Verve. December 2020. Issue 171.

— AUCKLAND’S FAVOURITE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE — ISSUE 171 — DECEMBER 2020

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

Happy Holidays

EICHHOLTZ EXQUISITE LIGHTING

COMMODORE CHANDELIER

AMAZONE CHANDELIER

BERMUDE CHANDELIER

HELVETIA CHANDELIER

INFINITY CHANDELIER

MURANO CHANDELIER

ARRIVE TABLE LAMP

LAS PALMAS TABLE LAMP

EMERALD TABLE LAMP

CAPE COD TABLE LAMP

CHARLESTON TABLE LAMP

BERKLEY TABLE LAMP

DECEMBER 2020

TRENZSEATER is the exclusive distributor in New Zealand for EICHHOLTZ, a collection renowned for its grand, opulent scale, exquisite taste of beautiful objects, lighting and accessories for the home.

1

WeChat AUCKLAND - 80 Parnell Rd, 09 303 4151 CHRISTCHURCH - 121 Blenheim Rd, 03 343 0876 QUEENSTOWN - 313 Hawthorne Dr, 03 441 2363 www.trenzseater.com

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

A RARE

Nestled into the headland at the northern end of Snells Beach awaits an increasingly rare opportunity to enjoy the iconic beachside lifestyle just an hour from Auckland CBD.

BEACHSIDE

OPPORTUNITY

Boathouse Bay offers a new quintessential Kiwi-bach lifestyle, from its architectural design by Ken Crosson to the landscaping that seamlessly blends into the natural environment. Thirty-three terrace homes form the community of Boathouse Bay Lane. With 14 homes already owner-occupied, it's a vibrant mix of people from all walks of life who are loving their new homes.

Boathouse Bay has been carefully designed to gradually reveal the homes as it follows a gentle curve down the private lane. The homes feature vaulted ceilings, captivating sea views and native bush surroundings. This provides a delightfully tranquil setting for your permanent home or beachside retreat.

Being on the Mahurangi Peninsula means residents will be spoilt for choice with activities ranging from relaxing to more active options. Brick Bay Wines and Sculpture Trail is just a couple of minutes away and further afield are Sandspit Marina, Matakana Markets, Mahurangi and Tawharanui Regional Parks and Goat Island Marine Reserve.

This opportunity to secure your slice of New Zealand's coastal paradise is a now or never moment, so make it a WOW moment, come and visit our show home — you won't regret it. There are a limited number of threebedroom homes available, enquire today.

Visit the website for more information and show home opening hours, or call Joanne Speir 021 107 0620 or Megan Keating 021 804 077 for a private appointment.

Licensed REAA 2008

boathousebay.co.nz Boathouse Bay Lane, Snells Beach (end of Arabella Lane)

We don’t build Box houses.

We build homes for Stephen and Luisa, Sophie and Sebastian...

GIVE US A CALL OR DROP IN AND SEE US TO HAVE A CHAT ABOUT YOUR DESIGN-BUILD PROJECT

0800 717 717

box.co.nz

info@box.co.nz

LODGE TEAK OUTDOOR FURNITURE COLLECTION

NAIROBI WOVEN DINING ARM CHAIR

LOGAN OUTDOOR WICKER SECTIONAL CENTRE AND OTTOMAN

OSLO OUTDOOR SIDE TABLES

TONI RECLAIMED TEAK ROUND OUTDOOR DINING TABLE AND CURVE RECLAIMED TEAK DINING CHAIRS

GLASSWARE FROM GOMMAIRE AND ORO ORGANIC TEAK ACCENT TABLES

Stunningly curated outdoor furniture from Italy, Belgium, France, Indonesia and the Philippines. Before you purchase anywhere, you owe it to yourself to compare. Prices. Design. Quality. You will be so pleased you did. All products are in stock, fully assembled, and available for nationwide delivery. Sunbrella® cushions are included with the purchase of our deep seating pieces as shown on our website.

We always have 400sqm of inventory in our distribution centre.

EMILY OUTDOOR RECLAIMED TEAK DINING ARMCHAIRS

WEAVE WICKER AND ALUMINIUM RELAXING CHAIR

ALBERT OUTDOOR WICKER DINING SIDE CHAIRS

MASELLO AGED TEAK SECTIONAL FURNITURE COLLECTION

137 - 147 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland | 0800.111.112 | Open Daily from 9:30 until 5:30 sales@designwarehouse.co.nz | commercial@designwarehouse.co.nz | www.designwarehouse.co.nz

ENJOY EVERY DETAIL IN LUXURY

DELUX INTERIORS FURNITURE GALLERY

15-31 Wellesley Street Auckland CBD 0800 994 930 www.deluxinteriors.co.nz

76

What's Inside

46 Food & Wine 18 Cocktails, Cuisine & Caffeine 28 Esther at QT 32 The Caker's: Triple Berry Bundt Cake 38 Culinary Christmas Health, Beauty & Fitness 46 Grey Matter 49 How to Out Fox Grey Hair 52 Clinic 42: True Lyft

Fashion 66 Local Fashion News 68 Party Dresses Journeys 76 High Flyer 90 India's Forest Man 96 Great Day Walks 99 Aotearoa Surf School Home & Design 102 Fresh Farm

Giving 126 Christmas Craze 128 Christmas Wish List 136 Building a Legend Art & About 140 David Hockney: Examining the Narrative 144 The Art of Decemeber Win 174 Win with Verve

Flagship store 24 Williamson ave, grey lynn, auckland 09 218 8780 moontide.com

Moontide_Verve_1/4P_175x63_DEC20_AW.indd 1

22/11/2020 23:17

DEDON COLLECTION MBARQ Design by Sebastian Harkner

Ph. 09 476 1121 info@dawsonandco.nz www.dawsonandco.nz

North Shore Showroom 38 Constellation Drive, Rosedale, Auckland

Parnell Showroom 115 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland

www.dedon.de

UP FRONT

Editors-in-Chief Fran Ninow and Jude Mitchell

GOLD WINNER OF 2019 MASTER PAINTER OF THE YEAR

Senior Writer Jamie Christian Desplaces Head Graphic Designer Zanalee Makavani

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.

12

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 multi-million 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

Graphic Designer Ken Khun Social Media Ashlee Lala Contributors Manish Kumar Arora, Paris Mitchell Temple, Aimée Ralfini, Jackie O’Fee, Nicole Healy, Vicki Holder, Yamin Cook, Bella Sampson, Nadia Klaassen Subscriptions online@vervemagazine.co.nz Published by Verve Magazine Ltd 13 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021 GST 90 378 074 ISSN 2253-1300 (print) / ISSN 2253-1319 (online) Advertising/Editorial Enquiries (+64) 9 520 5939 jude@vervemagazine.co.nz fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Advertising Sales Ashlee Lala: ashlee@vervemagazine.co.nz Pam Brown: pambrown@xtra.co.nz Cover Image Black Magic Christmas Photography: Warren Heath 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

The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without prior permission in writing of the copyright owner. Any material submitted for publication is at the owner’s risk. Neither Verve Magazine Ltd nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of information contained in this publication, the publisher cannot accept any liability for inaccuracies that may occur. The views and suggestions expressed in this magazine are those of individual contributors and are not necessarily supported by Verve Magazine Ltd.

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

“For me, it’s precious.”

Laura McGoldrick, CordBank mum.

Saving your baby’s cord blood could save your baby’s life.

It takes just a few minutes to collect umbilical cord blood from your newborn baby. Saving the stem cells from this blood can give your child the chance to recover from many serious illnesses and conditions. When you have cord blood collected, processed and stored with CordBank in New Zealand, you have direct access to it for medical use when your child needs it – now and into adulthood.

To learn more about the lifesaving value of cord blood stem cells and what you need to do to save your baby’s cord blood, go to cordbank.co.nz or phone 0800 CORDBANK.

cordbank.co.nz

Happy Holidays From The Verve Team

Fran Co-Editor

Jude Co-Editor

Like most, I look forward to this time of the year a bit like a Christmas zealot. Apart from the obvious reasons like precious family time, and the reprieve from the daily slog, I just love ‘Twixmas’, those precious days betwixt and between Christmas and the New Year, when the cooking and clearing has been done, the leftovers are in the fridge, and the realities of January belong in the future. Those sofa spent days that melt into an endless round of long lazy brunches, book reading, walks to the beach, meaningful and meaningless chats with family members, board games and binge watching. For me this is the most decadent and delicious time of the year, and literally I can’t wait.

I intend to celebrate the end of 2020 with dancing, laughing, swimming and eating! All going well, with no further lockdowns hindering plans, I will be spending my time at a beach in the Coromandel with family, whilst thinking of other family members in New York who have so much less freedom of movement than we do.

Do I have any New Year’s resolutions yet? Surprisingly I do. Inspired by a recent interview I heard on RNZ with Dolly Parton, come 2021, I plan to do only what makes me feel good, say what makes me feel good, and live by what makes me feel good. Life is literally too short to do otherwise.

Thank you for reading and staying loyal to Verve this year, and what a year it has been! Verve is a true labour of love and a tribute to all who help bring it together every month: our wonderful advertisers, and our tiny but talented Verve team. We could not do any of this without you, so thank you, thank you.

Happy Holidays all; see you in 2021. xo Fran

We will relax, eat healthy food, drink (too many) cocktails and take walks. Hopefully each day will begin with a dive into the ocean — and perhaps inspired by My Octopus Teacher — I intend to make a promise to myself that I will swim every day.

I wish all of our readers a happy, safe and relaxing holiday time — and I wish to especially acknowledge all of our readers working in essential services who may not be able to take time out this Christmas period. I also wish to thank the team at Verve who bring you this free, content-filled publication each month — Pam, Ashlee, Zanalee, Ken, Yamin, Aimee, AJ and Jamie —thank you all for your diligent and committed work!

And a huge thanks to my co-editor, Fran, for being as steady as a rock for the last 17 years.

Lots of love Jude xxx

THE NEW BMW 4 SERIES COUPÉ HAS ARRIVED AT CONTINENTAL CARS BMW The 4 Series Coupé. An icon reimagined.

How are legends made? With determination. With innovation.

With a desire to let no barrier stand in the way.

The 4 Series Coupé. Made Brave.

Visit Continental Cars BMW to find out more.

Continental Cars BMW 45 - 65 Wairau Road, North Shore. (09) 488 2000 www.continentalcarsbmw.com

Ashlee Sales

Pam Sales

2020 has certainly had it’s ups and downs, but a major highlight was my sister moving back to Auckland from America. After 10 years apart, we’re finally living in the same city again! So, these holidays we’re looking forward to just hanging out and spending time together.

I love being outside as much as possible in summer, going for long walks and swimming. Earlier this year I started learning to surf so I’ll see if I can convince my friends to take me out again this summer - I’m pretty terrible so thankfully they are all very patient with me!

Wow, what a year this has been, so full of challenges for everyone, but thankful to have survived it! Looking forward to having a chillax holiday break! Christmas to me is a time for reflection, recognising how grateful I am for what I have in my life. Celebrating each day as life is so precious. Spending time with family and with friends.

Enjoying great food, shared with lots of laughter. To our dear readers, advertisers and the awesome Verve team, wishing you a wonderful and relaxing holiday, stay safe, and enjoy each moment.

Christine Admin

Jamie Senior Writer

WOW 2020, a year to be remembered for myriad reasons! NZ is getting through the worldwide pandemic and looking forward to an even more 'normal' life in the near future, fingers crossed. Many folks are navigating their way through highs and lows, however, I hope we can look forward to a healthy and productive 2021.

Just about the only good thing about this year is that it feels like we got it over with fast. Hoping that few of you have suffered too much hardship during the pandemic and wishing everyone all the best for a healthy and prosperous 2021 (it surely can’t get any worse!). On a lighter note, Christmas came early in our household with the arrival of this staffie puppy. So, I plan on spending the festive period bonding and getting up to all sorts of mischief with my new partner in crime, while my partner in life, Heather, will be working lots (she graduated as a midwife in March and I couldn't be more proud).

I will be spending the Christmas break with my family and giving thanks for their wellness. We will enjoy great food, fun and the comfort of love and support. Wishing all our readers, advertisers, Jude, Fran and the Verve team a safe and happy Christmas.

Merry Christmas everybody and happy new year.

Jamie

Zanalee Senior Graphic Designer

Ken Graphic Designer

*heavy breathing* Shout out to all my family and friends that are seeing this.

I can sleep now, wake me up in 2021.

Small class sizes.

Huge opportunities!

MAKE THEIR SENIOR SCHOOL YEARS COUNT.

When it comes to making sure your teenager is in the best possible learning environment, inspiring teachers and motivated peers make all the difference.

Kristin Senior School provides:

• High quality staff in teaching, leadership, wellbeing, digital learning and other support roles

• Small class sizes (13 students on average) and state-of-theart equipment and facilities

• The choice to study NCEA or the IB Diploma Programme with

a vast range of subject options and co-curricular opportunities

• A strong focus on student wellbeing, and a positive culture of success and aspiration, and so much more!

Take a tour and see for yourself! Limited places still available for 2021.

Visit kristin.school.nz or call our Admissions Manager on 09 415 9566 ext 2324.

Kristin is located at 360 Albany Highway, Albany with dedicated buses across Auckland.

COCKTAILS CUISINE & CAFFEINE

WORDS BELLA SAMPSON

Here at Verve, we like to think of ourselves as content, cocktail, cuisine and caffeine connoisseurs. So, naturally, there are a few places we are absolutely smitten with that all manage to meet our needs, no matter the occasion.

As the days get longer, warmer and brighter, we find ourselves wanting and wanted to mix and mingle with our friends a lot more. With the plethora of places available in Auckland, it can sometimes be quite tough to pick where to go. A diverse drink menu, a great atmosphere and an indoor-outdoor flow for the venue are always solid starters. Definitely fans of the laneway or courtyard vibes to soak up or send off the sun. With all of that in mind, here are a few of our favourite establishments.

THE

DECEMBER 2020

CANDY SHOP

PHOTOGRAPHY REUBEN SOMMERFORD

19

2/8 OSBORNE STREET 021 259 7873

Let’s get the pun out of the way: we recommend you go to The Candy Shop, we also highly recommend you get a taste of what they’ve got. Which happens to be, well, a lot. Naturally, there are a few sweet treats on the menu.

However, The Candy Shop has more of a ‘kid in a candy store meets adulthood’ feel. The menu houses elements of cuisines like Kiwi, Asian and Italian, yet makes sure to add intriguing twists like croffles (croissant waffles) and Korean fried chicken. Visually, the combinations of stone, wood, a plethora of plants and natural light give the venue an invigorating feel, as does the epic alleyway courtyard.

Whether you’re looking for a neat spot to have a coffee, an afterwork drink or for somewhere that caters to the fussy friend or dietarily diverse – The Candy Shop is guaranteed to tick all the boxes, and more!

FOOD & WINE

COTTO RESTAURANT

PHOTOGRAPHY COCO RESTAURANT F REUBEN SOMMERFORD G

375 KARANGAHAPE RD COTTO.CO.NZ

This industrial looking restaurant is located on the ever cool and mysterious Karangahape Road. Cotto is serious flavour fuelled decadence. Serving authentically made Italian cuisine and some rousing additions like spinach, goats’ cheese and sage dumplings, it has quickly become a local favourite. Although the menu is utterly moreish, Cotto has perfectly balanced the portion sizes that won’t break the bank. It's also vegan and vegetarian friendly. The venue has just the right subdued lighting to transition with ease from day to evening, as it opens at 5pm. The cocktail menu focuses on simple citrus classics and the wine list accentuates the stunning menu with a mixture of New Zealand and Italian wines. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable with any menu queries. Due to the venue’s popularity, it’s best to book in advance for larger groups, although they insist small walk-ins are welcome.

EAST

DECEMBER 2020

STREET HALL PHOTOGRAPHY REUBEN SOMMERFORD

5 EAST ST EASTSTREETHALL.COM

From the founders of the beloved Annabel’s Wine Bar and Bar Celeste, East Street Hall is the latest stellar addition to the Auckland hospitality scene. East Street Hall is a multicultural celebration, based in the old community hall that was once the Samoan Church on East Street. You’ll experience flavoursome Israeli food with a twist of Aotearoa’s seasonal produce, alongside art, culture, music and a real community feel. The hall itself has a cool contemporary canteen look and the courtyard is bathed in sunlight. I couldn’t tell you the official name of the wall colour, it’s very reminiscent of a red sand dune in the perfect light mixed with a chalky terracotta hue. Whatever it is, it’s heavenly. The cocktails have some delightful herbal citrus twists, almost medicinal in the most refreshing and invigorating way, with plenty of colour and tantalising tastes. The natural wines, craft and classic beers also really complement the menu.

FOOD & WINE

GEMMAYZE STREET

PHOTOGRAPHY LEFT: REUBEN SOMMERFORD F RIGHT: GEMMAYZE STREET F

183 KARANGAHAPE RD GEMMAYZESTREET.CO.NZ

Gemmayze Street is a 130-year journey artfully expressed through the mediums of family, love and food. How would we describe it? The perfect amalgamation of a hidden gem and amazing. Gemmayze-ing. The menu is a glorious entwining of the seasons of Aotearoa, with the flavours of Lebanon.

Each dish is artistically flourished with garnishes that enhance the meals. The portions are generous and great for sharing. The menu caters to most dietary requirements with ease, and the food is incredibly healthy whilst still making one feel like they’ve indulged on rich fare. There’s a lovely earthy vibe in the actual restaurant's interior, they favour natural light and comfy yet eclectic furniture. The cocktails also deserve accolades, they both highlight the dining menu and stand well alone. The thyme margarita with elderflower was definitely a highlight, and the raspberry blushed arak is almost too beautiful to drink. Almost.

OZONE COFFEE ROASTERS

PHOTOGRAPHY REUBEN SOMMERFORD

23

1/18 WESTMORELAND ST WEST OZONECOFFEE.CO.NZ

When most of us hear the word ozone, the protective layer surrounding the earth, shielding us from the harsh sun springs to mind. A good cup of coffee can do that too. It can sober, stimulate or soothe us, in preparation for whatever life presents. Naturally, Ozone Coffee Roaster’s provides rich site roasted coffee; alongside an expansive drink menu covering all the things one could want throughout the day. Whether your vice is caffeine, soda, juice, kombucha, cocktails, beer or wine – Ozone has just the thing. Although we recommend Ozone for any day of the week, their weekend brunch is a definite must! Generously set between 7am-4pm, you’ll find the usual brunch line-up with some delightfully tasty twists, sourced from the curious looking jars of homemade pickles and fermentations. There are plenty of seating options available to cater to your needs, from comfy booths to small tables to sections and stools around the kitchen or bar.

SERVES SIX

berry platter with sheep’s labneh and orange oil This display of the season’s best can double up as a light dessert or as a brunch centrepiece.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

900g sheep’s yoghurt, or cow’s

Put the yoghurt and salt into a medium bowl and mix well to combine. Line a colander with a piece of muslin large enough to hang over the sides and place the colander over a bowl.

Transfer the yoghurt to the muslin and fold over the sides to completely encase the yoghurt.

Place a heavy weight over the muslin (a few tins or jars will do), and transfer to the fridge to drain for at least 24 hours (and up to 48).

yoghurt as an alternative ½ tsp salt 100ml good-quality olive oil 10g lemon thyme sprigs, plus a few extra picked thyme leaves to serve 1 orange: finely shave the skin to get 24

6 strips 200g blackberries 250g raspberries 300g strawberries, hulled and halved lengthways (or quartered if they’re

Meanwhile, put the oil into a small saucepan, for which you have a lid, on a medium heat.

Heat gently for about 7 minutes, or until tiny air bubbles form. Remove from the heat, add the thyme and orange strips, then cover with a lid and leave to infuse, ideally overnight, though half an hour will also do the job.

larger) 50g caster sugar 1 lime: finely grate the zest to get 1 tsp, then juice to get 1 tbsp 200g blueberries 150g cherries, pitted

The next day, put 50g of blackberries, 100g of raspberries and 100g of strawberries into the small bowl of a food processor along with the sugar and lime juice and blitz until completely smooth. Put all the remaining berries and the cherries into a large bowl along with the blitzed fruit and gently combine. You can serve it straight away or leave it in the fridge for a few hours, bringing it back to room temperature before serving.

Spread the labneh out on a large platter. Spoon over the berries, then sprinkle with the lime zest. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of the infused oil, along with a couple of the orange strips and the extra picked thyme leaves.

R E C I P E Extracted from Ottolenghi FLAVOUR By Yotam Ottolenghi $60 Published by Ebury Press.

SERVES FOUR

As a starter or part of a mezze spread

sweet and sour onion petals These onions are sweet inside, charred at the edges and swimming in a tart pomegranate syrup.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

500g golf-ball-sized red onions (about 12), peeled, then halved lengthways

Preheat the oven to 200°C fan.

75ml olive oil

Heat a large non-stick frying pan on a high heat until very hot. Toss the onions with 2 tablespoons of oil and ¼ teaspoon of salt and place them, cut side down and spread apart, in the hot pan. Place a saucepan on top to weigh the onions down and create an even char, then turn the heat down to mediumhigh and cook, undisturbed, for about 6 minutes, or until the cut sides are deeply charred. Transfer the onions to a parchmentlined baking tray, charred side up, and bake for about 20 minutes, or until softened. If your onions are larger than golf-ball size, this may take longer. Set aside to cool.

400ml pomegranate juice (100% pure) 10g chives, finely chopped 70g young and creamy rindless goat’s cheese, broken into 2cm pieces (optional) 2⁄3 tsp Urfa chilli flakes (or another variety of chilli flake if you can’t get them) salt

Meanwhile, put the pomegranate juice into a medium saucepan on a medium-high heat.

Bring to the boil, then simmer for about 12 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced to about 70ml and is the consistency of a loose maple syrup. Set aside to cool; it will thicken as it sits.

Combine the chives with the remaining 45ml of oil and a good pinch of salt, and set aside.

Pour the pomegranate syrup on to a large platter with a lip and swirl it around to cover most of the plate. Use your hands to loosely separate the onions into individual petals, then place them haphazardly over the syrup.

Dot over the goat’s cheese, if using, spoon over the chive oil, and finish with the Urfa chilli flakes.

R E C I P E Extracted from Ottolenghi FLAVOUR By Yotam Ottolenghi $60 Published by Ebury Press

27

Esther at QT WO RD S―AIMÉ E RAL F I N I

It’s good to see the upward trend of sustainable cooking and food sourcing becoming a feature among new restaurants, and fantastic that Auckland has a new light and airy marinaside restaurant, called Esther. It stands out against the plethora of eateries in the area, gifting guests with a seed packet of heritage tomatoes from Clevedon-based tomato growers, Curious Croppers, as a memento to personalise their dining experience.

DECEMBER 2020 Separate from the main drag, QT Auckland’s signature restaurant Esther is the latest creation by chef Sean Connolly. With a menu reflecting Connolly’s own journey through the Mediterranean, the dishes reveal flavours from Lebanon, Turkey, Morocco, Sardinia and The Greek Islands. Like the food, the European-style bistro is stylishly presented, inspired by the oyster with a colour scheme of black, stone and sand with pops of gold – which catches your eye like sunlight on water. QT’s design team and design collaborator Nic Graham have interwoven local and international commissioned artworks throughout the space, creating an ambience of Mediterranean shores. Crayfish net-like shapes suspended from the ceiling and tangled lines painted by Andrew J Steel grace the upper walls and ceilings of the private dining area.

On the inspiration for Esther, Connolly says, “When designing Esther, we envisioned a feminine design and wanted to personify it. Esther embodies a lively spirit, a feminine presence and modern traveller skipping around the Mediterranean gathering flavours as she goes.”

29 An oyster has myriad textures, a rough layered shell feathers it’s outer, whilst inside is a smooth iridescent surface, quite the opposite from its exterior. Connolly has been working closely with executive chef James Laird to bring Esther’s menu to life, and it shows. The texture and bite of each dish is a stand-out, the Ortiz anchovies on toast with salsa verde not only hits the tastebuds with salt and tang, but also impresses with crunch and chew.

Satisfying for all parts of the eating process.

This point of view is reflected in the eclectic collection of Kitchen hardware visible from the dining area. In the corner of the Kitchen glistens a gold studded Marana Forni ‘disco oven’ – a gold bedazzled wood-fired oven – an attraction within itself. A bespoke Molteni oven in a sumptuous fisherman green runs along the patron facing kitchen wall, it’s sheen serves as visual contrast next to an open fire barbecue grill – which accounts for the delicate smokey flavour that gently permeates dishes like the Whole Butterflied Gurnard with gremolata and the Spatchcock Chicken, served with harissa on a bed of textured nero cabbage.

Connolly and Laird have developed a well-rounded menu of good authentic food, offering our ocean loving palettes a taste of the Mediterranean. The service at Esther is genuine and friendly with a team outfitted in custom Matt Nash linen. The space has been beautifully styled, it has a natural marina ambience and excellent music – the playlist also curated by Connolly. An ideal location to bring friends together for lunch or otherwise.

Esther is part of QT Auckland, Located at 4 Viaduct Harbour Avenue. For more info head to qthotels.com/auckland

ABOVE : THE CAKER

Cakers And Shakers

WORD S – AIM ÉE RAL F I N I

The humble cake has come a long way since its origins in Egyptian times; its uses are multi-faceted. Cakes are accountable for revolutions, freeing prisoners, comedy gold, and many, many food fights.

With such cultural gravitas front of mind, I decided to dig deeper into our local Auckland cake scene and ask two of our most talented cakers and shakers, Jordan Rondel of The Caker and Bernadette Gee of Magnolia Kitchen, some cutting edge questions about their relationships with cake.

Cakes – they’re historical, they’re delicious, and they’re something we will all enjoy this summer season! Head to thecaker.co.nz or magnoliakitchen.co.nz to see some of the delights available.

Is there a ‘bucket list’ cake you have yet to make?

Jordan Rondel I've never made a crêpe cake, so that's definitely on the list!

Bernadette Gee Oh that's hard because my inspiration is consistently changing, I think it would definitely be something art related and I am loving impressionistic art currently! Hand-painted for sure.

Do you consider sustainability in sourcing your ingredients and would you consider using ingredients such as cricket flour?

Jordan Rondel I'm all for sustainability when it comes to baking and consider myself pretty open to interesting new ingredients so long as they taste good.

Bernadette Gee I would definitely love to experiment with alternate ingredients and am often looking for more sustainable and ethical ways to operate my business.

