Verve. February 2021. Issue 172.

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WHAT'S INSIDE

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FASHION 13 The Whole World In Her Hands 18 The Sophisticated Edit 21 Albert Cho HOME & DESIGN 32 Limited Edition 40 Mark & Antonia: Our Story ART & ABOUT 50 The Art of February 56 Out of Towners at The Art Fair

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS 66 Claire Chitham 72 New Year, New You 86 Hope and Bravery: Dealing with Addiction FOOD & WINE 96 Monday Morning Cooking Club 106 Recipe: Two Raw Sisters, Sea Salt Dark Chocolate + Tahini Torte WIN 128 Win with Verve

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King’s School

Open Days 9-11 march 9.00am Register at kings.school.nz Accepting applications for 2023

FOCUSED ON BOYS vervemagazine.co.nz

UP FRONT

Important message if you are planning to paint a multi-million dollar home in Auckland.

Don’t spend a single dollar until you read our free report The Insider’s Guide to Painting A Multi-Million Dollar Home in Auckland.

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

In This Guide You Will Learn: • Why the first step in your painting job is to

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ken Khun

identify your I.O. (And why this is so important) • The three expensive mistakes to avoid when

SOCIAL MEDIA Ashlee Lala

painting a multi-million dollar Auckland home •

How

to

quickly

tell

which

painting

CONTRIBUTORS Manish Kumar Arora, Paris Mitchell Temple, Aimée Ralfini, Jackie O’Fee, Nicole Healy, Nadia Klaassen

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS online@vervemagazine.co.nz

you receive • How to future proof your painting investment

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

so it lasts at least 25% longer • A simple technique for identifying a common painting problem that 63% of multi-million

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

dollar homes have

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

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

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Ashlee Lala: ashlee@vervemagazine.co.nz Fran Ninow: fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Jude Mitchell: jude@vervemagazine.co.nz Pam Brown: pambrown@xtra.co.nz COVER IMAGE Lightworx Gallery lightworxgallery.co.nz

GOLD WINNER OF 2019 MASTER PAINTER OF THE YEAR

VERVE MAGAZINE is published monthly (except in January) and has an estimated readership of 60,000. It is a free lifestyle magazine delivered to selected homes, cafés and businesses in Devonport, Epsom, Herne Bay, Kohimarama, Meadowbank, Mission Bay, Newmarket, Parnell, Remuera, St Mary’s Bay and Takapuna. Verve Magazine is placed in magazine stands for free collection from locations in Auckland City, Devonport, Epsom, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay, Mairangi Bay, Milford, Mission Bay, Newmarket, Parnell, Ponsonby, Remuera, St. Heliers, Stonefields and Takapuna. Visit vervemagazine.co.nz for exact locations these magazine stands. Verve is also available from all popular cafés in its main distribution areas as well as in ebook format. Visit vervemagazine. co.nz to sign up for your free monthly ebook. Verve is printed by Ovato. It is distributed by Ovato, Admail and Mailchimp.

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Congratulations Class of 2020!

For academic excellence in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and NCEA From left: Victoria Deschamps, Kunli Zhang, Jessica Liu and Will Smith.

2020 results are out and once again, we couldn’t be prouder of our students’ achievements.

Middle and Senior YEAR 11-13 School

Limited Places AVAILABLE FOR 2021

Featured above, Kunli Zhang achieved a perfect IB Diploma score of 45 out of 45, placing him quite literally among the top candidates in the world. Jessica Liu followed closely on 44, and Victoria Deschamps, along with five other Kristin students, all achieved a score of 43 or above. Will Smith was our 2020 NCEA Dux and achieved Level 3 with Excellence.

27% of our IB Diploma candidates gained scores of 40+, qualifying them as NZ IB Top Scholars.

96% of Kristin’s NCEA Level 2 and 3 students passed, with 65% endorsed with Merit or Excellence.

To take a tour or apply, visit www.kristin.school.nz or call 09 415 9566.

WAWATA ESTATE Rare Waiheke Island sanctuary offers discerning buyers best of the best

Chris Jacobs is a new breed of developer.

This Waiheke resident and businessman believes in going beyond the resource consents to ensure the sanctity of the natural environment is not just respected, but also enhanced.

He has transformed a 38-hectare block of rolling farmland on Waiheke Island into the idyllic park-like Wawata Estate where there are 25 residential sites available.

Wawata is a Māori word Chris chose for its meaning: to desire earnestly, long for, yearn for, daydream, to aspire.

Sitting high on the Thompson’s Point Ridge between two of Waiheke Island’s best beaches, the exclusive residential Wawata Estate development honours the seascape, the contours of this northwest facing land and the native flora and fauna that abound in the area.

The golden sands and tantalising waters of Palm Beach are just a short walk or drive down the hill. Onetangi Beach — the more expansive of the two and one of the island’s culinary enclaves — is just minutes’ drive away.

Chris says: “From the outset, my goal at Wawata has been to create one of the finest developments in New Zealand, with a commitment to unprecedented quality and detail in every aspect of the estate.”

On Waiheke Island, where such prime coastal property, and even developed homes, are in scarce supply, the sites range in size from 3,000sqm to 3 hectares (7.5 acres). Prices start from $1,950,000 with the majority of the first few sales being between $2—$3 millon.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a family home for future generations,” Chris says. “Wawata Estate is an ultra highend gated establishment – pristine natural parkland of 38 hectares with 25 homes.”

The views are unparalleled, spanning more than 180 degrees across the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf – from Rangitoto in the west, over landmark islands to glimpses of Coromandel Peninsula in the east. The layout, size and shape of each residential site has been designed in response to the landscape, archaeological features, views, ecology and neighbouring properties.

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The gates of Wawata Estate are open each day for you to visit this amazing development and choose your dream site. For a personalised tour, contact: Matthew Smith Ray White Waiheke 021 924 435 matthew.smith @raywhite.com wawataestate.co.nz House sites occupy just 15 percent of the total land area. Private walkways have been developed for residents. A thoughtfully designed 3.5-kilometre trail through native bush and alongside wetland habitats within the estate has been established for the exclusive use of residents. The track connects to public walkways leading to nearby Palm Beach, and beyond.

Chris and his team have taken every care to re-establish the environment of the land, planting 300,000 native trees and plants mānuka , kānuka, flaxes, sedges, kowhai and puriri to name a few. New pōhutukawa trees have also been welcomed, joining those already in residence – ancient gentle giants, that stand guard over this special place.

“It is really important to me personally and to every member of my development team that Wawata Estate is completely at home with Waiheke Island and the Hauraki Gulf,” he says.

“We have used locally sourced stone for the entranceways and sculptures by Waiheke artists enhance the natural beauty of the Waiheke landscape.

“In essence, we have created a peaceful sanctuary that invites wildlife and provides privacy and seclusion – for them as well as humans.”

Acknowledging the importance of water supply on Waiheke, Wawata has its own bore to ensure residents a backup supply to the house tank catchment.

“Wawata Estate is designed to give homeowners peace of mind and the best of

semi-rural island living, but without the cares that normally come with a lifestyle block,” Chris says.

“This is where residents can immerse themselves in the relaxing Waiheke Island lifestyle where we have award-winning restaurants and vineyards; beautiful beaches; leisure activities like walking, mountain biking, shopping and beauty spas; and watersports like yachting and kayaking.”

He says Wawata Estate is ideal for people who are retired or semi-retired, or who work from home, or who wish for a sanctuary for themselves and the next generations of their families.

“Importantly, for anyone keen to connect with all that Auckland city offers, in terms of jobs, shopping, entertainment and other activities, the trip across the bay is an enjoyable one – and at 30-40 minutes a pretty speedy one, no opportunity for road rage here!”

Waiheke Island is serviced by Fullers ferry service, operating out of Auckland’s downtown, as well as from Devonport on the North Shore. This arrives at Matiatia, 10 minutes from Wawata. There is also a vehicle ferry, with passenger facilities, operating between Howick’s Half Moon Bay or Wynard Quarter and Kennedy Point, eight minutes from Wawata.

And, as a special gift for Wawata buyers, Chris presents them with a VIP Wine Club membership at award-winning Tantalus Estate Vineyard, one of the finest vineyards on Waiheke – a fitting way for them to toast one of the best decisions they have ever made.

wawataestate.co.nz

“My goal at Wawata has been to create one of the finest developments in New Zealand,” says Chris Jacobs.

Waiheke Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)

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Fran

Jude

2021 and we welcome you to the latest issue of Verve, an amazing and eclectic collection of life and style. We can’t wait to share our journey with you, as we navigate another interesting year of decreased air traffic and flow across our borders, stalled cities, and other Covid challenges.

A beautiful story written by Joan Donaldson – my sister.

Q. What is a New Year's resolution?

A. Something that goes in one year and out the other!

Jokes aside – did you make any? I didn’t – but spurred on by something that happened last week, mine is now a work in progress. I could not help but be impressed when a motivated work colleague shared her goals with us. The simple act of writing them down then sharing them made them more real for her and for us, and will, I have no doubt, form a solid foundation to her year.

So what am I putting on my (Verve) vision board? Well, as I mentioned, it is still a work in progress… but something of which I am certain, is that in everything we do this year, I would like Verve in one way or another to spark joy amongst our readers, our advertising clients and all who work with us in putting our magazine together.

Which brings me to our latest edition, filled with inspirational pieces on women like Claire Chitham, Dame Denise L'EstrangeCorbet, Francis Valintine, and Jennifer Ward Lleyland. Energetic bursts of texture and colour as seen in our beautiful home and on our fabulous fashion pages, as well as some serious beauty and health tips. Our February issue adds up to a fabulous weekend chill pill.

If you love Verve and want to be kept in the Verve loop, why not become a subscriber or sign up to our weekly newsletters, Verve Weekly. We are also on Instagram and Facebook, @vervemagazine. As ever you can reach me at fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Cheers and thank you for your support.

Fran x

If autumn were a fruit, I’d call it a persimmon … with its smooth orange orbs that hang like lanterns to illuminate our way.

