally for Lecker Magazine (Germany).

Plant based pho, photo by Andre Martin

with eggs. These two types of food are very photogenic and always make for a great image. I enjoy trying new ways of plating, and creating a simple kind of magic that gets the delicious memo across. I can’t draw, but I think I show my creativity through my work. Over years of working with talented photographers I've learnt many tips, tricks, and formulas to encapsulate my style.

How do you see your career progressing from here: is food styling a forever job for you?

I have no plans to stop food styling. Along

the way from chef to stylist, I also worked as a food editor, and recipe writer. I have just completed by first book, an e-book on eggs and all the different combos that go with them–you would be surprised how many things taste great with eggs. It will be for sale on my website very soon! It’s called Over Easy. I have another book in the works and plans for 4-5 more options, think pantry recipes, burgers, dumplings and more. I think this is a great creative outlet for me to produce my own style of books, and bring my vision to fruition. I am very excited about it, it’s been a few years in the making!

Her expertise and creative flair has impressed clients in the food and interior design world, with her aesthetic being natural and honest – foods that real people eat. She uses texture and materials to create a visual experience.

When did your career in food styling begin and what drew you to the job?

Food is in my blood; my great-grandfather was a grain merchant and bread baker, and I’m from a long line of creative women and prolific cooks that love to entertain.

Originally, I trained in fine art at Elam but diverted into fashion and interiors starting as a visual merchandiser for various brands moving on to designing stores, travelling internationally to buy

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ranges, and creating and running marketing campaigns.

Back then the term stylist was new and only really affiliated to hairdressing, but my colleagues and I were all creating, making things look their best, so gradually, as exclusive styling careers became more specific and legitimate, the term stylist became more prevalent.

In 2000 I stepped back from a full-time role to a part-time freelance one to have my three children, and when my son was small a local community design opportunity came up and I launched a weekly boutique food market not far from where we live at Pine Harbour Marina, similar to the village market my husband grew up with in France.

I have run it for the last 10 years and during this time met ingenious food producers that were bringing their products to market. I began working with some of them, helping them with branding, shooting their products and further development. During this time, one of my crazy elaborate children’s birthday parties at home was photographed and the shots made it into a magazine. From there the editorial styling and commercial food styling jobs started coming in.

Which food companies have you worked with that stood out?

I have a number of fabulous brands I have been fortunate to work with and some that I have partnered with for years. My favourites are the New Zealand owned and operated companies that are doing their bit as part of their food developmental process to protect and nurture NZ’s environment. Being part of their story, helping and seeing them develop and adapt to the changing landscape is wonderful and a privilege.

What skills are the most crucial to succeeding in this career, and what type of person do you need to be?

Knowing your craft is key—having a passion for food, understanding what flavours work, what substitutes you can use. What to look for in quality ingredients is important. Having a creative, critical eye is important too—seeing and making natural balance and form on

Picnic Honey Cake and Meat Winter Carpaccio photo by Manja Wachsmuth

the plate that is honest. Translating that composition for the camera angle isn’t as easy as it looks.

You also need to be organised, as food deteriorates quickly under studio lights.

If you’re not fast things won’t look their best for long and you’ll have to start over.

This is not ideal when there’s a producer nervously watching budgets and a brand marketing team sitting with their laptops lined up glaring at you in a sometimes cramped studio. So, an element of calm and collected under pressure is needed.

What is the most rewarding aspect of working in the industry?

Meeting people passionate about their craft and products. I strongly believe food builds community from the paddock to plate and New Zealand has a magnificent story to tell the world. I’m a professional member of the NZ Food Writers' Guild and we are all as a group very ambitious to get the Kiwi food story shared.

Discovering new techniques, new ingredients and combinations of flavours is a constant buzz and some of the chefs in our little country are groundbreakers for this type of gastronomic ingenuity. It makes me proud to be a part of such a great national team.

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Is it a job that allows for a successful work-life balance?

Sometimes the on-set call times for film work are awfully early, plus as we live rurally so it takes me longer to get to the city, so kids and our farm animals need organising in advance. Occasionally you have long days but they’re few and far between when there’s a great producer on board. If I’m working and shooting in my home studio there’s always great food to be had at the end of the day so those days my family don’t mind at all.

How do you see your career progressing from here: is food styling a forever job for you?

I’ve been hosting sourdough breadmaking classes at my home in rural east Auckland for a couple of years now.

I enjoy teaching and sharing creative knowledge, so more workshops and some future collaborations I’m excited about are on the cards. I’ve also fended off immense pressure to pen a cookbook of my recipes for years now, so maybe I’ll look at that one day soon.

AUGUST 2020

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J O I N U S FO R A M O N T H - LO N G C E L E B R AT I O N O F FO O D & D R I N K AT O R A K E I B AY VI L L A G E T H I S AU G U S T

Dine on spectacular food and beverage month-long specials f rom our tenants, and enjoy the best in locally-owned cuisine and entertainment!

Follow us @orakeibayvillage or visit obv.co.nz for all specials & events.

228 ORAKEI BAY ROAD, ORAKEI, AUCKL AND

Mission Bay Promenade

Tell us a little about yourself and your history with Mission Bay Cafe?

We’ve been here for 22 years and are very much part of the community. In that time I have also been heavily involved in the local community, having chaired the Mission Bay Business Association for 15 years.

How's business been since coming out of lockdown; have you had to tweak your approach?

Like most establishments we are feeling the effects of the lack of visitors, however we remain positive. Our staff have been fantastic and looking after them has been our priority as we are a family. We want to provide service with a smile and make customers feel at home here, which many say they do.

85 TAMAKI DRIVE MIS SIO N BAY, AUC KL AN D 1071 09 5 2 8 0 0 1 7 MIS SIO NBAY.CAFE

Could you tell our readers a little about your menu?

We have a modern café-style menu which changes seasonally. We have varied flavours and a variety of international influences. At the moment we have the Thai curry and arguably one of the best seafood chowders in New Zealand on the menu. I’d also say we stand out as we have a cake counter and make all our produce on-site freshly for our customers.

LEF T: MARK & RIG HT: EC O

Mission Bay Cafe

What would you say makes Mission Bay Cafe stand out from other establishments in Mission Bay? Two years ago the Ōrākei Local Board held their first business awards. We not only won our category but also received the supreme award and are still very proud of the recognition.

Do you have a large social media presence?

We are on Facebook and Instagram which we try to update regularly. It’s definitely a great way to engage with the community and customers.

Follow us at Mission Bay Cafe on Facebook or @missionbaycafe on Instagram.

The menu features a fabulous selection of iconic Tex-Mex dishes, and the drinks menu includes a variety of mojitos, margaritas and tequilas.

LU I S

If you enjoy the flavours, and delicious aromas of Tex-Mex cuisine, then look no further than Dos Amigos in Mission Bay. Décor is friendly and funky, reminiscent of Mexico, and maybe even Cuba. The views out to Rangitoto are beautiful, while the staff are super friendly and the atmosphere is always chill! Dos Amigos is a great place to meet your friends for a relaxing night out.

Dos Amigos 93 TAMAKI DRIVE MIS SIO N BAY, AUC KL AN D 1071 09 5 2 8 7 4 9 4 D O SAM IGO S.C O.NZ

We met with restaurateur and owner of Dos Amigos, Luis Xavier De Legarreta on a sunny Tuesday in winter. Luis has worked in hospitality since 1999, and it shows. He is the perfect host, and quite obviously enjoys people. He points out that all items on the menu can be customised to suit any diet, be it halal, vegan, or gluten-free. Dos Amigos even has a garlic and onion free menu!