Is there a cake you can’t stand?

Jordan Rondel I don't think any cake is offensive, but I certainly have my specific ideas on what a good cake is.

What matters more to you – how a cake tastes or how it looks?

Jordan Rondel My motto is that a cake should taste even better than it looks.

Bernadette Gee How it tastes! That will always be the lasting memory people have of cake.

If you were a cake, what cake would you be?

Bernadette Gee I would definitely be dramatic, probably really tall with ruffles, gold leaf and loads of flowers.

What would be your cake of choice in a food fight?

Bernadette Gee Hmm, something soft and delicious so people won't get hurt and can eat it while they fight.

Which cake would you never eat?

Bernadette Gee Christmas/fruit cake bleurgh, though I'm told my recipe is amazing!

R IGHT: MAGNO LIA KITC H E N

The Caker’s

Triple Berry Bundt Cake

DECEMBER 2020

Any variety of summer berries are welcome in this recipe. I used a bundt tin so that the cake looks like a Christmas wreath, but also so that I could pack as much fruit into the batter and be sure that it would still bake through. The almond butter icing adds a delicate sweetness, but use more honey or maple if you please.

F O R THE CAKE

DI R ECTI O NS

85g almond butter

Preheat the oven to 170°C on fan bake. Grease the sides of a bundt tin very well and line the base with baking paper.

115g butter, softened 150g soft brown or light muscovado sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the almond butter, butter, sugar and vanilla extract until pale, light and fluffy.

3 free range eggs 100g spelt or plain flour

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating between each addition.

100g ground almonds 2 tsp baking powder 1⁄2 cup milk of your choice 1⁄2 cup of fresh or frozen raspberries

Gradually add in the flour, ground almonds and baking powder and mix until just combined.

1⁄2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries 1⁄2 cup fresh or frozen blackcurrants

33 Finally add in the milk and stop your electric mixer once it is just combined.

F O R THE ICI N G 1⁄2 cup cream cheese

By hand, fold through all the berries.

1⁄2 cup almond butter 1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup

Pour the batter into the pan and spread out evenly.

FOR THE DECORATIONS

Bake for approximately 40 minutes or until golden in colour, springy to the touch and a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean.

Fresh strawberries, sliced Handful pomegranate arils Fresh flowers (optional)

Allow the cake to cool for around 10 minutes before turning out onto a cooling rack.

SERVES 12

Meanwhile, make the almond butter icing. In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese by itself until smooth. Continue to add the almond butter, vanilla and honey or maple syrup and stop once completely smooth.

PH OTO G RAP HY: JAMES LOWE R EC IPE C ourtesy of Jordan Rondel, AKA The Caker, as seen in her latest cookbook, Sunday Baking 2. thecaker.co.nz

Once the cake is cool, ice the top of it and scatter over strawberry slices and pomegranate arils. Decorate with fresh flowers if desired.

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

The Caker’s

Strawberry and Cardamom Bundt Cake

DECEMBER 2020

While strawberries are cheap as chips, I try to use them in every way possible.

You would have no idea this cake is missing dairy or eggs – the coconut yogurt lends the most moreishly moist texture and the cake will stay this way for days.

FOR THE CAKE 200g plain or spelt flour 150g soft brown, light muscovado or coconut sugar

Preheat the oven to 170°C on fan bake. Grease and line the base of an 20cm bundt tin with baking paper.

In the bowl of an electric stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, ground almonds, baking powder, cardamom and salt.

100g ground almonds 2 tsp baking powder 2 tsp ground cardamom pinch sea salt

Gradually add the milk, vanilla and oil, taking care not to overmix. Finally, fold through the coconut yogurt.

1⁄2 cup almond or coconut milk 1 tsp vanilla extract 1⁄2 cup light olive oil

35

1⁄2 cup unsweetened coconut yogurt 1 punnet fresh strawberries, washed, hulled and quartered

Spoon the batter into the tin and spread out to the sides. Scatter over the strawberry pieces and press them down lightly.

Bake for approximately 40 minutes or until golden in colour, springy to the touch and a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean.

FOR THE GLAZE 125g icing sugar 1 tsp ground cardamom

Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before turning out onto a cooling rack.

3 tbsp almond or coconut milk

FOR THE DECORATIONS Fresh strawberries, sliced fresh edible

To make the glaze, in a small bowl combine the icing sugar, cardamom and milk and mix together until smooth.

flowers (optional) Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle over the cardamom glaze and decorate with strawberry slices and fresh flowers, if using.

SERVES 12 R ECIP E C ourtesy of Jordan Rondel, AKA The Caker, as seen in her latest cookbook, Sunday Baking 2. thecaker.co.nz

Serve at room temperature. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days.

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

FOOD & WINE

Chef owners Ken O Connell and Sam Sykes combined their cooking skills and experience in New Zealand and European Hatted and Michelin restaurants to see what Auckland could offer in terms of produce, lifestyle and creativity. Their combined energies and inspiration resulted in restaurant, Copia, where they work closely with farmers, fishermen and artisan producers to create dishes that tell a story of their personal connection to the ingredients. Verve chats to Ken and Sam about Copia, and food in general.

Ken O Connell and Sam Sykes

DECEMBER 2020

For full interview visit vervemagazine.co.nz/food

What motivated you to open Copia?

Our motivation was to offer a shared dining experience that focused on NZ ingredients in a relaxed setting without the pomp and ceremony of fine dining.

Describe Copia cuisine in three words.

Fresh, modern and eclectic.

We wanted a simple stripped back atmosphere, designed to let the food and wine be enjoyed by you and your company focusing on the views and garden.

Could you tell us more about the process; for example, the sourcing of the ingredients, the presentation, and so on?

Our food is planned months ahead based on what we plant in the garden, foraging, and what growers have coming through.

What is the vision you have for your restaurant?

For customers to understand what we do from a sustainable and conscious business perspective which goes beyond the food and wine.

We bring a space where we offer a place for people to come to, to enjoy a drink in the garden or on the deck with friends, share a set menu with a group, a dessert after a movie or one of our 30 gins and tonics.

To share our focus on NZ ingredients, perfectly cooked with precise flavour, balance and texture.

Favourite ingredients?

White asparagus, venison and mushrooms

To share our love for great food, sourcing, cooking and serving it to our guests.

Favourite dish on your menu?

At the moment, the crayfish omelette or the almond financier with custard, apple and cherimoya.

Could you tell us in more detail about what inspires your menus?

Our garden, seasonality, what is around us and what we like to eat. We like to change the menu over the seasons and keep the food and wine relevant.

Our wine list is curated using the same mentality we use for our food, primarily NZ wines.

Using sustainable methods with a mixture of conservative classics through to more modern edgy selections.

What do you like to cook yourself on a typical night at home?

We don’t cook at home that often, as when we are off we like to dine out as there is so much choice in Auckland and it’s good to support other small businesses.

Anything special happening over Christmas and the New Year?

We are open on New Year’s Eve offering or sharing menu or a three-course set menu with champagne.

copia.nz • 236 Orakei Rd, Remuera • 09 520 2234 • dine@copia.nz

37

FOOD & WINE

Culinary Christmas Verve catches up with some cool Kiwi chefs to talk about the festive season.

WO R D S — JAM I E C H R ISTIAN D ES P L AC ES

Pierre-Allain Fenoux Jano Bistro, Wellington Pierre is the head chef and co-owner (along with his partner, Diana) of Jano Bistro, one of the coolest little restaurants in our coolest of little capitals. The iconic Wellington eatery, almost as famous for its setting in an unmistakable yellow two-storey cottage as it is for its seasonal, locally sourced fine dining fare, is named in honour of Pierre’s grandfather who was the community gardener in his hometown of Aix Les Bains in France.

Growing up, Pierre says that he liked nothing better than helping to harvest the produce from his family’s garden and fishing for freshwater cray. Aged only three years, it soon become obvious where his destiny lay, when he would sit with a wooden spoon stirring Lego blocks in a pot! In true Gallic style, most of his childhood—and indeed, Christmas—memories, he says, revolve around the dinner table.

“I have so many memories, of being with family, all being together eating great food and cheese, you know,” he recalls. “As well as poultry, at Christmas time, we eat smoked salmon and foie gras.

Snails are also popular around this time—we don’t have them every day for breakfast like many people assume!”

Have you converted many Kiwis to them? “No, but we do put them on the menu from time to time, but it’s still pretty special for you guys.”

Any other non-traditional Christmas favourites? “You can use pretty much anything nowadays, from venison to beef wellington.”

Tips for the everyday Kiwi making a Christmas dinner? “You can make a really delicious, simple gravy by reducing red wine and adding chicken or beef stock along with carrots, garlic and onion.”

Best Christmas cocktail? “In France we have something called kir, which is a blackcurrant liqueur topped up with either sparkling wine or champagne. It’s very simple, but very good!”

Favourite festive memory is an easy one for Pierre having met got together with Diana one New Year’s Eve. “We’re still not sure what we’ll be doing this year,” he adds, “but it will probably involve beer and barbecues!”

And as for resolutions? “It’s the same every year, usually along the lines of getting more healthy, but it never happens!”

DECEMBER 2020

And what of your favourite childhood Christmas memories?

“Foodwise, not so much—except for dessert! Every kid loves pavlova with cream and strawberries It’s all about the presents when you’re a kid. One year my brother and I unwrapped all of our presents and wrapped them back up again so our parents didn’t notice—how naughty!”

As an adult, Adele says that among her fondest festive memories is being in Morocco with three friends, one of whom worked as an EA to “the big boss man of a five-star hotel group”.

Adele Jenner Catroux Café and Catering, Auckland Catroux Café is among the city’s loveliest eateries, the Westmere establishment is an airy modern space famed for its fresh produce (and decorative flowers), awesome coffee and irresistible treats. Founder Adele Jenner has always been fascinated with cooking—and caring— for others, making dinner for her mum for when she got home from work, as well as regularly treating her parents to breakfast in bed. “I’ve always had a love to please people with food,” she beams.

“So we were wined and dined for next to nothing, eating at the most amazing places and making the most of the excellent service from those at the five-star resort who wanted my friend to put in a good word to her boss! We were so lucky.”

Favourite Christmas meal? “I have had a mixed time of Christmases. The last few years I have been so exhausted by our Christmas Day catering orders on the 24th that I love anything that is cooked for me! Last year, my stepdad made a beautiful slow-cooked pork in his Webber—that was great!

“Summer corn on the barbecue is one of my favourites, finished with a coat of parmesan and Lewis butter. I love anything fresh. I can never go past a rocket, pear and parmesan salad. I especially love good quality extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. My fridge will always have sundried tomato pesto and basil pesto— you can make anything with a few simple flavours.”

Fave Christmas cocktail? “Who doesn’t love a margarita?”

Ever kissed under the mistletoe? “I don’t think so!”

Memorable New Year moments? “Not really, the epic ones always come with a bad hangover!”

What are you most excited about this upcoming festive period? “Bringing happiness, via our food, to so many others! It’s clear so many people are unable actually cook these days so our Christmas day catering seems to make so many people have a stress-free day.”

How will you spend this New Year? “With my partner, our two small kids, and a few other friends at a bach we’ve hired at Omaha—most likely a barbecue then put all the kids to bed early and party.”

And resolutions? “Get more sleep, do more pilates, have more time!”

FOOD & WINE

Childhood Christmases were classic Kiwi affairs “caravanning at Foxton Beach, water skiing on the Manawatu and a double scoop vanilla ice cream with a flake from the local dairy”.

Kyle Street Culprit, Auckland A career in the kitchen couldn’t have seemed further from the cards of Culprit head chef and co-owner Kyle Street who was “a fussy kid who wouldn’t eat my greens”. “It was then,” he chuckles, “tasting a perfectly cooked and seasoned green bean while working as a dishwasher in Wellington that set me down this path that has now become an obsession.”

Ever kissed under the mistletoe? “Is that really a thing? I feel like I’ve missed out on that one!”

Culprit is one the CBD’s coolest, contemporary eateries, famed for its twist on yum cha, with each signature dish crafted using local sourced seasonal produce. So, are there any surprise twists that Kyle likes to add to his festive feasts?

“Last year I rubbed a wagyu beef tri tip—near the sirloin—with Gochujang, a Korean fermented chilli paste, and roasted it on my barbecue till just on medium, it was epic.”

Any tips for more traditional Christmas staples? “I’ll be making my take on chicken stuffing at Culprit over this New Year period.

My trick? Use chicken salt to season your stuffing mix for added chook flavour.”

Do you have a favourite festive cocktail? “If for some reason I have some open champagne or bubbles the day after, I like to serve it over a nip of Lemoncello, or my personal fave, Yuzucello.”

What are your stand-out New Year memories? “Being in central London watching the fireworks display off the London Eye. Afterwards, we ended up walking in circles trying to find a way home as all the tube and bus stops were closed due to the millions of revellers on the streets. We didn’t get in until about 7am, but kept the party going.”

How will you spend this New Year? “Much like most New Years Eves, I’ll be working the pass at Culprit. This year we’re offering our New Year Epic Menu, 10-plus of our favourite courses from the year. Then my wife and I are off to house/dog sit for our good friends, Lisa and Nod, previously of Mahurangi oysters. So, there will be much fizz and bivalves.”

New Year’s resolutions? “It’s been a wild year for sure. There are a lot of restauranteurs out there doing it tough, so my resolution will be to continue to be thankful for what I have.”

We’ve got your wine, beer & spirits sorted for Christmas FineWineDelivery.co.nz 171 festive deals & gifts

Super Savings on top brands

Click & Collect

Fast Nationwide Delivery

0800 FINE WINE | 42 Lunn Ave, Mt Wellington | 60 Constellation Drive, Mairangi Bay TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Prices valid until Wednesday 30th December 2020 unless sold out prior. Wine bottles are 750ml unless otherwise stated. Fine Wine Delivery supports the sensible service and consumption of alcohol. It is against the law to sell or supply alcohol to, or to obtain on behalf of, a person under the age of 18 years.

Whether you’re a tea totaller or just taking a break from the booze for a night, there are plenty of options for a sober festive celebration.

What To Drink If You’re Not Drinking

1

New Leaf Kombucha

4

Chia Sisters Sparkling Chia Sisters Sparkling isn’t your average soda pop. Sparkling contains low sugar (and no refined sugar) and is packed with five essential electrolytes - magnesium, calcium, potassium, phosphorous and sodium - making it the perfect way to hydrate.

The coconuts are blended with fruits and roots from New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific to make four healthy flavours: Ginger & Turmeric Zing, Nelson Boysenberry, South Island Blackcurrant and Kerikeri Lemon.

Sparkling is all natural and made from plants by the Zero Carbon certified Chia Sisters. chia.co.nz

3

Edenvale Premium Reserve

2

Remedy Kombucha

Drop by New Leaf Kombucha Taproom, New Zealand's first pure kombucha taproom where everything is brewed onsite. They use only use organic tea leaves and never put in any flavourings, colourings, or preservatives. Try their kombucha fresh on one of their five taps, or take some home in bottles!

And yes, they do refills!

Edenvale Premium Reserve Alcohol Removed Sparkling Shiraz has blackberry and currant fruit aromas, with hints of oak and smoky, exotic spice. With dark fruit and chocolate flavours, it’s a perfect pairing for roast meats, spicy dishes and all cheese styles. Contains less than 0.5% alcohol by volume.

Remedy Kombucha is made the oldschool way: in small batches using a long-aged brewing process. The result is the tastiest, healthiest kombucha going naturally free from sugar and chockfull of live cultures, organic acids and antioxidants known as polyphenols. The perfect guilt-free sip for summer, that’s always organic.

newleafkombucha.nz

thegoodwine.co.nz

remedydrinks.com

with Stoneleigh Organic Wines

Christmas Food and Wine Pairings

With the festive season well and truly in full swing, Verve caught up with Pernod Ricard's Wine Ambassador Jess Bell for advice on Christmas food and wine pairings.

Faced with seemingly endless shelves of wine, it can be stressful trying to decipher the most appropriate bottle to bring to a dinner party or Christmas function. What would be your most basic guidelines?

Wine can certainly be overwhelming sometimes, but it really shouldn’t be. When catching up with friends or colleagues at a Christmas function, challenge each other to bring something interesting or different.

That way you are all set up for an evening of curiosity rather than anxiety! The Stoneleigh Organic range is an easy choice as it is 100% certified organic and vegan and comes in a range of varietals – meaning there is something for everyone.

What other considerations as well as flavours are important to consider?

A simple rule to follow is ‘what grows together, goes together,’ meaning that foods and delicacies will typically pair better with wines grown and crafted in the same environment.

As an island nation, we are so fortunate to have a variety of seafood on our shores, so if you’re out on the water and catch something fresh, cook or serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a glass of our most iconic white wine, sauvignon blanc!

What wine pairing would you recommend for a traditional Christmas lunch?

There are so many options out there, but for me, I can’t look past the Stoneleigh Organic Pinot Noir. A young Pinot Noir adds a vibrancy to the turkey, which is sometimes required as it can be susceptible to dryness. Pinot Noir is an excellent choice because it is also easygoing enough not to cause major clashes with the side dishes you have on the day.

What food pairings do the fresh, fruitforward flavours of Stoneleigh Organics work well with?

As New Zealand's number one wine brand, Stoneleigh's new Organic range is incredibly dynamic and pairs great with a range of dishes, including: Sauvignon blanc: This wine has a big personality and will work well alongside loads of flavoursome dishes. Try with fresh salads with citrus vinaigrette and green herb accents.

Pinot gris: Try with fresh, simple dishes. Salty aperitifs, olives and shellfish, or summer picnic food will be a great match.

Rosé: Pair this wine with a warm goats cheese salad, or a feast of fresh crab served with lemon butter and sourdough. This versatile wine will be at home with Chinese food such as hoisin pork and crunchy Asian slaw.

Pinot noir: This wine will match well with many meals, being supple enough to pair with a smoked salmon pasta, but rich enough to enhance slow-cooked beef cheeks.

Is there any wine that goes with the quintessentially Kiwi pavlova?!

Look for a wine with a little bit of sweetness, that’s not overwhelming but is balanced out with some juicy fruit characters. The Stoneleigh Organic Pinot Gris is a great choice as it is brimming with juicier orchard fruits, and hints of spice. It is a cheerful, fruitforward wine that will be perfect served well chilled with the classic Kiwi dessert that’s topped with plenty of fresh summer fruits! stoneleigh.com/en-nz

FOOD & WINE

44

LET’S EAT CAKE An out-of-the-ordinary cake with jewel-box shades seems like just desserts for this moody merry Christmas.

• A vanilla sponge has been covered with aubergine purple tinted buttercream.

• Additional decorations include hand-painted macarons (buy cream or white macarons and paint them with gel food colouring) and grapes sprinkled with edible gold dust, finished with pomegranate seeds.

Wo rd s ― M a n d y A l l e n P h oto g ra p h s ― Wa r re n H e at h

Let’s Eat Out

With Dennis and Rosamund Knill The engaging synergy between this back on form city hotel and its adjacent restaurant is demonstrated in the use of classy, local fresh produce that’s better than it’s ever been.

Menu Cuisine Wine List Service Décor Value for Money

9 8.5 8 8 8 8.5

Eight: Cordis Hotel Licenced, lunch & dinner 7 days 83 Symonds Street 379 5132 | cordishotels.com

Cordis has a mighty reputation for its hospitality and for its fine food. Home to Eight and one of the city’s most frequented restaurants, on offer is a culinary journey with a buffet package that delivers clever innovative fare tempered by a reassuring sense of food that works. With eight open style interactive kitchens each with their own work station and chefs and a menu that’s dependent on you. Leading the way are dishes from India, Italy, Japan, China, local seafood, New York grill, salads and dessert.

Awaiting the grill are cuts of eye fillet, sirloin, lamb rump, wild pork, kangaroo, alpaca, wagyu flat iron and much more. The Indian spice route has offerings of vaguely westernised tandoor dishes, chutney’s, yogurts and naan breads.

From the Japanese kitchen the sashimi and sushi are unstoppable. Passion and intensity lurks with an impressive selection of fresh fish, crustacean and shellfish.

likely ground you don’t pass up on desserts.

They come with a lightness of touch and with plenty of calories.

In keeping with the theme, the wines are as interesting as the food with a heavy hitting selection of local and imported labels from a solid wine list.

And the verdict? While the menu demands a price mid-week $109pp, weekends $129pp, there’s no better place to sate your appetite.

Behind these doors makes for an unpretentious dining experience with some of Auckland’s most exciting food, and proof that good food never goes out of style.

Nothing can be more appetising than a freshly baked pizza or a generous helping of pasta with traditional sauces, and if your taste buds are hankering for more variation you can navigate your way through dim sum, noodles and crispy meat dishes. And for those that have booked a berth at the artisan salad bar the spread of ingredients theatrically presented will not disappoint. And while the savour fare will most

45

New Zealand avos hand-picked and delivered to your door. So convenient and simply delicious! So good for you and great for gifting too.

Ord e r a t avob ox. co. nz

Totally Kiwi is a locally owned small family business based in the heart of the Canterbury Plains.

Over the past 25 years our family have perfected the quality, reliability and sustainability of our products to be able to confidently bring you the freshest, tastiest and healthiest Cold Pressed Flax Seed Oils which are fully traceable to their origin.

Visit totallykiwi.co.nz for stockist details, recipe ideas and nutritional information, and use code VERVE at checkout to receive 20% off your online order

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

Business/Education & Society

2

Grey Matter WORD S―VICKI HOL D E R

If gorgeous movie stars Helen Mirren, Jamie Lee Curtis and even Gywneth Paltrow can embrace their natural grey locks, can you rock the look too? Our top stylists say anyone can pull it off - if you know how.

vervemagazine.co.nz

February 2020

For years, says Grant Bettjeman of Bettjemans, many women delayed going grey as they thought it made them look older: “And naturally grey hair can certainly be ageing. But something changed during lockdown.”

When those silver roots started to appear, women had little choice but to go public with their natural grey. “Seven weeks without a colour appointment made people think about whether they should try it permanently. That definitely started a trend.”

Even before lockdown though, globally, blue greys and violet greys had been trending among sartorially out-there younger women, says Brad Lepper of French Revolver.

There is something ethereal about a young face topped with a mane of silver or grey hair. And an older woman can look chic with a sharp haircut, bold makeup and meticulous grooming. Done right, it’s a look that turns heads.

So, what is grey hair anyway?

When hair turns grey, explains Grant, there is no melanin or colour pigment in the hair follicle. “The strand of hair is actually clear. Because it’s an oval shape, it reflects the light which makes it look white and the scalp reflects through it.”

Grey strands are usually drier than pigmented hairs, so they tend to frizz and can look limp and lifeless if you’re not vigilant about upkeep. Ageing scalps can also be dry as we age because they don’t produce as much oil.

Upkeep Good moisturising treatments and scalp conditioners can return the health to your shining glory, calming and moisturising grey hair.

Treatments are a big thing, says Brad. “You have to make sure hair is at its optimum level of health.

When grey hair is not in good condition the colour will go more gold. Use high quality shampoos and conditioners with a violet or silver base.”

Many of Brad’s clients use products designed for blondes but they’re amazing for greys, like Wella’s Indigo shampoo and conditioning range which gives more shine and depth. There’s also Cool Blonde which brightens the colour and Kerastase brings out a product specifically to keep grey hair supple.

Treatment bases can alter the colour without committing completely to grey and after four to five shampoos, it rinses out. You can dial up or down, depending on what you’re using.

Tatiana Neklyudova

The strand of hair is actually clear. Because it’s an oval shape, it reflects the light which makes it look white and the scalp reflects through it.” - Grant Bettjeman of Bettjemans 3

Which grey?

There are some amazing grey tones from steely gun metal, violet blues, ash greys to champagnes and almost blonde.

Danny Pato from D&M Hair Design who was international hairstylist of the year for 2021 says to get your hair colourist to check the natural pigmentation of your skin.

“It’s not a hard and fast rule, but generally warm hair tones work best if your skin colouring is cooler, and likewise cooler hair is the perfect complement to warmer skin.

“As we age, our skin can, among other things, lose its warmth and brightness. If this is you, embracing the grey could result in a washed-out appearance. If your skin tone is warm and radiant, grey hair is much more likely to complement and balance."

To work out whether you have a cool or warm skin tone, check the pigment in your eyes. Gold or amber flecks in your eyes indicate a warm skin tone. If you have lots of blues, greens or greys, you have a cool skin tone. The key to finding a grey that flatters you is to pick one that has the opposite undertones to your skin.

vervemagazine.co.nz

Next Page

Business/Education & Society

“We recommend using Khair Prep with any lightening services. Hydration is often key with grey hair to provide suppleness.” Ruby McDowell, senior stylist at Commune

The Transition Your stylist can help you transition to grey so that it looks natural.

Marian Moneymaker

Stay Sharp Once your hair starts to grey, you shouldn’t just leave it to happen naturally unless you want to release your inner Coromandel surfie chick vibe.

4

Grant: “You have to work hard on your grooming with a sharp, modern haircut. A chic, shoulder length bob can look stunning, however shorter product-driven shapes with a choppy texture and a fun, youthful feel work best. Exaggerated shapes with short undercuts and longer fringes ensure no matter how the hair is styled, the shape remains strong.

“Modern fashionable clothes coupled with immaculate makeup and stunning accessories are an important part of the groomed woman who wants to ‘rock out’ their grey hair."

It’s about your total look and overall style, agrees Brad: “Something funky with front layers around the face is good with a modern twist. The short pixie never goes away and the classic bob never dates. On a grey palette, it’s very striking.

“In winter you might want a bit of colour so you’re not so pale. Add low lights to inject more colour for a darker dimension.”

Long grey hair can still look great. Brad suggests adding layers to texture and give it dimension: “If it’s all one length it can feel a bit drab.”

“It’s a hard look to get right,” says Grant. “You have to have wonderful makeup and amazing clothes to get away with it. You have to be very groomed. Most with long grey hair end up wearing it up all the time because it can look ridiculous, though that can look cool too.”

Brad explains that there’s a way to lighten the hair and start to blend out the natural greys with foils.

“You can also remove the existing colour in your hair and blend in the grey. Depending on the build-up of colour it can take a few goes. Anything you lighten has a gold undertone.”

If the hair is in good condition and no box dye has been used, says Ruby McDowell, senior stylist at Commune, you may be able to lighten and soften the transition. “We recommend using Khair Prep with any lightening services. Hydration is often key with grey hair to provide suppleness.”