Autumn, to me, is all about the changing light… the way it fades and falls and finds hidden corners of the room. Sometimes I find myself standing still in a shaft of light as it lowers and rests on the smooth kitchen floor, reminding me that the wheel has turned and this poignant time of year is with us, yet again. So many songs and sonnets have been written about this season of nostalgia, reminding us that life is ready to draw into itself, to be held firm and seek deep nourishment from the earth.

It’s also about memory… my thoughts are of lost loves and people who have moved through the seasons of my life… connections that once held substance… now faded like shad-ows into the past. So here am I, in the autumn of my life, amidst the magic of bush and stream, and I’ve forgotten how to write!

To quote a friend of my generation… “The only thing that interests me now, is something I have no vocabulary for, or perhaps …. that I don’t have enough self to express. This is partly… a matter of age, but it feels quite appropriate”.

And indeed, the self does begin to lose its power. Its grip on the past loosens and like a sudden gear change, it slips without warning into neutral and appears to be quite content in its new persona.

Over the past few months, I’ve scarcely read or created anything grand… apart from a garden. However, I do feel a growing need to dust down and hang portraits of my ancestors on the kitchen wall, slot them in amongst the paintings of roses and settle them into the heart of the house where they belong.

Yet, other priorities have arisen, mostly in the form of small children who knock on our door at daybreak and of course, are always welcomed in. The first request is always “tell me a story” so we snuggle and tell it together (the child and me) make it up as we go along, hold hands when it gets scary, and allow our combined imaginations to take flight as we journey together through light years and galaxies to lands far away. These grand epic tales were what held and moved us through the surreal weeks of lockdown, often with an edge of the unknown, because none of us knew where that journey would end.

So, for me right now, it’s not about pen and paper, it’s about memory and voice and passing on the joys and thrills of oral storytelling.

When all is said and done, it is the voice that is remembered.

Editors' Notes

And one autumn day, should time allow, I’d like create a pathway to my kitchen with its wall of roses and ancestors, and line this path with noble persimmon trees to illuminate my way.

Jude xx

FEBRUARY 2020

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The Whole World In Her Hands Words — Jamie Christian Desplaces Photography — Garth Badger

Three decades before she became a Dame, Denise L’Estrange-Corbet co-founded WORLD fashion label, with Francis Hooper, with just four hundred bucks to their names. Since its 1989 inception, the label has become one of Aotearoa’s most iconic brands, gracing catwalks across continents and the first ever fashion company to be endorsed by the United Nations. Dame Denise’s philanthropic philosophies have also seen her be made Ambassador for the Diabetes Foundation Auckland and the IHC Art Awards, while also lending her support to the likes of The Starship Foundation and the Leukaemia and Blood Cancer Foundation, among many more.

FASHION

“WORLD is the most philanthropic fashion brand in New Zealand, and we have supported charities from day one— before it became fashionable to do so,” she says. “I have been doing it since school—I remember standing at Victoria Station in London collecting signatures to stop the culling of baby seals and sent the petition to Margaret Thatcher. My philosophy is that if one person did just one good thing for someone and left the world a better place than when they arrived, then how wonderful would that be? You can’t just throw money at charities, if you want to do something, you make time; if you don’t, you make excuses.”

While still a toddler, in 1963, the designer-to-be and her sister were whisked to London by their mother to escape the clutches of their abusive, alcoholic father.

“I went from a very white, idyllic, middle-class upbringing in Remuera, to abject poverty in the UK,” recalls Dame Denise.

“After we sailed there, I never saw my father again, which broke me into unimaginable pieces. I felt I lost my childhood, having to grow up so quickly and take on responsibilities none of my friends had. Being from a solo parent family was very rare in those days, so I do take my hat off to my mother for her doing this, but we went from the pan into the fire—and what a fire it was. My upbringing has left me with triumphs and scars that will stay with me forever.”

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How was your relationship with your mother?

“Our relationship is all or nothing—we speak, or we don’t speak for years on end. She has done things that I can never condone, and I have never held back in telling her this. I know a lot of this is because her mother was so twisted. Aged five, my mother and her four siblings were sent to a boarding school a million miles from home in the mountains in India, and didn’t return until they were 18. My grandmother did not even know how to hug a child, or even come up with a comforting word for her children or grandchildren. She was the devil.”

The designer talks fondly of a childhood teacher called Mrs Charlton who “looked like the Queen” with her “twin set and quaffed hair”.

“My philosophy is that if one person did just one good thing for someone and left the world a better place than when they arrived, then how wonderful would that be? You can’t just throw money at charities, if you want to do something, you make time; if you don’t, you make excuses.”

“She smelt beautiful and was so strict, but I loved her,” continues Dame Denise. “She wore a cut crystal necklace that radiated prisms across her neck, which I loved to watch. She taught me the love the written word and her encouragement of me was incredible.”

Most importantly, Mrs Charlton told the young girl’s mother that she was “very clever”, praise she had never received before, especially not from her grandmother who “said that I was stupid”.

vervemagazine.co.nz

FEBRUARY 2020

“You cannot fight nature! It is bigger than all of us, no matter how important or intelligent some us think we are. Mother Nature has given us a very short, sharp reminder of who is boss, and how we have to respect, not abuse, what we have.”

With such a traumatic upbringing, it’s little wonder that Dame Denise felt compelled to shine a light on issues surrounding mental health (she is also Ambassador for the Mental Health Foundation); I ask if she personally follows any kind of wellbeing routine.

“I did yoga for a matter of weeks,” she says. “There's a lot of farting and smells, and that's not for me, I kept laughing, so I gave that up! I have done other things, but again, I find anything that has me doing the same thing at the same time each week is just not me. I cannot do anything that entails keeping up a strict regime or is repetitive, I am far too fluid. I need constant change, almost daily, or I lose all interest. So, projects are great for me, as they are quick and over, and I can move on. I have the attention span of a gnat.”

One that hasn’t changed is Dame Denise’s love of fashion— and discovering Kensington store Biba in her teens, she tells Verve, “blew my mind”.

“I’d never seen a shop then or now that even comes close to rivalling it,” says the fashion boss. “Barbara Hulanicki [the store founder] was a genius. I do believe that some people are born so before their time. Her and David Bowie, even now, are ahead of their time—their foresight and vision are rare commodities.”

You’ve been at the forefront of New Zealand fashion for so long now, what has impressed you about its evolution during that time?

"It has grown so much since Francis and I started, and I do love seeing what the young designers are coming up with. It does make me sad whenever people copy what’s happening overseas, as if they do not believe we have talent here.”

Any idiot, she adds, can copy, but few can call themselves “true designers”, and when judging fashion events, she knows the winners “in an instant”, as their creations “scream from the racks, ‘Look at me!’”

I ask Dame Denise if she feels enough is being done within the industry to address issues such as sustainability, workers’ rights, and gender equality.

“They are all issues that people feel they should be getting involved in, and everyone jumps on this ‘caring’ bloody bandwagon to save their own arses,” she says. “But until the general public stops demanding and purchasing cheap clothing, the issues will never be fixed.”

In 2019, Dame Denise flirted with politics (she has previously also released her memoir, All That Glitters, and even tried her hand at acting, taking the lead in the play, Sitting Pretty),

running for the Waitematā local board. It was, she admits, a brief stint, but one that taught her much about an entirely different world of which she previously had little insight.

“I found that some people will do anything to win, including lying, and that is not for me,” she says. “I shoot from the hip. I don’t play mind games or lie, so I was happy to let the person who triumphed over us minions carry on.”

How does the world of politics compare with that of entrepreneurship?

“I think that if all politicians had at some point in their career, run a business and employed people, then and only then would they understand what it is like. They have no idea what their restrictions are imposing on businesses, as they have no idea how they work, fundamentally. Entrepreneurship is stifled by government restrictions, and that is a tragedy. You have to jump through so many hoops, sometimes it's almost not worth it.”

Of all her awards and accolades, the designer says that the three that stand out most are winning the Avant Garde section of the Benson & Hedges Fashion Awards in 1995 (“the award sits on my mantlepiece—it came with a $5,000 cheque which was crazy money to Francis and I back then!”); becoming the first ever female to be awarded an MNZM, formerly an MBE, by the Queen, for services to fashion, in 2002 (“I was so humbled by that”); and being made a Dame in 2018 (“it was so unexpected”).

“It just shows that it doesn’t matter where you are from, or what you have had thrown at you, you can choose to use it as a negative, or a positive,” she says. “Only you can make you who you are. You pick up the challenge and run with it, or not.”

Dame Denise admits that being too strong-willed can at times be to her detriment, but, with age, she has become more tolerant and less of “a firecracker”. She’s never been one for taking advice, choosing instead to “work on gut feeling”.

“We each have to forge our own path,” she adds, “and that is learning from our mistakes and behaviours”.

I finish up by asking what she learnt from the truly awful year that was 2020.

“You cannot fight nature! It is bigger than all of us, no matter how important or intelligent some us think we are.

Mother Nature has given us a very short, sharp reminder of who is boss, and how we have to respect, not abuse, what we have.”

vervemagazine.co.nz

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SilkLiving Laurian Godwin is the ardent and dynamic head of New Zealand company SilkLiving. Using their proprietary blends of natural fabrics, they specialise in silk and silk-based clothing, accessories, bedding and sleeping bag liners. Verve had the chance to sit down with Laurian, to find out more about her drive and the business.

What is an average day like for you? Often a bit mad, to be honest!

My husband and I are both in business, and we each have very small teams. So, we need to cover a variety of roles including parenting our eight-year-old. I begin each day with a to-do list. If I manage to knock off two items by the end of the day, I feel very lucky!

What inspired you to join this industry and how do you remain passionate? The business was started in Dunedin in 1998; in early 2018 I took it over and moved it to Wellington. Although I don’t have a fashion background, I have always been entrepreneurial, and I saw wonderful potential in this business. I am completely captured by the story of silk; its history, the fact that it's ecologically friendly and the unique qualities when worn against the skin. I love the concept of ‘Living in Silk’ and want everyone to be able to have silk in their home, and on their person!