The menu features a fabulous selection of iconic Tex-Mex dishes, and the drinks menu

includes (of course) a variety of mojitos, margaritas and tequilas. If you're feeling hungry Luis recommends Chimichunga, a fresh flour tortilla filled with hearty beef, beans and cheese, folded then fried, and served with black beans and red rice, especially popular with those who prefer a little less spice. And for those who enjoy a sweet treat, the churros are amazing, the best in town: even better if enjoyed with a cup of Mexican chilli hot chocolate. Yum! Luis says that while the lockdown months were tough, with the help of the government subsidy – they survived. He said that luckily he has a loyal and supportive following – for which is hugely grateful. "Last month was great though", he says. "We have been busier than ever."

Hardly surprising, as Dos Amigos offers an unforgettable dining experience.

Portofino 71 TAMAKI DRIVE MIS SIO N BAY, AUC KL AN D 1071 09 5 2 8 1 2 1 2 P ORTO FINO.C O.NZ

Bald Eagle Diner

To start, could you please tell us a little about yourself and the history of the restaurant?

I came here from Macedonia in the beginning of 2000. Initially I worked as a chef at the Viaduct. In 2003 I bought the Portofino franchise and moved to this location in Mission Bay and I now own the restaurant. My brother also works with me in the kitchen so it’s a family business. Our staff are mainly locals as most overseas staff tend to stick to the city centre.

How have things changed since the end of lockdown?

Like many other establishments there have definitely been challenges however we have many regulars who come to Portofino. We survived the 2008 recession so we will just keep working hard and without a doubt get through this too.

Jerome, your restaurant is inspirational. Did travelling in America inspire you?

It's a culmination of working in an American Embassy kitchen and having tried to open a hotdog stand when I was young that sparked my interest for a diner. I also travelled to San Francisco to visit my best friend there to experience the diners first-hand—it was truly a three-weeks smorgasbord. There are heaps of diners in the Bay area with excellent chowders as well as smoke houses serving ribs, different versions of chicken, waffles, and burgers! Then there are the Philly joints that are bustling 'til midnight. It all led us to create our own flavours and ambiance to bring you this ‘50s diner.

Tell us about the name?

The bald eagle is the national bird of the USA and appears on its seal. So, it's a tribute. What better way to name a real American diner!

89 TAMAKI DRIVE MIS SIO N BAY, AUC KL AN D 1071 09 5 2 1 1 6 1 1 BALDEAGLEDINER.C O. N Z

Tell Verve about your passion for food?

I have worked in kitchens since I was 19. My passion for food has always revolved around love, respect, and hard work. I love the craft, the produce and creativity of food. The respect for the food we prepare, the people you work with, and the customers that we serve. A good chef once told me that sometimes we lose our fire, our passion, but if you have a character of

Tell us about your location?

We’re situated right in the middle of Mission Bay which is a great advantage as we’re very visible to customers. In summer, business is especially good as many people like to head to the beach and enjoy a meal in the sunshine.

What's on your menu?

We serve mostly Italian food so we obviously have pastas and pizzas. We also have steak and seafood available, so there is something for everyone.

How often do you change the menu and what is your key focus when choosing new food and drinks?

We actually change the menu seasonally.

We usually keep the best selling foods such as pasta and pizza and then add a special depending on the season.

respect then it flows into everything that we do, launching everything to another level.

What is a typical day?

Prayer in the morning followed by coffee time with wife then prepping our kids for school. My wife and I own three cafés and the diner, so we check on and work in these before picking up the kids after school. We try not to think about work at home, which can be a challenge.

How long have you had Bald Eagle Diner?

We've owned Bald Eagle Diner for two years now. We are loving every single day and are looking to expand, bringing the flavours to west and south Auckland soon.

J E ROM E & H IS WI F E, P EAC HY I SID RO

CANE

We actually change the menu seasonally. We usually keep the best selling foods such as pasta and pizza and then add a special depending on the season.

S E RV E S 4 A S A N E N T R É E O R A S PA RT O F A L A R G E R M E A L | G LU T E N - F R E E

Grilled Halloumi w/ Roasted Grape Dressing "I’m a huge fan of roasting, well, everything! But one of my all-time favourite things to roast would have to be grapes. While they roast they release their sticky sweet juices which meld with olive oil to produce the perfect dressing for the teeth-squeaking pieces of golden grilled halloumi. This dish often doesn’t even make its way out of our kitchen, as my daughter and I stand at the bench stuffing our faces the moment it’s cooked. Of course, it’s always nice to sit down when you eat, but make sure you have the dressing all prepared before grilling the halloumi, so you can eat it while still hot from the pan," says Emma Galloway.

I NGREDI ENTS 2 tablespoons natural sultanas or raisins, roughly chopped 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 300g red seedless grapes 4 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon finely chopped thyme 180g packet halloumi, sliced into 1cm pieces (aim for around 12 slices)

M ETHOD Preheat oven to 180C (350F). Combine chopped sultanas and vinegar in a medium bowl (big enough to contain the grapes once roasted) and set aside for 20-30 minutes.

Place grapes into a 2 litre oven-proof dish or lipped oven tray, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, scatter over thyme, and season well with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Roast for 20-25 minutes or until grapes are tender and have released some of their juices. Remove from the oven and pour grapes and their juices over soaked sultanas. Mix well to combine, taste and adjust seasoning.

CREDIT Recipe extracted from A Year In My Real Food Kitchen by Emma Galloway.

Published by HarperCollins NZ, sold for $44.99. Find Emma Galloway online at mydarlinglemonthyme.com and on Instagram @mydarlinglemonthyme

Heat remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over mediumhigh heat and pan-fry halloumi slices until golden on both sides. Transfer 3 slices to each plate, top with a generous spoonful or two of the roasted grape dressing and serve immediately.

E M M A G A L L O W AY | A Y E A R I N M Y R E A L F O O D K I T C H E N

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MAKES 12—15 / GLUTEN–FREE / DAIRY FREE

Pumpkin + Chocolate Brownie This recipe started out life as a Martha Stewart classic, back before I gave it a gluten- and dairy-free makeover. Dense-chewy brownie mingles with light cinnamon pumpkin cake, the hazelnuts adding a nice little contrast on top. Years ago I got into the habit of steaming or roasting chunks of pumpkin until soft, before pureeing and freezing them in half or quarter cups portions. This way I’ve always got pumpkin puree at hand to use in recipes like this brownie.

Buckwheat flour can be used in place of quinoa, if not available.

I NGRED I ENTS 115g dark chocolate, roughly chopped 8 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 3/4 cup pumpkin puree

M ETHOD Preheat oven to 180C (350F). Grease a 28 x 18cm slice tin and line with baking paper, extending up and over the sides by 2cm.

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 2/3 cup brown rice flour 1/3 cup quinoa flour

Place chocolate in a heatproof bowl along with 75ml (5 tablespoons) of the olive oil, and set over a saucepan of boiling water, making sure the water doesn’t touch the base of the bowl.

1/3 cup ground hazelnuts *see note 1 teaspoon gluten-free baking powder 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt 1 cup unrefined raw sugar

Stir until chocolate has melted, then remove from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

In another bowl combine pumpkin puree, remaining olive oil, cinnamon and nutmeg.

3 large free-range eggs, lightly whisked 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/3 cup hazelnuts, roughly chopped

NOTE If ground hazelnuts are not available, you can grind your own whole nuts in a small food processor until finely ground or use ground almonds instead.

CREDIT Recipe extracted from A Year In My Real Food Kitchen by Emma Galloway.

Published by HarperCollins NZ, sold for $44.99. Find Emma Galloway online at mydarlinglemonthyme.com and on Instagram @mydarlinglemonthyme

Sift flours, ground hazelnut, baking powder and salt into a bowl, tipping any hazelnut meal that won’t go through your sieve back into the bowl. Add sugar, eggs and vanilla and whisk to form a smooth batter.

Evenly divide the batter between the chocolate and pumpkin bowls and mix each bowl to combine. Dollop big spoonfuls of each batter randomly into the prepared tin, then use a knife to swirl them together.