To speed the transition, she often recommends going shorter.

There is also a process called Foxing, which Bettjemans have perfected. “You can walk into the salon with tinted hair and leave with a funky creamy grey blonde look, like Judi Dench, and never have to colour your hair again.

“We can do a radical change in one visit or we can soften it gradually with foils. Foxing only works with short hair.”

Advice There’s an age stigma attached to grey that you can’t deny, says Grant. “Before you go grey, speak to a professional about options that might work for you. It might be a two, three, four or five year process. It can be quite a shock for people to see you a colour one day and grey the next.”

And Brad: “Try to understand your percentage of grey and what you want to grow out. Little by little is better than all at once. Do a few greys that frame your face. Add grey around the hair line but keep your existing colour.”

vervemagazine.co.nz

Left- right: After shots of Jackie by Grant Bettjeman @ Bettjemans, Adie by Amber Evans @ Bettjemans and Audrey by Grant Bettjeman @ Bettjemans. Photography: Roy Emerson. Makeup: Deb Tan.

HOW TO OUT FOX GREY HAIR The greatest beauty concern for many of our clients is what to do about their greying hair. Again and again we are asked how can I transition out of the four-week regrowth maintenance. It’s expensive and time consuming. We think we have come up with the perfect solution.

Left- Right: Before Shots of Jackie, Adie and Audrey.

CONTACT

Reception@Bettjemans.co.nz 09 522 8030 Bettjemans.com

FOXING

This technique, unique to Bettjemans, exaggerates the natural effects of sunlight and the outdoors by significantly lightning the ends of the hair. This, in effect, reverses the great regrowth problem by giving the illusion of darker roots. Most grey hair has a proportion of natural darker hair mixed with the white hair, creating a shadow at the roots. FOXING works best on short or mid-length layered hair.

Our philosophy is to combine this funky colour with a stylish edgy cut. FOXING is only required every other haircut, lasting a good 12 weeks. It’s a quick service taking only 30 minutes to complete, although depending on how much dark we have to remove the first visit can take a little longer.

WANT TO DISCUSS THIS OPTION BEFORE YOU COMMIT?

Bettjemans offers a 15-minute makeover consultation with Grant or a senior stylist costing $50. This amount will be deducted from your eventual bill if you decided to have the work carried out at our salon. It’s a great way to get a specialist input about colour, cut and styling.

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

LUS H LAS HES MAKE YOUR EYES POP WIT H T HESE LASH T REAT MENTS AND PRODUCTS.

ELISIA WEBB As a lash artist and trainer, I am frustrated and disheartened to hear about all the disappointing experience women have had with their eyelash extensions.

LASH LAB AND BEAUT Y A qualified beautician and certified lash technician, Natalia has owned and operated Lash Lab + Beauty since 2017. She specialises in eyelash extensions, lash lifts, eyebrow sculpting, brow henna and tinting.

"The WOW moment from client's expressions is just priceless,” she says. Located in the Glendene Shopping Village, Auckland. @lashlabbeauty

I am dedicated to keep raising the standard of safe and damage-free eyelash extensions across New Zealand, and this is the reason why eyelashextensions.co.nz was created.

This website is dedicated to providing free information to help women make their own informed decisions when it comes to choosing a lash specialist.

eyelashextensions.co.nz

Elisia xx

lashlabbeauty.co.nz

REVITALASH

EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR VERVE READERS Get 15% OFF storewide at revitalash.co.nz with code VE RVE 1 5 Valid until 31.03.21

RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner is an award-winning eyelash serum featuring a proprietary blend of scientifically advanced technology. Imitated, and never duplicated, this original and one-of-a-kind ophthalmologist developed eyelash conditioner enhances the look of lashes and protects against breakage, while improving health, shine, flexibility and strength. Achieve your best lashes ever.

revitalash.co.nz

UP LASHES & BROWS UP® Lashes & Brows are Auckland’s most trusted eyelash specialists. The internationally-awarded team has a combined 30-plus years experience in helping clients achieve beautiful, healthy lashes.

From classic and volume extensions to lash-lifts, tinting and more, UP® will help you find the look that best suits you and your lifestyle.

upsalons.com

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

Milford 09 600 3810

Chartwell 07 262 0108

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

True Lyft Since the time it was launched at Clinic 42 way back in September 2018, True Lyft remains one of their most sought after treatments.

First developed by accomplished Taiwanese plastic surgeon Peter Huang, it is often described as the ultimate technique to help refresh and rejuvenate those showing early to moderate signs of ageing.

52

The technique itself uses 2ml of a specific type of hyaluronic acid dermal filler strategically placed at specific anatomical locations on the face. The landmarks for treatment correspond to five ‘true’ ligaments of the face, which support the facial soft tissues from their deep attachment onto bone.

This in turn creates a squaring off effect as we begin to become heavier through the jaw and lower face, eventually developing jowls.

True Lyft helps by providing support and scaffolding to these key ligaments at a deeper layer, in a sense propping them back up to where they should be and in turn realigning and elevating the overlying soft tissue envelope. The dermal filler equivalent to the age-old trick of standing in front of the mirror and pulling your face back and up to see what you used to look like!

It can be a very useful technique in patients with early to moderate signs of ageing and is ideal as a first step for patients starting out in cosmetic treatments. By addressing the realignment of the structure and repositioning the soft tissue you are then able to pinpoint exactly where and if there are areas of volume loss that need addressing. Avoiding the over filled look that was common back in the early 2000s.

As you can see in the photo above the results include: • beautifully elevated eyebrows • restructured and pleasing contour to cheekbone • redefined cheeks • softening of the creases at the side of the nose • lifting at corner of the mouth • redefined structure of the jawline

09 638 4242 321 Manukau Rd, Epsom clinic42.co.nz

These areas are all prone to the effects of ageing with gravity and the loss of facial soft tissue, resulting in an unfortunate descent.

Treatment time is only an hour and can be done in a lunch-break. Downtime is minimal with some people experiencing tenderness at the injection sites for approximately 24 hours and the result is instant, but subtle enough to leave others guessing how you look so rejuvenated.

Cost of the True Lyft Treatment is $1,200.

If you are interested in learning more about True Lyft or any of the wide range of cosmetic treatments available at Clinic42 please contact them to arrange a 30-minute complimentary nurse consult. Alternatively, call and book with one of their four cosmetic physicians, who will be happy to discuss your concerns, and the best treatment approach for you.

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 non-invasively remove body fat. “We have been leaders in noninvasive cellulite and body contouring treatments in Auckland for 19 years,” says Sue Crake, owner of the Remuera salon.

How does truSculpt iD work? truSculpt iD uses a unique form of monopolar radio frequency energy that penetrates evenly and deeply and is able to treat the entire fat pad - from skin to muscle. Given each patient’s unique biological complex, the truSculpt iD is able to adjust the energy output to ensure the most effective treatment for each person.

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.

• • • • • • • • •

TruSculpt ID Benefits Unlike CoolSculpting, there is no mark where treatment ends.

Treats an area 3x larger than CoolSculpting’s coolmax (largest applicator) From just 15 minutes!

Painless 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

How is treatment performed?

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

BEFORE

TWELVE WEEKS AFTER ONE TREATMENT

BEFORE

TWELVE WEEKS AFTER ONE TREATMENT

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.

CALL TO BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION 591a Remuera Road, Remuera 09 520 5331 | finessefaceandbody.co.nz

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

The Gift That Says ‘Indulgence’, Not ‘Dull Gents’

54

OneMan Quality Grooming Products for Modern Men. Visit oneman.co.nz

WO RD S― MAX DAWS O N O F O N E MAN

@ONEMANNZ With a whole lot of last minute panicky stuff going off all around you, the run up to Christmas can be stressful enough without the added pressure of trying to find something for the guy who, on the face of it, seems to have everything.

Christmas provides the perfect training field to introduce the men of your world to something new, something indulgent, something that they wouldn’t usually open their own wallet for.

Let me tell you what it is he needs but would never ask for...

Most guys have absolutely no idea how to take care of their skin. They will roll their eyes at the prospect of fossicking about with the complicated alchemy of skincare rituals that our mothers, sisters, girlfriends and wives go through.

Exfoliator. Girls, get your man exfoliating. You don’t need to take him for a full body Moroccan hammam, a basic facial exfoliator is a must to get rid of all that lifeless skin. And my bet is he isn’t doing it. Triumph & Disaster's Rock & Roll Face Scrub is an absolute winner. Looks manly, smells manly, gets the job done.

Perfect for manly men who do manly things.

Alcohol-free deodorants. As nice an idea as letting your natural pheromones do their thing is, alcoholfree deodorants are a go-to item for men on the go. They won’t block the skin's pores, so the body sweats naturally, minus the smell. It’s a win-win for all involved.

There is a stigma that stocking fillers are a little silly, but they are actually a great way to sneak in some quality grooming products, and other little accessories. Here is the OneMan tool kit, from the good people at Baxters, a classic and one of the hottest mancare brands in California with those who set the style.

Baxters Under Eye Complex: Advanced anti-ageing men's eye cream designed to nourish, repair and protect.

Baxters SPF 15 Daily Moisturiser: Oil-free moisturiser with broad spectrum SPF 15 to protect your face, neck and scalp from harmful UVA/UVB rays and sun damage.

Have a good one and remember, it’s a fine line between indulgence and overindulgence, but hey, it is Christmas.

Elstree

Pharmacy

Professional Pharmacists serving the Glen Innes community. Come and see us for fantastic gifts for all ages, all of your family’s health needs and excellent advice.

Ample free parking. Stockists of Innoxa Skincare, Styli Style, Cosmetics and Stella & Gemma Jewellery.

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

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

Photograph by John Crawford.

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Sattva Soul Supplements Verve catches up with Celine Wallace, an Ayurvedic practitioner and founder of Sattva Soul Retreats, a women’s transformational retreat and event company; and Sattva Soul Supplements, an organic Ayurvedic supplement line for stress and anxiety.

You've lived many lives! Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I grew up in Auckland and was one of those kids who was always chasing a dream. That dream led me to Hollywood, where I lived as an actress and yoga teacher for a decade until I reached burnout.

When my health began to suffer because I was trying to be everything to everyone, I went on a journey to find out what health meant to me. I left my life behind in LA and went from Hollywood to Bali, then the Himalayas in India, and studied thousands of hours of yoga, meditation, and Ayurvedic medicine. I knew no one in these countries, but I knew there had to be more to life than what I was currently experiencing.

What was the motivation behind creating Sattva Soul Retreats and Sattva Soul Events?

I was so passionate about my journey, wondering why we have to reach burn out before we take care of ourselves, so upon returning home to Auckland, I founded Sattva Soul Retreats. 'Sattva' means balance in Sanksrit, so I wanted to create immersive events and retreats that offered women tools to find balance in their own lives before they reached burn out or without having to travel to the other side of the world.

What's the difference between a transformational retreat and a vacation retreat?

A vacation retreat is fantastic, but other than a pina colada and a bit of a suntan, nothing changes after you return home from that vacation.

In a transformational retreat, your whole perspective shifts, and in the best way possible, which is why all our events and retreats are always

sold out! I feel very grateful they have been received so well.

What led you to become interested in ancient Ayurvedic medicine, and how did this lead to your latest venture, Sattva Soul Supplements?

After the events and retreats, women came to me, asking for stress and anxiety support. They were mothers or busy career women and suffered from nervous system overload. I looked around and couldn't find all organic, FDA-approved supplements, with the Ayurvedic practitioner dosage supplements that got results, so I created my own!

Ashwagandha is an anti-adaptogen that helps your body adapt to stress and anxiety, and this ancient Ayurvedic medicinal herb has been around for years. I created an Organic Ashwagandha capsule that is an easy and effective way to enjoy the benefits of this wonderful herb that are all organic, FDA approved, and without fillers or yucky additives.

It's rewarding to be able to offer my ladies an all-natural alternative before they turn to pharmaceuticals and with the knowledge to know where it's come from and that I take it too! My rule is I would only ever suggest something to a client that I would consume myself, so now I feel comfortable enough to do that.

Sattva Soul Supplements are currently available online at sattvasoulsupplements.com.

HA DERMAL FILLERS ART FILLER®

HAUTE-SCULPTURE CORRECTION T R I - H Y A L® +

L I D O C A I N E

FILLMED.CO.NZ

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Fast & Sleep WO RD S― JAMI E C H RI STIAN D ES P L AC ES

This April, multi-award-winning UK author and broadcaster Dr Michael Mosley will be presenting his live show, Your Body: An Evening of Discovery, at Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre in Aotea Square. The multidisciplined medic promises the audience a “journey of discovery” to reveal all about “that most miraculous, complex, and sometimes beautiful organism that is your body”.

Verve sat down with him to get the lowdown on his show, and more, and began by asking what to expect from his antipodean tour.

58

“What I’m going to be doing is celebrating the human body,” he says. “The weird, the wonderful, quixotic things that it does. I will be looking at some areas of the body, like the brain, the gut and the immune system, and we’re going to be using wonderful footage to tell you the story of your inner self. I’m also going to be looking at what happens when the body goes wrong.

The things I’m especially going for are rapid weight loss and sleep. I recently wrote a book called Fast Asleep, it’s relatively recent that we’ve discovered just how much is matters for improving your immunity when it comes to disease like Covid-19, and also in making vaccines work.”

Earlier this year Michael, a Number One New York Times bestselling author, published another tome, Covid-19: All You Need To Know About Coronavirus, detailing the science of the disease and the “race for the vaccine”. Speaking to him before the encouraging news about a handful of vaccines, the author expresses confidence in a vaccine being ready by 2021—and notes the excellent progress made by his former university, Oxford.

“I’m super optimistic—and certainly hoping that there’s a vaccine by the time I come out to New Zealand!”

The doctor’s other books include The Fast Diet , The Fast 800 Diet , The 8-Week Blood Sugar Diet and The Clever Gut Diet. He has executive-produced smash hit TV shows such as Supervolcano and Pompeii: The Last Day, working with the likes of John Cleese, Jeremy Clarkson and Sir David Attenborough. In recent years, Michael has spent more time in front of the camera, presenting a raft of BBC series

including Medical Mavericks, Eat, Fast Live Longer, and Trust Me, I’m a Doctor. His media honours include a Royal Television Award and the British Medical Association’s Medical Journalist of the Year (Michael also writes for the Mail on Sunday, The Times and The Independent).

Such a prolific writer—among his many other endeavours—not to mention a wife and four kids, I wonder how he finds the time to fit it all in.

“Well, some of the books are developments of previous books,” he says. “I’m just really fascinated by industry studies and am chatting to academics all of the time—I love it. I probably spend on average a year researching a topic, and then I write very fast.

Covid-19 I wrote in about five or six weeks.”

His wife, Dr Claire Bailey, is also an author, with a range of healthy cookbooks to her name.

“What Claire does is far harder work as she has to come up with the recipes! Not only that but she has to work out the calories and so on as well. Then there’s her Instagram to keep up with.”

Are you taste tester-in-chief?

“I am one of the tasters, but she also has a professional tasting team. She’s an academic, and also loves food.

She’s great at making something, and, if it doesn’t work, figuring out how to make it better, which is something I can’t do. I can tell you whether not I like a dish, but not how to make it better. Claire has that skill, and her books take a long time to write.”

DECEMBER 2020

“You just want somewhere that you can close your eyes and go to sleep, and you need to train your bodies to do that. So, what I recommend is that people who are suffering seriously from insomnia should cut the amount of time they spend in bed.”

Michael is perhaps most well-known for popularising the revolutionary 5:2 and Fast 800 diets, intermittent fasting programmes that afford a raft of health and weight-loss benefits.

“I started getting interested in intermittent fasting in 2012 when I was making a documentary for Horizon,” he says. “I had just discovered that I had type 2 diabetes and I came across research suggesting it would be a way to get rid of it without having to take medication. My blood sugars went back to normal after I’d lost 10 kilos. You assume that rapid weight loss must be terrible, yet there are signs that point in the opposite direction. I have lots of evidence and will present this stuff visually—it will be lots of fun and exciting.”

Do you find that the more people know about their bodies, the more likely they are to take better care of them?

“I would hope so. You kind of assume that your body will look after itself and that you can just continue doing things when you’re 40 that you could at 20, but that’s not the case. People are massively selfdeluded and don’t realise how far they go down the track. Things like pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes are silent killers. We gain an average of about a half-a-kilo a year between our twenties and fifties, particularly with men, but also women, they put it on around their gut and their neck and start to snore.

This disturbs not only their sleep, but that of their partner’s, and they feel tired all of the time.”

The science of sleep will play a crucial part in the doctor’s show. He points to a study that found that of the participants vaccinated against hepatitis B, those who slept badly were 16 times less likely to mount an antibody response than those who had a good night’s sleep: “That might matter further down the track with the Covid-19 vaccine.”

Michael, a recovering insomniac, has even developed a four-week programme to help “reestablish a healthy sleep pattern in record time”. He calls it “sleep restriction therapy” and it seems, on the surface, almost counter-intuitive.

“You don’t want to be lying in bed agonising, and you certainly don’t want to be there watching television,” he says. “You don’t want to be entertained—apart from sex—you just want somewhere that you can close your eyes and go to sleep, and you need to train your bodies to do that. So, what I recommend is that people who are suffering seriously from insomnia should cut the amount of time they spend in bed.

They should only be in there when they’re tired. It’s an unbelievably effective method.”

Next Page

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS I ask the doctor if he worries about the sheer scale of, often contrasting, health and wellness information out there, that can overwhelm the public, rather than inform.

“Absolutely, it can be very confusing. And, I guess, that’s one of my missions, to cut through the rubbish and try to clarify things based on evidence.”

Most of us tend to put a few extra pounds over the festive season, any tips for cutting back on the calories?

“Well, one of the things would be to have a look at all the things that you buy and calorie count. I’m not going to be scrooge—by all means have your turkey and your gravy, but maybe cut back on the Christmas pudding and maybe minimise the chocolates rather than mindlessly stuffing them into your mouth! Again, with the booze, try to alternate each drink with a glass of water because often it’s a habit of having something in your hand.”

Your Body: An Evening of Discovery with Dr Michael Mosley will take place 27 April at the Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre.

It's certainly easier said than done over the Christmas period though, Michael!

“I understand. But, particularly if you currently have weight issues, it would even be worth telling friends and relatives to not bring the chocolate. My wife and kids are well aware that I’m a chocoholic and so any chocolate comes into the house, which it often does, they quickly spirit away!”

60

Supporting you this festive season!

Drake Medox NZ is a respected provider of healthcare professionals, registered nurses and homecare support workers across New Zealand for the past 49 years.

We provide professional respite care services for your loved ones in the comfort of your own home.

The Medox Difference

0800 633 699

A trusted name in healthcare since 1971

Qualified & screened Health Workers

Peace of mind for your loved one’s care

A dedicated team of Healthcare Consultants

24 hour support service based in NZ

Assistance with medication management

medox@nz.drakeintl.com

drakemedox.co.nz

Merry Christmas to all our past, present and future clients!

Four Areas for the Price of 3, SAVE $600

Coolbody practitioner Yvonne Marvin

That excess pocket of fat across your tummy can be gone

by Christmas!

To book call 021 923 430 for a

FREE CONSULTATION

Our model was spreading so we removed the excess fat for a more athletic look.

BEFORE TREATMENT

AFTER TREATMENT

· Can all be done in your lunch hour · We can do 4 areas at once · Fat! It's gone forever · Love the new you. We guarantee a change · $600 per area

26 College Hill, Freemans Bay · 021 923 430 · coolbodynz@gmail.com

Azalea Urban Spa Azalea Urban Spa is a boutique spa located in the heart of Parnell specialising in lymphatic massage and traditional bazilian beauty treatments. Renata Figueiredo de Mattos, the Founder and Senior Massage Therapist at Azalea Urban Spa, tells us about their unique treatments.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your experience?

I am originally from Brazil, where massage is commonly used among women for aesthetic purposes and pre/post surgery results. As well as a degree in massage therapy I am a certified specialist in manual lymphatic drainage, body shape and facial aesthetics. I was trained in the USA and Brazil, the two most competitive countries in aesthetics.

What is a Brazilian body shape massage and what are the benefits? Brazilian body shape massage is a type of massage made famous in Brazil, often used in the treatment of stubborn areas of fat and cellulite. The treatment uses firm pressure and deep movements to reach the deepest layers of the skin in order to sculpt the body. Ironing out the bumps makes the skin look better right away and also reduces further accumulation.

Benefits include: a reduction in fluid retention, speeding up the metabolism, works on fat and cellulite and shapes the body.

What does a lymphatic drainage massage feel like and what results can I expect? Lymphatic drainage is a therapeutic massage that uses light pressure and long, gentle, strokes to increase the lymph flow and reduce toxins in the body. The lymph system is part of your body's immune system and helps fight infection by transporting nutrients and oxygen to cells, collecting toxins on the way and flushing them out through the lymph nodes. Unlike blood which is pumped around by the heart, our lymph system has no pump - this is where a lymphatic drainage massage can be beneficial.

What other treatments do you offer? We can also treat pigmentation, wrinkles, acne and puffiness. Our other treatments include infusions, cryo-electroporation (heating, cooling and electroporation functions), micro-needling and LED light therapy.

How do I know which treatment is right for me? Make your appointment through the website and our therapists will be glad to perform a body consultation before deciding the best treatment for you.

A lymphatic drainage massage helps the treatment of lymphedema, boosts the immune system, enhances weight loss, reduces water retention and cellulites, improves skin texture and also minimises the appearance of stretch marks.

What is the facial lymphatic drainage massage and who is it suited to? Facial lymphatic drainage massage relies on lymphatic drainage and modelling massage techniques to reduce swelling, accentuate face shape and have an immediate lifting effect.

The massage uses a similar technique to our lymphatic drainage massage to increase the lymph flow and helps to transport toxins out of the face and down the neck where it can be excreted.

This massage is perfect for important events like weddings or birthdays when you want to look your best, or as part of postoperative recovery from cosmetic surgery.

We also have clients who come in weekly for a facial drainage massage to reduce any puffiness they might be experiencing.

330 Parnell Road 027 300 7074 azaleaspa.co.nz @azaleaurbanspa

Sunburn Is Skin Suicide They’re strong words, but it is really that simple.

Sunburn is lethal to the skin.

JOIN LOUISE AS SHE BREAKS THINGS DOWN FOR US: First of all – the sun’s rays In a nutshell, the sun sends out ultraviolet rays A, B, and C. UVA are known as the ageing rays, UVB the burning, and UVC rays don’t get through the ozone layer.

The allure – the biochemical effects of the sun The sun has an eternal allure for humans, and it’s not difficult to appreciate why. The warmth on our skin is like a luxurious balm, but it goes deeper than that.

Biochemically it changes our brain chemistry meaning that basking in sunlight for a few moments gives us a feeling of wellbeing through a boost in endorphins.

Feeling the burn – and yes, it truly is burning!

It all goes belly-up when we overdo it and our skin raises the alarm. If we don’t listen, our skin will, quite literally, burn. Sunburn is the skin’s natural response to extreme UV ray exposure and indicates severe damage.

The risks Sun damage brings the risk of skin cancer and prematurely aged skin. There are different types of skin cancer — some are treatable — but melanoma is insidious and life threatening. We in New Zealand have the worst rates in the world.

Yes, you have heard it before: “Be sun smart” We need to protect our skin from UV rays, every day, winter and summer, rain or shine. However, most people don’t. Nor do they use sunscreen correctly, which is liberally and often.

I often have clients come into the clinic and say, “These brown spots popped up overnight, but I wear SPF every day.” While it appears they’ve come out of nowhere, it’s cumulative damage coming to the surface.

So, we move on to sunscreen Sunscreen is an involved topic, so let’s keep it simple and speak about the common terms:

What does chemical or physical mean?

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and physical sunscreens reflect or scatter the rays.

What does broad spectrum mean?

UVA and UVB ray protection. The importance of using both cannot be emphasised enough.

What is SPF? Sun protection factor is a measure of how long a sunscreen will protect you. Always remember that it provides a screen not a block.

Is a higher SPF better?

A sunscreen with a SPF 15 provides about 94% protection.

Protection is increased to 97% with SPF 30 and to 98% with SPF 50+.

A sunscreen with SPF 15+ should provide adequate protection as long as it is being used correctly.

Sunscreens with SPF 50 or more offer a safety margin as most people don’t apply sunscreens as heavily or as often as they should.

I suggest products with SPFs no lower than 30 and no higher than 50. Here are a few facts: • The latest stats show that approximately 2,200 Kiwis are diagnosed with melanoma every year. That’s equivalent to six people being diagnosed with melanoma every day.

• It is also estimated that 80,000 Kiwis get non melanoma skin cancer each year.

• Research has shown a correlation between childhood sunburn and sun damage in later life.

• Every day, all-year-round, is a sunscreen day. Even on cloudy days, 80% of UV gets through clouds.

As skincare professionals, we’re on the front line of skin safety. We have 22 different options on our shelves and we will find the right one for you.

Protect your skin – the reality is, there is no other option!

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

Anti-Wrinkle Treatments Smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

F Face Doctors Face Doctors Remuera pride themselves on providing anti-ageing treatments that enhance each client’s natural beauty, subtly improving their appearance to suit them. Dr Mark Morunga is a trained physician with over 10 years’ experience in cosmetic medicine, and can provide injectables for medical reasons as well as cosmetic, making him a knowledgeable, experienced and safe choice for cosmetic injectable treatments. Face Doctors have multiple locations across Auckland, including Remuera, Ponsonby, Howick and Browns Bay. facedoctors.co.nz

F FaceTime Clinic FaceTime Clinic in Mairangi Bay not only delivers incredible skin results, but are your go-to for natural-looking appearance medicine. Offering Botox® and Dysport® to visually improve moderate-to-severe frown lines, and dermal fillers for lifting the facial contours, filling out fine or stubborn lines and adding volume to areas that have lost their plump appearance. FaceTime is a one-stopshop for everything skin and anti-ageing.

facetimeclinic.co.nz

E

H

Luxe Appearance

Prescription Skin Care

Turn back the clock with the power of antiwrinkle treatments, renowned for their ability to slow the effects of aging on your face. Gone are the days when antiwrinkle injections gave you a mask-like appearance where you could barely move your face. When administered correctly, anti-wrinkle injections have the power to cosmetically reduce wrinkles for a natural, more youthful appearance.

Softening lines that would otherwise age the face, as well as lifting and balancing areas of asymmetry are every day treatments at Prescription Skin Care.