Website silkliving.com Warehouse Retail Space 17 Haining Street, Wellington Phone 04 3847676

How have you grown the brand from a successful New Zealand one to a thriving international one? Our designs are not seasonal, nor are they restricted to a particular climate. They are wardrobe classics that blend well across all forms of cultural chic. We believe there is no room for fast fashion with top quality fabrics, therefore our designs must stand the test of time. I think it’s safe to say that a brand that operates ethically and offers a top-quality product is appreciated all over the world; our customer-base is testament to that.

What’s your most popular product? Our Lounge Pants are incredibly popular with both men and women; they’re so versatile.

When can silk be worn? Gosh – when can’t silk be worn?! Many people have a perception of silk as a fragile fabric, and only used for fashion garments. In fact, silk is as warm as wool, and much more durable. Our styles are designed to be worn anywhere; from the couch to the office, or even to the top of Mount Everest! Our expertly crafted fabrics will take you to any of these places in comfort and style.

What do you see as the main differences between silk and other fibres? Silk is perceived as a luxury fibre; however, our aim at SilkLiving is to make silk as well understood and accessible as merino. If people gain a better understanding of the amazing qualities of silk – for example its softness, its strength, its warmth – then I have no doubt that they would choose it over many other fabrics, both natural and man-made. A distinct advantage is the number of years you will get from a garment. I have three Silkbody Tops in my wardrobe that I wear as a base layer pretty much every day. After three years they still look almost new and I expect to be wearing them for several years to come. Add to that its natural ecological advantages, it’s really a no-brainer!

What benefits does silk against the skin present? Not only does it feel glorious; the thermo-regulating properties of silk ensure comfort, as it helps you to either warm up or cool down as required. Silk doesn’t absorb moisture and natural oils like other materials do, which helps to keep your skin hydrated. Further, it’s hypoallergenic, with a natural repellent that keeps away bacteria and other common allergens. It’s also naturally soft and unlike other fabrics, does not require chemical treatment to obtain its luxurious smoothness.

What’s your best tip for maintaining silk? Don’t over-clean it!

Silk is odour-resistant and will serve you for a lot longer if you wear it several times between washes

Words Bella Sampson Photography Sheldon Swears

The Sophisticated Edit A perfection combination of clean and minimal oversized cuts. This curation of monochromatic pieces will add sophistication and suave to your wardrobe and style.

Words and Edit — Ken Khun

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1. Lemaire Spring 2021, 2. Louis Vuitton Men Pre-Fall 2021, 3. Craig Green Summer Spring 2021, 4. Prada Mens Summer Spring 2021, 5. Prada Fall Winter 2021, 6. Ermenegildo Zegna Fall Winter 2021

vervemagazine.co.nz

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The Row Jasper Shirt in Cotton

Sandro Linen Polo Shirt

Margaret Howell 3 Button Blazer Wool Bedford Cord

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Marni Cropped Loose Trousers

AMI Paris Wide-Fit Pleated Trousers

COS Straight wool-cashmere trousers

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Bottega Veneta The Level Chelsea Boots

Jil Sander Cross-Strap Sliders

Maison Margiela Tabi Loafers

Men's Beauty

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ESSANO MAN Face Wash & Moisturiser

essano Man is a straight-up shave and skincare range, designed to reduce irritation whilst improving the skin's appearance. Made with high-quality natural ingredients that condition and calm skin including green tea, aloe vera, Tasmanian pepperberry and ginger extract, essano Man is naturally good for sensitive skin. The essano Man range includes a facewash, moisturiser, SPF moisturiser, scrub, shave gel and shave cream. essano.co.nz/collections/man

Face It. Men Are Different From Women

A Skincare Solution For Shavers Should – Soothe skin before and after shaving – Soften and nourish skin – Maintain moisture and oil balance – Replenish and protect

Words – Max Dawson OneMan | @onemannz | oneman.co.nz

You’re probably thinking that’s too much to ask from one product and you'd be absolutely right.

Taken at face value, that sounds pretty damn obvious, but, to get literally 'in your face', men and women have different facial needs. Let’s chat men-only skincare, and why you need skincare products that are specific for man-skin maintenance.

Firstly, there are substantial hormonal differences between men’s and women’s skin. An obvious one is beard growth.

There’s also likely to be differences in lifestyle and personal habits. Because woman don’t have facial hair their facial skin is less likely to be exposed to the rigors of the razor: nicks, cuts and scars.

Thusly, male skin is more prone to rashes, inflammation and oil.

So next time you’re on the hunt to upgrade your skincare regime, rest assured there are purpose built products created just for men.

Here's What You’ll Need 01

Proraso Shave Cream Combining the properties of eucalyptus oil and menthol, the formula is designed to unite smoothness with toning and a pleasant cooling effect.

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Menscience Advanced Face Lotion Formulated with hyaluronic acid and squalene, this ultralight, oil-free lotion increases the moisture content of the skin and restores skins suppleness and elasticity.

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Menscience Post Shave Repair Calms redness and razor burn, helps stressed skin recover after shaving, prevents ingrown hairs, and prevents clogged pores.

You are young, have great skin, so do you take good care of it?

Coming from a Korean family, taking care of my skin has been so deep-rooted in me that I don’t even realise I’m doing it. For as long as I can remember, my mother told me to put sunscreen on my face, neck, chest and hands every day even during winter.

You are a food reviewer do you find certain foods affect your skin?

Absolutely. My skin was incredible before I started my food Instagram. Prior to Eat Lit Food, I was a model and my diet was very different. I can definitely say that deep, dark green vegetables improve the complexion of my skin.

Do you feel if we have a lot of sleep it is much better for our skin?

In terms of acne, I wouldn’t say sleep prevents it. But in terms of pigmentation and scarring, the more you sleep, the faster your skin recovers and also has a glowing appearance.

I have recently started using a night cream because I saw this meme online and it was a photo of a flip phone with a caption “if you used one of these, it’s time you invest in a night cream”. I’ve been using Emma Lewisham’s Supernatural Anti-Ageing 72Hour Hydration Crème when I’m at my flat. But when I visit my parents, I’m stealing my mum’s La Mer.

Cho

Albert

Is night cream a beauty product you use?

Verve chats with influencer

What is your morning routine like?

I drink a big glass of water and then wash my face. I cleanse with Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser and always use warm water as it opens the pores up more. I have an oily T-zone which is prone to acne so I need to use Benzoyl Peroxide 5% on that area after washing my face and wait for it to dry. As that’s drying, I apply IOPE Men Perfect All Day Perfect All in One all over my face apart from my T-zone and this helps even out my skin tone. I wait for that to settle in the skin and I use Cetaphil moisturiser all over my face and I’m quite generous with moisturiser even though I have oily skin. Then I apply sunscreen.

When it comes to sunscreen, I like to use Korean ones as they just work better because Koreans really value bright, light skin. I use Acwell UV Cut because it’s lightweight. I stay away from any foundations but if there’s a really stubborn pimple, I’ll cover it up with a bit of Bare Minerals concealer.

What is the most versatile product that you use?

Cetaphil moisturiser is such an underrated product.

If I don’t have a night cream on me, I just keep layering this product and it really gets the job done without making my pores feel clogged. I’ve used tons of other moisturisers and I always find myself going back to this one. It has also come in handy during summer as sometimes my skin is peeling and a few pumps of Cetapil does the trick.

Does stress affect you and your skin at all?

Yes. Around my mouth, jaw and chin! They’re so stubborn and don’t go away for a long time. It makes me even more stressed, it’s a never ending cycle.

Do you use anti-ageing products?

Yes I do. My mum always taught me that prevention is key and by the time you’re getting filler and botox because you see a wrinkle, it’s already too late. The Emma Lewisham night cream is an anti-ageing product and I’ve also been using the Skin Reset Concentrated Even Skin Tone Serum from Emma Lewisham for my nighttime routine as well, and I’ve been told there are anti-ageing elements in that product, too.

If you were going away and you could only bring one product, what would it be?

Sunscreen. I can sort out pimples when I get home but sunburnt skin will cause forever damage to your skin.

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Balanced Neutrals

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Acne Studios Musubi Mini Bag

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Balenciaga Gold Thin B Chain Necklace

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Chain link necklace in gold-tone brass. Tonal logo link at length.

Featuring twisted knots inspired by traditional Japanese obi sashes, a debossed logo and snap button closure, this Acne bag is a showstopping piece. This bag can take you from day to night in a heartbeat with its versatility and style.

Olaplex Shampoo and Conditioner Whether you want to maintain silky smooth hair that looks and feels straight out of a salon, or if you want to repair damaged hair, Olaplex works absolute wonders.

Why not start off the new year with fabulously healthy hair?

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Words — Nadia Klaassen

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4 5 3

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Shaina Mote Ebi Top A dreamy blouse is a staple for any night out, and the Ebi blouse

by Shaina Mote is no exception.

The blouse features a wraparound detail with a wide belt, completed by voluminous sunburst-pleated silk organza sleeves.

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Jacquemus Le Chiquito You know what they say, the best things come in small packages.

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La Mer The Concentrate Add an extra layer of protection to your skin with a velvety-smooth barrier repair serum from La Mer. With concentrated Miracle Broth™ and lime tea concentrate. This serum will transform your skin from dry and dull to plump and dewy.

LINGERIE TO GET YOU UP AND READY

Feeling Good

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1. Papinelle Silk Hearts Pure Silk Bridal Collection, Ivory Boxer PJ 2. Videris Angela Bra and Whitney High Waist Bikini 3. Silk Living Puresilk Crepe de Chine Robe 4. Silk Living Puresilk Crepe de Chine Slip Dress 5.Papinelle Silk Hearts Pure Silk Bridal Collection, Ivory Robe

6. Videris Angela Bra and Whitney Bikini 7. Ginia Sonata Cami 8. Ginia Sonata Nite 9. Videris Maggie Bra and Whitney Bikini

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FASHION

O NE O F A K I N D J E W E L L E R Y

www.debrafallowfield.com

@debrafallowfieldjeweller

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Shop the latest and the very best of the best in top fashion brands sourced from both local and international labels.