Scatter over chopped hazelnuts and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean.

Remove from the oven and set aside to cool in the tin. This brownie will store, airtight, for 3-4 days, or longer in the fridge.

E M M A G A L L O W AY | A Y E A R I N M Y R E A L F O O D K I T C H E N

One Cup of Rice One could write an historical epic on the virtues of rice. It’s been part of tradition and culture for millennia, representative as humanity itself. A multitude of colour, shape, size, texture and purpose.

AUGUST 2020

Grilled Onigiri with Karaage Chicken & Mentsuyu Dipping Sauce

01

This rice sandwich triangle should take its place among the pantheon of sandwiches. It is found ubiquitously in Japan. For extra textural and flavour depth, whip up a batch of crispy fried Japanese chicken and stuff it. Grill it and devour. Leave space for seconds.

02

Bring your oil up to temperature in a wok, it shouldn’t be smoking hot. You want a medium heat that allows the batter to brown while the chicken cooks through.

03

Fry chicken pieces until golden. Let them cool a little.

04

05 Onigiri 1 cup Australian rice – medium gluten short grain variety 1 sheet nori 5cm daikon – steamed and diced

Karaage 500g boneless chicken thighs – skin on is preferable 2cm ginger – grated 1 garlic clove – grated 1 tbs soy 1 tbs mirin 5 tbs potato starch or corn starch 1 egg oil for frying neutral oil – canola or peanut

Mentsuyu 2 tbs soy sauce 200ml dashi 2 tsp mirin 1 tbs sake

Method For the karaage Grate ginger and garlic. Place all ingredients except the chicken in a bowl and combine to make the marinade. Cut your chicken thighs into two or three pieces. Add chicken to the marinade and set aside for at least an hour. The starch will drain to the bottom of the bowl so when it comes to frying make sure to remix your marinade to coat the chicken.

For the daikon Peel and slice your daikon into rounds. Steam until just cooked: 7-10 minutes. This takes the raw flavour out but keeps the crunchy texture. Dice your daikon finely and place in a bowl of ice water.

Build your onigiri When cool, roughly chop your chicken and mix with your daikon.

06

At this point you can add some Kewpie mayo to this mix if you like a sweeter stuffing for your onigiri.

07

Using wet hands, take some rice, make a hollow in the middle of the rice and fill this with chicken and daikon, then close with some more rice. Roll into a tight ball and then shape into your triangle. Keep your hands moist and you’ll manage just fine.

08

Fold a sheet of roasted nori four or five times and using scissors, cut thin slices over a plate. Dab your onigiri onto the nori, it will pick up some of the flecks.

09

Brush some soy sauce lightly over the top of your onigiri and then transfer to a hot grill or hibachi. Grill for a minute or two on each side until slightly caramelised.

10

For the mentsuyu Add all the ingredients to a small sauce pan. Bring to the boil and then simmer until reduced by half.

11

To serve Serve your onigiri with the mentsuyu sauce, some Kewpie mayo and pickles.

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

AUGUST 2020

Chai Tea Rice Pudding Gelato It's just an ice cream, tasting of toasted rice and sweet chai tea, staring at you in your mouth, asking you to lick it.

01

Method Toast the rice in a dry pan until fragrant and golden. After, pound or work the rice in a mortar and pestle or grain mill until it just begins to crack.

02

Now, put the milk, cream and sugar in a heavy based saucepan. Heat slowly, place the tea bag and a vanilla pod into the mixture. Bring to the boil.

03

Take off the heat and add the cracked basmati rice. Let steep for 10-15 minutes. Longer if you have time or patience. The longer it steeps, the more ricey and nutty it will be.

04

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until creamed and fluffy.

Pour the rice and milk mixture through a strainer and then slowly add this strained mix to the egg and sugar mix. Slowly combining.

Ice Cream 1 cup basmati rice toasted 1 chai teabag – we used Rooibos Chai 100g fine white sugar 1 vanilla pod 5 egg yolks – extra large or jumbo 3 cups full cream milk 1 tub of whipping cream desiccated coconut – toasted

05

Make a double boiler and then very gently heat the custard stirring continuously for 10 minutes.

06

At this point you can strain the mixture again to get it extra smooth.

07

Place into a bowl and into the fridge to chill for a couple of hours.

08

Now it’s ready to go into your ice cream machine. If you don’t have one, place the bowl in the freezer and continue to stir and beat every 45 minutes until creamy and delicious.

09

10

To serve Toast some desiccated coconut and pour it into a bowl. Scoop your ice cream into a cone and roll the ice cream liberally in the coconut.

Serve with black sesame brittle (or any brittle) for an extra crunch.

Recipes & Text: Asher Stoltz Photography: Elsa Young

FOOD

11 8

Vicky Ha's Go-To Asian Sauces

AUGUST 2020

Growing up in Hong Kong, most of my favourites have a Cantonese influence.

MISO PASTE

FISH SAUCE

Holy cow, you can find the biggest range of miso! We could do a special article on just this. Sweet, savoury, complexly dark or light, creamy, organic, chunky, smooth, and everything in between! It’s also made with different ingredients and different type of rice. The longer it’s aged, the more complex the flavour—like, wine really. There is a whole art behind it. Some have MSG, but the real ones don’t.

Nelson artisan producer Urban Hippie makes only one type, a light, white fragrant chunky miso that we mainly use for soup, but as a dressing is pretty good, too. There’s an added bonus that they use only NZ grown soy beans and NZ salt, supporting local people!

I use this instead of salt whenever dealing with seafood, and often season fish dumpling filling with this liquid gold. The sauce is basically fermented anchovies with salt. When I was working as a Larder Chef at L’affare Café in Wellington, I was responsible for making fish chowder, and oh boy, did I put a lot of this stuff in! I always felt guilty using an Asian ingredient to season an English or French classic, but nobody ever complained! It is also a must for making pho broth. Vegan doesn’t exist in Vietnam, because everything has fish sauce in it. The Vietnamese one is the best. Go to Gai Lee Supermarket in Otahuhu for a selection of the premium stuff. (Some of the nastier ones use fructose to cut corners, so always read the label!)

SOY SAUCE

HOISIN SAUCE

Soy sauce is made by fermenting soybean, wheat, and salt. Unfortunately, many Chinese soy sauces contain MSG and preservatives—there is an artisan Hong Kong brand that brews natural soy—letting it ferment inside big-ass crock pots as with old-school sauerkraut or kimchi—but there's little chance of getting it in NZ. So, if those numbers and artificial stuff bothers you, best to stick with Japanese soy sauces which are naturally brewed (and preserved with alcohol—but not enough to get you drunk!)

Sweet and salty, this is a must for roast pork, Peking duck pancake or as a glaze for roasted pork belly that goes into your bao. Lee Kum Kee is basically the only brand you should get, it is from Hong Kong and has been around since 1888.

There are many types of soy sauce too: thick or thin, aged or young, dark or light, gluten-free (tamari), reduced salt, sweet, with or without MSG. Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, Taiwan, Vietnam, China and Japan all have their own types also. Remember, the purpose of soy sauce is to season your food. It can be used as dipping sauce, marinate, condiment or even for pickled food.

At House of Dumplings, we sometimes add water to the dark soy sauce (we use the brand Yamasa, but Kikkoman is also pretty good) to make it more mellow, but I do not know how culturally appropriate this is. Mum would probably whack me for that!

Tip for the day: if you are on a budget, add cooked oil and soy sauce to plain rice and you will still feel rich because it tastes so good! My mum told me that is what she had when she was poor growing up, so it is a reality for some people on this planet.

XO Sauce is at least $40 bucks for a 100g jar, super expensive to buy. My mum makes it. It has scallops, dried shrimps, and abalone (light colour and less intense version of paua). When I was growing up, I would sit by the fridge and spoon it into my mouth, my will power was never strong enough to resist! Mum found out one day, then put loads of chili in it. Mums always win!