Angela Frazer Rn, clinical co-ordinator has been injecting Botox since 1998 and says: "Botox is not just for reducing and preventing wrinkles, but is also excellent at improving facial shape, brow shape and position.' 243 Remuera Road/197 Ponsonby Road (free parking). 09 529 5784

luxeappearance.co.nz

info@prescriptionskincare.co.nz

DECEMBER 2020

Verve's Beauty Picks

SUMMER PERFECTION WITH THE U BEAUTY RESURFACING FACIAL A skin refining treatment using U Beauty Resurfacing Compound to revitalise, lighten pigmentation and minimise fine lines to create a smoother and brighter complexion. A holistic, healing massage flow sequence using rose quartz gua sha to detoxify, strengthen skin to improve skin health, radiance and functioning.

Bookings available now at Spring Spas across New Zealand. springspa.com

BEAUTY • NAILS • MAKE-UP

gold outline on lotus, not circle

gold outline on lotus and circle

TRANQUILLITY

7

8

4

A gentle and innovative method for gold outline on lotus

Tranquillity

and circle

skin tightening and wrinkle reduction

BEAUTY • NAILS • MAKE-UP 1

2

5

T RANQUILLITY

9 3

not circle

2

10

11

TRANQUILLITY BEAUTY • NAILS • MAKE-UP

TRANQUILLITY BEAUTY • NAILS • MAKE-UP Treatment before and after

4 treatments that guarantee Plasma an immediate effect!

AREAS OF APPLICATION:

BEAUTY • NAILS • MAKE-UP gold outline on lotus,

6

65

gold outline on lotus and circle

Soft Plasma

BEAUTY • NAILS • MAKE-UP gold outline on lotus and circle

1

This bold red lip and orchid pink glow will become your favourite party look this season. Aleph’s newest Radiance ~ Star, pictured $50, is a multi-function cream glow for cheeks, lips and eyes. Pair with the new Cheek/Lip Tint ~ Sangha, $55, for a sheer, vintage blush and high impact lip look. alephbeauty.com

TRANQUILLITY

6

gold outline on lotus, not circle

ALEPH BEAUTY

Clean actives including hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C and antioxidants are released from revolutionary Siren Capsules to hydrate, repair and reverse aging.

Treatmen t also suitab le for men

3

· Upper eyelid lifting/lower eyelid lifting 5 (also droopy eyelids) · Wrinkles around mouth and lips · Crow’s feet · Wrinkles around the ear (mini-lifting) · Neck goldlift outline on lotus, not circle · Furrows (frown lines/glabella) 6 · Vertical lines across the forehead · Acne scars · Stretch marks

Tranquillity Nails and Beauty Studio 09 578 5001 / 021 2280 008 lcnprofessional.co.nz info@lcnprofessional.co.nz 5/5 Atkin Avenue, Mission Bay

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

FASHION

PAR I S G EO RG IA

Local Fashion News WO RD S―PARIS MITC H E L L TE MP L E

Maggie Marilyn Maggie Marilyn now is selling solely DTC and reversing their inventory model in order to reduce carbon emissions, remove markdowns and to get a step closer to their customers. From now on, the only place you will be able to buy Maggie Marilyn is from their online store or their new retail ‘home’ in New Zealand―the first of what Hewitt intends to be many around the world.

Paris Georgia

Ingrid Starnes To cut down waste and lower the cost of New Zealand made fashion, Ingrid Starnes has moved to a prepurchase model. Pieces will be available for pre-purchase for three weeks. By only making what is required they will be 30% less than traditional retail price.

IN G R I D STARN ES

Paris Georgia showcased their 03 Collection runway show at East Street Hall, featuring an incredible cast of local talent and close creative friends. The 03 Collection is both feminine and luxuriously smooth, complete with a soft, muted palette and a signature refreshed PG silhouette.

MAG G I E MAR I LYN

Gift Ideas

ED IT— PAR I S M ITC H E L L TE M PLE

Brew Cafetiere - Stainless Steel By Tom Dixon, $430 From Simon James Concept Store

Peach Earrings, $349 from JasmineSparrow.com

Bucket Hat, $190 by Paris Georgia

Walker & Bing Sarong, $280 from Tessuti

Pure Body Oil Travel Discovery Set of 9, 15ml, $195 from dailyrituals.co.nz Mineralier, $299 from Muse Boutique

Cook Book by Jessica Koslow $60 from everydayneeds.com

Jessica McCormack x Emilia Wickstead available at Simon James

Building Blocks by Raduga Grez Wooden Toys From $120, from Tessuti

Franca Sunglasses $349 from everydayneeds.com

O UT

NIGH T

2

3

1

6

5

4

'Tis the time for celebrations and parties, to enjoy the year that was and to have a good time with family and friends!

7 8 9

1. WYNN HAMLYN, Cross Over Rib Dress 2. PARIS GEORGIA, Heart Dress 3. THE COMMONERS, Women’s Linen Gathered Maxi Dress in Black 4. THE COMMONERS, Women’s Balloon Sleeve Top in Black 5. KNUEFERMANN, Imagawa Dress 6. PARIS GEORGIA, Davie Dress in Moss 7. KATE SYLVESTER, Gina Dress in Green 8. TAYLOR BOUTIQUE, Bisect Dress Scoria 9. MAGGIE MARILYN, The Best One Yet Dress

10

10. KNUEFERMANN, Azai Dress Long

Dawson & Co

LUX 301 - 3m umbrella and base from $3199

70

Summer Vibes

Blue Wavebreaker Kids

Moontide Hawaiian Totem Wrap Suit $139.99

DECEMBER 2020

Trenzseater Eichholtz Outdoor Furniture

U mb rellas an d swimsu it s p er fe ct for t h e su mmer weat h er to c o me!

71

O

ra pe

M

i ys ar

a

Marysia

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

FASHION

New statistics out as I write this indicate that we’ve all gone nuts with our spending over the past few months.

Certainly ‘on the ground’ in my role I have been superbusy (I LOVE that) and the clothing retailers are all selling through their stock quite quickly. It seems we need to nab it while we can rather than waiting for the Christmas sales. With that in mind I’ve compiled a list of what to buy now that will see you through no matter whether you’re heading off to Queenstown or staying closer to home.

SIGNATURE STYLE

What To Buy Now

Dresses: Whether it’s a linen shirt dress or a poplin tiered number, dresses are the ultimate addition to a summer wardrobe Pretty tops: Not t-shirts (although these are also essential), but a pretty top in a cool cotton. Look for broderie anglaise and a bit of va-va-voom in the sleeve and you’ll be super on trend Shorts: Be these denim cut-offs, a pair of skirt shorts or a simpler more tailored pair, shorts are a fab addition to your summer wardrobe. Wear with a heel and a bit of fake tan if you feel like your legs aren’t really up to it.

A midi skirt: Yes, no longer are skirts hovering around your knee or above, this season it’s all about the longer lengths. Much easier for those of us without miniskirt legs!

72

Usually at this time of year I might be writing a column about how to pack a bag but given how odd 2020 has been, with almost none of us travelling, it seems a bit tone deaf. Yes, we’re apparently all heading away within NZ for our summer break, but to be honest, that’s only if you were super-organised and have some accommodation. I get a sense that this year a lot of us are staying home over our Christmas/ New Year break, which is both lovely and not.

Sandals: So many options! The espadrille is still a big contender, the Birkenstock or a derivative of, the flat mule, the chunky – whatever your preference this season has something for you.

Jackie O’Fee is the owner of leading personal style consultancy Signature Style. She’d love to help you get the right garments to have an effortless and easy summer break.

Further detail can be found on her website signaturestyle. co.nz or give her a call 09 529 5115.

稀攀戀爀愀渀漀

䌀甀爀愀琀攀

䌀甀爀愀琀攀 戀礀 吀爀攀氀椀猀攀 䌀漀漀瀀攀爀

䄀氀攀猀猀愀渀搀爀愀

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

䈀愀渀愀渀愀 䈀氀甀攀

7059LW ACROBAT DAISY PANT BLACK

319 REMUERA ROAD, CNR NORANA & REMUERA RD SHOP S209, WESTFIELD NEWMARKET 309 BROADWAY, NEWMARKET WWW.HARTLEYS.CO.NZ

FASHION

1

2

3

1 2 3

SILKSPUNCRUNCHIES SILKSPUN HEADWARMER PURESILK EYE MASK

17 HAINING ST, WELLINGTON

WWW.SILKLIVING.COM

74

MENS WE A R

NZ MADE RACK AND CUSTOM

Shop the latest and the very best of the best in top fashion brands sourced from both local and international labels. THREADS is your one stop shop for all things designer.

Threads lets you fill your wardrobe with high-end fashion such as Acler, Cecilie Copenhagen, Sass &Bide, One Teaspoon, Rough Studios and D.O.F. to name a few. Happy shopping!

19 O’CONNELL ST, AUCKLAND ∙ 09 309 0600 STRANGELYNORMAL.COM

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

threads.co.nz • hello@threads.co.nz @threadsonline @threadsonlinenz

DECEMBER 2020

75

www.paintedbird.nz

We are Moving!

An Exotic Collection of Homewares, Jewellery, Fashion...and more

Be the first to know about our pop-up store locations by signing up to our newsletter just scan the QR code below:

Use code: “Joy” at checkout, in order notes to receive a free gift

Ma r i gold an d Am ber. co. n z VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

Unique Collections of Clothing for

Weddings, Special Events, and Everyday Living.

Keep in touch on social: @paintedbirdnz

Words: Graham Wood Photography: Greg Cox

IGH FLYE

Inspired by the heady, futuristic aesthetic of 60s and 70s LA modernism, this Clifton home injects some of the era’s glamour and poolside party lifestyle into the present-day.

78

The off-shutter concrete pool pavilion, with its flying saucer-like concrete roof, opens onto grand views of the ocean where “water connects with water” as the edge of the rim-flow pool meets the blue of the sea. The covered sunken bar area features a curving marble counter that cantilevers out over the water and, as Silvio puts it, “presents itself as a kind of springboard into the pool”. The outdoor chairs are Barcelona Chairs from SéCollection. The Bride’s Veil Bar and Counter Stools were designed by Reza Feiz for Phase Design.

Get the look with Resene: Resene Picton Blue

Resene Rock Spray

Resene Half Copyrite

On the top level, a sunken lounge looks out over the ocean through slanted windows reminiscent of jet-setera airport viewing terminals. Silvio says that the lounge area was designed with a soft colour palette – pale grey carpets, brown and white leather – so that you “almost feel as if you’re on the beach”. The curved brown leather sofa with copper detailing is by SRLC. The Beat Floor Lamp is by Tom Dixon and the vintage 70s Brass and Marble Side Table is by Nicos Zographos. The hand-blown glass Bell Table by Sebastian Herkner for ClassiCon is a contemporary design, as is the Shrimp Lounge Chair and foot stool by Jehs+Laub.

In the background, in front of the copper-clad fireplace, is a Platner dining table and lounge chairs.

In front of the fireplace – with copper and off-shutter concrete surround – is a classic Platner dining table and lounge chairs from Knoll by Warren Platner. The Tank jug and low-ball glasses are by Tom Dixon. In front of the prismatic white marble server designed by SRLC with black mirror detailing and Pallisandro Brazil panelling with copper trim is a row of copper Bride’s Veil Bar and Counter Stools by Reza Feiz for Phase Design. The curved brown leather sofa with copper detailing is by SRLC. The Beat Floor Lamp is by Tom Dixon and the vintage 70s Brass and Marble Side Table is by Nicos Zographos.

Resene Galliano Resene Half Duck Egg Blue Resene Milk Chocolate Get the look with Resene: The prismatic white marble server in the main entertainment areas was designed by SRLC with black mirror detailing and Pallisandro Brazil panelling with copper trim. “Specific panels have been chosen and butterflied to create the timber backdrop to the angular counter,” says Silvio. In front of the counter is a row of copper Bride’s Veil Bar and Counter Stools by Reza Feiz for Phase Design. The curved brown leather sofa with copper detailing is by SRLC. The Beat Floor Lamp is by Tom Dixon and the vintage 70s Brass and Marble Side Table is by Nicos Zographos. The hand-blown glass Bell Table is by Sebastian Herkner for ClassiCon.

From the living area, a stairway leads upstairs to a study and the master bedroom. The stairwell, flooded with natural light from a skylight above, forms a planted atrium where vegetation pushes up through the volume between the two levels. The patterning on the white terrazzo floors was designed specifically for the house. On the lower floor, the dining table with copper loop legs is by SRLC. The cast terrazzo server with copper legs is also by SRLC. The modernist bent steel cantilever Cesca Chairs were designed by Marcel Breuer for Thonet in the late 1920s, now available from Knoll.

86

The headboard in the master bedroom is a bespoke design by SRLC in Pallesando India. “The angularity of the headboard matches the faceting of the main bar,” Silvio points out. The bed has been designed with a retractable television beneath it which “slides out and up in a secret Bond way”. The black mirror detailing creates an “evening glamour”. The Flag Halyard Chair is by Hans Wegner.

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

On the same level, beyond the TV viewing room and bar is an indoor pool, steam room and sauna. The grey granite and marble of the swimming pool creates a subterranean atmosphere. “This whole area is designed to be like a James Bond villain’s lair,” says Silvio. The fin-like columns and articulated structure also takes some cues from laboratory designs. The Husk armchair and foot stool were designed by Patricia Urquiola for B&B Italia.

DECEMBER 2020

Dreaming Never Looked This Good The lowdown on Istria County Taking an overseas holiday may not yet be on our cards but it does not stop us from making plans.

One place you should be dreaming of this year is Istria County. With a rich history fraught with many rulers, this romantic, historic, mostly medieval, part of our world is a place you must visit.

With a climate similar to Italy made up of a mix of seaside locations and hilltop fortress-like towns, Istria County has a lot to offer. We have eight of the most beautiful towns you WILL want to visit.

PULA The historic centre of Istria County and the largest town in the area, Pula is the perfect place to get a feel for what this part of the world has to offer. With Roman influence playing a big part in the creation of this town, the city even has its own amphitheatre (the sixth largest in the world), you will love this picturesque city.

POREC Porec is a popular summer resort located along the Istria coastline, this town will have you dreaming of summer days, cocktails and fishing. For a bit of adventure seek out the Baredine Cave a 40-minute adventure underground where you get to explore five beautifully decorated chambers and an underground lake. This natural marvel is only rivalled by the views and beauty that can be seen above.

ROVINJI We all need a bit of romance in our life and why not share a romantic evening in a region where the language itself is known as the language of romance.

Rovinji is a fishing port where one can step amongst the tangle of streets and buildings that wind their way to the cities hilltop church. Stroll along the harbour, check out the old town and end the day by climbing the bell tower of 192 stairs for a view of the entire city and its signature red roofs.

GRISIGNANA This small town of Grisignana with a population of less than 1,000 is well known for one thing: art! This town is dominated by artists, with over 30 public galleries this is the perfect place to obtain a souvenir that will make remembering the true beauty of Istria County easy.

MOTOVUN Head into the centre of the area to a town in the hills (this is literally what its name means). Renowned for its wine and its truffles, this is foodies' heaven.

Head into the Motovun Forest surrounding the city, it is the last preserved lowland Mediterranean autochthonous forest, to find the elusive truffle.

HUM Known as the smallest city in the world, this idyllic town of about 30 residents is worth a few hours of your time. Explore the small streets, hear the myths and legends and explore a history that is so well preserved that you will feel like you have gone back in time.

VODNJAN Vodnjan is a town that should not be overlooked as it contains something truly unique: mummies (the preserved bodies of saints). Located inside St Blaise Church, this place is for those wanting a bit of history.

Not only will you find the Vodnjan mummies in this historic town but a collection of relics and the largest collection of sacral art.

VRSAR If you need to get away from the tourists but love the seaside, Vrsar is the next best thing to Porec. A small fishing town known for its views and sunsets, spend the day exploring and in the evening dine in one if it’s many restaurants enjoying the view as the sun goes down.

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

WO R D S ― NI C O L E H E ALY

89

INDIA’S FOREST MAN Tucked into the northeast corner of India in the Brahmaputra River sits Mājuli Reserve, the world’s largest river island. The 800-sqaure-kilometre mass in the state of Assam supports around 160,00 souls, and over the past century or so around half of the monolith has been lost to flooding. So, one of those souls decided to do something about it.

Payeng, who lives on the island with his wife, Binita, and three children, even introduced insects and earthworms to the soil to improve its condition and fertility, and constructed bamboo platforms above samplings to provide a steady water source.

“At first planting was very time consuming,” says Payeng in the short 2013 documentary film, Forest Man, about his life. “But now it’s much easier, because I get the seeds from the trees themselves.”

During the documentary, we witness Payeng—who still also, like his father, raises buffalo— walking barefoot across the scrub, armed with a sizeable twig that he uses to prod a hole into the earth in which he inserts a seed or seedling. He talks of the struggle protecting the big trees from men seeking “economical gain” that would leave the animals and land vulnerable once more.

The year before the documentary film’s release, the assistant conservator of forests, Gunin Salkla, had told the Times of India

that Payeng “treats the trees and animals like his own children”. The government had only become aware of Payeng’s exploits when searching for a more than 100-strong herd of elephants that had sought refuge among his trees. Payeng was recognised by the former president of India and revered scientist, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, while the Assam chief minister, Tarun Gogoi, hailed him as “a true conservationist” that shows “what an ordinary person with good motive and willpower can do”. Payeng has since won dozens of awards, including the title of the ‘Forest Man of India’, bestowed by the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru University. He’s even had a children’s book written in honour of his achievements, called Jadav and the Tree Place, which tells the story of a man creating a woodland for wild animals.

91

Payeng says it’s not all his own work, though—he had a helping hand from an entire ecosystem (though humbly ignores that it was he who largely created this local ecosystem to start with).

“You plant one or two trees, and they have to seed,” he tells NPR. “And once they seed, the wind knows how to plant them, the birds here know how to sow them, cows know, elephants know, even the Brahmaputra River knows.”

Not everyone has been happy about his planting, however. As the forest grew, it enticed more sizeable wildlife that began to encroach upon the surrounding communities; elephants destroyed crops and tigers took village fowl and pheasants. Fuming locals threatened to destroy Payeng’s Eden, and he responded by simply planting more trees. This time he opted for banana trees, a favourite treat of elephants, to lure them deeper into the jungle. And it worked. As populations of other wildlife such as deer—a favourite treat of tigers—also boomed, the creatures retreated from the peripheries.

“There are no monsters in nature but humans,” muses Payeng. “Humans consume everything until there is nothing left. Nothing is safe from humans, not even elephants and tigers.”

WORD S — JAM IE CH RI STIAN DES P LACES

Jadav “Molai” Payeng, the son of a humble buffalo trader, was just 16 years old in 1979 when he stumbled upon a sandbar on the island swathed in dead snakes washed up by the floods—a sight of “carnage”, he later recalled, that moved him to tears. He contacted the forest department to request more trees be planted to combat erosion and provide shelter for the creatures but was told nothing would grow. Without telling anyone, he set about sowing seeds himself, spending great periods of time alone on the sandbar, tending to his young trees. Thanks to Payeng, on that sandbar now stands a 1,000-acre forest larger than New York’s Central Park that’s home to hundreds of tree varieties that shelter rhinos, deer, elephants, apes and Bengal tigers. Vultures returned to the area after half-a-century away. The forest has been named “Molai Forest” in honour of its creator and guardian, who has promised to “plant till my last breath”.

JOURNEYS

A Cycle of Nature, History and Hobbits Little more than an hour south of Auckland begins one of Aotearoa’s easiest, most accessible, and enchanting Great Rides. The family-friendly Hauraki Rail Trail unfurls around the Firth of Thames then south through Paeroa and Te Aroha ending at magical Matamata, The Shire of Middle-earth. An offshoot from Paeroa to Waihi is a fabulous half-day ride that winds through Karangahake Gorge, a towering, bush-clad landscape licked by waterways and waterfalls and littered with long-abandoned mining gear—fascinating insights into the region’s gold rush heritage.

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

The e-bike friendly, five-section route incorporates one of the nation’s oldest rail corridors, totalling around 200km and taking a recommended three to five days to complete—but it can be broken down into smaller sections for those with less time. A great weekend option is to cycle from Waihi to Te Aroha, via Paeroa—ample shuttle bus services are on offer to take you and your bike back to your car meaning you don’t have to cycle back the same way.

KAIAUA TO THAMES Only around 80km southeast of the City of Sails, the seaside settlement of Kaiaua marks the usual beginning—or sometimes end—of the Hauraki Rail Trail. From here, the wetlands route rounds the Firth of Thames for 55km, terminating at Thames. It passes the natural thermal pools of Miranda Hot Springs as it navigates the internationally recognised Shorebird Coast, an oceanside landform comprising tidal flats and saltmarsh, along with deposited gravel, sand, and seashells, dumped over millennia, to create Aotearoa’s only chenier plain. The Pūkorokoro Miranda Shorebird Centre, established in 1975, celebrates the shore’s endemic and migratory feathered friends—it’s the best place on Earth to witness massive flocks of wrybill, joined by the likes of Pacific golden plovers, red knots and

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

DECEMBER 2020

“Cyclists see considerably more of this beautiful world than any other class of citizens. A good bicycle, well applied, will cure most ills this flesh is heir to” – Dr K K Doty

93 bar-tailed godwits. Allow five to six hours for this section of the trail, known as “the journey of Te Aho”, after an early Māori settler.

THAMES TO PAEROA South of Thames, the Great Ride unfurls for a further 34km, navigating undulating, verdant pastures with expansive views across the Hauraki Plains and to the Kaimai Ranges. But it’s not all about the natural splendour, a highlight of this section—and of the entire trail—is the Matatoki Cheese Barn. Their incredible, award-winning organic offerings are all crafted on-site, using milk from local herds. Enjoy wine and cheese surrounded by native trees as farm creatures graze nearby. Once in Paeroa, don’t forget to snap a picture of that giant “world famous in New Zealand” L&P soft drink bottle sculpture. If you need a bed for the night, the gorgeous Paeroa Pukeko Lodge is a romantic B&B with an outdoor hot tub and countryside views. Enjoy a slap-up gourmet meal, and an equally impressive, packed picnic for the onward ride. Allow three to four hours for this stage of the track.

PAEROA TO WAIHI If you only do one section of the Hauraki Rail Trail, make sure it’s Paeroa to Waihi, a 24km life-

affirming pedal that cuts eastwards through the foreboding cliffs of Karangahake Gorge, often alongside the photogenic Ohinemuri River.

Stand-out sights and experiences include the Owharoa Falls, a handful of scenic walks, the Victoria Battery Mine Railway and cycling through a dimly lit, refreshingly cool, kilometre-plus-long abandoned railway tunnel (if your eyesight’s not great, best take a torch, or take it extra slow!). Just past the western end of the tunnel, be sure to call in at the boutique Karangahake Winery Estate— the vino’s superb, but so is the small batch mead or old-school cider, all handcrafted on site. Just the ticket after a few hours pedalling, especially paired with their speciality cheese and cured meat platters that are replete with homemade pickles and preserves, served alongside fragrant, freshly baked bread. It’s an officially three-hour section, but take your time. Once at Waihi, it’s a further 30-minute cycle out to Waihi Beach.

PAEROA TO TE AROHA You need to cycle back westwards from Waihi to Paeroa (and get to see all that you missed behind you on the way there) before heading south for 23km en route to Te Aroha, one of the region’s hidden gem towns. Positioned at the foot of its eponymous “Mountain of Love”, Te Aroha’s Domain is especially lovely—the most

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

JOURNEYS

Instagrammable gardens, bowling green and Edwardian pavilions look lifted straight from a turn-of-the-twentieth century picture book. To its rear, the Te Aroha Mineral Spas is just the place to soothe those pedal-weary muscles, and maybe opt for a spa treatment. Here, guests soak in lovely, circular private wooden hot tubs— upgrade to the Romance Package to kick back surrounded by candles, with drink and boutique chocolates chucked in. This penultimate section of the trail crosses cattle-laden farmland beneath a mountainous horizon and takes two to three hours.

TE AROHA TO MATAMATA The final—and newest (there is still some construction in progress)—stretch of the Hauraki Rail Trail unfurls for 37km, reaching from Te Aroha into the bowels of Middle-earth. It continues across the Hauraki Plains and through groves and ravines, past waterways and farmland home to grazing goats and magnificent horses before terminating at Matamata, home of the Hobbiton Movie Set where you may replenish that spent energy with pint or two at the Green Dragon Inn. Set aside two to four hours for this final section of the trail.

Learn more about accommodation, dining, bike hire and shuttle bus options at haurakirailtrail.co.nz

94

ONETANGI ∙ WAIHEKE ISLAND

BOOK anytime midweek (Sun-Thur) and get 20% OFF of the cost of your stay (selected apartments only)

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

Synthony

PARTY IN THE PARK AT SYNTHONY

TARANAKI…

Photo: Andy Jackson

TSB Bowl of Brooklands

…AND MAKE A WEEKEND OF IT!

Missed out on tickets to Synthony’s Auckland concert?

Come party with Taranaki as Synthony takes to the stage for their first ever outdoor concert at the magical natural amphitheatre that is TSB Bowl of Brooklands. Head to visit.taranaki.info to discover places to eat, stay and all there is to do beyond the party in spectacular Taranaki.

Get your tickets via Ticketek.

visit.taranaki.info Saturday 23 January 2021 | TSB Bowl of Brooklands | New Plymouth AN INITIATIVE OF VENTURE TARANAKI

Make a weekend of it

JOURNEYS

Great Day Walks With the borders closed, there’s no better time to tick off a few of those trails you’ve always dreamt of conquering—and at least some of the more popular ones will likely be less crowded. Verve brings you seven of the best destinations to spend a day strolling in the majestic backcountry of Aotearoa.

1 Words— Jamie Christian Desplaces

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Let’s get the obvious one out of the way first. Sure, it’s the go-to pick for New Zealand day walking, but don’t let overfamiliarity detract from its devastating beauty. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is not only Aotearoa’s finest daylong tramp, but among the greatest anywhere on the planet. So, if you haven’t done this already, firstly, why the hell not? Secondly, do it this summer! Part of the longer Tongariro Northern Circuit, one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing stretches for 19km and takes 6-8 hours to complete. Gracing Aotearoa’s oldest national park—also a dual Unesco World Heritage Site—the otherworldly walk winds past the commanding peaks of Tongariro, Ruapehu, and the bruised, brooding Ngāuruhoe which was immortalised as Middle-earth’s “Mount Doom” in the Lord of the Rings movies. Other trail highlights include the fizzing Soda Springs, the rusted South Crater and the mesmerising Emerald Lakes whose iridescent turquoise waters contrast spectacularly against the metallic, volcanic landscape.