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ED I T— PARI S MI TCHEL L-T EM P L E

Stok. is a boutique store located in the hustle and bustle of Parnell’s iconic colonial strip, Parnell Road. Elisabeth and Bruce Ric Hansen, the founders of this hidden gem, had a chat to Verve about everything to do with their new addition to Parnell Road, from their favourite trends, to the 'shop local' movement Stok. strongly represents.

www.stok.nz / 317 Parnell Rd, Parnell 028 421 8494 / @stok.nz

are vintage car collectors, weekend surfers or regular blokes they seem to find their personal style in the range.

Which trends are you into personally right now?

We have always been into textures and an eclectic mix of old and new.

Great staples and basics are key to every wardrobe. We love any garment that goes well with sneakers.

Monochromes will always be the go to, but bold and striking prints are what differentiate many of our designs.

All of our prints are designed by our designers, not sourced online.

A selection of what's in store What do you like best about owning a boutique fashion and lifestyle store on Parnell’s historic strip?

When we saw the space we fell in love immediately. It even has a fireplace which added to the homely feel we wanted to create in the store.

Hearing the history of The Parnell Village resonated with our vision for the community oriented 'shop local' boutique. With all the coffee shops and offices there is a steady flow of people with a gap to do some browsing. We even have a dog bowl outside for all the passing dog walkers.

How does your business philosophy manifest itself in the labels you sell?

Community. We have always supported the 'shop local' movement of small businesses and artisans. With the global backlash against fast-fashion New Zealand is quickly becoming a front-runner in all things sustainable.

Both the types of people supporting 'shop local' and the talented folk creating it — are all connected to the same global milieu. All our designers work within their local communities.

They are conscious and focus on sustainability, minimising waste and sourcing responsibly.

Feedback so far?

We have had such positive feedback from customers. We have intentionally curated a store with items across his, hers, home and kids, including accessories, art and lighting. We want the store to feel like a little piece of home — we even have granny’s persian carpet on the floor. We want this to be a store that people pop into regularly. A store where you can spoil yourself, or find something unique to spoil someone else.

Best sellers?

Leigh Schubert’s range is doing really well. We have hand picked each designer’s garments to curate a range that is ageless and timeless and just seem to flatter every body shape. For men it's a little easier, so the differentiation is all in the prints and details. The Holmes Brothers’ design everything with quirky print or detail that seem to resonate with each person individually, whether they

Your vision for stok.?

Expansion into other parts of New Zealand, with stores in like-minded spaces. We’re working on some exciting collabs and pop-ups. We also have new designers arriving in this quarter and some great product extensions. Our online store will always carry a more extensive range than what we can show in the Parnell store.

The store is a teaser and a launch pad for what’s new.

FASHION

10 MINUTES WITH

Jackie O’fee

Where do you get your inspiration from? Loads of online inspiration on Instagram, Pinterest, fashion websites, fashion magazines, great style I might see walking down the street.

What is the biggest misconception people not working in your field have about your job? That it must be so much fun spending other people’s money. It is definitely a fun role but it’s also a big responsibility. Not every client is easy to dress, not every budget is generous – it takes work to get a great outcome.

What has been the most memorable moment of your career, so far? So many! Working on stage and doing all the behind the scenes styling with Gok Wan, training a team to dress the 5200 Air New Zealand staff in their Trelise Cooper uniforms, being a Style Presenter on the Good Morning show and working with loads of lovely clients who really just make every day a bit special.

What challenges do you have as a stylist? Not buying all the lovely things I see!

How would you describe your personal style? I’d like to think it’s a little eclectic although if I’m honest, I do favour a slightly ‘pretty’ aesthetic. That said, I love to do a bit of rock and roll edgy one day and a floaty, whimsical look the next.

Jackie O’Fee is the owner of leading personal style consultancy Signature Style. She’d love to help you simplify your wardrobe to make getting dressed each day supereasy. Further detail can be found on her website signaturestyle.co.nz or give her a call 09 529 5115

What is your favourite item in your closet? Usually the last thing I bought! I do have a few favourite items that I have kept for years and can’t bear to part with; one that springs to mind is an amazing shirt dress that I bought second-hand at Hunters and Collectors in Wellington. It’s by Marjan Pejoski who is the designer behind Bjork’s famous swan dress.

Your styling philosophy? I really think that my goal when working with my clients is to help them make the most of what God gave them. As in, to look and feel as good as they can based on their colouring and shape. So that’s not dressing them the same as everyone else nor is it being a walking example of “what’s in fashion right now” if it doesn’t suit them.

Essential items – wardrobe staples? Garments that make you look and feel great – the go to pieces you have that you just feel great in, be it a dress, a great pair of pants or whatever.

Everyone loves a good deal, what are some of your favourite places (physical or web based) to find budget buys? Designer secondhand stores are great places to find pieces that may be scarcely or never worn and buying this way is good for the environment. I am a total sucker for sales – I think a lot of great garments that don’t have ‘hanger appeal’ end up on sale racks. Clothes are made for bodies, so try them on. I am also a bit of an “add to cart” girl when it comes to Net a Porter’s sale or their outlet site “The Outnet” but I need to be pretty keen to ‘proceed to checkout’.

What items do you feel are worth splurging on? The things you wear a lot: if you’re a jeans gal, buy good jeans. If you need to wear a jacket at work, buy a great jacket. Cheap can often look cheap and if you feel you’ve compromised you won’t have a good day.

匀䄀䰀䔀 一伀圀 伀一

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稀攀戀爀愀渀漀

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

LIDO BLOUSE 7232FN TEA ROSE PARIS JEAN 6840XBT MID BLUE

Limited Edition

Carefully considered and evolved over time, this extraordinary architectural home in South Africa’s Wilderness is both an inspiring work headquarters for its design-loving owners, and a happy hideaway for their family of seven.

Words — Lianne Burton

Photography — Greg Cox

With glass walls on three sides, and spectacular ocean views, the new living room offers an experience akin to being on a ship. The McGowan’s designed the 4×4-metre nude leather button-back sofa to serve as an ‘island’ where the whole family can hang out together. The stone sculpture, ‘Toyboy’,

by Dario Matter is set against the poured concrete feature wall with floating fireplace. →

Soho, the friendly family pooch, takes a breather in the open-plan kitchen. Informal café-style dining tables – there are two of them – look out over the sea and are a favourite breakfast spot for the family.

←

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Soho makes himself at home in one of the three guest bedrooms. The blown glass is

by South African artist Guido van Besouw, the yellow cushions are by Jenny Gifford and the ceramic-based elephant bedside lamp is by Shirley Fintz for West Elm. ←

The main dining room flows into a series of versatile communal living spaces, including an open-plan kitchen. The bronze sculpture is by Wilma Cruise, while the stacked standing lamp is by Gregor Jenkin.

→ The pool and deck were added to the house during an epic renovation that lasted for most of 2011. The renovation also saw the addition of a new triple-level, glass-encased tower, seen here, that accommodates, a roof garden, living room, office and combined gym and guest bedroom.

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HOME & DESIGN

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Mark and Antonia

Our Story Antonia de Vere and Mark Seeney are a creative couple who balance their love of design, and each other, from their dried floral and homewares studio, Mark Antonia, on the Matakana Coast.

Photography — Michelle Weir Words — Melanie Dower Antonia

Mark

Mark and I met at university. He had another girlfriend at the time, but we were very good friends, even though he’s very extroverted and I’m not.

We met at Unitec where Antonia was studying jewellery and I was majoring in furniture design. We were friends and I thought she was funny, friendly, and very pretty.

After graduation, we lost contact for a year, until he started turning up on my doorstep with coffee and brioches. We’ve been together for 11 years now, and married for six.

Mark has always followed his passions, wherever they lead. He’s very intelligent and kind, always trying to understand others’ perspective. He can be very stubborn, and loves to play little tricks on me, but because I’m used to it, it never works.

Because he has an architectural background, Mark’s constantly designing, whereas my creations are more spontaneous. We’re always sharing ideas, as we thrive on being creative, and there’s something about the balance between us that works.

With a lot of hard work, the life we’ve built together is something quite magical, and I love him completely.

He’s just someone that I want to come home to, that I want to be around.

She’s very caring and although she says she’s an introvert, she can be quite outgoingly funny. In terms of our business, she is the more spontaneous, creative one, whereas I’m more of a planned, structured creator, putting all the numbers together.

I find that after being self-employed for many years I’ve learnt to have my creative time and my own time and I keep that pretty tight. When we leave the studio, I’m always thinking of ideas, but I try not to bring work home.

We each have our own hobbies and then we share creative interests, such as visiting galleries and museums together. I’m into surfing and snowboarding while she’s an amazing seamstress, creating around 15 pieces during lockdown. Last year we did manage to go to the snow together, and we really enjoyed that.

Antonia hates answering emails, and it drives me crazy, but there’s a multitude of things I love about her. Every day she exhibits a deep empathy for situations and other people — it’s a quality of hers I could learn from and really admire.

markantonia.com

Whenever we had projects, we worked really well together, though at times I found him annoying. He used to tease me by coming into my workroom and scribbling in my notebooks that I liked to keep very neat.

HOME & DESIGN

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WAINAMU Camps

What better way to celebrate love than a night enjoying nature and the good things in life at Wainamu Camps.

Create happy memories with the one who makes you laugh, lives life and shares that special friendship and love with you Wainamu offers unique, off-the-grid luxury camping on the spectacular, raw west coast of Auckland, New Zealand.

Set on a working New Zealand owned family-farm surrounded by black beaches, sheltered by highrise sand dunes and bush clad-hills, Wainamu is 40 minutes from central Auckland at Te Henga (Bethells Beach). Wainamu feels a world away.

WAINA M U. LOD GI F Y.C O M A NNA@WA I N A M U. N Z 022 3 84 0 50 0

Your hosts, the Wheeler family, have a legacy and love of Wainamu they shield and share. Seeing themselves as caretakers of the land, Wainamu bridges the quintessential New Zealand camping experience with a thoughtful nod to luxury and comfort, including your own private bathrooms under the stars.