It’s great on steamed tofu with some stuffed mince, fried rice, noodles or on greens. If I had as much money as Bill Gates, I’d eat a jar a day with no feelings of guilt whatsoever!

The commercial brand I recommend is the NZ made Good Chow.

An honourable mention goes to chilli sauce and oil, an essential sauce, but you would require another article for that. You have different types for different occasions—it’s like a religion.

119

Let’s Eat Out at Inca

WITH D E NNI S AND RO SAM U ND KNIL L TH E WI N E RAC K

Red, Red Wine South Australia has a wealth of wine riches with a reputation for producing some of the most consistent reds in the world. As the largest wine growing region in the country the state has a rich and prosperous wine culture producing delicious diversions of grape gratification that will not disappoint. For as little as $25 you can drink in style.

There’s a lot more to the winelands of South Australia than any other region. From the picturesque towns of Barossa, to the rolling hills of Clare, the winding roads of Adelaide Hills, to the costal beauty of McLaren Vale with its traditional shiraz, grenache and cabernet sauvignon grown from ancient soils.

Once recognised as the poor cousin to Barossa and Clare, McLaren Vale today with its 70 cellar doors is beginning to steal the march on its northern competitors.

One of the wineries that I always enjoy visiting is d’Arenberg. It’s uniquely Australian and a great place to visit. There’s a top end restaurant serving great food with a selection of outstanding value for money wines.

Alternatively, if wine tasting is on your list, a visit to The Cube is a must do experience. This quirky five-storey glass structure set among the vines provides 360-degree views right across the region.

For red wine lovers, here are three from d’Arenberg that you should try. d’Arenberg | The Galvo Garage RRP cabernet sauvignon/merlot/franc ’16 A blend of three classic grapes combined with intense strong flavours makes this trifecta an easy drinking wine. Will not disappoint. $34 d’Arenberg | The Laughing Magpie shiraz/viognier ’14 The winemaker has put together another impressive mouth-filling red displaying great texture, structure and fruity flavours. Excellent buying at this price. $34 d’Arenberg | The Dead Arm shiraz ’16 A stunning example offering everything you would expect from McLaren Vale. A clearheaded wine with bold and fruity flavours that carries across the palate.

Will cellar well. $68 WO RD S — DENN I S KN I L L Wine lover and w r i ter ex t ra ordi na i re

The new rooftop restaurants at the Westfield Shopping Mall in Newmarket are leading the way in classy dining and as a consequence it’s already a popular foodies' mecca bustling with happy diners.

This is as good as it gets anywhere in Auckland. Nick Watt of Masu fame, and one of the city’s most noteworthy and finest chefs, has hit on a successful combination in this smart brasserie. It’s busy and buzzy as a brasserie should be, with food that is imaginative, solidly produced and, by and large, a success. Classic stuff all of it and the prices are reasonable as long as you watch what you’re drinking.

This slice of transplanted Peruvian style food offers a chooseyour-own adventure with cuisine that tends towards the lighter side, even in summer. The menu draws on assertive flavours with dishes that will have you re-evaluating benchmarks. The food is bold and culturally diverse, with fresh produce being the source and inspiration. The kitchen’s repertoire aims to impress with an interplay of flavour, care and flare alongside simplicity and quality.

The menu brims with South American classics hitting the tables. Starting dishes are tuna ceviche ($19), salmon ceviche ($19), wagyu ceviche ($21.90), kingfish sashimi ($19), salmon ($18), crispy fish taco ($12), chilli braised beef taco ($14) pork taco ($14) and chef’s selection ($45). But their barbecue food is even better, lamb cutlets ($22) with cumin, ginger, garlic, picked chilli salsa; crispy pork belly ($20) with adobo chilli and hoisin sauce; pork ribs ($16.90) with honey ginger, sesame and lime; and salmon ($28.60) served with ginger, red chilli paste and yuzu nashi pickle. Optional sides include potato bravas ($10), salad ($14) or steamed rice ($5). To finish, the chocolate soft serve dessert with candy peanut, meringue and fresh coconut ($12) is deservedly one of their most popular.

The rest of the package includes a wine list, which, whilst not massive, divides its loyalty between some of the best local and imported producers available by the glass, carafe or bottle.

And the verdict? The informal friendly indoor-outdoor atmosphere is unpretentious, satisfying and hard to go past.

And whatever you choose, everything’s better with a glass of something from the wine list.

M ENU : 8 | C U I SI NE : 8 .5 | WI NE LI ST: 7 . 5 SERVI C E : 7 .5 | D ÉC O R : 7 | VALUE FO R M O N EY: 8 L EVE L 4 WESTF I EL D, 3 0 9 BROADWAY, NEWMARKET 0 9 2 1 3 4 4 6 3 | O P EN: 1 1 AM TO 1 1 P M DAI LY

ART & ABOUT

The Art of August WO RD S — AIMÉE RAL FI N I

Objet d’august – This August is all about the tactile. Objet d’art – non-one-dimensional, what a selection there is to choose from this month! I’ve even added a little sound piece that's hidden away and played daily at the Auckland Art Gallery. Enjoy!

Peter Hawkesby, Pink T Pot on Stilt. Courtesy of Anna Miles Gallery. Photo by Sam Hartnett

Void Emma Camden Working exclusively with cast glass, Camden pushes the boundaries of the medium, breaking new ground with large scale casting. Conceptually driven, this series investigates large scale solid forms and ideas of structure and architecture.

On until 15 Aug masterworks.co.nz

Mata Makawa – Mata Vou Daren Kamali & Ole Maiava: (UN) Registered Savages of Aotearoa Experience the artists’ ongoing research into ulu cavu (Fijian human hair wigs) examining an ancient iTaukei (indigenous Fijian) practice that has been dormant in Fiji for over two centuries. The artists’ revitalise this significant cultural process via contemporary activations of the ancient practice.

Karin Montgomery, Taraxacum Officinale. Isobel Thom, Ikebana Vase, and Warwick Freeman Plinth IV. Courtesy of Anna Miles Gallery. Photo by Sam Hartnett

On until 16 Aug tetuhi.art

AUGUST 2020

Things on Things Vita Cochran, Octavia Cook, Warwick Freeman, Peter Hawkesby, Sarah Hillary, Karin Montgomery Spath, Marilyn Sainty, Richard Stratton, and Isobel Thom An exhibition of objects from 1880 to the present day.

The selection of new, old and ingenious things ranges from native timber marquetry 'specimen' tables made

by Jewell and Sons of Christchurch in the 19th century, to paper flowers made by Karin Montgomery during lockdown in 21st-century Auckland.

On until 28 Aug annamilesgallery.com

Warwick Freeman, Wood Pillow Necklace. Courtesy of Anna Miles Gallery. Photo by Sam Hartnett

Greener Pastures Joanna Fieldes A dominant theme throughout Fieldes' work is the continuing impact of New Zealand’s colonial past on both its varied landscapes and the life forms, indigenous and introduced; the artist also explores the theme of domesticity using ceramic-like objects as metaphors for social comment and thought. Greener Pastures is exhibiting at ArtHaus Contemporary.

26 Aug – 13 Sept joannafieldes.co.nz

Joanna Fieldes. Courtesy of ArtHaus Contemporary

War Damaged Musical Instruments Susan Philipsz Experience the poignant sound work, War Damaged Musical Instruments, by acclaimed international artist, Susan Philipsz which will play daily, on the hour, every hour, in the North Atrium gallery space of the Auckland Art Gallery.

Susan Philipsz. Courtesy of Auckland Art Gallery

On until 22 Nov aucklandartgallery.com

ART & ABOUT

Ye Olde Ponsonby A suburb once rich in culture, full of colour, arts and music, now boasts overly sanitised villas, regimented gardens and a dominant population which is the polar opposite of all that created the buzz which made Ponsonby famous.