2 The Pinnacles Walk

One of North Island’s greatest day walks, you’ll need to set aside eight hours to complete the 12km track that makes its way to this iconic Coromandel formation and back. Rising above the Kauaeranga Valley, the Pinnacles is a cluster of toothy summits that reach nearly 2,500ft with mesmerising views of the surrounding ranges. The trail is tough going—and slippery—in places, following old logging routes as it winds over waterways and through forests littered with fascinating historical remnants such as abandoned rail equipment. Up top, you can see across the Hauraki Gulf and over to the Bay of Plenty. There’s a DoC hut around one hour from the summit that allows guests to stay overnight to witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets.

DECEMBER 2020 3 St Arnaud Range Track

A decent thigh burner, the St Arnaud Range Track reaches for only around 10km (return), but you need to allow five hours to complete it as it climbs steadily for more than kilometre for sweeping 360-degree views of Nelson Lakes National Park from the 5,400ft ridgeline. Beginning at the wondrous Lake Rotoiti—the remnants of an ancient glacier—the trail navigates bush of red and silver beech, and is often gnarly underfoot, before surrendering to alpine flax and shrub. There’s an option to continue along the narrow ridge to further high points. Return the same way and be sure to check conditions before you leave—this is an exposed trail.

4 Rob Roy Track

Another walk that’s worth doing for the stupendously scenic drive to get there, this time via Mātukituki Valley. The Rob Roy Track climbs to its eponymous glacier that curls down from the ceiling of Tititea/ Mount Aspiring National Park—it’s a South Island hidden gem and a particular favourite of this writer. After crossing a swingbridge over the Mātukituki River, the route navigates native bush whose whispers are broken by the sound birdcall (kea here are rife) and waterfalls which tumble from cliffs revealed through sporadic breaks in the canopy. Once the forest breaks for good at the treeline, the glacier appears almost from nowhere beyond the scrub, the dense greenery giving way to an imposing, jagged silver ridgeline strangled by a tongue of blue and white ice. Take a picnic and sit, snack and stare in wonder—you might also hear the cacophony of cracking and crashing ice in the distance. Allow three to four hours to complete the 10km return trail, which is relatively steep in places and requires a decent level of fitness.

5 Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway

A wonderful day trip from Queenstown for families and those who prefer a gentler amble. The Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway affords life-affirming alpine scenery from an easy, low-level loop trail that unfurls for around three kilometres, incorporating a boardwalk and past wetlands that brim with birdlife like the black swan, grey duck and South Island pied oystercatcher. Skirting the Glenorchy Lagoon and Rees River in the shadow of some spectacular snow-capped peaks, including Mount Earnslaw, there are several opportunities to capture a photo of the ridgelines mirrored in the waters. Ample seating and picnic areas en route allow visitors to drink in the scenery. Later, have real drink at the lovely GYC, a historic bar café and bar in Glenorchy village. Allow a couple of hours for the walk.

Next Page F

JOURNEYS

Holiday Recharge with your Family this Summer in Wānaka

6 Hooker Valley Track

The half-day hike along the Hooker Valley Track and back is another iconic Aotearoa stroll for good reason—it’s like trekking through a watercolour painting, with our mightiest peak, Aoraki, looming from its terminus. There is such a majestic presence to this tucked away corner of Canterbury. The drive alone into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, part of the Te Waipounamu Unesco World Heritage Area, which snakes alongside Lake Pukaki with Aoraki rarely out of sight, is worthy of its own film score, and by the time you reach the foot of the mountain you’ll almost want to applaud. It’s mindboggling that such an incredible natural feature—considered tapu

by Ngāi Tahu, and the most important ancestor—be so accessible, reached via a meandering stroll that navigates swingbridges and boardwalks and a bush clad valley kissed by the occasional glacier and waterfall. Mini icebergs are often bobbing in Hooker Lake at Aoraki’s base. Allow three hours to complete this 10km return trek, and when you’re done, grab a beer and burger from the Old Mountaineers Café back in Aoraki/Mount Cook Village, which affords further splendid views of the mountain.

7 Tiritiri Matangi

Technically not a single day walk but a series of interconnected tracks that you spend a day walking—it’s staggering how few Aucklanders have visited this avian haven that’s literally on our doorstep. Among the most valuable of the Hauraki Gulf’s many island jewels, Tiritiri Matangi is a pest-free open sanctuary home to some of the world’s rarest and most endangered birds as well as our iconic tuatara—a reptile that predates many a dinosaur. Ready your camera to capture the likes of tūī, takahē, and red-crowned parakeet and highly recommended is a night in the DoC bunkhouse (book ahead) for a very good chance of spotting kiwi come nightfall.

Critters aside, the island boasts a bounty of stunning, sheltered beaches where you can cool off with a dip in the ocean, as well as a 1,000-year-old pōhutukawa known as the Old Man of Tiritiri Matangi, and the nation’s oldest continuously operating lighthouse.

We’re in a fortunate position to be able to travel around New Zealand and this year, more than any other, we definitely need to replenish ourselves during summer family holidays.

Wānaka is the perfect location to do just that. In the heart of the spectacular Southern Alps, Wānaka is only a one-hour drive from Queenstown airport. There are numerous direct flights from Auckland to Queenstown daily (taking just under two hours), so it couldn’t be easier to head to Wānaka with your family these holidays.

Situated in Wānaka, with direct access to Lake Wānaka is the four star plus Edgewater – Lake Wānaka hotel. It’s a firm family favourite, and it is easy to see why.

“Having direct access to the lake and the biking trail - which runs past the front of the hotel - is a big plus for our guests”, says general manager Catherine Bone. “We often see children and their parents playing at the lake edge or biking along the off-road trails as they explore Wānaka”.

Spacious guest apartment style rooms are perfect for families.

With a kitchenette, generous lounge and dining area, dedicated bedrooms and en suite bathrooms, guests have every comfort.

Apartments are available with one or two bedrooms and can sleep up to six guests.

Special treats, such as baked-to-order scones or ice-cream sundaes are available from the Wineglass Café, as well as an expansive menu with a focus on locally sourced produce.

“During the summer, the outside terrace dining area, which overlooks the lake, is busy throughout the day and into the long twilight evenings”, adds Catherine.

After an active day exploring Wānaka, children and parents alike enjoy Edgewater’s onsite spa and sauna, all-weather tennis courts or may even enjoy a relaxing massage at Elements Day Spa. With so many activities right on the doorstep, Edgewater Lake Wānaka really does offer the right balance of fun and relaxation these holidays.

E D G EWATE R .C O.NZ / 0 8 0 0 1 0 8 3 1 1 R ES E RVATIONS @ E D G EWATE R .C O.NZ

DECEMBER 2020 AOTE AROAS UR F.C O. N Z

Aotearoa Surf School Bringing Together Families SUR F @AOTE AROASUR F.C O. N Z What an incredible country we live in. Not only does it have some of the most stunning landscapes in the world right on our doorsteps, but no matter where we live, we are never far from the wonders of a bountiful beach.

of a life time at a summer surf camp, Aotearoa Surf School caters for every need (all equipment provided).

Post-Covid New Zealanders are wanting to make the most of their summers, wishing to adventure, and learn new things. They are keen to take new skills as well as special memories home with them at the end of their holidays. And they’re thronging to the beach to learn to surf while experiencing the magic of the ocean.

“We change lives, create lifestyles, awaken peoples’ senses, and give them a deep appreciation for New Zealand and the outdoors by providing a transformational experience.”

The East Coast (Auckland to Whangārei) with its incredible beaches, white sand and consistent surf, is the best place to learn surfing, and these days you don’t need to do it on your own thanks to Aotearoa Surf School. They boast a range of services to suit any age or experience level. Whether you are starting from scratch, organising a team building weekend at work, or wishing to give your children an experience

Through the sport of surfing, they create joy and bring new experiences.

Aotearoa Surf School’s Che Burnett Aotearoa Surf School offers everything to do with surfing, including accommodation and lessons for the family, kids' programmes and camps, as well as a women’s only progressive surf programme called Surf Sistas.

So, what are you waiting for? Awaken yourself, family and friends to a new way of life. Book a lesson, catch some waves, and ride the surf.

SUMMER, SURF & SUN! WITH AOTEAROA SURF SCHOOL

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CLUB

KIDS SUMMER SURF PROGRAM

Ages: 5 - 16 9am - 3pm P1: 15 - 18 Dec 20 P2: 21 - 24 Dec 20

Ages: 7 - 16 9.30 - 11am 26 - 29 Dec 20 30 Dec - 2 Jan 21 3 - 6 Jan 21 7 - 10 Jan 21

Get the kids out of the house & back into nature!

Progressive surf lessons for kids.

(more dates available)

ULTIMATE KIDS SURF CAMP

The perfect action & adventure holiday for kids.

Ages: 8 - 16 (5 nights, 6 days) 10 – 15 Jan 21 17 – 22 Jan 21

(more dates available)

ECO PODS SURF & STAY

Modern Eco Pods & Glamping tents for the ultimate beach getaway!

All ages & stages Weekends and holiday dates booking out fast!

CONTACT US TODAY FOR PRICES & TO BOOK 09 431 5760 or email surf@aotearoasurf.co.nz or visit aotearoasurf.co.nz

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

SURF SISTAS WOMENS ONLY SURFING Regular surf lessons with an awesome group of girls!

Ages: 15+ Mon: 11 - 12.30pm Sat 9.30 - 11am 6 - 27 Feb 20 8 Feb - 1 Mar 20

(more dates available)

99

JOURNEYS

Sailing Home for Christmas WO RD S―JAM IE C H RI STIAN D ESP L AC ES

“Sailing from Europe to New Zealand had always been my dream, so I decided to make it true.”

10 0

It sounds like the synopsis for a festive movie: a stranded father sailing halfway around the world to be home in time for Christmas with his seven-year-old son who he hasn’t seen since March. Well, that’s exactly what Dmitry Pelevin is in the process of doing in his first solo voyage, and, thanks to the wonder of modern technology, Verve managed to catch up with him to see how it’s going.

“The feeling when land disappears for the first time is quite interesting,” recalls Dimitry. “It’s difficult to put into words, but I guess I’d compare it to farewelling close relatives.

There’s a sadness, and you begin to think about the millions of things you should have done or foreseen before venturing into the ocean. But then you just feel calm.”

Dmitry is an IT solutions architect who arrived in Aotearoa in 2013. He was back in Russia in February when the coronavirus crisis really started kicking off globally, from where he travelled to France. While there, the borders closed, and his flights were cancelled. The lockdown started, and Dmitry was holed up in Europe for a month. By the end of April, he’d decided that he was going to sail back to the antipodes.

“Sailing form Europe to New Zealand had always been my dream,” he says, “so I decided to make it true.”

The sailor—who’s a member of Auckland’s Royal Yacht Squadron—secured a “great deal” on a 37ft yacht called Cupiditas (Latin for ‘big desire’ or ‘enthusiasm’), which he picked up in June, then sailed from Martinique to Panama in nine days. I ask Dmitry how, aside from the obvious, sailing solo differs from sailing with a crew.

“First of all, the yacht must be prepared correctly, as many cannot be safely controlled by a single sailor,” he says. “You spend a lot time in isolation, sometime months, so you must

be comfortable being alone. You may also be under stress for long periods, especially when things break—and on a yacht something always breaks—so you need to deal with that.”

There are life-affirming positives too. Being so alone with nature shifts one’s perspective, allowing you to witness things that you don’t usually see, “like how the birds hunt for fish, or clouds form, or the dawns and the sunsets”. Stare for long enough, undisturbed, and you “will see something interesting”, like meditation, “but for several weeks”.

Dimitry first fell in love with the sport in 2012, while living in Moscow (“where there is no sea!”) when a friend invited him to join him on a beginner’s skipper licence course. “I soon became addicted, and it became my passion,” says the sailor. “Everything about it fascinates me, from the climate to the oceans to the creatures and to the boats and how they are built. I love the feeling of being beneath the sails, and of course, of competing in events.”

How did you prepare for the solo experience?

“I studied some literature—there are several books dedicated to solo sailing—and joined groups on Facebook.

My main focus was preparing my boat, then when I did the first trial sail for nine days from Martinique to Panama, I felt that I was ready.”

What do your friends and family think about your adventure?

“My friends were mostly shocked and surprised by my decision. For those that don’t sail, it’s difficult to grasp— it seems like an impossible task, like flying into space or something. But everyone is supportive and full of admiration, tracking me and following on social media. My mum was very worried though, and even began studying sailing—

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

DECEMBER 2020

101

sometimes she writes messages to me with things like, ‘The wind is too gusty, did you reef your sails?!’”

As well as improving his sailing skills, Dmitry says that he has learnt much about the ocean and nature and countries he has called in at, but as for what he has learnt about himself he is less sure (“Maybe that I can ‘just do it’”).

Due back in mid-December, he is most looking forward to spending the summer holidays with his boy, and maybe take him sailing. He misses his Kiwi friends, he adds, and is also considering a career change. It has clearly been a profound time of reflection of the sailor. He has new year’s resolutions following a difficult year, but they are too personal to discuss.

Maybe he has learnt more about himself than he thinks.

“One thing I’ve come to realise this year is how the world and life is so fragile,” he adds. “We so often underestimate what is most important—our health, our friends, our

families. Even just being able to take a walk on the street for some fresh air. Everything can be so easily torn down by something as simple as a virus.”

But, he doesn’t wish to get too far ahead of himself. There are 5,000 kilometres still to go, forms to fill and repairs to make so that he doesn’t get “stuck in French Polynesia”.

I finish up by asking if his son knows that Dad’s sailing back, or if it’s a surprise.

“Yes, he knows,” says Dmitry. “He’s a bit too young to be too excited about sailing, but he is waiting for me. He is following my route but wonders why I move so slowly on the map. He’s surprised that it’s taking so long.”

The best things usually do.

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

The Ultimate in Glamping

Northland’s new five billion star accommodation is now open for bookings

LandRoamer specialises in hiring out high-quality adventure and camping equipment. They are now offering luxe pop-up glamping experiences at Uretiti beach in Waipu, Northland.

This unique glamping stay is designed for those who want to experience a taste of New Zealand’s great outdoors but also enjoy the trappings of luxury.

Guests simply arrive at the designated spot at the Uretiti beach campsite to check-in to their fully set-up abode inside a canvas bell tent with a comfortable camp bed and high-thread-count bedlinen. They are also supplied with wooden furniture, gas cooker and barbecue, quality cooking utensils, luxe rugs, picnic blankets and outdoor lighting.

To book this unique glamping stay, simply secure your spot at the Uretiti beach campsite via the DOC website first and then book your glamping experience through LandRoamer.

Pricing starts from $599 for two people and two nights.

For more information and to book the stay through LandRoamer, please visit landroamer.co

LANDROAM ER.C O 10 2

Christmas overseas… right here in New Zealand!

Want to escape overseas this holiday season? Our award-winning retreat in Russell has four luxurious rooms, each with incredible sea views and easy access to a secluded beach.

donkeybayinn.co.nz

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

THE MAN WITH PITCH PERFECT HEARING DOESN’T WORK ON THE SOUND SYSTEM. HE TUNES THE ENGINE. The trained ears of the Lexus engine assembly craftsman can isolate 20 distinct sounds which must resonate in perfect pitch before leaving his care.

If we only did what was necessary, it wouldn’t be a Lexus.

Discover more at Lexus.co.nz

#BEYONDNECESSARY

DECEMBER 2020

F RESH FA RM

This contemporary take on a traditional barn structure among the apple orchards of the Elgin Valley makes for a simple, inspiring weekend getaway.

105

WORDS :G R A HA M WO O D / P HOTO G R A P HY : G R E G COX

Resene Shark

Resene Caffeine

Resene Cumin

HOME & DESIGN

Get the look with Resene: From the front of the house, the stylised silhouette of its contemporary barn aesthetic is most clearly revealed. The outdoor entrainment area is sheltered from the sun and wind by a blackened wood pergolastyle structure. The way its semi-permeable form and irregular shadows break up the solid mass of the house dissolves it at its edge, subtly integrating it with its setting. Although the simplicity of the design is revealed by this view – there’s just one door to close at night, as Jody points out – there’s a deceptive optical illusion that belies this apparent purity of form. The illusion that you can see right through the house to the other side is created by a mirrored wall behind the kitchen which catches the reflection of the garden behind, and also brings light and views right into the middle of the house.

The decked outdoor entertainment area is wonderfully positioned so that it takes in views over the dam, orchard and forested surrounds. This is where Jody says he spends most of his time when the family stays here. It is kitted out with a gas and a wood-burning braai (barbeque) and a simple prep area for outdoor cooking. The outdoor sofas were custom designed by architect Greg Scott and his team with bases made from spruce to match the interior of the house.

The outdoor harvest table was commissioned from Capetonian designer James Mudge Furniture Studio and the light, almost transparent chairs are by Danish company Hay.

From the main living area, the outdoor entertainment area seems like an extension of the house, continuing the clean lines and simplified minimalist form of the pitched ceiling. The interiors have been entirely “skinned”, as architect Greg Scott puts it, with spruce – walls, floors and ceilings. The palette of the interior is restricted to black and matching wood used throughout. “A lot of people are scared of black,” says Greg. “I love the presence that it has. If you understand the light (and you have enough light), there’s no reason not to use black. In terms of continuity, it’s a wonderful way to sew spaces and objects and elements together.”

The sofas were custom designed by Greg with bases made from spruce to match the rest of the house. The coffee table and steel circular tripod table are both from Weylandts. The chairs are from Block & Chisel.

The cork “Low Stools” are by Wiid Design (wiiddesign. co.za) from the Corkcabition range. The “Lab Vase” on the coffee table is also from Wiid Design.

The counter top is blackened brass, heat treated to attain a specific level of blackness. “It weathers and oxidises over time, so it develops more and more of a patina, almost as a character and story of its own,” says Greg, “but underpins that industrial aesthetic that we were working with.” The strip pendant light is Spazio. The pendant lights above the dining table are by Foscarini/ Diesel Home. The dining chairs are James Mudge. The “Spin” candelabra is by Tom Dixon.

The dining room is part of the open-plan living space. The dining chairs are

by James Mudge. The “Spin” candelabra is by Tom Dixon. While most of the ambient lighting has been integrated into the walls – for example, the vertical LED strip lights behind the dining table – their unobtrusiveness has made space for a few feature lights. “You’ll see the balance of the lighting is so discreet, so integral with the structure, indirect, that you’re able to pop a couple of special lights in there,” says Greg. He has used pendant lights by Foscarini/Diesel Home (available through Crema Design) for task lighting above the dining table and kitchen island. The nesting tables are by James Mudge, and the cage lamp is from Weylandts.

Get the look with Resene: Resene Blackout

Resene Blank Canvas

Greg also designed the beds in the children’s bedrooms. The steel ladder in the foreground leads up to an additional sleeping area in the loft, where Jody says the children always prefer to sleep. The bedside lamp is Spazio.

Get the look with Resene: Resene Bastille

Resene Wafer

The bathrooms make for a playful contrast with the refinement of the living areas and bedrooms. The walls were built with stone salvaged from the site, introducing a rough, textured uneven surface. “Because we wanted rough stone collected in and around the buildings on the site, we had to design bathrooms where nothing touched the wall,” says Greg. The free-standing bathrooms units were designed by Greg and custom made, set away from the walls. Greg introduced a circular motif in the design to contrast with the angular masculine geometry that predominates throughout the rest of the house.

Boutique Procurement Service

Exclusive accessories for your home or the perfect Christmas gift.

New shipment of exclusive accessories just arrived.

463 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland 1052. Phone +64 9 358 3771 | info@cavitco.com Open 9 – 5 Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 9 – 3.30 Wednesday and Friday.

www.cavitco.com

HOME & DESIGN

Visit our showroom 28 Mackelvie Street Ponsonby

NODIRUGS.COM

11 6

FINAL APARTMENTS SELLING NOW

A blend of history, modernity and community.

Private, architecturally designed apartments, thoughtful surroundings, extensive leisure facilities and superb hospitality.

Contact Bev Dyson 09 625 3420 | ranfurly village.co.nz

APARTMENTS | ASSISTED LIVING | RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

Stuck For A Gift?

Do you have those people in your family that are hard to purchase for? Or do you on some days, simply lack inspiration and just cannot think where to start when it comes to gift buying?

WO RD S: F. HARRIS O N

I had that very dilemma last Christmas with my out-of-town son.

Just did not know what to get him! Then I had a brainwave. I knew that he was planning to redecorate his apartment, and that he wanted to do the paintwork himself. So I tootled off to the local Resene ColorShop and asked if they did gift vouchers. It turned out that this is something they do, and I was able to purchase a handsome looking voucher, which my son in turn used to purchase paints from his local Resene ColorShop in Wellington.

He was super happy with his gift, as was I. It felt good to give something useful, memorable, and a present that would last a long time.

CHRISTMAS GIFTING LANTERNS FOR ALFRESCO DINING

OPEN 7 DAYS | 62A BENSON ROAD, REMUERA | THEBAYTREE.CO.NZ VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

SECTIONS FOR SALE

THE GLADES MATAPAUA BAY, COROMANDEL

Your exclusive, untouched slice of New Zealand.

This is definitely not another urbanised coastal development.

A unique, gated, low density 100 acre Coastal Estate in an area classified by the district council as outstanding landscape quality.

Sections are widely dispersed, fully serviced and easily maintained.

Most have their own areas of mature Pohutukawa, Puriri, Nikau and other native trees.

Also, each lot owner owns 1/14th share of 80 acres of virgin native bush with walkways to Sandy Bay 'never to be developed'. A perfect adventure playground for children and parents alike.

SCHEDULE OF LOTS LOT 1 LOT 2 LOT 3 LOT 4 LOT 5 LOT 6 LOT 7 LOT 8 LOT 9 LOT 10 LOT 11 LOT 12 LOT 13 LOT 14

SOLD SOLD SOLD

S OLD

S OLD

S OLD

SOLD

3810m² 3431m² 2569m² 2624m² 1632m² 2297m² 2075m² 3076m² 1846m² 3478m² 1418m² 2884m² 1621m² 3428m²

AVAI L ABLE F ROM NZ$699,000 E: B RYAN @W G L.N Z M: +6 4 2 1 836 6 78

T H E G L A D E S M ATA PA U A .C O M

25 Broadway, Newmarket 09 522 6555 thelinenstore.nz

01

SUSTAINABLE LUXURY HAND CRAFTED IN NZ Experience the timeless and unique creations of

LyZadie Design Studio. Each element is inspired by the nature and culture of New Zealand, with the designs exquisitely and sustainably handcrafted by local

New Zealand makers. Embodying the luxury of natural materials and created with timeless sophistication in mind, LyZadie Design Studio is a welcome addition to the carefully curated home.

Shop online at w w w.lyzadiedesignstudio.com and stay up to date on Instagram @lyzadie 02

04

03

01/ WHITE CLOUD:

hand blown glass pendants

02 / EARTH&SKY: dining table

in rammed earth and glass,

inspired by the love story of

Ranginui, sky father, and

Papatuanuku, earth mother

03/ BL ACK TREE FERN:

rescued river Matai side table

04/ TUI: armchair in rescued river Matai and

Pinatex, a fabric made from pineapple leaves, with upcycled bicycle tyre feathers

05/ FLOW: dining table in rescued river Rimu 05

06

and polished brass, inspired by our braided rivers 06/ FLOW: brass trivet

HOME & DESIGN

Big Brands, Even Better Service Since 2009, Big Brands Online has been delivering New Zealanders quality home appliances at unbeatable prices.

country who provide after-sales care, along with easy access to parts if required.

From their online store, Kiwis can peruse and purchase from a huge range of whiteware, large and small appliances.

From their base in New Zealand, the Big Brands Online team has aligned itself with the world’s top brands, some of which have been in business themselves for decades.

It’s this emphasis on customer service that has helped Big Brands Online build a great base of happy customers. This enthusiastic, attentive approach ensures the company has a lot of repeat business and ongoing customer referrals, which they’re always happy to receive.

The central philosophy of Big Brands Online – and the secret to their success – is superior customer service.

They say that their relationships mean the world to them, and everything they do revolves around understanding each client’s unique needs.

Maree’s background in business management and sales made owning and directing Big Brands Online a natural progression for her. Her philosophy is to treat customers in the way she’d like to be treated!

Led by owner-operator Maree, the team of staff provides hands-on service via email and phone, just like any quality retail operation. They’re honest in all their dealings, reliable, and reputable, offering manufacturer’s warranties on everything they sell. Big Brands Online even has a network of service agents throughout the

“I enjoy greeting people, discussing their needs, and assisting them to make a decision that best suits their needs,” she says. “For me, a purchase encompasses the whole journey, not just the sale.”

To browse the complete range of products available at Big Brands Online, visit their website: bigbrandsonline.co.nz

12 2

Big Brands.

Better Prices.

Kitchen, laundry and small appliances for your home. Providing Big Brand Online with old-fashioned service.

Free shipping to main NZ centres.

Country Style CS900G-BGE & CS900G-BLK

CALL US 0800 67 33 77 · BIGBRANDSONLINE.C O.NZ VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

achieve more

Exceed your expectations with me “Amanda Platt sold our home in a very short period of time and for a great price. From the outset Amanda was extremely professional and across every detail. Amanda kept us fully updated, gave great advice and was a pleasure to work with. Definitely the best agent we have ever had dealings with!�

Catherine and Lex G - Vendor

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

7 Paraone Place, Omaha

45 Albany Road, Ponsonby

286 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna

Call me to discuss a confidential appraisal of your property.

AMANDA PLATT M +64 21 756 699 | amanda.platt@nzsir.com nzsothebysrealty.com Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

HOME & DESIGN

For all things festive!

Quality tableware & Christmas goodies to set a stunning Christmas table, great gifts for everyone on your gift list

Stylish gifts

Set a stunning table

Quality cutlery Functional Cookware

fabulous complimentary gift wrapping

Plenty of instore specials!

Glassware - amazing range &prices!