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We don’t build Box houses.

We build homes for Stephen & Luisa, Sophie & Sebastian

Box™ - Multi Award Winning

Give us a call or drop in and see us to have a chat about your design-build project ph. 09 520 5030 e. info@box.co.nz w. box.co.nz

HOME & DESIGN

Expect the Unexpected

An innovative kitchen by designer Marianne Gailer from Kitchens

By Design has totally transformed and revitalised the interior of this Browns Bay home.

It’s been almost 10 years since Sharon and Brian Slater first moved into their home. The original kitchen had a scullery and a small breakfast bar that could only seat two people, max. At that time, Sharon says their two girls were quite a lot younger, but as they have grown and started to cook and bake, the kitchen layout didn’t work for them, plus it was beginning to look tired.

“The thing that really surprised us was that when Marianne came back with the first concepts; they were completely different from our preconceived ideas of what we thought our new kitchen was going to look like,” adds Brian. Sharon says it took a bit of time to get used to the idea of getting rid of the scullery, but once we thought it through, what Marianne proposed made perfect sense.

“At first we thought about just doing a makeover," she says, "but they couldn’t get the flow working and just kept stagnating. In the end we realised that we needed a whole new kitchen.

What was the most memorable moment of the process?

“When everything was pulled out, it was pretty scary, but the day we went out to the factory to see the new kitchen all set up, it looked spectacular. That’s when we finally got a feel for what our new kitchen was going to look like. That day was a highlight for us,” says Brian.

“We came across Kitchens By Design by accident. We happened to park right outside their Byron Ave showroom in Takapuna, looking for a café, and thought that we're definitely going to have a look around here.

Marianne [Gailer, kitchen designer] opened the door for us and in we went. She was really helpful. We were immediately impressed with her knowledge.”

If you are thinking about putting in a new kitchen, give the team at Kitchen By Design a call, or pop into their showroom at 3 Byron Ave, Takapuna (09) 488 7201. And for inspiration, take a look at their website at kitchensbydesign.co.nz

Brian says he was taken with the three kitchens on display. “They were all quite different. At that stage we were still looking at a makeover, but once we compared the pricing we’d been given for a makeover and what it would cost to pull the whole thing out and start again, it made much more sense to put in a brand new kitchen.”

What was your brief to the designer?

“Our must-haves were a bigger, better breakfast bar; better layout and use of space; and having a bit more of a focal point, which we both agreed was the window. We always wanted that marble look and also some dark timber somewhere, because we already had dark wood in the rest of the house,” says Sharon.

And now that it’s in, Sharon says she loves the overall look of her new kitchen, especially the breakfast bar. “We love it when people see it for the first time and just go, wow!”

Brian works a lot of work from home, and he says the new island is a perfect space to work. “It’s at a good height and the lighting is excellent. It always was the hub of the home, but it’s even more so now.”

How did you find the experience of working with Kitchens By Design?

“Right at the beginning, Marianne said to us, trust me, and she was right,” says Brian.

“We would never have been bold enough to do what we ended up with, but it couldn’t have worked out better. There’s nothing we’d change. Richard [Cripps, owner of KDB] is a perfectionist, and was really easy to deal with.

Everything was handled so smoothly all the way through in a really transparent way.”

Visit our showroom today.

3 Byron Avenue, Takapuna (09) 379 3084

A bold and transformative design solution. kitchensbydesign.co.nz

HOME & DESIGN Of late gardening has experienced an unprecedented surge, with Google data showing an impressive 39 percent increase in online searches, year-on-year.

Fence Some Love

Giving The

I live in a home that is now 30 years old, and while I have always titivated and primped the interior; not so in the garden. But in keeping with trends, I too, have been spending more time in my garden in the past year, doing my best to bring it up to spec, thereby releasing its true potential.

Apart from the tidying and the reinventing and redesign of areas within the garden, I am now tackling the fences, and have been amazed at the difference fresh fence stain has made. Prepping and cleaning the fence is quite a process, and takes almost more time than the painting itself! The brilliant weather however, makes being outside a treat, that and listening to my current favourite podcast. I’ve found it’s good to start early in the day while it is cooler and then take a longer break in the middle of the day when it’s hottest.

For my fence I chose Resene Woodsman wood oil stain in Resene Treehouse. It only needs a couple of coats and fits in well with the colour we have used on the house.

Prior to starting my fence project I had a good read of information and advice available online on fence cleaning and staining as well as paying a visit to my local Resene ColorShop where, as always, the staff were super helpful and answered all my questions with patience and good humour.

As I write this, I look forward to finishing my fence project during the time afforded by the double lot of long weekends ahead of us. Can’t wait!

Words — Fran Ninow

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Brought to you by Kings Plant Barn

What To Do In The Garden This February

Between running off to the beach and enjoying the sun, try to keep your garden well-watered, stay on top of the weeds, and be sure to enjoy the bounty of your harvest.

Plant Now ○ Vegetables

○ Fruits

Chillies Don’t miss out on some of the interesting large-grade, superhot chilies that are available now. Plant them out into larger pots or in the garden as they produce fruit.

Herbs Plant herbs and leafy veggies such as basil, lettuce, coriander, parsley and spinach but make sure you keep them wellwatered.

Future Crops Towards the end of the month start planning and planting out winter crops including broccoli, cauliflower and silver beet.

Citrus Ensure that summers in the future are filled with zest by planting some citrus trees now.

Passionfruit Plant passionfruit in fertile, free-draining soil rich in organic matter such as compost. Plant in a spot with good airflow and ensure that you avoid wetting the foliage when watering.

Feijoa For best results with feijoas, plant two different varieties to ensure good pollination. Plant an earlier season and a later season variety to extend your harvest.

Tend ○ Vegetables

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Keep your veggie garden well-fed and watered this summer to help plants stay healthy and productive, as well as being less likely to fall victim to pest insects. When watering tomatoes, courgettes and pumpkins try to avoid wetting the foliage.

Need more expert advice? Talk to our friendly staff at your local Kings Plant Barn or visit kings.co.nz.

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The Art of February

Words – Aimée Ralfini

February is such a fantastic month for Art in Tāmaki Makaurau. With the Fringe Festival kicking off mid-February and The Auckland Art Fair on the 24th, one hardly needs an excuse to spend an evening out enjoying the treasures on display. Choosing what to take in can be a bit of a challenge, so here are some suggestions to get you started.

1. Alexi Willemsen, Victoria. 2020. Courtesy of Melanie Roger Gallery 2. Will Cooke, Corridor 2020. Courtesy of Starkwhite 3. Will Cooke, Frame 2020. Courtesy of Starkwhite 1.

FEBRUARY 2020 15 Jan – 9 Feb

Will Cooke Bold and monochromatic in colour, Cooke uses circles and polygons to sculpt architectural structures that are both futuristic and nostalgic. Painted in acrylic on aluminium panel, his compositions challenge the viewers sense of balance, proportion, scale and space. Every Wall Is A Door is a new series by the artist, created for his debut New Zealand show at Starkwhite.

More info at starkwhite.co.nz

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2.

2 – 20 Feb

Alexi Willemsen Willemsen presents figures behind veils of semi-transparent paint, creating artwork that permeates the atmosphere with dreamy ambiguity. A new body of work by the New Zealand born Australian Based artist titled; Water, Is Taught by Thirst is up at Melanie Roger Gallery this Feb.

3.

24 – 28 Feb

More info at melanierogergallery.com

14 Feb – 6 Mar

Auckland Fringe Festival Auckland Fringe is an independent openaccess arts festival which runs in Auckland for a summery two weeks in late February.

The Fringe Festival is all about inclusivity, celebration of otherness and having a good time in this wonderful city of ours.

With a menu packed with Theatre and performance, there is plenty to satisfy your cultural cravings.

More info at aucklandfringe.co.nz

The Auckland Art Fair Jam packed with artists from all over the country, the Pacific Rim and further afield.

The Auckland Art Fair is a great event to attend if you like art but don’t know where to start, or would like a visual taste of everything that’s hot right now all in the one space. Held at the cloud on Queen's Wharf, The Auckland Art Fair offers a range of tickets from all-inclusive VIP to event only Art Party passes.

More info at artfair.co.nz

25 – 28 Feb

Auckland Lantern Festival In celebration of the Chinese New Year and the Year of the Ox, Aucklanders and all who visit get to enjoy hundreds of elaborate handmade Chinese lanterns on display.

Resplendent with cultural song, music, dance, performances, competitions and a fireworks display, The Lantern festival provides for the whole family.

More info at aucklandnz.com/lantern-festival

Pauline of Lightworx Gallery

Light Works

Light is one of the fundamental constants of nature. Light is the aether. Light is life. When mixed with art, light becomes a force to be reckoned with. Shape, light and colour are a potent combination, with the ability to penetrate us mere mortals and create a profound reaction.

FEBRUARY 2020

“When an artwork captures you, it’s the start of a lifelong relationship.”

Thankfully there is a new gallery set in the heart of our bustling Viaduct that specialises only in light art. Lightworx Gallery is a national first, featuring contemporary light-works that inspire, engage, and have a mesmerising effect on all who view them.

The gallery represents a hand-picked collection of high profile artists. Internationally renowned Max Patté, is of particular repute with the Hollywood set. An associate elect of the Royal Society of British Sculptors, Patté lives and works in Wellington refining sculpturally hypnotic light works that explore the qualities of liminal space between light and colour.

Tim Christie – another artist of international regard, interweaves canvas and stretches it over illuminated colour boxes to create an intriguing juxtaposition of materials, from which emerges sentient portraits.

Auckland artist Trish Campbell, also from the stable, creates extremely desirable coloured light columns that elegantly lean against walls, radiating colour like minimalist angles. Patté,

Christie and Campbell are currently on display in the Customs Street West space. They represent a new genre in fine art, working with the highest quality light technology. Lightworx provides these artists with a space to evolve and innovate.

“The positive relationship of light and colour cultivate a meditative state. These artworks are pivotal in uplifting your mood, your feelings, and your home,” says Pauline Bianchi, Lightworx Gallery director. Bianchi is an avid art collector herself, and sees collecting art as a way to express your unique personality "within the tapestry of form, genre and medium, that art provides. When an artwork captures you, it’s the start of a lifelong relationship."