Sure, times change and people move one or two suburbs away as gentrification kicks in. That’s life or capitalism, one of the two. But what’s happened to Ponsonby is the result of decades of a lack of care for the local community and an untethered property market that has not only pushed locals one two or suburbs away, but six, seven or completely out of the city they grew up in and called home. It goes without saying Ponsonby is not the only Auckland suburb to suffer in this way.

The Golden Dawn (RIP) really was the last bastion of Ponsonby’s community of writers, musicians, dancers and artists. Without it, the disconnect between younger creative thinkers and mentors has grown.

How did this happen? Why did no-one care about community?

Let’s bring the charm of old Ponsonby back and make space for creativity to cultivate and brighten our streets.

For any highly urbanised environment, such as Auckland Central, progressive city planning with green spaces and sustainable cultural centres is imperative to creating a livable environment. With elections in mind, the Greens stands out as the most progressive party. Perhaps it’s time to cast your vote for the future.

In the meantime, all is not lost. There are still jewels of old Ponsonby that once you open your eyes to, glisten on almost every street. Echoes of the suburb’s heyday still stand, on their last legs, as only dead wood can.

WO R D S — AIM ÉE R AL F INI

AUGUST 2020

JOA N N A FI E LD E S G R E E N E R PA S T U R E S

26 AUGUST–13 SEPTEMBER

ARTHAUS CONTEMPORARY

@arthausorakei 228 Orakei Rd, Remuera Open Wed-Sun 11-3pm

OPENING EVENT 29 AUGUST 2PM–5PM joannafieldes.co.nz / 021 254 9491 / joanna@fieldes.co.nz

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Into Night (2019) oil on gesso panel 280 x 335mm $5,000

Vision of Snow (2020) oil on gesso panel 330 x 290mm $5,500

Red Plain, Kaingaroa (2020) oil on gesso panel 335 x 355mm $5,500

orexart online in August featuring TONY LANE orexart.co.nz

rex@orexart.co.nz 021 213 4449

ART & ABOUT

What's On In August 1 AUGUST Howick Little Theatre, 1 Sir Lloyd Drive, Pakuranga

3 AUGUST Rutherford College, Kotuku St, Te Atatu Peninsula

KOMBUCHA WORKSHOP Come along and discover the world of kombucha, the drink that has been taking over our supermarket shelves.

Kombucha has an abundance of health benefits including supporting gut health, disease prevention, and supporting the immune system, among many others. The Kombucha Workshop provides participants with the ultimate kombucha experience in a hands-on demonstration class.

Participants will receive their own scoby starter kit and a handout with brewing instructions to take home. For just $20, you will learn information about kombucha, and the techniques used to make your very own fizzy and delicious creation.

4—25 AUGUST Paris Butter, 166 Jervois, Herne Bay

TEST KITCHEN Be a part of an interactive dining experience as a guest in the Paris Butter Test Kitchen, where the chefs of Paris Butter test their wildest creations and new ideas and put their skills to the test, all for you to try.

Chef Nick Honeyman and his team have been doing Saturday night tests which allows them to come up with new dishes and drinks, making it a win for everyone involved. For $95, expect a five-course meal of utmost quality – you will leave the Paris Butter Test Kitchen wanting more.

Call 09 376 5597 to make a booking.

5—27 AUGUST Sky Tower, Auckland City

YOGA IN THE SKY Relax and rewind with Yoga in the Sky, 186 metres above Auckland with instructor Amanda Fell. Enjoy a truly unique yoga experience overlooking the sunset, starting bright and early at 7am and breathe in the spectacular surroundings.

Yoga mats are available upon check-in, or you can bring your own. Limited tickets are available, so book now to guarantee your spot in the sky.

LOVE FROM A STRANGER Watch Agatha Christie’s thriller play Love from a Stranger come to life at the Howick Little Theatre. Cecily Harrington’s fiancée is overseas when she wins a big lottery and decides to postpone their wedding to take a European trip. Before she leaves, she meets Bruce Lovell, who sweeps her off her feet, marries her, and then takes her to live with him in a remote country cottage.

But how well does she really know this handsome stranger? A community theatre production by arrangement with Samuel French Ltd and Play Bureau Ltd. Call 09 361 1000 to purchase tickets.

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2 AUGUST Wynyard Pavilion, 17 Jellicoe St, CBD

DOG DAYS For all of the dog owners in Auckland, Dog Days is a fantastic event held on the first Sunday of every month to celebrate our wonderful pooches. Come together at the Wynyard Paw-vilion with other likeminded pet owners and help raise funds for Pet Refuge NZ. The day is filled with activities for both dogs and their owners, as well as appearances from Waggamuffin Pet Supplies, Pupcakes NZ, and The Good Pet Home to have your dog treats and accessories sorted. With special guests each month including dog groomers, a mobile vet and more, this event is sure to make for an action-packed day, both for humans and for our doggy friends.

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AUGUST 2020 WO R D S — NAD IA KL A ASS E N

15 AUGUST Galatos, 17 Galatos St, Auckland

7—28 AUGUST Steamheads, 335 Lake Rd, Takapuna

CREATE YOUR OWN TEAPOT COCKTAILS A Friday night filled with great atmosphere and scrumptious cocktails created by you!

Steamheads Bar & Restaurant hosts this awesome event to test your drink-making skills. Create your own mix in vintage teapots from recipes designed to share for two people, so bring your friends, family members, and make a night of it.

With your own creation being served in vintage teapots, this experience will be like no other.

9 AUGUST— 20 DECEMBER Orewa Community Centre, 368 Hibiscus Coast Hwy, Orewa

OREWA ARTISAN MARKET Explore endless stalls of quality handmade artisanal products at the Orewa Community Centre. Meet the makers of the unique creations and find something special for yourself, or for a gift. The artisan market is in conjunction with the Orewa Farmers Market, where you can pick up fresh fruit and veg, free range eggs, French delights, and much more. Come along to the markets, visit Orewa beach, and enjoy the Hibiscus Coast.

22 AUGUST Aotea Square, Queen St, CBD

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

ABBA VS QUEEN If you’re in the mood to sing your heart out to some of the greatest bands of all time, ABBA vs Queen is the event for you. Join the party on Saturday 15 August at Galatos and dress up as your favourite band member for the occasion. Alongside the worldwide hits from ABBA and Queen, sing and dance along to hits from Boney M, AC/DC, Elton John, David Bowie, Village People, and so much more. Get ready for a throwback party like no other!

KOREAN FOOD TOUR Join the Korean Food Tour in the heart of Auckland, starting in Aotea Square and ending in Chancery Square. The tour goes beyond the well-known Korean foods such as barbecue and kimchi and delves deeper into specialised dishes that can be found on the streets of Korea. Learn about Korean history, culture, and cuisine as you make your way around the city on this threehour tour. Be sure to come hungry as you will taste eight or nine different dishes and sample Korea’s famous liquor, soju.

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The Box OďŹƒce August Picks

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Aug

Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind When Joel (Jim Carrey) discovers that his girlfriend Clementine (Kate Winslet) has had their tumultuous relationship erased from her mind through an experimental scientific procedure, he decides to erase his own pain by getting the same treatment. But as each memory is eliminated, Joel suddenly realises how much he still loves her. Showing at Academy Cinemas.

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Aug

20 Aug

20 Aug

Tenet John David Washington is the new protagonist in Christopher Nolan’s original sci fi action spectacle. Armed with only one word, Tenet, and fighting for the survival of the entire planet, the protagonist journeys through a twilight world of international espionage on a mission that will unfold in something beyond real time. Not time travel. Inversion. Showing at all cinemas.

Savage Inspired by the true stories of New Zealand's street gangs across 30 years, Savage follows Danny (Jake Ryan, Wolf Creek) at three defining moments in his life as he grows from a boy into the violent enforcer of a gang.