New Zealand’s leading tableware specialist since 1981 www.thestudio.co.nz 5 Harold Street, Mt Eden, Auckland

great parking right outside the door!

ph 09 638 8082

Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5.00 Sat 10.00 - 4.00 Sun closed

great parking right outside the door!

the the studio studio

OOFF T TAAB BL LE EWWA AR RE E

12 4

NZ House & Garden Tours 2021 Cambridge 12 & 13 February | Dunedin 19 & 20 February Christchurch 5 & 6 March | Kāpiti Coast 12 March | Auckland 26 March

Explore beautifully curated spaces Step inside the pages of New Zealand’s favourite home and lifestyle magazine and experience a captivating mix of inspiring homes.

t Proceeds from ticket sales go

Make a weekend of it and book your tickets nzhouseandgardentours.co.nz

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

o

GIVING 01

03

Christmas Craze

04

02

01

Prancer Tree Topper – McGee & Co

03

Made from beautifully crafted paper mache, the Prancer Tree Topper is sure to be the star of your holiday tree. The striking gold colour ties into the festive colour scheme and provides an eye-catching touch to the top of the tree.

02

Hi There 50ml Gift Set with Keyring – Karen Walker This limited edition gift set comes with one 50ml Hi There fragrance and a Karen Walker black leather key ring. This is a classic scent that combines both the masculine and feminine, creating a clean, bright, and dynamic fragrance.

The perfect gift for that special woman in your life.

Mistletoe Wreath – Cox and Cox A festive mistletoe wreath with delicate stems and petite berries is the perfect addition to anywhere in the home.

The earthy tones of green and white will contribute to a modern Christmas look.

04

Tikal Wood Serving Bowl – The Citizenry Handmade by a group of artisans in the Petén Jungle in Guatemala, each piece is made from sustainably sourced wood and is made start to finish in a fair-trade working environment. These serving bowls are ideal for a Christmas salad, roast veggies, or an assortment of dips.

09

07

05

08

05

Estelle Crystal Coupe Glasses – Cristina Re

07

Featuring an ultra-contemporary design made with fine hand blown crystal and gold lustrous finishes, these are the perfect glasses for your favourite holiday beverages.

From Christmas wines to New Year cocktails, the quality and luxury of these glasses are sure to stand the test of time.

06

Ligne Napkin Set – David Jones A staple element to any Christmas table, these napkins are perfect to sit alongside your place settings. Cloth napkins bring a luxurious element to the table and provide utmost convenience to wipe those Christmas cookie crumbs from the corner of your mouth.

Snow Berry Spray – Smith and Caughey’s Liven up your centrepiece with elegance. Paired with a beautiful vase, this cluster of artificial golden berries will be sure to make a statement on any Christmas table.

06

09

WORD S — NADIA KL A AS S E N

DECEMBER 2020

Jo Malone Christmas Cracker Collection – Jo Malone Bring a touch of luxury to the Christmas table with Jo Malone Christmas crackers. Filled with scrumptiously scented products; including a Honeysuckle & Davana Cologne, English Pear & Freesia Hand Wash, and a Grapefruit Body Crème.

08

Velvet Stocking – Ferm Living To hang on the fireplace in style, these velvet Christmas stockings are a modern take on the traditional colours.

With colours including mustard, olive green, rose and navy, these stockings will add a funky element to any home décor.

GIVING

Remedy Kombucha

Thread Design

Christmas Wish List

These luxurious Alpaca Boucle throws at Thread Design are made from silky fine alpaca fibre, celebrated for it’s warmth and hypoallergenic qualities. Dye-free and made in New Zealand, these throws make a wonderful and thoughtful gift, or alternatively will make a special addition to your home. Thread Design – 274a Richmond Rd, Grey Lynn. threaddesign.co.nz

Shut The Front Door

Meet The Ginger Quarantini using Remedy Kombucha Ginger Lemon. Familiar yet new. A classic with a twist.

Hot and sour, fiery and tangy, it’s the perfect tummytamer. Fresh ginger adds warmth and spice while real lemon adds citrus spark, providing the perfect balance for a real palate pleaser. remedydrinks.com/nz

How often are you at the beach or park and have nowhere to put your glass? Problem solved! The table fits either wine glasses or beer bottles, cans or glasses...even coffee cups! The central area is perfect for whatever nibbles you prefer with your drink of choice! shutthefrontdoor.co.nz

Asili Design

Avobox Freshly handpicked avocados sent straight to you. Get the freshest avocados, with Avobox's 'no bruise' guarantee. avobox.co.nz

Asili Round Tray Set. This new collection is now available to purchase online at the newly refreshed asili.co. Each item is made to order over a four week period, with regular progress updates allowing you to follow the story of your Asili piece being made. asili.co

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

CURATE YOUR WORLD Baobab luxury soy candles Cashmere 16cm $289

Eames House Bird

by Vitra $349

Henry Dean Venere vase $169

Cyprium 10cm $179

Pols Potten Gold log vase 21cm $82 | 26cm $99

Gava brass planters in antique gold finish from $79.90 also available antique brown and antique silver finish

Pols Potten glass jug $79.90

Pols Potten Striped Pear lantern 57cmh $239

Okahu beach towel $59.90 Modest Vintage Player Heritage leather rugby ball $139.90

Maraca candle $84.90

Mr Voss diffuser $94.90

Vitra Alexander Girard Wooden Doll No.10 $229

Wooden Dolls available in 22 design options

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

Stocking Stuffers

1. AESOP Gift Kits, The Lore Collector, aesop.com/nz 2. MARYSIA marysia.com 3. SKINNIES Acne & Body Bars, skinnies.co.nz 5.

DOWNLIGHTS Gold Star, French Pear, downlightsnz.com 6. RETREAT Apsley & Company from Retreat retreatnz.co.nz

1

2

4

3

5

4. STONELEIGH ORGANIC WINES Stoneleigh, New Zealand’s number one wine brand, has created a premium range of 100% certified organic and vegan wines. Crafted with care and boasting vibrant flavours, the range includes a varietal to suit every tastebud this Christmas RRP: $19.99 stoneleigh.com

7

6 7. COVE 27 Send some extraordinary drinks to someone special this holiday season or impress your guests with COVE 27's stunning selection of unique Kiwi and imported spirits, wine and beer not found anywhere else in Aotearoa. cove27.co.nz

shop your christmas gifting AT ORAKEI BAY VILL AGE @ORAKEIBAYVILL AGE | WWW.OBV.CO.NZ | 228 ORAKEI ROAD, ORAKEI

How to go Zero Waste in 2021 Making a resolution to go zero waste is a great way of embracing the new year. If you decide to take on the challenge here are five things to guide you on your journey.

Start with the waste hierarchy

Tap into the other’s experience

Contrary to common knowledge, recycling is one of the last things we want to do. The waste hierarchy is a way of thinking about zero waste that starts with the idea that not creating waste in the first place is the best way to go zero waste. Start by refusing stuff that you don’t need or want.

The zero waste movement is growing everywhere. There are so many resources and amazing life hacks that can give you inspiration and guidance about specific zero waste issues. There are fantastic New Zealand based zero waste facebook groups, books, websites and podcasts dedicated to zero waste.

Get others involved

Be kind

Whether you live with flatmates, a partner or a big family, it is important to get everyone on board with the mission. Like any new year’s resolution, having support is critical for success. Talk about why zero waste is important to you and how everyone can contribute.

Zero waste is a journey. Once you dive in, it can be overwhelming to realise the scale of the waste crisis. We throw away on average 734kg of waste every year. Taking responsibility for your waste is one way you can make positive change happen, but remember to be kind to yourself and others. It isn’t always possible to make zero waste choices. Consumers are only one side of the waste equation, producers must also take responsibility for the waste that is produced.

Look at the way you normally do things If we want to go zero waste, it is important that we know where our waste comes from. Have a look at what is going into your rubbish and recycling bins each week. Once you have a good idea of what is creating the most waste, you can find ways of eliminating it.

DECEMBER 2020

A HOUSE FULL OF GIFT IDEAS!

www.shutthefrontdoor.co.nz

@shutthefrontdoorstore

Ponsonby

Takapuna

Auckland CBD

Newmarket

Christchurch

Wellington

Gifts | Homewares | Fashion | Kids

133

Improve your lifestyle with candles from Retreat

VIS IT U S AT TH E R IALTO CENTR E, 1 6 3 B ROADWAY, NEWMAR KET O R D ER O N L INE R ETR EATNZ .C O. NZ OR CAL L ( 0 9 ) 5 2 4 5 8 9 0

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

GIVING

It’s Christmas, So Enjoy An Extra $10 On Us Buy a $50 voucher between now and 18 December 2020 and you’ll get an extra $10 voucher, plus free delivery!* *Vouchers can be used at any of the businesses listed on the Mission Bay website and never expire.

Perfect as a Christmas gift or treat yourself this summer.

Visit www.missionbay.co.nz for all the details @M I S S I ON BAY

@ MISSIO N BAYPR O M

13 4

Skinnies’ Body Bars and Acne Bars join Skinnies’ range of innovative waterless sunscreens, which offer an alternative to the white, sticky sunblocks on the market.

Perfect for stocking stuffers! Skinnies’ range is available now from leading retailers and online at skinnies.co.nz

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

GIVING

Building a Legend WO RD S―JAM I E C H RI STIAN D ESP L AC ES

There’s something so satisfying about the fact that, even during this digital age of big tech domination where the likes of Apple and Google carry more clout than many governments, oldschool Lego still manages to more than hold its own in terms of popularity and brand power.

BRAND RECOGNITION Last March it was announced that the legendary plastic building block maker topped the Reputation Institute’s annual ‘most reputable company’ list for the fourth straight year, fending off the likes of Rolex, Ferrari, Adidas, Microsoft, Disney, and Netflix (Google and Apple, incidentally, didn’t make the top 10). And in June, Lego also topped social analytics firm Talkwalker’s list of the world’s most loved brands.

Then there are Lego’s vital statistics, which are simply mind-blowing. Placed end to end, the number of Lego bricks sold each year would wrap around the world more than five times.

There are nearly 100 Lego bricks for every person on Earth, and during Christmas, nearly 30 Lego sets are sold each second. There are more than four billion Lego Minifigures, making them, by some way, the world’s largest population, and Lego is even the world’s biggest manufacturer of tyres!

“Lego is a lot more than a toy – it’s a creative expression,” former Lego CEO Jørgen Vig

Knudstorp tells the Telegraph. “People just love to make things. It’s deep in every human being.”

FOUNDATIONS And to think Danish carpenter Ole Kirk Kristiansen, a master craftsman of wooden toys known as Lego (from the Danish leg godt, meaning “play well”), was ridiculed when he ordered a stateof-the-art plastic-injection moulding machine in 1949. With Denmark suffering during the Great Depression, Kristiansen was finding it ever more difficult to source wood for furniture so had turned his attention to making toys from smaller scraps of timber. After the second world war, resources were scarcer still, and—similar to today’s Covidcrisis—businesses were looking for ways to adapt and even reinvent themselves. It was around this time that Kristiansen learnt of the plastic-injecting moulding machine. The contraption cost nearly a tenth of his company’s annual revenue, but the toymaker had the foresight to see the near-endless potential of the building blocks (and near-endless it is— there are 915 million ways to combine six eight-stud Lego bricks).

“There were a lot of department stores who tell him that kids will never made out of this cheap plastic stuff,” David Robertson, author of Brick by Brick: How Lego Rewrote the Rules of Innovation and Conquered the Global Toy Industry, tells Wharton Business School. “that wooden toys are what kids will always want.”

DECEMBER 2020

ONWARDS AND UPWARDS It was one of the toymaker’s sons, Godtfred Kirk Christiansen, who was responsible for overseeing the development of the iconic, interlocking “System of Play” design that everyone so loves today. The period 1978-1993 is considered Lego’s “golden period”. Expanding massively globally, the company doubled in size every five years. The Minifigures were introduced, and sizes across the range were standardised to their scale, meaning different Lego sets could fit together, and special theme packages were introduced—like space Lego, pirate Lego and Lego castles.

But, by the turn of 21st century, struggling to compete with the internet, the company was on the verge of collapse. Just as Kristiansen found an innovative new way for his toy company to remain relevant more than 80 years ago, so Lego launched its own apps, video games, TV shows, and partnerships with film franchises like Star Wars and Harry Potter. But not content with simply making Minifigures that replicate characters and weaponry and whatnot from other people’s movies, over the past few years the “toy of the 20th century” has produced a series of critically acclaimed flicks starring its own creations, such as The Lego Movie and The Lego Batman Movie (the former was the UK’s highest grossing movie of 2014 and led to toy shortages that Christmas). Director Chris McKay describes them as essentially “a 90-minute toy commercial” that’s given a pass because “Lego’s one of those brands that people don’t have a negative feeling about”.

The films are also pretty hilarious.

“Lego’s an educational toy—it’s artistic, funnylooking and kind of naïve,” McKay explains to the NME, “so you can make a movie that has multiple layers. You’re not just making a cynical advertising product—you’re making the only movie ever where Batman can actually confront his core problem: the hole in his heart.”

Small Bee & Insect House Mr Fothergills, $29.95

NOTSOCKS.CO.NZ

“You don’t think yourself into a new way of acting, you act yourself into a new way of thinking” – David Robertson, Brick by Brick: How Lego Rewrote the Rules of Innovation

LEARNING WITH LEGO Education-made-fun has arguably always been at the heart of Lego’s success, encouraging kids to get creative while almost tricking them into learning without even realising it.

“When kids are building with blocks and Legos they’re using spatial reasoning skills,” says Amy Shelton, a cognitive psychologist and director of research at the Johns Hopkins Center for talented Youth. “These skills not only have a relationship to academics, but to the fields you might gravitate to, and where you’re going to excel.”

Robertson agrues that Lego’s lingering success is also down to it learning “to tell stories around bricks”, while teaching “creative building skills and 3D visualisation and construction skills”.

The toy, he believes, simply “clicks a switch in kids” that “stays clicked”.

“The play is in the building,” says Vig Knudstorp.

“After creating something wonderful, what you should do is tear it apart and make something else.”

540pc Colours Sphere 3D Puzzle, $89.95

Fart Alert Mug, $19.95 Not Socks Exclusive

Looking for something different this Christmas? Then head to Not Socks, New Zealand’s largest online gifting retailer for gifts that are fun, fresh and thoughtful – and you won’t find a pair of socks anywhere!

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

137

1

2

3

Fun For The Kids 4

6

7

5

1. Maileg Jungle Friends Monkey from Allium alliuminteriors. co.nz | 2. Inflatable Ring Toss Game Cactus from Shut The Front Door shutthefrontdoor.co.nz | 3. Mophead Tu by Selina Tusitala Marsh, What We'll Build: Plans for Our Together Future by Oliver Jeffers, The Ickabog by J.K. Rowling from Dorothy Butler Childrens Bookshop dorothybutler.co.nz | 4.

Meri Meri Cushion Velvet Dog from Allium alliuminteriors. co.nz | 5. Haba 5993 Rattling shaker from Bebado bebabo. co.nz | 6. Haba 301140 Play Blocks Big Knight's Castle from Bebado bebabo.co.nz | 7. Jellyfish Bath Puzzle from Allium alliuminteriors.co.nz | 8. Haba 302040 My First Ball Track Kullerbu - Egon's Railway from Bebado bebabo.co.nz

8

How Children Learn While Playing with Haba Wooden Toys When will the tower of colorful building blocks fall over? Which puzzle pieces fit together to make a fun animal picture? And how can you put the ball track pieces together so that the balls roll as quickly as possible down the tracks? With HABA wooden toys, children learn about the world on a small scale during play. After all, playing and building also involves discovery and learning. Plus it’s a lot of fun.

Giving HABA wooden toys means “Giving Learning” Toys made of wood are robust and stable, lightweight and easy to grasp. The natural material brings a piece of nature into children’s rooms, allowing them to explore with their hands and mouth without anyone needing to worry. This is why they are one of the most popular gifts from parents, friends and relatives. By giving HABA wooden toys you also give a foundation for lots of creative play ideas, exciting discoveries and important developmental steps. Something that’s even more special about HABA wooden toys is that most of them are made in the inhouse HABA toy manufacturing facility at the company headquarters in Bad Rodach – by employees who have years of experience, are passionate about their work and have a loving attention to detail. After all, creating something with their own hands makes adults just as proud as it does children.

Wooden Toys For Toddlers From 1 Year

Wooden Toys For Children From 2 Years

Wooden Toys For Children From 3 Years

This is the time for them to hone their fine motor skills

They are always looking for new challenges

They are increasingly conscious of their surroundings

Wooden Toys For Children Between 4-7 Years Looking for new challenges in play

TO READ THE FULL STORY ON HOW CHILDREN LEARN WHILE THEY ARE PLAYING VISIT: WWW.BEBABO.CO.NZ/BLOGS/NEWS/LEARN-WHILE-PLAYING

We are the number one store for European toys, speak to our knowledgeable staff today to discuss the best toy choice for your child.

Shop online 24/7 Free delivery for orders over $50 Free Gift Wrapping Visit one of our stores:

Auckland Store 1 Pompalier Terrace Posonby, Auckland 09 378 0660

Wellington Store 97b Customhouse Quay Wellington Central 04 470 7606

David Hockney Examining The Narrative

British artist David Hockney is a founding member of the British pop art movement in the 1960s. The artist is a painter, photographer, draughtsperson, printmaker and stage designer. In summary, he’s an experiential storyteller, renowned for propagating the space around him to challenge our assumed truth, control our gaze and manipulate our senses.

I was first introduced to Hockney’s work through his photographic collages of the 1980s. At the time the narrative surrounding his polaroid composites pointed to cubism and he was credited with unlocking the medium of photography, giving movement and narrative beyond the confines of one individual image.

His photo assemblages challenged the way in which we saw a thing. When we look at an object in real life our brain connects visual information, filling in the gaps to form a seamless experience. Hockney’s photographic work unstitches this resolved experience, forcing a re-evaluation of expectations around photography and, on a more existential level, of our reality.

His painted pool at Hollywood Roosevelt takes the notion of personal narrative verses reality a step further. His curved blue marks dance and distort under the rippling water’s surface as it bounces light any which way, creating myriad visual experiences, each unique. His expansion on this work via his photographic assemblages and paintings amplify his narrative, he takes us along for the ride, breaking it apart and offering us resolutions.

Re-photographing, repainting, rearranging. So much content from one subject!

This theme of offering many visual narratives from the one source ripples throughout Hockney’s work. In his exhibition, David Hockney Current, at the National Victoria Gallery, his video installations further extend his compartmentalising of the raw narrative. The Four Seasons, Woldgate Woods, covers the four seasons of the artists hometown of Yorkshire. Each season is presented over nine digital screens which create a single work large enough to engulf a substantial percentage of a viewer’s visual scope. Each screen plays a different viewpoint of the same journey – creating a breathtaking, immersive experience.

WO RD S — AIM ÉE RAL F I N I

I can only wonder what Hockney would create if he further explored interactive media and virtual reality. What space would he create for us to navigate? Would our movements leave marks?

I suppose they would, just like in life.

AndrÄ— Hemer, These days (July 13, 2005 CEST), 2020.

Courtesy of the artist and Gow Langsford Gallery

DECEMBER 2020

The Art of December Born of this unusual and sometimes downright trying period in our history, there has never been a time when we’ve focused more upon or recognised fully the diversity of creativity and beauty around us. Local is the new global, so delve into deep appreciation and participate in the creation of fresh perspectives on our art and artists over December and January. For those enjoying staycations this summer, the Auckland region along with our neighbouring Waikato offers lots of opportunity to see and create holiday itineraries around contemporary art works outdoors.

Maia McDonald, This Zizz 2020,.__!, 2020. Courtesy of the artist

WO RD S —AIM ÉE RAL FI N I

Toi Tū Toi Ora

André Hemer, The World Outside and the Pictures in our Heads

Maia McDonald and Lottie Consalvo, Two Waters: Wairua

The largest exhibition in the 132-year history of the Auckland Art Gallery, Toi Tū Toi Ora promises to be something we will be talking about for years to come. With over 300 artworks by 110 Māori artists, this landmark exhibition traces our indigenous creation story and considers new ways of thinking through and engaging with Māori art.

The work of some of Aotearoa’s most celebrated artists is present, along with new names driving forward our contemporary art scene. Toi Tū Toi Ora includes a broad range of practice including clay-work, jewellery and body adornment, alongside painting, sculpture, photography, digital media, and striking new site-specific commissions. Be sure to visit the exhibition’s satellite site at Britomart where three new artworks are installed.

Vienna-based New Zealand painter André Hemer is celebrated for melding the digital and the material. This new body of work records his close looking and reflections of the natural world during a European lockdown. Featuring abstracted surfaces in the vibrant colours of the rising and setting sun, The World Outside and the Pictures in Our Heads acts as an ode to circadian rhythm. Erupting with golden orange and pink that gives way to moody violet and black, Hemer’s painting traces the passage of our natural world.

Each painting is timestamped via its title, suggesting that the image, like a photograph, is intended to capture and hold a specific fleeting moment.

This two-person presentation pairs local ceramicist Maia McDonald alongside Australian painter Lottie Consalvo. Creating textually rich works in earthy palettes, both artists make seductive surfaces that demonstrate artistic interaction and gestural traces.

An exhibition where two distinct mediums form a counterpoint to the other, there’s a balanced and enjoyable rhythm to this trans-Tasman pairing.

From 5 December Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki aucklandartgallery.com

Until 24 December Gow Langsford Gallery gowlangsfordgallery.co.nz

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

Until 19 December Laree Payne Gallery (formerly Weasel), Hamilton weaselgallery.com

145

ART & ABOUT

Auckland Art Fair

2021 Auckland Art Fair will return to The Cloud on Auckland’s Queens Wharf from 24–28 February next year – and their first-ever summer edition is set to be the best yet.

Yona Lee, Lamp in Transit, 2020, Lamp, stainless steel, 54 x 40 x 50.5 cm. Courtesy of the artist and Fine Arts, Sydney

ABOUT 24-28 February 2021

YONA LEE Presented by Fine Arts, Sydney

OU JIN Presented by Visions on behalf of SPURS Gallery, Beijing

Presenting galleries showcasing the work of more than 150 of our region’s most exciting artists, alongside artist talks, commissioned artworks by emerging artists, a new outdoor sculpture space overlooking the Waitematā Harbour, an art bookshop, and cafés and bars from some of New Zealand’s favourite brands, the Auckland Art Fair is a must-attend event for the culturally curious.

Korean-born New Zealander, Yona Lee makes sculptural objects and installations that combine elaborate linear structures of stainless steel tubing with everyday objects of urban and domestic spaces.

Although borders are currently closed, SPURS Gallery—one of Beijing’s leading contemporary galleries—will be collaborating with Visions Gallery of Auckland to present unique and intricate paintings by Beijing-based artist, Ou Jin.

The 2021 Art Fair will be a celebration of the very best of Aotearoa, with a selection of Australian and Pacific artists too.

Deliberately timed to coincide with the end of the Prada Cup, the 2021 edition will offer visitors to the city for the yachting, and locals alike, a unique cultural opportunity to engage with outstanding contemporary art being made, commissioned, collected, and exhibited throughout Aotearoa.

Verve brings you a sneak preview of the works of four of our favourite artists who will be showing at the Fair:

At the 2021 Art Fair, Fine Arts, Sydney will be presenting new individual wall-based sculptures composed of welded stainless steel in combination with elements including lamps, mops, bus handles, and table tops.

A new large-scale sculptural commission

by Yona Lee is currently exhibited for the 2020 Busan Biennale, Busan, South Korea, and her work is concurrently the subject of a solo exhibition at Dunedin Public Art Gallery, Dunedin, New Zealand. Yona Lee’s work has recently been the subject of solo exhibitions at institutions including the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; City Gallery, Wellington, New Zealand; Te Tuhi, Auckland, New Zealand; and Westspace, Melbourne, Australia. Her work has recently featured in thematic exhibitions including the 15th Lyon Biennale of Contemporary Art, Lyon, France (2019); and Changwon Sculpture Biennale, Seoul, South Korea (2016).

To make his intriguing paintings, Ou Jin applies paint, layer after layer, and waits patiently for the countless levels of pigments on the canvas to dry. This segment of the artist's activity refers to the artisanal spirit of classical Chinese objectcreation/craftsmanship: humans' physical bodies, objects and time jointly take effect in a certain setting, which relates to a ritual sense of arts and crafts, as well as to the concept of the 'body' in performance art.

Afterwards, he takes a computer-generated icon and inserts them in a special device to make them into three-dimensional cutting tools, and uses them to cut into the paint, revealing the different layers of pigment taking on a rich, three-dimensional visual effect. This kind of visual effect reminds audiences of 'abstraction', but actually the significance of the works extends far beyond that of abstract art.

DECEMBER 2020

Ou Jin, Untitled 163 (detail), 2019, acrylic paint, mixed material on wood board, 100 x 100cm.

Courtesy of the artist and SPURS Gallery, Beijing

Andrew Beck, Blue Iris, 2020, Acrylic, enamel, silver gelatin prints, conservation glass, Hand-made, multiple of 5, 1500 x 1000mm. Courtesy of the artist and Visions, Auckland

Imogen Taylor, Sapphic Fragments, 2019, acrylic on hessian, 400 x 500mm. Courtesy of the artist and Michael Lett, Auckland

ANDREW BECK Presented by Visions

IMOGEN TAYLOR Presented by Michael Lett

Intersecting photography, sculpture and installation, Wellington-based Andrew Beck’s sleek hard-edged geometries and graduated tonalities subvert modern valorisations of the artist’s hand by camouflaging the physical labour of their production. The process he uses involves creating material stimuli before scanning them into the computer, making transparencies and physically processing them – some over a metre square – in the darkroom. They become analogue expressions of digitality, and the more layers and processes the image undergoes, the greater the mileage from its original representation. This way Beck consciously invokes our current moment in postmodernity, a place of constant rehashing and the refurbishment of old, already-established cultural forms.

At the solo presentation of her work at Art Basel Hong Kong in 2019, she was named as one of “Five Artists to Watch”. Art Basel described her practice as follows: “Culture, taste, and queerness are the subjects of Imogen Taylor’s paintings.

Brought to Art Basel Hong Kong by Auckland gallery Michael Lett, her acrylics on burlap are sprinkled with references, ranging from obvious to delightfully discrete. At first glance, you’d be likely to picture the colourful canvases in a slick mid-century modernist home, so harmonious and smooth are their palette and composition. But like skilled drag kings, the paintings cheekily counteract the idea of conventional ‘tastefulness’ they first appear to embody. By progressively revealing disruptive elements, they create ‘links between the lexicon of modernism and queer theory’ says Andrew Thomas, Partner and Director at Michael Lett.