Bianchi has been actively involved in New Zealand’s art industry for over 17 years. As owner and director of the Queenstown based Artbay Gallery Group, Lightworx Gallery is her first Auckland venture. Of the new location, Campbell says, “The Viaduct, with its nightlife, the excitement and high energy, it’s the perfect spot for the gallery.” After enjoying an evening in the Viaduct, an artwork from Lightworks Gallery serves to cement the memory.

With more artists set to join the lineup, as the gallery grows there is a lot to look forward to: large scale installations, experiential artworks that play with geometrics, light, shadow and perception, all in all making Lightworx Gallery well worth keeping an eye on.

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Words – Aimée Ralfini

Here in Auckland we have many public light artworks and events to enjoy, Michael Parekowhai’s 'Lighthouse', The Lantern Festival, The Sky Tower’s ever changing colour to name a few. But, what do we have at home? Every night we use light to illuminate our activities, but how often are we using it to enhance our wellbeing? Some of us may be avid art collectors already, but how many of us are collecting works of light?

Visit lightworxgallery.co.nz for a view of what’s currently on display, or better yet, take a stroll along Auckland’s viaduct to 110 Customs Street West, during that magical time of the day of 5pm-9pm, when nature plays its own light show with the transition from day to night. Open daily from 11:30am–9:30pm.

You will not be disappointed.

Lightworx Gallery Shop 1 /110 Customs Street West (Behind HQ) Auckland, 1010 093006265 | lightworxgallery.co.nz

CREATIVE KIDS It’s no secret that getting children involved in the creative arts has enormous benefits including improvement of cognitive abilities and developing out-ofthe-box problem solving skills. Encourage your young one to engage with imaginative worlds of expression this year through these inspiring programmes.

CREATIVE MATTERS

LUCY MARTIN SCHOOL OF DANCE

Creative Matters is an award-winning Auckland business providing rich opportunities for children to think critically and creatively, learn visual arts skills and connect through art. They provide artistand educator-led art classes after school and in the holidays and creative art parties for children, as well as professional development for teachers.

Lucy Martin School of Dance provides fun and educational dance classes for children aged two years and upwards.

The school offers students a foundation for future dance development, grade work and exam progression as their passion for dance grows. Offering classes in jazz, ballet, tap, lyrical and acro, all new students receive a free trial class to begin their dance journey with Lucy Martin School of Dance.

creativematters.co.nz

lucymartin.co.nz

SABA

WILD THINGS ARTS

SABA will nurture your child's love of dance in a professional, supportive environment. Offering a wide range of classes from ages two right up (adults are always warmly welcomed too!).

Teachers specialising in a wide range of dance genres will guide and encourage your child whether it be recreational or with a focus on career preparation. There is something for everyone at SABA.

Wild Things Art has a fantastic, highquality art programme that helps children build self-esteem and discover and express their individuality. The students develop an understanding of their own creative process to overcome challenges and solve problems learning about whole lot of amazing, inspirational artists and their techniques along the way. wildthingsart.nz

saba.co.nz

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OUT OF TOWNERS AT THE ART FAIR

As Aucklanders begin to trickle back to work, one’s mind turns to upcoming events happening closer to our heart. The Auckland Art Fair being one such item of interest.

WORDS – AIMÉE RALFINI

We all love a summer soiree, and what better way to celebrate our newly revitalised appreciation for all things Aotearoa than an Art Fair in the summer season of late February. If you didn’t make it out to the regions this summer, then the Art Fair is an excellent opportunity to experience the essence of our culture, with many out-of-town galleries and artists making the pilgrimage to Auckland for what is sure to be the event du jour of the season. Here is a taster of what to expect.

WELLINGTON

Jhana Millers Wellington’s newest commercial contemporary art gallery, independently owned and operated by former artist Jhana Millers. The gallery will be presenting a group exhibition of early career artists from New Zealand and Australia whose works explore the idea of place and also reference the antipodean gothic. Artists include: Harry Culy, Will Bennett, Tyne Gordon, Lucy O'Doherty and Ayesha Green.

Robert Heald Gallery The well-known Robert Heald Gallery represents New Zealand’s leading contemporary artists as well as artists from Australia.

For the Art Fair the gallery will be presenting the works by Brent Harris, Saskia Leek, Sam Rountree Williams, Jenny Watson and Dan Arps.

Bartley + Co Exhibiting artists from Wellington and its surrounding regions since 2009. The gallery holds high-quality, critically relevant art in all media by emerging and established contemporary artists. The gallery will be showing work by Kelcey Taratoa, Helen Calder and Roger Mortimer.

Saskia Leek, The Sun is a Circular Song, 2019. Courtesy the artist and Robert Heald Gallery, Wellington Helen Calder, Yellow Green, 2020.

Courtesy of the artist and Bartley + Company Art

CHRISTCHURCH

Jonathan Smart Gallery Well known for its stable of top-level contemporary artists. The gallery began 1988 with a view to market more challenging and experimental art to counterbalance the regions conservative art scene. At the art fair they will be presenting a solo booth of new Feather works by Neil Dawson.

Milford Galleries The Dunedin- and Queesntown-based galleries are acknowledged as among New Zealand’s premier dealer galleries, representing New Zealand artists of international and national importance across a diverse range of media. At the Art Fair they will be featuring the work of Yuki Kihara, ahead of her presentation at the Venice Biennale, alongside a range of notable established and emerging artists.

The Auckland Art Fair runs at The Cloud from 24-28 February Tickets available online at artfair.co.nz

Yuki Kihara, サ–モアのうた (Sāmoa no uta) A song about Sāmoa 2019.

Courtesy of the artist and Milford Galleries

TAURANGA Sumer Gallery Established in 2018, Sumer is a commercial gallery that focuses on leading contemporary art from Aotearoa and abroad. Sumer is primarily Interested in artists with dynamic, innovative and challenging practices. The gallery will be showcasing the work of Yolunda Hickman, Zina Swanson, Jan van der Ploeg, Raukura Turei and Julia Morison, who is making a major new sculpture for the outdoor sculpture space at the fair.

WAIKATO Laree Payne Gallery Presented through Laree Payne Gallery from Hamilton’s main strip of Victoria Street, Laree Payne is showcasing artists Teelah George, Maioha Kara, Rachel Hope Peary and Chauncey Flay. The sculptural work of Flay can also be enjoyed in the Art Fairs new outdoor sculptural space.

Julia Morison, Myriorama OAEAO 5, 2008. Courtesy of the artist and Sumer Gallery Chauncey Flay, Osterns Quarry Greywacke Bunker Xlll, 2019. Courtesy of the artist and Laree Payne Gallery

BUSINESS/EDUCATION & SOCIETY

JENNIFER WARD-LEALAND Glamour, comedy, drama and unexpected twists. From their 2019 world premiere in London, the play Two Ladies is taking to the Auckland stage this 2021. Verve had the opportunity to chat to actress and star of this drama-comedy, Jennifer Ward-Lealand, on all things career, te reo Māori and Two Ladies.

How do you performance?

mentally

prepare

before

each

I’m a creature of habit so am always in the theatre at 90 minutes to two hours prior to a show. I warm up vocally and physically then allow myself a good hour in the dressing room to do my makeup and hair. I find the discipline of this approach really helps me focus on the performance ahead of me.

Is there a role you have not played but would like to someday?

The play, Two Ladies, sounds both insightful and delightful. What are the top three things you love the most about it?

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I love the whip smart dialogue and how both women think they’ve got each other pegged but eventually find out they haven’t – at all. I like how the playwright has captured the utter frustration these women feel at the constraints of their roles as First Ladies.

What has been your biggest achievement in the field of acting, and beyond?

Being president of the Equity NZ board that grew our union of professional performers four-fold over the last decade advocating for a professional process and best practice for performers appearing in intimate scenes on stage and screen in Aotearoa – and the release of the Equity guidelines for this work midway through 2020. Also, starting my journey to learning te reo Māori in 2008.

If you could go back and talk to your younger self, what would you say?

Go with your instincts. Call out bad behaviour. Speak up.

I’d love to play Desiree Armfeldt in the Sondheim musical, A Little Night Music. She’s a prominent and glamorous actress who is now reduced to touring in small towns.

Is there anything else you would like to add about Two Ladies?

I think it’s going to be a fabulously entertaining night out at the theatre – and a show I’m really going to enjoy touring around the North Island.

You speak te reo Māori, can you explain the significance of this to you?

To me, te reo Māori is one of the most beautiful, poetic, wicked, funny and profound languages I’ve had the privilege to learn. I will be forever grateful to the superb teachers who have supported me along the way. I am much more in touch with my whakapapa Pākehā because of getting on this waka reo and feel more connected to this land because the language is intrinsically connected to the natural world. I take very seriously the responsibility of being given the name “Te Atamira” (the stage) by Sir Tīmoti Kāretu and the late Professor Te Wharehuia Milroy, and intend to use any time that I have on the stage to continue to champion this taonga, te reo Māori.

What are your favourite role, play, playwright, and theatre?

Too many to name! Highlights of my performing career have been appearing in plays by Tracy Letts (Barbara in August: Osage County), Edward Albee (Stevie in The Goat), John Guare (Ouisa in Six Degrees of Separation).

Closer to home I’ve loved working in Victor Rodger’s play (My Name is Gary Cooper) and as Elsa Lanchester in Aroha Awarau’s Luncheon. Musically, I’m a huge fan of Stephen Sondheim.

Auckland Theatre Company's New Zealand premiere of the MiNDFOOD season of Two Ladies

by Nancy Harris plays at the ASB Waterfront Theatre in Auckland from 9-27 February, then tours Hamilton, Tauranga, New Plymouth and Hawke's Bay in March. atc.co.nz

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FEBRUARY 2020

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ART & ABOUT

WHAT’S

ON

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6 and 12 Feb Goode Brothers Botany, Shop 36, Town Centre Dr, Botany Downs

GOODE BROTHERS BOTANY SUMMER GARDEN PARTY Relax in the newly renovated Garden Bar at Goode Brothers in Botany with a drink in hand and music all around. Make the most of the summer evenings with live music, complimentary snacks, Club Setter Seltzer deals, as well as $25 Export Gold jugs.