Showing at all cinemas.

The Lost Boys Teenage brothers Michael (Jason Patric) and Sam (Corey Haim) move with their mother (Dianne Wiest) to a small town in northern California. While the younger Sam meets a pair of kindred spirits in geeky comic-book nerds Edward (Corey Feldman) and Alan (Jamison Newlander), the angst-ridden Michael soon falls for Star (Jami Gertz) who turns out to be in thrall to David (Kiefer Sutherland, pictured above), leader of a local gang of vampires. Sam and his new friends must save Michael and Star from the undead.

Showing at Hollywood Avondale.

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Never Rarely Sometimes Always

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Bill And Ted Face The Music

Aug

Aug

Written and directed by Eliza Hittman, the film is an intimate portrayal of two teenage girls in rural Pennsylvania. Faced with an unintended pregnancy and a lack of local support, Autumn (Sidney Flanigan) and her cousin Skylar (Talia Ryder) embark across state lines to New York City on a fraught journey of friendship, bravery and compassion. Showing at Academy Cinemas.

Once told they would save the universe during a time-travelling adventure, two would-be rockers from San Dimas, California find themselves as middle-aged dads still trying to crank out a hit song and fulfil their destiny. Showing at all cinemas.

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

AUGUST 2020

Book Corner WO RD S – D O RI S MO U SDAL E

Liar Lesley Pearse

Tiny Pieces of Us Nicky Pellegrino

You Have A Lot To Lose C K Stead

A good pre-tech '70s storyline, well-told. A young reporter on a local suburban newspaper comes across a crime scene involving a pretty young girl. Being first on the scene Amelia has the advantage, but her editor wants her to go for the tabloid scandal scoop angle rather than the truth. Amelia sets out to not only save the girl's reputation, but also prevent another killing. An interesting spin on journalism, detective work and being honest. Pearse has written more than 30 novels and has a huge readership; this is perfect for weekend reading and could easily turn you into a fan.

Another local author who is an international bestseller, Nicky Pellegrino has taken a step away from her beloved Italy and food and has created an emotional and thought-provoking read. The topic is a sensitive one about dealing with huge loss but being in the position to offer another person hope and a better life. With realistic, honest characters, she opens the subject of organ donation and through loss how love and hope can blossom. This book might surprise her fans but it won't disappoint.

A good discussion topic for book clubs and beyond.

This is the second part of Carl Stead's threepart autobiography and covers three decades from the '50s to the '80s. Obviously well-written and finely researched, it takes you to the heart of the New Zealand literary scene, the friends and the foes and challenges being a writer brings. Carl is well-respected overseas and undervalued here at home. He tells tales of family and academic life, of the decision to take up writing full-time and the body of work subsequently produced. Detailed but not a heavy read, it can be enjoyed by all and is complemented by interesting photographs.

Paul Goldsmith

National List MP Based in Epsom 107 Great South Road, Greenlane 09 524 4930 paul.goldsmith@parliament.govt.nz paulgoldsmith.co.nz paulgoldsmithnz

Funded by the Parliamentary Service.

Authorised by Paul Goldsmith MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

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BUSINESS, EDUCATION & SOCIETY

Young Guns: Four Teens Changing the World “Youth is happy because it has the capacity to see beauty. Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.” – Franz Kafka

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In August 1995, legendary former Liverpool and Scotland footballer-turned-television pundit Alan Hanson uttered the now infamous line “you can’t win anything with kids” in an analysis of Manchester United’s youthful squad. That same team finished that season as Premier League champions and by also winning the FA Cup—at the time, the holy grail of English football, known as ‘the double’.

in 1946, the year after her death in a Nazi concentration camp aged just 15 years. For all the sadness and the horror housed within Amsterdam’s Anne Frank Museum, the most heartbreaking exhibit is perhaps the final one, comprising copies of her diary translated into dozens of languages, published around the world. The teenager had dreamt of becoming an acclaimed author.

History smoulders with the embers of dazzling stars steered by skill, courage or wisdom beyond their years; some of those trajectories inform humanity still. France finally gained the upper hand in the Hundred Years’ War thanks to the heroics and leadership of a 19-year-old peasant girl called Joan of Arc. Burnt at the stake by the English in 1431, in the mid-15th century her conviction was annulled by Pope Callixtus III, and this year marks the centenary of her canonisation by the Catholic Church. She’s still known as the ‘Saviour of France’.

In 2014, two years after being shot in the head by the Pakistani Taliban, 17-year-old education advocate Malala Yousafzai became the youngest winner of the Nobel Peace Prize for her activism. The year before her prize, she released her celebrated tome, I Am Malala.

And has there ever been a more magnanimous, mature, or moving sentence than this one penned during the second world war: “In spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart.” It is taken from Anne Frank’s diary, one of the most important tomes of the 20th century, published

And just last year, then 16-year-old Swedish schoolgirl and environmental activist Greta Thunberg became the youngest person to be named Time magazine’s Person of the Year (and was also nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize).

“We can’t just continue living as if there is no tomorrow, because there is a tomorrow,” she told the publication.

On that note, Verve takes a look at four more fearless names of the future that prove that youth is most certainly not, wasted on the young…

WO RD S — JAM IE C H R ISTIAN D ES P L AC ES

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

AUGUST 2020

The Activist

The Athlete

Jamie Margolin was just 15 years old when she co-founded Zero Hour, a youth-led climate action group, in response to environmental disasters Hurricane Maria and the Washington Wildfires of 2017. The group organised a rally that marched on Washington DC in 2018, and the following year, alongside Greta Thunberg on the Voices Leading the Next Generation on the Global Climate Crisis panel, Margolin testified before the US House of Representatives as part of a lawsuit against the state of Washington over greenhouse-gas emissions. The young activist—who’s also lesbian and advocates for LGBT rights—describes climate change as a “ticking time bomb and I want to turn it off”. In June, she published her first book, Youth to Power, a ‘howto’ guide for would-be activists of all ages. Al Gore hails Margolin’s “determined purpose and moral clarity” that’s compelling political leaders to confront a climate crisis that is an “existential threat to humanity”.

“I’m just a kid who has some pretty big dreams” reads the bio atop of Coco Gauff’s Instagram page, but, unlike most teenagers, she’s already well on her way to achieving many of them. In July 2019, the then 15-year-old made headlines when she knocked Venus Williams out of the first round of Wimbledon in straight sets. Having already become the youngest player in the Open era to qualify for the sport’s most iconic tournament, Gauff made it all the way to the last 16 where she was knocked out by the eventual champion, Simona Halep. Later, at the Australian Open, she again beat Venus Williams, as well as defending champion Naomi Osaka, on her way to the fourth round where she was once more knocked out by the championto-be, this time Sofia Kenin.

“What am I doing to address climate change?” says Margolin to Rolling Stone. “Girl, what am I not doing to address climate change is the real question.”

It’s not just Coco Gauff’s prowess on the tennis court that has impressed, but her humility, maturity and devotion to good causes off it. A post on her Twitter feed reads “I promise to use my platform to help make the world a better place”, and so she has become active in the Black Lives Matter movement, speaking at rallies and signing up for the Racquets Down, Hands Up anti-racism campaign.

Serena Williams’ coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, first met Gauff when she was 10, and said by the age of 14 was already “more mature than women on tour who are 25” with an “inner strength that is completely unusual”. BBC presenter and former French Open champion Sue Barker believes Gauff has the ability to be the greatest of all time, “even better than Serena and I never thought I’d say that”.

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BUSINESS, EDUCATION & SOCIETY

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The Filmmaker

The Journalist

Born in the US to a Mauritian mother and Nigerian father, Zuriel Oduwole’s interest in filmmaking began at primary school in 2012 when she entered a film competition with a documentary about the Ghana revolution—for which the ‘world’s youngest filmmaker’ interviewed a couple of the country’s former presidents: Jerry Rawlings and John Kufuor.