Protuberances, cigarette butts, and holes of different sorts appear behind Taylor’s controlled lines as sassy suggestions of queerness. Suddenly, one realises that her works would also make sense in an environment more raunchy than a conventional 1960s living room.”- Extract from Five to watch: Tomorrow’s voices come of age at Art Basel Hong Kong.

147

What's On

Highwic Christmas Shop 2-23 Dec Highwic 40 Gillies Avenue, Epsom

Vegan Cooking Class 1-15 Dec Ellen Melville Centre, Cnr High St & Freyberg Place

Explore endless stalls of Christmas decorations, vintage-inspired toys and other gifts, including candles and stationery. You will also find a large selection of hand-picked gifts, stocking fillers, and many more items to get ready for the festive season. Enjoy free on site parking and bring the whole family with you!

Join a vegan cooking class at the Ellen Melville Community Centre and be blown away by the new tricks, tastes, and recipes that you will learn. Hosted by chef Arno Jullien, the world of veganism will be explored, and you will learn how to create fantastic meals in a group setting. Don’t forget a BYO container for delicious leftovers!

Wine, Cheese & Astronomy 2-3 Dec Stardome 670 Manukau Rd. One Tree Hil

For all of the astronomy (and wine) lovers, Stardome has extended the Our Night Sky Show to include a glass of wine and cheese platters for your enjoyment. Learn about the planets, stars and constellations visible in the night sky on the evening of your visit. For a relaxing date night under the stars, or a treat for yourself, come along to this great event.

Hug a Pug Day 6 Dec YMCA North Shore 5 Akoranga Dr. Northcote

For all of the dog lovers, and especially pug lovers, Hug a Pug will fill your day with little canine friends. Hug a Pug has been created this year to raise money for Pet Refuge, which helps give temporary shelter to pets affected by domestic violence and keeping them safe while their owners seek help. Whether you bring your own pug or just want to come along for a hug, you will not be disappointed by the lack of pug time. Pug lovers can buy tickets online or at the door.

Ellerslie Santa Parade 6 Dec Ellerslie Village

WO R D S — NAD IA KL AAS S E N

Now in its 24th year, the Ellerslie Santa Parade is an iconic Christmas that gets the whole family into the Christmas spirit. With over 300 participants and approximately 30 floats and walking groups, the Santa parade is an unmissable event.

Roaring 20s High Tea Saturdays & Sundays Hotel DeBrett

Spend the afternoon back in time with Hotel Debrett’s Roaring 20s High Tea. Guests are invited to experience the glitz, glamour, and delicious treats amongst the art deco surroundings of the hotel in Auckland’s CBD. The hotel’s 1920s inspired high tea menu will appeal to all cake and cocktail lovers, as well as those who love a savoury delight. Think of smoked salmon pinwheels, deviled eggs with crispy prosciutto and a classic prawn cocktail for savoury lovers, and jaffa mousse, and gin and tonic cupcakes for a sweet treat – there is something for everyone to enjoy!

Dress up in your best ‘Flapper and Dapper’ outfits and enjoy going back in time to the 1920s!

Urzila Carlson Live 14 Dec Aotea Centre

With her trademark deadpan humour and cheeky wit, Urzila Carlson is coming back to the Auckland stage this December.

Urzila continues to sell out her seasons in both NZ and Australia, and the awards stack up year after year. Most recently she was awarded the 2019 Rielly Comedy Award by the Variety Artists Club of NZ. Urzila has won the NZ Comedy Guild’s Best Female Comedian award six times, as well as the coveted People’s Choice Award at the NZ International Comedy Festival two years in a row. In 2018 she was a nominee for Australia’s Helpmann Award for Best Comedy Performer, and she took out the 2017 Sydney Comedy Festival’s Director’s Choice Award.

Home Alone in Concert 19 Dec Aotea Centre

Experience a captivating orchestral performance by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, with a score

by John Williams as they perform life alongside the movie Home Alone.

Macaulay Culkin stars as Kevin McCallister, an eight-year-old boy who’s accidentally left behind when his family leaves for their Christmas vacation, and who must defend his home against two bungling thieves.

This is an event for the whole family to sing-along, dance-along or conductalong, and you will be amazed as you will hear Home Alone come to life with the incredible orchestra.

ART & ABOUT

Summer Art Adventures Get outside and enjoy contemporary art in nature. See how well-placed and site-specific artworks draw inspiration from the environment and, in turn, help us better understand our relationship to nature and the places we live.

WO RD S —AIM ÉE R AL F I N I

Michael Parekowhai, Tongue of the Dog, 2016. Courtesy of the artist and MESH Sculpture Hamilton

Brick Bay Sculpture Trail

Connells Bay Sculpture Park

MESH, Hamilton

Near Snells Beach north of Auckland, this ambitious project has turned coastal farmland into an outdoor sculpture trail framed by lakes and native planting. The ever-changing exhibition of around 60 sculptures is sited along an easy 2km trail that takes about an hour to complete. Drifting through the natural amphitheatre of the bush, Brick Bay is also home to the largest outdoor sound work in New Zealand by talented artist and musician Olivia Webb. Make a day of it and check out the celebrated vineyard and café.

Located on a 60-acre coastal property on the eastern side of Waiheke Island, a visit to Connells Bay is a real treat.

Established with the vision of uniting art and nature the sculpture park is known for its sweeps of native trees and thoughtful commissioning of site-specific New Zealand sculpture. Art works by Venice Biennale representatives Dane Mitchell and Michael Parekowhai join over 30 permanent sculptures and a selection of temporary art works. Stay onsite in a secluded 100-year-old beachfront guest cottage. Advance booking essential for sculpture park and cottage.

MESH commissions and gifts sculpture to the city of Kirikiriroa/Hamilton and has produced an impressive four public artworks around the city, and is underway with a fifth. The latest sculpture is by Robert Jahnke who joins Lonnie Hutchinson, Seung Yul Oh, and Michael Parekowhai in creating artworks near the Waikato River or other strategic sites. While you’re visiting the city be sure to see Earth Blanket by Chris Booth and Diggeress Te Kanawa, and Molly Macalister’s Little Bull at the Hamilton Gardens.

BRICKBAY.CO.NZ

CONNELLSBAY.CO.NZ

MESHSCULPTURE.ORG.NZ

DECEMBER 2020

A Magical Escape

Sculptureum Established by Auckland-based owners Anthony and Sandra Grant, Sculptureum currently displays around 650 artworks that have been collected over 20 years.

We asked Anthony about the creation of Sculptureum.

How did the idea for Sculptureum originate?

I wanted to create a place that shows how many forms of art can be fun and interesting. I have found a lot of people are disillusioned with traditional art galleries and want to show them art can enrich their lives in ways they had not realised.

Why is it called Sculptureum?

The name 'Sculptureum' is a blend of two words: 'sculpture' and 'museum'. That is because all but a handful of works on display are three dimensional.

There are also examples of nature as art in exotic birds and huge rabbits, which are much more interesting than most sculptures.

What was important to you when designing Sculptureum?

I wanted to create a diverse experience with different forms of art in different settings. In addition, there are five 'intellectual areas' which display quotes on

different themes: gardens, inspiration, music, art and other things, and the animals. Our two pigs may also feature this summer.

What can visitors expect to see and do?

There are six indoor art galleries and three gardens: The Garden of Creative Diversity, The Palm Garden and The Pink Snail Garden. Each area has a mix of local and international artworks and sculptures. New works keep being added to the collection, with the intention of showing visitors hundreds of different art forms. Guests can enjoy dining at our restaurant Rothko, showcasing art as food, or visit our cellar door to sample a selection of Sculptureum’s own wines, all of which are grown on the property.

What do you hope visitors will take away from Sculptureum?

If people leave thinking that life is a little better for having seen the gardens and galleries, I will be happy.

Anthony’s weekends are usually spent at Sculptureum where he is willing to give background information about the art and assist visitors to gain a fuller understanding of the origin of works and why he has bought them.

A magical escape which will surprise and delight!

Discover art-filled gardens, animals and galleries, alongside a vineyard, cellar door, and restaurant.

A few minutes' drive from Matakana, less than an hour from Auckland city.

Join us this New Year's Eve for a Global Dining Event and Art Experience like no other.

www.sculptureum.nz/whatson VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

151

ART & ABOUT

Emily Wolfe, Vanishing Point

4–27 February 2021

Emily Wolfe, Dismantle, 2020, oil on linen, 1000mm x 800mm. Image courtesy of the artist and Page Galleries.

PAG EG AL L E R IES .C O. N Z

Emily Wolfe’s new series of paintings sees fragmented or discarded objects set against backdrops of old master styled landscape paintings, which themselves have the appearance of having been salvaged from certain ill fate.

Wolfe’s paintings are characteristically enigmatic; her disarming domestic interiors heavy with absence and a pervasive sense of melancholy. The artist perfectly captures the fall of light and shadow, while expertly layering different elements and visual planes to complicate and compound our engagement with the image. Wolfe is highly attuned to the exquisite minutiae of the ordinary. She finds beauty and grace in the worn edges and chipped surfaces of everyday objects; or rather it is through her eyes that these things become anew, freshly endowed with virtuous qualities.

The paintings in this exhibition were made during long periods of isolation, with the artist working away in her home studio, inside an old Victorian house in Oxford, England. Wolfe’s country of residence has been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, with much of the population repeatedly thrown back into lockdown. Vanishing Point, the title for this exhibition, seems to refer not only to that point of perspective convergence within the image, but also to a feeling that many of us can relate to; that sense of reality or purpose or even self that we feel slowly slipping away, as we stay cloistered inside, guarding ourselves against the new dangers of the outside world. Time is rendered at once remarkable and inconsequential, its conventions collapsed in upon itself.

Emily Wolfe’s exhibition Vanishing Point runs 4–27 February 2021 at Page Galleries, 42 Victoria St, Wellington 6011.

15 2

EMILY 4 - 27 WOLFE FEB 2021 VANISHING POINT PAGE GALLERIES

PAGEGALLERIES.CO.NZ

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

INFO@PAGEGALLERIES.CO.NZ

DECEMBER 2020

Here Comes the Sun

Art in the affirmative comes to Parnell Gallery @285 02

01

153 01 Olivier Duhamel, ‘Ariane’, laser cut acrylic, 340 x 520mm 02 Vicky Savage bronze sculpture alongside Anna Stichbury butterfly installations 03 Christian Nicolson, ‘Ena Sharples’, laminated macrocarpa, 500 x 1700mm

From the moment Coronation Street’s Ena Sharples provides a wry welcome at the front door and a flutter of golden butterflies draws visitors further in, a spirit of positivity infuses the summer 2021 exhibition at Parnell Gallery @285.

This satellite show expands the offering of the mothership just a few doors along Parnell Road with a focus on sculpture, original paintings and framed limited edition fine art prints; works that captivate and inspire.

Since its inception in 1976, the gallery has exhibited and supported a diverse stable of New Zealand sculptors, recognising the ability sculpture has to transform a space and the importance of enhancing the interior experience.

To celebrate summer 2021, this special exhibition showcases a dynamic and revolving collection that invites visitors on an imaginative journey and responds with optimism to the future. This is art in the affirmative

03

and includes the enchanting figurine of Waihekebased Olivier Duhamel’s ‘Ariane’ crafted in individual slices of laser-cut orange acrylic, a playful medium that captures the light so that it glows from within.

Also on display are bronzes by renowned artist Vicky Savage whose small-to-medium-scale sculptures are whimsical commentaries on a moment in time. In her latest body of work, Vicky has responded in part to our collective experiences of Covid-19 by creating pieces that express positivity, works that recognise the gravity of circumstance while shining a light on the ways we found balance and looked toward brighter days ahead.

The summer 2021 exhibition at Parnell Gallery @ 285 is now open Wednesday – Sunday weekly until the end of January.

For more information visit parnellgallery.co.nz/ exhibitions.

ART & ABOUT

WONDERFUL WAIHEKE HOUSE TOUR WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021

PRESENTED BY NZ SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

Wonderful Waiheke House Tour. A Unique Waiheke Event.

A stunning day out on Waiheke Island!

Thirty-five minutes into the morning sun by fast ferry, you’ll arrive at beautiful Waiheke Island.

Here stunning beaches, rural backdrops of vineyards and olive groves, and spectacular views into the Hauraki Gulf provide dreamlike locations for this tour of private Waiheke homes.

This highly anticipated annual event has become much loved on Waiheke’s calendar and is always a sell-out.

Homes are located from Onetangi to Oneroa – included are quirky baches, dramatic architecture and wonderful collections of artworks. The Wonderful Waiheke House Tour is a fun and fabulous day out where you can self drive, take the bus tour or opt for a private car and driver option.

A limited number of Waiheke Artisan goodie bags are also available for sale offering delicious treats from the island’s artisan makers. A great memory of the day.

This is a special tour of private homes from cute and quirky to fabulous architecture and amazing views.

This annual event is always a sell-out and a much loved event on the island’s calendar.

Tickets from $95 - $190 per person Save the date and come on over!

Register to purchase tickets at: www.waihekeartgallery.org.nz This event is made possible through the generous support of

At some homes architects or designers are present.

The Waiheke Community Art Gallery is the organiser of this event which sees many return visitors who each year enjoy a new range of houses. “Its a very special day of exploring homes, their art and architecture set against breathtaking coastal views and fascinating gardens. Each home has a unique setting and vibe so its an event that attracts both visitors and locals alike” says gallery director Linda Chalmers.

Small buses are provided by Fullers and Waiheke Executive Transport and the bus option includes a Vineyard Lunch with refreshments.

This event is the gallery’s primary fundraiser, enabling the continuity of its lively exhibition programme and events calendar throughout the year. “Although the gallery attracts more than 60,000 visitors annually, it receives very little institutional funding. We really value the generosity and support of our home owners who agree to open their beautiful houses for the day,” says Linda Chalmers. Central to the event are key sponsors Sotheby’s International Realty, Fullers 360, Waiheke Executive Transport and Waiheke Living along with a dedicated team of volunteers who host the day.

Other generous sponsors include Be My Guest Waiheke and Waiheke Island Wine Tours.

The 2021 event will be held on Wednesday 17th March 2021 and is expected to be another sell-out. Dont miss out on this fabulous event! Register to purchase tickets: waihekeartgallery.org.nz

A YEAR IN AOTEAROA NEW ZEALAND GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR EXHIBITION. Witness the wonder of Aotearoa New Zealand in this raw and unfiltered photographic exhibition.

Look through the lens of some of New Zealand’s top photographers across a range of categories including aerial, landscape, wildlife, society, and photostory. See every detail and experience the powerful display of images at the New Zealand Maritime Museum, then cast your vote in the People’s Choice Award.

NEW ZEALAND MARITIME MUSEUM

ON NOW!

ART & ABOUT

Bookshelf 5 Escapist Reads

Perfect For Your Holiday

Verve's Pick

The Champagne War

By Fiona McIntosh A new blockbuster novel from Fiona McIntosh. In the summer of 1914, Sophie’s husband Jerome heads off to war, leaving her to ensure the forthcoming vintages will be testament to their love and the power of the people of Épernay. While Jerome was sure that he’d be back by Christmas the years drag on and authorities advise that he is missing, considered dead. Sophie battles to keep their vineyard going through the war but a critical sugar shortage forces her to strike a dangerous bargain with an untrustworthy acquaintance… nothing will test her courage more than the news that filters through to her about the fate of her heroic Jerome.

Grown Ups

By Marian Keyes

The Sentinel

By Lee Child

Grown Ups is the brilliant book from bestselling author Marian Keyes. They're a glamorous family, the Caseys, they spend a lot of time together, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, weekends away but they keep even more secrets. When one of the Caseys gets a concussion and those secrets begin to spill everything starts to unravel and every one of the adults finds themselves wondering if it's time― finally ―to grow up?

Jack Reacher’s latest adventure takes him to a sleepy noname town outside Nashville, Tennessee. His plan is to stop for a cup of coffee and move right along. Not going to happen. The town has been shut down due to a cyber attack and at the centre of it is Rusty Rutherford, an average IT guy who knows more than he realises. Reacher might just have to stick around and find out what the hell's gone wrong… and then put it right, like only he can.

Because of You

By Dawn French

The Silence Of Snow

By Eileen Merriman

Because of You is the first novel in five years, it’s the remarkably poignant must-have book for every Dawn French fan. In the same hospital, two very different women give birth to two very similar daughters. Hope leaves with a beautiful baby girl. Anna leaves with empty arms. Seventeen years later, the gods who keep watch over broken-hearted mothers wreak mighty revenge, and the truth starts rolling, terrible and deep, toward them all. The power of mother-love will be tested to its limits.

Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult! This latest novel from Eileen Merriman is a compelling medical drama about facing your demons and finding the strength to carry on, even when it seems that all is lost.

Anaesthetic Fellow Rory McBride is adrift after a routine procedure went horribly wrong and firstyear doctor, Jodi Waterstone, is starting to find the night shifts and impossible workload take its toll.

Both are trying to stay in control of their lives but Rory begins to self-medicate and soon sedatives are not enough. Can Jodi save him from himself?

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

DECEMBER 2020

The paintings of Graham Young explore the familiar, yet often overlooked scenes and found throughout New Zealand.

Coastal baches, boatsheds, barns, and old dairies and villas ďŹ gure prominently in his paintings, taking us on a journey through our landscape. Explore his paintings on his website.

grahamyoungartist.com graham.young.art@gmail.com

157

€† ‡ ­ ‡‡ Œ ˆ  �   �

285 PARNELL RD, PARNELL KIWAART.COM • 09 309 3369

 �

Â?

Â? Â?

 �  ­€ ‚ ƒ ­„ �

 � … � �

Â… Â? Â? Â?

� €† ‡ ­ ‡‡ ˆ  �  ‰ Š � � ‹

Â? Â

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

Tesla To Taranaki

I celebrated my 40th birthday during the first lockdown, while my very good friend David celebrated his 40th during the second. So, when a few weeks back I was offered the use of a Model 3 Tesla for a few days I thought it was the perfect excuse for some very belated boys’ weekend celebrations. Along with our other very good friend Nico we decided to test the 600km-ish range claim and took the Tesla to Taranaki.

Middle age I may be, but most of my tastes are decidedly even older school. Most of my favourite musicians are dead and all my favourite writers most certainly are. I’m not on Facebook, I still prefer books with actual pages, and, as for motoring, give me a clutch and stick shift every day of the week and twice on Sundays. Though I compost, recycle and bicycle whenever I can, my dream car would be a not so-green-toss-up between a ‘60s Ford Mustang and an E-Type Jag (we did say dream). So, although I couldn’t have been more excited—or intrigued—to pop my Tesla cherry, I was also little apprehensive that it might all turn out to be a little bit too bland.

Within seconds of leaving the forecourt, I was smitten.

Pre-departure I was run through the car’s controls and capabilities, feeling utterly overwhelmed and expecting my PhD to arrive later in the post. One of the handiest takeways was learning of Tesla’s ability to estimate how much charge you'll have upon arrival at your pre-programmed destiantion. From Auckland to Taranaki, off a full charge, I should arrive in New Plymouth, it said, with 23 percent battery left, so long as, I was told, I wasn’t too “lead footed” on the ‘gas’. However, when you’re driving something that launches like a rollercoaster, it’s difficult not to enjoy the ride.

With an hour or so to go the battery was down to the low teens and like the astronauts in the movie Apollo 13, the three of us were trying to figure out ways to save power. Nico (who has an actual PhD), dimmed the control screen, David cancelled the karaoke (that’s not even the best feature, but more on those later), and I reluctantly removed some of that lead from my right foot. The onboard computer still reckoned we’d make it with 11 percent to spare but when you’re driving an electric vehicle through what seems like the middle of nowhere, 11 percent feels like a helluva close call. There was plenty of rum and whisky in the boot should we have to spend the night in the wop-wops, but we had little-to-no food or water, and I wondered if David and Nico were also wondering who they would eat first.

We rocked into New Plymouth with 12 percent battery left—high five!

The following day our trio and the Tesla headed into Egmont National Park. I pondered the poetic beauty of navigating a protected paradise in a zero-emissions vehicle; the curling, damp, and often mossy roads approaching Taranaki’s lower slopes made zero difference to the handling which is further enhanced by the lowered centre of gravity thanks to the positioning of the battery underfloor. Nothing has been left to chance in the pursuit of optimum performance and efficiency—even the handles (whose operation take a second or two to figure out) are sunken into the car doors, presumably to further reduce drag. The silhouette is aerodynamic, without the look-

at-my-flash-car-posturing of many of its competitors, 99.9 percent of whom the Model 3 would leave, silently, it its wake. There is a mass of storage space—front and back—while the glorious moonroof is the quite literal icing on the cake.

You can’t be anything but awed by the minimalist beauty of the interior. There are no dials or instrument displays. Everything—even the glove box and fan direction—is controlled via the sizeable iPadlike screen that dominates the dash, aided by a couple of toggles on the steering wheel. Behind the screen and steering wheel, an elegant strip of wood stretches the width of the cabin. The vegan leather seats (heated, of course) offer the support of sportscar bucket ones, combined with the comfort of a saloon’s. Artificial intelligence projects hazards like other vehicles, people, traffic cones and even traffic lights with their actual colour, in real time, and real position, onto the screen. Seriously, you don’t even have to brake as the car does so automatically when you ease off the accelerator (though there is a working brake pedal too).

Lights and wipers are automatic and, as well as the aforementioned karaoke programme, there’s heaps of media options such as Netflix, retro video games and Spotify, as well as navigation and a romantic fireplace setting replete with the crackle of burning logs (for safety reasons, not all are accessible while driving). And, to prove that they really have thought of everything, there’s a joke digital whoopee cushion that enables you to deliver a cacophony of fart sounds to all four corners of the car, or use them in lieu of the indicator noise (a feature clearly aimed at families with young kids, and to amuse middle aged men excited about a weekend away. Come to think of it, it may have played a part in our excessive battery use on the way down). The sound system is loud, crisp and bassy enough to park up in a field and host a your very own rave, and, a bit like KITT from Knight Rider, certain features can be controlled remotely via an app (which also does things like provide updates to eliminate the need to visit a service centre).

Three Model 3 trim levels offer an impressive range of 460-657km (don’t expect to quite reach these on New Zealand’s hilly, winding roads, but they’re not too far off), top speeds of 225-261km/h, and a potential mind-boggling, stomach-dropping acceleration of 0-100km/h in 3.3 seconds—you find yourself deliberately slowing right down just to experience the thrill of speeding up (this likely also affected that battery usage).

Some cars are clearly destined to become classics of the future, but the Tesla feels so ahead of its time that it’s almost terrifying to imagine what the future will be like when this technology is considered a thing of the past. Flying cars? Psychic cars? Teletransportation? So, for now, we’d better just enjoy the drive.

WO R D S — JAM IE C H R ISTIAN D ES PLAC ES

159

It’s A Yes To Yaris

A WOM EN'S VI EW

As a young professional my lifestyle revolves around being out and about in the city – the small and agile Toyota Yaris Hatch proved to be the perfect complement to this. It’s reliable, safe, easy to drive and easy to park.

The Yaris Hatch is available in two powertrain options* – a petrol version and a full hybrid-electric version – I drove the ZR Hybrid. The driving dynamics of this car are impressive – with the switch from petrol to electric and back again so smooth it is hardly noticeable.

Auckland traffic can be frustrating at the best of times, so for me infotainment and connectivity are crucial.

The Yaris Hatch offers easy smartphone integration including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with enhanced voice recognition, a six-speaker sound system and a 7.0-inch touchscreen display.

The chic design of the Yaris Hatch contribute to it’s energetic feel. With high quality materials used throughout the cabin, the ZR has a contrasting grey and black interior with red accents – adding to the sporty, dynamic vibe. The wheel arches are emphasised to enhance the cars lower and squatter stance.

As for safety - all Yaris Hatch variants get the latest Toyota Safety Sense package. Even the entry-level cars get Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and LaneTracing Assist. Other safety features of the Yaris include the Pre-Collision system, and Intersection Turn Assist (which alerts you if someone is on the road you’re about to turn into). The ZR variants also feature Blind Spot Monitor, front and rear parking sensors, and Parking Support Brake.

If you’re in the market for a small car that’s economically priced and offers a zippy and spirit-lifting driving experience, the Toyota Yaris Hatch could be the one for you.

ASHLEE LALA

*Pricing starts at $25,900

Pictured: Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Hatch

Verve experiences the Toyota Yaris Cross and the Toyota Yaris Hatch

The first thing that struck me about the Yaris Cross GX was the price: $29,990*, which for a brand-new car offering as much space and comfort as this car does, is phenomenal.

Apart from the price and the interior spaciousness, other things I loved was the large and easy to read central screen, which boasted an equally fine reversing camera.

As I often use down time in the car to add finishing touches to my makeup, the fact that the visors (above the driver and passenger seat) house a nice sized mirror that lights up, was an important feature for me.

One of the most striking things for me – a relatively simple feature, but really well thought out. The trunk features a ‘take-away floor’ which when removed gives more boot depth, making it easy to pack in and transport those tall items, or simply giving you more space to stack lots of smaller items. A fabulous feature for busy families, and for small business owners when doing deliveries.

Having experienced a large and nasty wet weather car crash earlier this year, safety will now always be my prime consideration when purchasing a car: The Yaris Cross GX has eight airbags, lane tracing assist (the car beeps every time the wheels even touch a white line / lane divider) and autonomous emergency braking.

In our family, having a car that is able to tow is super important, helps with any number of weekend chores and sporting pasttimes. The Yaris Cross GX has a towing ability rated for maximum braked capacity of 1,250kg for the petrol.

The Yaris Cross GX is a fabulous car for a young growing family, and/or busy small business owner.

Equally good in the city and on the open road.

FRAN NINOW

*Pricing starts at $29,990

FROM JUST

$35,990

+ORC*

The new Eclipse Cross is the SUV that says load up the gear and let’s go play. Now with sporty new styling inside and out, Eclipse Cross comes ready for action with a punchy 1.5 litre turbo petrol engine and is available with Super All-Wheel Control in both XLS and VRX models.

New Eclipse Cross is packed with the safety features and driver aids that’ll safely take you to the edge of adventure.

Get your adventure started at a Mitsubishi Motors dealer near you. *Price listed is for XLS 2WD. VRX AWD model pictured and available for $43,990+ORC. Price excludes on road costs of $550 which includes WoF, Registration and a full tank of fuel.