7–20 Feb The PumpHouse Theatre, Killarney Park, Takapuna

ZOO LATES AT AUCKLAND ZOO 6–27 Feb Auckland Zoo 99 Motions Rd, Auckland

Experience the zoo in a different light, strolling through the beautiful zoo grounds on a warm summer evening. For just $15, you will get to connect with wildlife at the zoo and the keepers that care for them.

Grab the whole family, come along to the zoo and say hello to the wonderful wildlife that the zoo has to offer.

AUCKLAND SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK 2021 Enjoy traditional presentations of two of Shakespeare’s finest plays performed outdoors in The PumpHouse Amphitheatre.

Shoreside Theatre’s Auckland Shakespeare in the Park is presented by a company of professional and community actors, production crew, enthusiasts and supporters with the aspiration to stage real Shakespeare.

The plays that are being performed are Shakespeare’s famous Hamlet, and Much Ado About Nothing.

LIVE COMEDY 8 Feb Revelry, 106 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby

WO RDS —N ADIA KLA ASSEN

vervemagazine.co.nz

Get ready for a hilarious night of laughter at Revelry Bar in Ponsonby! Enjoy rounds of drinks, big laughs, and outstanding comedians — all for free! It is a fantastic event to bring all of your best pals to, and it is a perfect way to ease some of that tension from this past year.

FEBRUARY 2020

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FEBRUARY LA CIGALE FRENCH MARKET 13–27 Feb La Cigale, 69 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell

Spend your Saturday morning browsing the many food and drink stalls inspired by the wonderful food markets found in France. From fresh produce, breads and pastries to cheeses, meats, and honey, you will be amazed by the variety of products.

If you are feeling peckish around lunchtime, there is plenty of seating and delicious treats to choose from.

Come along and try the famous Croque Monsieurs, a slice of savoury tart, or a pan au chocolat – they all sound so delicious!

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13 Feb Windmill Reserve, 48 Windmill Rd, Mt Eden

MOVIES IN PARKS – THE PRINCESS BRIDE Auckland Council Movies in Parks presents The Princess Bride. While home sick in bed, a young boy's grandfather reads him the story of a farm boyturned-pirate who encounters numerous obstacles, enemies and allies in his quest to be reunited with his true love. Bring a picnic to enjoy during the movie or grab a bite to eat from the many food stalls.

BIG BEAUTIFUL BURGERS 25 Feb Milford Reserve, 43 Craid Rd, Auckland

The Food Truck Collective is bringing the best burgers to Milford Reserve, and are hand picking vendors that make the best burgers in town. Skip the uninspiring takeaway burgers and delve into the scrumptious burgers straight from the grill, paired with a crisp cold beer!

Alongside sizzling burgers, a pop-up bar will stock Behemoth Brewery beers to quench your thirst.

VIBES IN THE VILLAGE 27–28 Feb Waiheke Island, 127-129 Ocean View Rd, Waiheke Island

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vervemagazine.co.nz

Love Oneroa is hosting Vibes in the Village this summer on the sunny Waiheke Island. Browse local shops and boutiques, discover galleries, and enjoy the food and entertainment that the island has to offer. There is something for everyone!

You’ll find special offers and promotions in selected stores, street entertainment, as well as music to enjoy as you walk through the streets.

ART & ABOUT

HIGH GROUND Set against the stunning landscapes of 1930s Arnhem Land, High Ground chronicles young Indigenous Australian, Gutjuk, who in a bid to save the last of his family, teams up with ex-soldier Travis to track down Baywara—the most dangerous warrior in the territory, who is also his uncle. As Travis and Gutjuk journey through the outback they begin to earn each other’s trust, but when the truths of Travis’ past actions are suddenly revealed, it is he who becomes the hunted.

Starring Simon Baker and Jacob Junior Nayinggul.

LEFT — SUP E R NOVA A MMONITE

11 FEB

4 FEB

BOX LOVE, WEDDINGS & OTHER DISASTERS Starring Diane Keaton, Jeremy Irons, Maggie Grace, Diego Boneta and Andrew Bachelor, Love, Weddings & Disasters is a multi-story romantic comedy about the people who work on weddings to create the perfect day for a loving couple – while their own relationships are outlandish, odd, crazy and far from perfect.

RIGH T: A ND

AMMONITE In the 1840s, acclaimed self-taught palaeontologist Mary Anning works alone on the wild and brutal Southern English coastline of Lyme Regis. The days of her famed discoveries behind her, she now hunts for common fossils to sell to rich tourists to support herself and her ailing widowed mother.

When one such tourist, Roderick Murchison, arrives in Lyme on the first leg of a European tour, he entrusts Mary with the care of his young wife Charlotte, who is recuperating from a personal tragedy. Mary, whose life is a daily struggle on the poverty line, cannot afford to turn him down but, proud and relentlessly passionate about her work, she clashes with her unwanted guest. They are two women from utterly different worlds.

Yet despite the chasm between their social spheres and personalities, Mary and Charlotte discover they can each offer what the other has been searching for: the realisation that they are not alone. It is the beginning of a passionate and all-consuming love affair that will defy all social bounds and alter the course of both lives irrevocably. Starring Kate Winslet, Saoirse Ronan.

25 FEB

11 FEB

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SUPERNOVA Sam (Academy Award winner Colin Firth) and Tusker (Stanley Tucci, The Children Act, BFF18) have spent 20 years together, and they are as passionately in love as they have ever been.

However, in the two years since Tusker was diagnosed with early-onset dementia, their lives have had to change. As Tusker’s condition has progressed, Sam has been forced to place his life on hold and become his partner’s full-time carer, and their time together has become the most important aspect of their lives.

Together, they plan a road trip through England while Tusker is still able to travel, to reconnect with friends and family and visit the places of their past.

As their journey progresses, their individual ideas for their future begin to collide. Secrets are uncovered, private plans unravel and their love for each other is tested like never before. Starring Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci.

OFFICE

A Moment of Reflection Auckland-based artist Vicky Savage has created three new sculptures that respond in part to our collective experiences during the many challenges and changes of 2020.

The works express positivity, reflection, and the gravity of circumstance while shining a light on the ways we have found balance and looked toward brighter days ahead.

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Anticipation Bronze & gold leaf on marble base, 370 x 280mm

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On The Horizon Bronze on marble base, 175 x 390mm

A Moment of Reflection Bronze on marble base, 260 x 160mm In A Moment of Reflection, a bronze figure looks into a golden reflective space, viewing and being present in ‘the now’, while the future is unwritten. The viewer too is able to glance into this space and find their present moment reflected back, a reminder that we are here in ‘the now’.

The second of the works in bronze, On the Horizon, celebrates looking forward. A towering collection of bronze bubbles carries a figure high as he looks toward the future.

While predominantly joined and bound together, the bubbles are individual, working together to hold the figure aloft, a metaphoric and poetic pillar of facing challenges.

Anticipation features two figures reaching for each other, one extending a beautiful golden kauri leaf to the other. The pair are working together from a distance, finding balance to stay strong upon a bronze beam that appears to teeter atop a conical support set on marble. The joyful glimmer of the gilded kauri leaf illuminates the bronze sculpture, a sense of light and promise between the two figures, and us the viewer too.

These sculptures are currently on display at Parnell Gallery and can also be viewed online (link below). A selection will also be shown at the Auckland Art Fair (24-28 February)

4 The Golden Moment – Pohutukawa Bronze & gold leaf, 435 x 460mm

parnellgallery.co.nz/artists/vicky-savage 263 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland

O F F T H E S H E LF

↑ THE FOUR WINDS Kristin Hannah

THE CITY OF TEARS Kate Mosse

CITY OF VENGEANCE D.V. Bishop

A deeply moving, powerful story about the strength and resilience of women and the bond between mother and daughter. Texas, 1934. Elsa Martinelli had finally found the life she'd yearned for. A family, a home and a livelihood on a farm on the Great Plains. But when drought threatens all she and her community hold dear, Elsa's world is shattered to the winds.

A thrilling historical epic for fans of Ken Follett and Dan Brown. A breathtaking novel of revenge, persecution and loss, sweeping from Paris and Chartres to the City of Tears itself — the great refugee city of Amsterdam — this is a story of one family’s fight to stay together, to survive and to find each other, against the devastating tides of history.

Florence. Winter, 1536. A prominent Jewish moneylender is murdered in his home, a death with wide implications in a city powered by immense wealth.

Cesare Aldo, a former soldier and now an officer of the Renaissance city's most feared criminal court, is given four days to solve the murder: catch the killer before the feast of Epiphany – or suffer the consequences.

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PISCES 19 FEB – 20 MAR You can have a harder time dealing with mental tasks with a group of people or by yourself, and work better when you have one partner.

This is a good time to talk about your relationship with someone, or to form a new business partnership. This is a good placement for love relationships, and you can feel the love you have for people more easily.

ARIES 21 MAR – 19 APR You’re practical and want to meet your high expectations. You can feel that it’s time to embark on a new adventure and see what the world has to offer you. You see that it’s a big world out there. You may come across as more dependable, stubborn, and practical. It can be a good time to take on a second job, side gig for extra cash, or turn a hobby into a moneymaking venture.

TAURUS 20 APR– 20 MAY You feel drained emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually, and you need more time to yourself, away from other people who demand too much from you, but you don’t seem to be able to get away. You want to run free, to travel and see the world, to submerge yourselves in other cultures, and to study other modes of thinking. You’re friendly and sociable, and don’t take much seriously in this period.

LEO 23 JUL – 22 AUG You can have a period full of activity, and you’re going from one thing to the next, keeping busy. You can work on an important project that requires a lot of mental focus. You can reconnect with a sibling, or embark on a big project in your community. You also feel more at ease with yourself emotionally, and can find a way to ground yourself internally.