By the time she was 12 years old, Oduwole had already become the youngest person ever profiled by Forbes, had interviewed 12 more heads of state, and made three more films all about issues concerning Africa. Her fourth film, A Promising Africa, even made it to selected cinemas in Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Japan and the UK.

Nicknamed the ‘Little Journalist’, 17-year-old Muhammad Najem hails from the village of Arbin in western Syria. The young reporter’s father was killed in a bombing raid in 2015 while praying in a mosque, and, two years later, following a chemical weapons attack under the orders of the country’s own leader, Bashar al-Assad, Najem decided to take action.

Having set up accounts on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube, the then-15-year-old began documenting the horrors being inflicted upon his home. “I will convey to you all the events which are being committed by the Assad regime in the Eastern Ghouta through my own social media,” he says during his first video address.

To date, the 19-year-old has made seven films, met with 31 world leaders, been honoured by Unesco, addressed tens of thousands at conferences across continents—including the UN, appeared in Elle’s ‘33 Women Who Changed the World’ list and been named one of ‘Africa’s 100 Most Influential People’ by New Africa magazine. And in among all that, Oduwole still found time to establish the Dream Up, Speak Up, Stand Up foundation that advocates for child education. The filmmaker says she was once told that if your dreams don’t scare you, they’re not big enough: “I use that and apply it to everything I do”.

Over the following months he interviewed locals and filmed bombings—both live and their aftermath—often having to hurry for shelter then upload footage from his rooftop during breaks in the shelling. His footage soon found its way on to CNN, with Nora Neus saying that like most teenagers, Najem dedicates much of his time to selfies and social media, but unlike most teenagers, he makes his videos “as airstrikes rain bombs onto his street and kill his friends”.

Najem now lives in Turkey, from where he continues to shine a light on his country’s plight. “We lost seven years,” he said in his final video in Syria. “My country. My father. My friend. My school...Where are you, world?..Where are the human rights?”

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chool.nz stpauls.s

It might surprise you to know that a large number of our boarders here at St Paul’s, come from the Auckland region. It’s a measure of the quality of our school and our totally unique Tihoi Venture School programme.

With high expectations, we consistently achieve some of New Zealand’s best academic results. More importantly, we aim to help each and every one of our students achieve personal bests in all areas of their school life.

DISCOVER MORE Find out why more and more Auckland students are choosing to board at St Paul’s, visit stpauls.school.nz for information and details of upcoming Open Days and Information Evenings. Or to request a prospectus, email: m.smith@stpauls.school.nz

WO R D S — AND R EW KE RR

gearing and the configurable Terrain Response system. With a few touchscreen taps, you manipulate suspension, diffs, brakes and traction control to overcome obstacles with ease. You also tread surprisingly lightly in the process and a camera with through-bonnet view cleverly reveals what the front wheels are up against.

New Land Rover Defender 110: Adventurous Character With Go-Anywhere Credentials

Anyone familiar with the brand will appreciate how well Land Rover makes tall and boxy appear beautiful. Function firmly dictates Defender form and traditional proportions have been retained in three- and five-door configurations that again use 90 and 110 badging. Minimal overhangs and squared-off arches assist with ground clearance and the bluff back end features a side-opening tailgate. There are trademark alpine light windows in the roof and exposed fixtures and fittings for hard-edged authenticity. There’s even a grab handle either end of a robust ‘cross-car beam’ dashboard crafted from magnesium alloy.

As far as design challenges go, the task of replacing the iconic Defender is off the charts.

This enduring dual-purpose vehicle has always represented a proper slice of automotive history.

It is derived from the original Land Rover, which dates right back to 1948. So expectations for the replacement are as high as the hills, and forward orders fill the books.

The slick-shifting auto has several practical benefits, one being a dash-mounted gear-shifter that creates room up front for an optional central ‘jump’ seat. And in this long-wheelbase 110, the boot is spacious enough to accommodate a sixth and seventh seat if you require them.

Of course, Defender options are endless and attractive. On our wishlist was a potent P400 in Gondwana Stone with a protective Urban Pack for conquering Auckland’s concrete jungle.

Genuine dual-purpose suddenly became a whole lot more desirable

We ventured beyond cellphone coverage, to Kauri Bay Boomrock, to discover what Land Rover has achieved. Hard yakka and panoramic views define this nugget of working farmland on the outskirts of Clevedon. We safely wagered the newbie would venture deep into Boomrock’s roughest terrain but would it still affect a rugged but loveable toughguy charm? More importantly, would we want to drive one around town and to the bach and back?

Within a few hundred metres at the helm of the versatile 110 model, we had a ‘yes’ and a resounding ‘yes’. First off, the Defender feels much less of a specialist utility. In fact, it promises the comfort and capability of a big SUV on road trips. Modern, sophisticated and rather luxurious, it is still focused on doing the business off-road but employs much more tech to nail any journey with new-found finesse. Air suspension is fitted to launch models, for example, and all variants, whether petrol or diesel, drive through an eightspeed auto.

So far, so good, but we were soon mimicking mountain goats. Faced with precarious ramps, wheel-deep ruts, sloppy hill-climbs and descents into chocolatey bogs, we employed low-range

IN A NUTSHELL

LAND-ROVER DEFENDER 110 SE P400 3.0-LITRE STRAIGHT-SIX PETROL; 294KW/550NM; 8-SPEED AUTO/ ALL-WHEEL DRIVE; 5.02M LENGTH; 2480KG WEIGHT; 11.2 – 12.1L/100KM; $126,900. LANDROVER.CO.NZ

10 year / 160,000km Powertrain Warranty (whichever comes first) (non transferable). 5 year / 130,000km New Vehicle Warranty (whichever comes first) (non transferable).

PETS

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Lili and Dave Founders of Share My Pet Can you imagine the joy of seeing your pet receive extra exercise, love and attention from someone other than yourself or your family members? Introducing Share My Pet! A great new option to consider for enriching the life of your pet and connecting with animal lovers in your local community.

connect with an animal lover via Share My Pet. Pet carers signed up with Share My Pet love to spend some time bonding with pets. Arrange a play date for your dog, an extra walk, or companionship during the day. Pet sharing is also a great way to arrange socialising dates for your dog with other dogs!

Founders of Share My Pet, Lili Wenzel and Dave Johnson, created the website with the aim to enrich the lives of pets.

The website connects Kiwi pet owners to local community members that want to be a part of an animal’s life. The concept is ideal if you are passionate about animals but currently do not own your own. Ideal for students, frequent travellers, people living in rental or generally busy people. If you do not have the time to commit to being a full-time pet owner, you can still enjoy the company of a pet. And the best thing about the pet sharing community is that it brings pets and people together.

Since launching Share My Pet in 2018, the pet sharing community has grown right across New Zealand. Lili and Dave have seen a rise of members nationwide and the couple are committed to creating a community where animal lovers and pets have a safe place to meet. Their passion for their pet project led them to travel South Island last year promoting pet-friendly New Zealand, and the couple are often involved in organising fundraising events to support animal welfare.

Last summer they co-hosted Nelson's first Pups on Sups paddle board event and recently the Nelson community rallied together at a pup- friendly quiz night to fundraise for Pet Refuge.

Share My Pet has launched a nationwide Canine Coffee Club for its four-legged members and their human companions to enjoy, with pet-friendly cafes right across NZ getting involved.

Share My Pet offers a chance to cuddle a kitty or have an opportunity to look after someone’s pet when they go on holiday. All the benefits of owning a pet without the cost or full-time commitment.

As a pet owner you know how much your pets adore company.