Red Diamond paint colour available for an additional $500. Visit www.mmnz.co.nz for full Diamond Advantage Warranty conditions.

MIT1194

BUSINESS, EDUCATION & SOCIETY

Q&A

Sue, Owner of Bear Park What is Bear Park?

A group of privately-owned early childhood centres that are located within the Auckland area as well as one being located in Dunedin, my hometown.

When and where was it founded?

We opened our first preschool in June 1986 in St Heliers, Auckland and since then have expanded into a group of 11 ECE Centres in total.

16 2 How did you get started in the industry?

Originally a primary school teacher for seven years but realised that the ECE sector of education offered something very special so was drawn to opening our first preschool up catering for 20 children aged 2–5 years of age.

What do you think is the most important thing you provide for children and their development?

The way in which we truly do listen to our children’s ideas and contributions whether these are verbally or non-verbally shared with us, and through this genuine acknowledgement our children’s sense of self is enriched.

We also authentically acknowledge and value the child’s potential and relish the opportunity in enriching and developing this potential further.

What is the curriculum like?

The fusion between Te Whaariki and the influences from the Reggio Emilia Approach enable us to offer an educational programme that is rich in learning possibilities and opportunities. Our curriculum clearly reflects the holistic way that children learn.

What is one of your favourite memories from either a child, parent or staff member at Bear Park?

When you stay quiet and pause and hear what the children may say. For example: ‘The idea from one of our four-year-old girls who was sure that caterpillars had to try flying in a hot air balloon before turning into a butterfly because they may be scared to fly’ or ‘a little one who looks so intently at the huge fern frond that he encounters whilst outside and how he carefully negotiates his way around it whilst trying to understand what this thing maybe’.

It is these types of stories that I hear when visiting a teaching team during planning time that I can get emotional about the amazing skill that these teachers have in identifying the many facets of wonder that they discover and see when working alongside our children.

What qualities do you look for in potential staff?

Genuine, passionate people who are willing to share and to learn together with our children.

How do you prepare children for school?

At Bear Park we nurture the view that children need to be ready intellectually, socially and emotionally for this next step in their life. We do not have a separate specific transition to a school programme, as all the experiences we have on offer within the classroom spaces allow children to engage in a variety of literacy, numeracy, scientific and artistic practices throughout our daily programme. The teachers support these and other curriculum areas throughout the children's current and emerging interests independently.

As teachers, we feel that Bear Park offers a literacy rich environment where children

DECEMBER 2020

At Bear Park we nurture the view that children need to be ready intellectually, socially and emotionally for this next step in their life. We do not have a separate specific transition to a school programme, as all the experiences we have on offer within the classroom spaces allow children to engage in a variety of literacy, numeracy, scientific and artistic practices throughout our daily programme.

163

can engage with a wide variety of texts, media and resources. Literacy is seen as the ability to identify, understand, interpret, create, communicate and compute, using printed and written materials associated with varying contexts, as well as the skill of oral language.

Structured and non-structured provocations can also support the children with early numeracy skills. Number activities which can enhance children’s knowledge of numerate thinking including counting, and recognising visual spatial quantities are integrated into our programme. Sorting, comparing, ordering, patterning and estimating are some of the related concepts which the children explore through the various opportunities on offer.

We endeavour to incorporate these meaningful literacy and numeracy experiences naturally in our indoor and outdoor environments throughout the day.

When it comes to transitioning into a primary school classroom there are some differences.

This change encompasses several different elements in a child’s life including change of relationships, teaching style, environment, space and the learning itself.

This adjustment is an exciting new beginning for children and their families. For us at Bear Park, it is vital to support the child and their families through this phase, therefore communication with parents and schools is paramount and this can be done through many different avenues such as hosting a panel of new entrant teachers meeting with prospective parents of children going to school: actual school visits for the children and parents: hosting a panel of returning school children to share their experiences with their peers who are still attending Bear Park.

Contact 0800 232 772 bearpark.co.nz

May Peri-Guenoun

Miss Asia Pacific International New Zealand 2020

Kia Ora! My name is May Peri-Guenoun and I am the winner of Miss Asia Pacific International New Zealand (MAPI NZ) 2020. I am 26 years old and I graduated university with a double degree in law and psychology, I have also been admitted as a barrister and solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand.

I was originally born in Israel but I moved to New Zealand at the age of nine. My parents are Russian, Ukrainian, Egyptian, French Algerian, and Israeli mix, which explains my unique appearance. I am an only child, but growing up I was always surrounded by my extended family and grandparents.

16 4

Throughout my high school I was heavily involved in co-curriculars ranging from choir, barbershop, Indian dancing, ballroom dancing, Japanese, arts and crafts, and many more. These involvements led me to have an interest in community related events and charities. At university I was involved with the law society and organised social and networking events for the students, whilst also volunteering

at charities like the Breast Cancer Foundation, Canteen, and YouthLaw. I was not aware of what pageants truly involved until I made a friend that had won a pageant in the past and told me of her experience. Learning of the community and charity involvements that pageants had made me consider taking part. I knew that this opportunity of entering MAPI NZ 2020 would take me out of my comfort zone and put me on a platform where I would face challenges, both physical and mental.

But I decided to embrace it and take on these challenges head on, as my mum always told me to grab any opportunity thrown my way as you never know where it will take you.

This journey, as challenging as it was, has taught me skills that will carry me throughout my life and career. Skills such as public speaking, networking, marketing, and so much more. This path has allowed me to grow and feel more empowered and more confident in myself as a person. The organisation has also allowed me to be more greatly

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.

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

Photography: Jeff Velasco

BUSINESS, EDUCATION & SOCIETY

involved in the community by supporting local businesses and charities like the SCOT Foundation, which is providing a brighter future to the less fortunate children here in New Zealand and the Philippines. I will continue the legacy that MAPI NZ national directors have started and hold myself to be worthy of their support and to changing the lives of those that need it.

Advice that I would impart to young women is to not wait around for opportunities or for the right time. When you pursue your goals or dreams start where you are at the current time and work with whatever tools you have. As you move along more opportunities will come and better tools will be available to you. My skills in public speaking were lacking but I am sharpening my tools as I go so that when another opportunity arises, I will be better than yesterday and speak to a large group of people without faltering.

As Oprah Winfrey once said: “You get in life what you have the courage to ask for.�

Think 70 is the new 50.

Just because your hair might be grey, doesn’t mean your life needs to be.

Today’s 70 year olds are the healthiest, strongest, and most mentally agile history has ever known.

So Summerset Retirement Villages are designed for the active lifestyles of the youngest “oldies” there’s ever been.

0800 SUMMER | summerset.co.nz

SUM2636_FP2

Think this sounds like you or someone you love?

BUSINESS, EDUCATION & SOCIETY

A Just Rentals Christmas

Christmas trees, twinkling fairy lights, festive songs and fresh strawberries!

What a great way to end this challenging year. Yes, Christmas is almost here and we have a large tree at the front of the office which sparkles all year but more will certainly be added, along with the Christmas wreaths on doors and gates to make a traditional display.

16 6

How fortunate we are that we can enjoy this festive occasion with no Covid- 19 restrictions. In our homes we can enjoy Christmas with family and friends and visit them wherever they are.

So, let’s put up the lights, the Christmas displays, order the turkey, make the Christmas pudding and dress the fresh pine tree. Let’s put Covid-19 behind us while we celebrate with loved ones and friends.

New Zealand’s top IB school Open day Monday 25 January 2021.

Please email or call to register.

Just Rentals will be showing properties over Christmas and the New Year, so let us help you find your dream property—who knows what the New Year will bring.

So, have yourself a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Just Rentals certainly will be celebrating, we are so lucky to live in New Zealand.

Sylvia Lund AREINZ

ph 09 3094480 | admissions@aic.ac.nz

www.aic.ac.nz

4 0 ST JOH NS R D, MEAD OWBANK JUSTR ENTAL S.C O. NZ 0 9 5 2 8 4 8 1 9 OR 0 2 1 4 8 7 0 5 5 0 JUSTR ENTAL S@XTR A .C O. NZ

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

DECEMBER 2020

Remuera Veterinary Hospital

A well established, NZ family owned business that has been in operation for 30 years and has recently moved location from Victoria Avenue to Orakei Bay Village.

The veterinary team Mark, Elena & Rachel with support from their nursing team welcome you to visit the new site.

Mention seeing this article in Verve at Remuera Veterinary Hospital to receive a special offer!

The purpose-built facility offers a full veterinary service including in-house laboratory, x-ray surgery and dentistry.

A small cattery service is available as well as puppy socialisation sessions.

Within the reception and waiting room area a wide selection of pet diets, flea and worm treatments, collars, leads and toys are stocked. The friendly clinic team can offer advice on the most suitable items for your pet.

Free car parking is available at Orakei Bay Village where the Remuera Veterinary Hospital is surrounded by retail shops and restaurants with fabulous views of the city and harbour.

Pets are welcome at all stores within the village!

The clinic team welcome existing and new clients to visit seven days a week and there are opening offers throughout December and January when you mention this article: • for any new pet owners registering at Remuera Veterinary Hospital you can receive 20% off professional services for your first visit. • a free worming treatment for the first 100 pet owners

228 Orakei Rd, Orakei Bay Village | 09 529 2091 vethospital.co.nz/vet-clinics/remuera-veterinary-hospital remuera@vethospital.co.nz facebook.com/RemueraVeterinaryHospital

CLINIC HOURS: Mon-Thurs 8am-6.30pm Fri 8am-6pm | Sat-Sun 9am-5pm

167

PETS

Hibiscus Coast Vet Clinic

Summer Is Here!

WO RD S―DR D E BO RAH SAMS O N

We have all heard "slip, slop, slap and wrap" but it is important to also be aware that our pets have similar risks from the sun. October to March are the highest risk months. The risk of sunburn and skin cancer applies to all pets that spend any time in the sun. The risk is significantly greater to those pets that have areas of unpigmented (white or pink) skin or a short or thin coat. There are multiple pet sunscreens available It is best to limit your pet’s sun exposure. Encourage them into the house or to shady areas between 10am and 4pm in the high risk months. If you are unable to supervise them, provide access to shaded areas while you are out.

With summer comes warm days. Leaving your dog in the car (even with the windows partly down) is a risk.

Dogs quickly suffer and die in hot cars. If you leave a dog in a hot car and it becomes heat stressed, you and the owner of the vehicle can be fined $300.

70B GRAND DRIVE, OREWA / 09 421 0118

Dog paws are just as sensitive to burning hot surfaces as our bare feet. A simple test is to check the footpath with the back of your hand. Follow the seven-second rule and check the surface for heat before you leave the house. This also applies to sand at the beach.

Even better is keep to natural grass surfaces. Ideally walk early in the morning or late in the evening when surfaces are cooler.

EXCELLENCE IN VETERINARY CARE FROM POOCH TO GIANT DOG CAT FRIENDLY CLINIC

(GOLD CERTIFIED BY THE ISFM)

1 9 9 M A I N H I G H WAY, E L L E R S L I E • 0 9 2 8 1 3 4 8 1 • E L L E R S L I E V E T E R I N A R YC L I N I C . N Z VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

The Strand Vet

Buy little and local—healthy, green and ethically NZ made products. Sustainability is important for pets. At The Strand Vet you can recycle your treat packaging. Be sure to support your local independent vet and our pet industry peeps this Christmas.

Christmas Pop Up Shop

01

02

03

04

01

02

03

04

THE FUR LOVE Pamper your pooch this Christmas with New Zealand’s first luxury skin and coat care line designed especially with your furry friend in mind. developed

by NZ’s General Surgeon Dr Ineke Meredith and her team of dog lovers, the Fur Love range is natural and locally made. Better yet, go visit the Fur Love Popup Store this December in the heart of Ponsonby. thefurlove.com 170 Ponsonby Road @thefurlove

THE LIFE OF RILEY Luxurious NZ wool filled dog beds and bed time accessories handmade locally in Auckland.

Available in a range of neutral colours to match your home decor. Wool is naturally warm in winter and cool in summer. lifeofriley.co.nz 027 364 9469

MR SOFT TOP Mr Soft Top’s New Zealand made dog clothing and accessories are worn by pups around the world. From woollen tees and coats to summer rash shirts, collars, leads, bandanas and beds there is something for all pampered pooches. mrsofttop.com 021 419 888

MOOSE & CAMEL Here at Moose & Camel, we use natural materials like cotton, linen and as little plastic as possible to reduce our impact on the environment.

All of these materials have the ability to break down over time in a compost bin (and even landfills), not over thousands of years like synthetic fibers. mooseandcamel.com

1 Kenwyn St (next door to The Paddington) • 09 377 6667 thestrand vet.co.nz • thegirls@thestrandvet.co.nz

MARKETPLACE

17 0

BAYSIDE RENTALS

C O RP O RATE CABS

H O M E I D E AS

Property management and rentals in the Bays with over 25 years' experience.

Contact Sue for expert advice about your property or tenants.

Corporate Cabs is New Zealand's leading taxi company and has been operating in New Zealand for more than 25 years.

Whether you are building a new home, renovating an existing home, decorating or just shopping for ideas then Home Ideas is the place to get inspired.

11A ST HELIERS BAY RD, ST HELIERS 027 4 9 0 8 2 6 4 / 0 9 575 9887 SUE@BAYSIDERENTAL S.C O. N Z BAYSIDERENTALS.C O. N Z

09 377 07 7 3

IE PRO DUCE

L A FO U RC H ET TE

BIO GROW CERTIFIED since 2000. Your wellness store. Passionate about all things organic. Shop online or on site.

Enjoy authentic French pastries and bistro meals at La Fourchette. We are close to the beach and are family-friendly.

1 BARRYS P O INT RD, TAK AP U NA 09 48 8 0 2 1 1 IEP RO DUCE.C O M

8C TU RUA ST, ST H E L I ER S 09 215 83 3 2 L AF O U RC H ET TE.C O. NZ

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

1 6 5 TH E STR AND, PAR NEL L H O M E I D E AS .C O. NZ

O RO NEG RO Contemporary New Zealand jewellery and greenstone design.

SAM OA H O U S E ARCAD E S H O P 2 , 2 8 3 K AR ANG AHAP E RD, NEW TO N 09 309 2202

DECEMBER 2020

V E R V E

SIMPLY WO NDERFU L

TI ME O UT BO O KSTO R E

VE RVE CAFÉ

Stunning ladies fashion in Auckland. Find your new go-to items at Simply Wonderful.

An independent bookstore with an independent spirit, since 1988. Time Out is a community hub and haven for bibliophiles. If we can't find you the perfect book on our shelves, we'll order something in just for you.

Remarkable breakfasts and brunches.

Sunny deck or indoor dining. All food made on the premises. Amazing coffee. We also have a children's menu.

B IRKENHEAD : 0 9 480 1501 EP S O M : 0 9 6 3 0 0 084 SIMPLYWONDERFULCLOTHES.CO.NZ

432 MT ED EN R D, MT E D EN 09 630 3 3 3 1 TI MEO UT.C O. NZ

paintedbirdnz

171

FAMILY

A carefully curated collection of bespoke handpicked European Vintage Clothing

164 Kitchener Rd, Milford shop online now www.paintedbird.nz

3 1 1 PAR NE L L R D, PAR NEL L 09 379 2860 O P EN 7 DAYS TIL L 5 P M

PLAT TERS

ORDER ONLINE

stpierres.online

paintedbirdnz

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

MARKETPLACE

The home of fine film in Newmarket.

See session times at rialto.co.nz.

WALLAC EC OTTON.C OM

17 2

m Transrfsorelf You

STONEFIELDS

with

MENTION THIS AD AND GET ONE WEEK FREE ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP* T & C ’ S A P P LY

SIGNATURE STYLE

New Zealand’s foremost personal image and styling consultancy, for that little bit of wardrobe magic.

Look your best – call us NOW! 09 529 5115 info@signaturestyle.co.nz 330 Parnell Rd, Parnell

SHOP 11, 40 STONEFIELDS AVE,STONEFIELDS, AUCKLAND STONEFIELDS@FLEXFITNESSGYM.CO.NZ | 09 218 8197

JUSTRENTALS.CO.NZ The friendly team specialising in home rentals and property management.

B R I D G E WAY

C INEMAS

Auckland’s best and most vibrant arthouse cinemas

122 Queen St, Northcote Point, Auckland www.bridgeway.co.nz

40 ST JOHNS RD, MEADOWBANK / 09 528 4818 027 487 0550 / JUSTRENTALS@XTRA.CO.NZ

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

DECEMBER 2020

Help keep our essential nurse advice line open this Christmas Give the gift of support to Kiwis affected by breast cancer

Westpac Rescue Rashies Gift your loved ones a Rescue Rashie and put CPR instructions where they are needed most – Westpac will donate $15 from each purchase to the Westpac Rescue Choppers. westpac.co.nz/rescuerashie

“I wouldn’t have been able to get through breast cancer without support” - Tash, diagnosed at age 23

DONATE NOW www.bcf.org.nz/christmas 173

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!

For bookings or to discuss private functions please contact us on: 09 815 6636 506 Pt Chevalier Rd, Auckland ptchevbeachcafe.co.nz

VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

Win with Verve

03 Nokia 3.4 Phone

Imogen Taylor, Whip, 2019, watercolour on paper, 610 x 430mm. Courtesy of the artist and Michael Lett, Auckland

01 Auckland Art Fair Opening Night Auckland Art Fair’s Opening Night is your chance to mingle with collectors, gallerists, curators and artists. Don’t miss the first ever summer edition of New Zealand’s premier showcase for contemporary art, taking place from 24-28 February 2021 at The Cloud. Purchase tickets before midnight 24 December using the code VERVE to access special pricing. artfair.co.nz Up for grabs — Double pass to the Auckland Art Fair Opening Night

02 AncestryDNA Kits This Christmas, Ancestry.com.au can help you give the gift of family connection, at a time when you may not be able to see your loved ones in person. The AncestryDNA® Kit ($89+shipping) is a meaningful gift that will help the curious family member discover where they come from, and learn more about their ancestors’ journeys that paved the way to who they are now. ancestry.com.au Up for grabs — 2x AncestryDNA Kits

The Nokia 3.4 combines reliability, premium design and the best of Android in a durable package that’s true to its Finnish roots. Plus it can help you and your family set healthy habits with Family Link integrated, to help guide your kids as they learn, play and explore.

The Nokia 3.4 key features include: • The first device in its series with punch-hole display front camera • A strong performance upgrade at an accessible price point with the newest Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 460 Mobile Platform • Signature two-day battery life, supported by Adaptive Battery technology • Impressive 6.39” HD+ screen • Shipping with Android promise of three years of security updates and two years of software updates Up for grabs — A Nokia 3.4 phone.

04 Karl Maughan Karl Maughan, edited by Hannah Valentine and Gabriella Stead, Auckland University Press, RRP79.99. Karl Maughan is not only the bestknown garden painter in New Zealand – he is one of the most successful in the world. This lush and stunning book is the first dedicated solely to the work of Karl Maughan.

Up for grabs — Karl Maughan, edited by Hannah Valentine and Gabriella Stead, Auckland University Press, $79.99.

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.

05 A Promised Land A Promised Land, the highly anticipated first volume of his presidential memoirs, Obama tells the story of his improbable odyssey from a young man searching for his identity to leader of the free world, describing in strikingly intimate detail both his political education and the landmark moments of the first term of his historic presidency—a time of dramatic transformation and turmoil.

Up for grabs — A copy of A Promised Land, The Presidential Memoirs, Volume One by Barack Obama.

05

06 Lovehoney Gift Voucher With a Lovehoney Gift Voucher they'll get something they really want! Sending a Lovehoney gift voucher is really easy and there's a live preview before checkout, so you are in total control of exactly what you are sending. As soon as you have checked out, the recipient will get an email telling them they have received a gift voucher.

Lovehoney gift vouchers expire 12 months after purchase. lovehoney.co.nz Up for grabs — A $200 Lovehoney Gift Voucher.

07 Brickman Awesome: Epic LEGO® Creations

Calling all LEGO® fans! Don’t miss your chance to see the tallest LEGO® model in the Southern Hemisphere – a 7.5m NASA SLS rocket, a lifesized Harley Davidson, a 2.5m orca and more!

09 09 Louise Douglas Sterling Silver Siffuser Necklace

Scented Elements—Diffuser Collection by Louise Douglas Jewellery. Enjoy the healing properties of nature's pure essence diffused in a modern, eye-catching necklace. The perfect keepsake gift this season.

Up for grabs — A Louise Douglas Sterling Silver Diffuser Necklace valued at $210.00 plus the full collection of Louise Douglas's Four Essential Oil Blends valued at $55.

On now until 28 February 2021 at Auckland Museum, Brickman Awesome: Epic LEGO® Creations is the latest exhibition from Ryan ‘The Brickman’ McNaught. Purchase tickets at aucklandmuseum.com.

Up for grabs — A double pass to the Brickman Awesome: Epic LEGO® Creations.

08 Miele Triflex HX1 So flexible, so powerful, so fast. Introducing Miele’s first cordless stick vacuum, the Triflex HX1. Blending three incredible vacuum innovations in one, the Triflex HX1 allows more flexibility than ever before, providing a faster, deeper clean on every surface within your home. mieleexperience.co.nz/triflex Up for grabs — A Miele Triflex HX1 vacuum.

10 MEO Family Pack Facemasks Protect your family in style this summer with MEO’s reusable face masks – made in New Zealand and designed to reduce the build-up of moisture for maximum comfort. Each family pack includes: 1x MEO x Trilogy Clean Air Clean Skin Maskne Pack, 1x large and 2x kids MEO Lite face masks. meoair.com Up for grabs — 5x MEO Facemask Family packs.

HOROSCOPES

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

Sagittarius

Aries

Leo

This month points to a more private period for your love life or affections. It can also point to benefits to working behind the scenes or special enjoyment of solitude and periods for extra rest and healing. The last week of the month finds you seeking out predictability, comfort and security, launching one of the best periods of the year for money matters.

Your appeal is high, and people thoroughly enjoy your art, craft, or ideas.

It’s a natural time for you to reflect and move a little more slowly than usual.

This allows you to catch up emotionally with recent events and circumstances.

There can be a tendency for you or a partner to be touchy or for arguments to emerge seemingly out of nowhere.

You tend to want to set your own pace and goals, and you thrive on the small challenges you create for yourself now. You have an easier time putting something behind you now. The second half of the month in personal relationships will have more smooth and steady flow - there will be peace in the family and spousal relationships will witness the long-awaited passion and romance.

22 November -21 December

21 March – 19 April

23 July – 22 August

Capricorn

Taurus

Virgo

You’re likely to feel in an exceptionally generous and possibly philosophical mood. This is an opportunity period for finances, gifts, bonuses, family relationships, recognition for your work or natural talents, and stellar moneymaking or project ideas with longterm appeal and profitability. This is a beautiful time for learning or expanding a project, as well as activities related to promotion, publishing, education, communications, the law, and travel.

You’re at your best when you work with someone towards a common goal.

The best way to use this energy to your advantage is to allow others to inspire and motivate you. Team up and take action so that excess energy is turned outwards.

Sharing your feelings or intimate matters can be fun and rewarding. This is a time of love, family travels and joint holiday with loved ones.

Ownership, sharing, power, and money matters can be at the root of challenges or the need to make changes becomes evident. You need to accept that change is inevitable and understand that being proactive about it is in your best interests. There can also be bigger emotions felt at home than elsewhere – tempers may be prominent. The trick is to avoid impatience and impulsiveness.

22 December – 19 January

20 April – 20 May

23 August – 22 September

Aquarius

Gemini

Libra

Your ambitions are stimulated. While you have a strong sense of the rules, you are at your best when employing strategies. Negotiations should go very well. You might benefit from keeping someone’s confidence or you may receive recognition for work you’ve done in the past. Healing activities are in focus. New ideas flow well. This can also be an almost magical time for financial and business matters.

A major focus this month is your relationships, companionability, and intimacy. Even so, it’s one of your more ambitious months of the year. You often fare better when the focus is on your projects, loved ones, and work. There is also a pleasant feeling of moving forward, slowly but surely, this month.

You are likely to end this month with a renewed feeling of confidence in your career direction.

Romance and travel are favoured in December, although both are better after mid-month. Your romantic life continues to stimulate and challenge you, and although part of you might long for a more settled and stable situation, it’s never dull. The month will be more loyal, have a smooth flow, and most miraculously smooth out any roughness in a relationship and extinguishes any conflict.

Pisces

Cancer

Scorpio

This month finds you seeking out predictability, comfort, and security for money matters. A good idea can blossom now. You are capable of quite a bit of work if you can foresee an improved financial position or a more secure state of being. This period could also stir up old financial or relationship problems.

The tendency now is to react quickly, but you might want to get in touch with your heart’s desire before taking action.

You may want to rule the roost now, and this can be successful as long as you’re a gentle leader. You’ll do best if you pursue your goals in a structured or organised manner. You are finding new ways to get along with others, and people are valuing your services. This is a good time to get your feelings out into the open.

It’s a time for seeing yourself better through relationships with others and the world as a whole. Changes of plans can lead to new discoveries, perspectives, and insight that truly improve your life, so don’t dig in your heels too much. This is also a time when you’re not particularly content with simply dreaming, wishing, and hoping for better circumstances.

20 January – 18 February

19 February – 20 March

manish@manishastrologer.com

21 May – 20 June

21 June – 22 July

23 September – 22 October

23 October – 21 November

Come instore to see our great range of festive colour for your home and garden, plus gift ideas for the whole family.

the gift of choice

GIFT VOUCHERS Great for any keen green thumb, let them choose their perfect gift.

8 STORES AUCKLAND-WIDE 0800 PLANTS

stunning

LIVING GIFTS

Give an eco-friendly living gift, beautifully wrapped and ready to go!

inspirational

GIFT IDEAS

Shop our new range of gardening gifts, plus FREE gift wrapping instore.

SHOP ONLINE 24/7 KINGS.CO.NZ

CREATING SPACE FOR WONDER AND CURIOSITY It has been said that the environment should act as a kind of aquarium which reflects the ideas, attitudes and lifestyle of the people who live in it. – LORIS MALAGUZZI At Bear Park, we work hard to create beautiful spaces that enable children to explore, discover, and engage with rich materials.

Our learning environments are open invitations for children to participate in exchanges, engage

0800 232 772 www.BEARPARK.co.nz

in authentic learning, and imagine endless possibilities.

At Bear Park, imagination and discovery go hand in hand.

There is no better place to get the right start.