If you work long hours or feel guilty that occasionally your pet doesn't get the attention they deserve, take the time to

Share My Pet has a vision of happy pets and people connecting with each throughout New Zealand and providing extra companionship and love to those involved. To find out more about how you can join New Zealand’s fastest growing pet sharing community go to sharemypet.co.nz

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

AUGUST 2020

Luxury apparel for pampered pooches Small, Medium or Large Whatever your shape or size - we've got you covered

Mr Soft Top is Here to Pamper Your Pooches IT’S A DOG’S LIFE While this year has been filled with the unexpected, it seems that for many beloved dogs out there it hasn’t been all bad.

Dumpling the French Bulldog (@fatdaddydumpling) recently went glamping and packed his merino tees and woollen coat for the cooler mornings. Luna the Spoodle (@ supaluna) did a road trip to Queenstown and Wanaka and packed her custom sweater and merino tees for layering under her Finnish ski jacket. Even if you are just doing a day trip to Matakana or Murawai making sure your pup stays warm and dry, Mr Soft Top has you covered!

FROM NZ TO ALL CORNERS OF THE WORLD Mr Soft Top has been making designer dogwear since 2007. With everything handmade in New Zealand the range includes made to order sweaters, merino tees, woollen coats, raincoats, scarves, faux fur or woollen beds.

Mr Soft Top is now worn by pups around the world from as far afield as Iceland and Sweden to the US, UK, Australia and of course throughout New Zealand. Having finished a successful two-month pop-up in New York at the end of 2019, actors such as Jim Parsons (from Big Bang Theory) and Carla Gugino (San Andreas) now include Mr Soft Top in their beloved dogs wardrobe. One loyal customer even travelled from San Francisco just to shop the range followed by two professional photo shoots in Central Park! Now that is dedication!

www.mrsofttop.com | info@mrsofttop.com 137

Is Your Dog Slowing Down?

Dogs love to run but often old age, arthritis and joint pain can make this difficult.

Time to give your dog ‘Active Again’ a blend of natural food oils that possess potent lubricating properties that gives your dog more flexibility and mobility.

Proven by NZ Vets to work exceptionally well.

For more information or order online visit: lifetimehealth.co.nz

ORDER NOW AT MRSOFTTOP.COM

027 489 3489 sales@lifetimehealth.co.nz

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

AU-8719616AA

Starting with four weeks of hanging out at home with the family and enjoying more walks and playtime than ever, and now as many of us get to know our own backyard again we are looking to take our beloved pets with us. This of course also means they need to dress for the occasion too.

PETS

PARIS D O GGIE WARE

Let Me Dress Your Pooch In Style Finding a coat for my new puppy Harlie, I searched the internet and ended up importing one from the USA and Paris Doggie Ware began.

Selling mainly in NZ, people send me photos/tag me in their Instagram post of their beautiful dogs dressed in their lovely coats, harnesses or hanging out in their pajamas they have purchased from me.

I love all of my stock, especially The Alpine Extreme Weather Puffer Jacket and the Brown and Black Faux Leather Bomber Dog Coat complete with a Co-pilot emblem or the Topflight Coat in Black. I love the detail and the style of the Grey Herringbone Coat. Just arrived are the Combed Cotton Cable Knit Dog Sweaters and American River Choke Free Harness in camouflage and Pink camouflage for the girls.

Every time my stock arrives , I get excited, so let me DRESS YOUR POOCH IN STYLE. Maree and Harlie

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Now every day can smell like grooming day.

The world’s first luxury dog perfume, made pure in New Zealand.

Keep your pooch warm, dry, and stylish with high quality dog coats, pajamas and harnesses imported from the USA. Lots of styles and sizes to choose from.

Let Me Dress Your Pooch In Style www.parisdoggieware.co.nz @parisdoggieware

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

AUGUST 2020

M IPUCHI

Perfume For Dogs?

We all love the smell of our dogs when they’ve come home from the groomer smelling gorgeous… and if you use Mipuchi luxury dog perfume they can smell like that every day with one simple spray. And with 500+ sprays per bottle, that’s a lot of gorgeous smelling days!

Our unisex range of luxurious and playful natural scents for dogs are artisanally blended by hand with natural botanicals and aromatherapy-grade ingredients. The signature New Zealand ingredients incorporated into every Mipuchi fragrance provide a complex and uniquely refreshing scent of pure New Zealand. And because your best friend has a nose for quality, Mipuchi is 100% natural, with no alcohol, parabens, sulphates or harmful chemicals.

Our range of fetching fragrances include: • Coconut, Lime & Manuka Honey • Mandarin & Kiwifruit • Lavender & Chamomile • Jasmine, Kowhai & Lotus Flower

To find an authorised Mipuchi stockist near you, visit mipuchi.com 139

EXCELLENCE IN VETERINARY CARE FROM POOCH TO GIANT DOG CAT FRIENDLY CLINIC

(GOLD CERTIFIED BY THE ISFM)

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Experience the beauty of premium quality European vintage

3000+ items of clothing and accessories instore

The home of fine film in Newmarket.

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539 Mt Albert Road, Auckland

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The Point Chev Beach Café was launched on Jan 2017 and has rapidly gained a reputation in excellent cuisine, coffee and a welcoming service. Being situated beside the beach, it’s the perfect location for a family outing, a romantic date or just an ice cream!

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AUGUST 2020

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Office / Studio Space To Let Office space available to rent on Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, details below.

Slightly bigger than 10 square metres Enough space for 2 desks.

Office has a large window at front so is sunny and light.

Fibre / Shared kitchen / Shared bathroom / 1 x car park Available from 1 August $150 p/w + GST

Contact

fran@vervemagazine.co.nz or jude@vervemagazine.co.nz

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WIN WITH VERVE

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Win with Verve

01 Hilton Lake Taupō

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With a magnificent view overlooking New Zealand’s largest lake, Hilton Lake Taupo is accessibly located midway between Auckland and Wellington. For enhanced comfort there are a wide range of accommodation options with upscale rooms, spacious suites to fully-equipped apartments with kitchens and laundry facilities. From romantic Victorian styling to modern leisure facilities including a picturesque fitness centre, tennis courts, thermally heated pool, hot tub spa and steam and sauna, it is easy to see why the award-winning hotel is a popular choice *Conditions apply.

03 Showerdome®

Showerdome® controls steam and reduces condensation, making the home healthier and warmer. A Showerdome® shower top consists of a clear acrylic dome that prevents steam from forming when fitted on top of an existing shower box. With no ongoing costs it is the most effective investment for a home or rental property. To learn more, visit showerdome.co.nz Up for grabs — 1x Showerdome® top to give away valued at $299 (installation by an official local Showerdome® installer is available at standard pricing).

Up for grabs — A 2 night’s stay at Hilton Lake Taupō including daily breakfast for 2.

02 BLUNT X Flox

BLUNT, the New Zealand innovation that has revolutionised the umbrella market, has teamed up once again for another gorgeous collab with mural artist Flox.

Recognised for her trademark mix of handcut stencils and vibrantly coloured fauna and flora, Flox is back for her third collaboration with BLUNT. This beautiful umbrella pays tribute to the treasures of Oceania and features a mix of native New Zealand and Australian birds and botanicals. The limited-edition Metro umbrella will be available while stocks last, online from the BLUNT official website (bluntumbrellas. com) and select stores including Smith and Caughey’s and David Jones.

Up for grabs — a BLUNT x FLOX Umbrella valued at $129.

04 The Pocket Book of Marketing and Sales by Kim Allen

An invaluable New Zealand guide for business owners, leaders and managers.

Read this book and find the real you, revisit your vision, and be the best you can be. Publishes on 1 September.

Up for grabs — 3 copies of The Pocket Book of Marketing and Sales by Kim Allen valued $24.95.

Entering is simple. Visit vervemagazine. co.nz and click on 'WIN', then follow the directions, not forgetting to follow us on Facebook and Instagram @vervemagazine.

Good luck! *T&Cs apply.

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