CAPRICORN 22 DEC – 19 JAN You’ll have more communications regarding finance or in your career, make plans to achieve your goals, and think about the direction your life is taking and will plan changes, if necessary. You can become interested in a spiritual subject, or explore your spiritual side. You may become privy to a secret, spend more time alone, or be presented with the opportunity to do something behind the scenes.

VIRGO 23 AUG – 22 SEP Your energy this month is a little anxious and restless, and you need to keep busy. The busier you are, the more you have to do, the more energy you have. It’s time to get romance and leisure back. Find what you love now. Take up new hobbies, make new friends, or bring back the passion in your relationship, if attached. If single, put yourself back out there and open up your heart.

HORO— SCOPES

LIBRA 23 SEP – 22 OCT You stick with tradition, the things you know, and conventional methods.

You don’t want to venture outside of your comfort zone, and feel that familiarity is best. You may come across as analytical, exacting, and discriminating. If single, you can meet someone through a relative, or who has a nurturing energy to them. If in a relationship, you try to connect with your partner on an emotional level.

GEMINI 21 MAY – 20 JUN You will focus on your work, your responsibilities, and the things that you find no pleasure in and don’t care for, but you have to do them. You can have trouble with your loved ones, and if you’re seeing someone, you can decide it’s time to call it quits. You have an easier time facing the past, your issues, your subconscious, and your karma, and work on letting go.

SCORPIO

CANCER 21 JUN – 22 JUL You can have financial opportunities presented to you that will give you more flexibility. You also feel more confident, secure, and sensual.

Good relationships can be brought to the next level, and you become more committed. You can fulfil some commitments you’ve made, or give up on them. An old flame could also come back into your life, and you have to figure out what to do about it.

SAGITTARIUS

WORDS & INSPIRATION — Manish Kumar Arora manish@manishastrologer.com

22 NOV – 21 DEC You like being in the spotlight, and you want people to see what you’re doing.

You’re willing to try new things, and opportunities can come to you more easily, or you make them for yourself.

You’re less willing to compromise and negotiate, and only want to win, no matter what. Your competitive nature gets the better of you. You may also feel more in touch with your emotions.

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23 OCT– 21 NOV You feel creative, inspired, and want to have some fun and can enjoy your life more than you have in a while. You recognise the importance of healthy relationships, and strive to have that in your life. You’re willing to work on improving your existing relationships with loved ones. You can be intense and passionate, especially in love.

You’re also more fair, mediating, and try to strike a balance.

AQUARIUS 20 JAN – 18 FEB This is a good period for business deals, especially ones dealing with finances. You’ll have an easier time dealing with your joint finances, loans, taxes, and debts. You have also have a relaxed time dealing with the darker side of life and serious issues. You want to be closer to people, beyond a superficial level, and crave more close intimacy with the people in your life.

Claire Chitham Verve sits down with the actress to discuss her new book, Good For You, co-written with health journalist Kylie Bailey, that documents her battle with Crohn's disease.

How did you and Kylie come up with the idea to write a book?

It’s always been floating around as an idea for me, in that I wanted to share my story after I had come out the other side of healing my Crohn’s disease. But I never felt like it was a big enough story to be a whole book. That was about 15 years ago. When Kylie and I started working together three years ago we had a shared passion for health and wellbeing stories and were both storytellers, but we knew there wasn’t much out there that answered the questions so many people have about health. We wanted to create something that could give people a basic understanding of what we both knew to be true about holistic health today, that helped with the overwhelm. This is our version of a ‘recipe book for health’ which also has our personal stories within it. There’s a bunch of info about how our guts work, the link between our guts and our brains, how our bodies work and then a collection of tips and advice that might be useful for your own health journey.

How did you meet co-author Kylie? Kylie was a journalist and editor at the Women’s Weekly back in the days that I was on Shortland St. She had interviewed me a few times back then so we knew of each other. But about three years ago, after I’d returned from living overseas, we bumped into each other outside a cafe.

She’d heard I was interested in doing something in the health and wellbeing space, as she had gone on her own journey of healing, living with extreme anxiety and leaving her highly stressful career in the woman's magazine world. So we connected over another coffee (yes, we both love coffee, we’re not health purists! ) and I shared my ideas for a health hub called Good For You with her.

We’ve been plotting this thing ever since then.

What is your background in health and wellness? In 2005 I completed my training to be a pilates teacher at Suna Pilates in Takapuna. I worked there for about a year and since then have taught in Australia and the US as a fully qualified mat and reformer teacher you have to complete anatomy and physiology courses as well as obviously gain an intimate knowledge of how the body, its skeletal system, muscular system and respiratory system works, amongst other things. Pilates has a functional and postural focus and this informs so much about how the body works. This has been an amazing foundation for me, but it also comes on top of my own experience having had Crohn’s disease since I was 12. I went through a massive healing journey (which is all in the book!) and ever since then I’ve been a student of all things related to my health and the body. I’ve tried many different types of therapies

and practices over the years, I’ve learned about what works for me, but that’s not going to be true for everyone. However, over the last 20 years of my own lessons and failures, I've learned some fundamental truths about how we all seem to approach our health. I’m not the expert in everything, but I know lots of people who are and it’s my goal to help get their messages and info out to a wider audience.

What is the main thing you hope readers will take away from your new book? I really want people to start learning about their own bodies and health, growing a better understanding of how we all work and then taking action to correct things if they’re a bit off. Our healthcare system is very broken, but we can help ourselves if we become less afraid of what we don’t know, and can enjoy the process of engaging with our own health and taking on that responsibility without it feeling like it’s a burden. It can actually be fun and incredibly empowering. We want people to develop their own prescription for having great health and vitality — not just feeling okay — that includes mental, physical, emotional and energetic health. Holistic health in the truest sense of the word. Taking care of the whole self. So many people think if they have a health problem, mental or physical, that it’s too hard to fix it or they don’t know where to start looking. We’d like to give them that place.

What lessons have you learnt from being in the public eye?

That it doesn’t take much to be polite. That people usually just want to form a connection with you and that’s a part of your job.

That a smile doesn’t cost anything. That making television and telling stories brings me a great amount of joy and that’s why I do it. That people knowing who you are doesn’t really mean much in regards to your own health and happiness, especially not if you don’t know yourself well. That’s what’s important.

Who are the people who have been most supportive during your health journey? My friends and family, always, as they are the ones that have to listen to me moan, or prop me up when I'm exhausted, stressed or low, or mostly tolerate listening to the great new discovery I’ve just made about some new health science, “did you know...” And the next most important people have been the practitioners who have helped me heal my body. I have people I’ve seen fairly regularly now for over 15 years. The team at Real Health clinic have been part of my A-team for years and Susie at SUNA is such an important part of my life and she’s in our book.

Simone Anderson

Embracing Change

Kiwi superstar influencer Simone Anderson had the best way of welcoming in the new year, announcing in January that she and hubby Trent Forsyth are expecting their first baby. “For as long as I can remember, even as a little girl as young as three, I have dreamt of having and raising a family of my own,” she tells Verve, “so this news truly feels like a dream come true.”

→ Simone tells of her childhood spent “playing outside and helping around our family home”, and beams about her own “doting parents” who “taught us that with hard work we could achieve anything we set our sights on”.

“Our upbringing was a simple one,” she continues, “but with everything we needed and so much love and support. We were told that no matter what success we found in life, if we hadn’t achieved it with kindness and others in mind that it was never a success to begin with. That our relationships and bonds where the only thing we left this earth with and to nurture these.”

The social media star talks of her especially close bond with her mother and grandmother (“truly the most incredible females that I know”), both also responsible for nurturing Simone’s love of cooking— culminating in her publishing her own cookbook, So Delish, last year (she also published her memoir, Journey to Health, in 2018).

“I grew up with a grandmother who was an incredible cook, and a pastry chef as a mother,” Simone tells us. “My auntie runs a cafe in Auckland and studied food in France. Cooking is definitely a passion in our family, and I have been around food and recipes since I was born. My book is a mixture of family recipes, my own learning over the years, and my rediscovery of fun, fresh, healthy food made simply, with low-cost ingredients.”

Simone first rose to prominence documenting her weight loss journey on Instagram, shedding nearly 100kg in 2015 thanks to her phenomenal willpower and drastic lifestyle changes following gastric-sleeve surgery. She says that going public with her intentions then sharing the process on social media was the ultimate in accountability. And she soon went viral.

So many try to carve a career online but fail, why do you believe that you were so embraced?

“I believe it was a ‘right place, the right time’ situation. And because I didn’t start my online pages for any sort of monetary incentive. I started sharing my journey online purely to keep myself accountable on my weight loss journey. Because of this I was raw and vulnerable, sharing not only my highlights but also my deepest struggles. I believe because of this people felt able to relate to me and connect in a very deep way.”

Dealing with trolls and negativity, alas, come with the territory of having a substantial online presence, but Simone says that she simply doesn’t play into it: “It saddens me that that person feels that level of unhappiness in themselves that they would try and tear someone else down, someone that they have never even met. I don’t reply. I block and delete instantly. I just don’t need to feed into it.”

Simone’s story was not only picked up by the local press, but international titles such as the Daily Mail and Huffington Post. She even appeared on the front cover of Good Health magazine, and was invited to appear on US talk show, The FabLife, hosted by Tyra Banks.

How do you feel when looking at pictures of pre-weight-loss self?

Does it seem like a different person?

“I feel like I am looking at Simone, happy bubbly and fun Simone who is driven and hard-working and loves to make other smile. She just happens to be holding a few extra kilos. I am reminded of my wonderful teenage years and all the special memories they hold.”

What advice would you give her?

“To do exactly what you are doing. Life is too short to care what others think. You are enjoying life!”

“Embrace is not only an activewear brand, but a community,” she adds. “This is my goal for 2021, to expand our range and ensure more women around the globe feel supported every single day.”

Advice that’s stuck with you?

“To only work towards goals and dreams that are truly your own.

Ignore what those around you try to force onto you. If you try to please everyone, you will live a life that was never truly your own, focusing on goals that don’t even fundamentally make you content.”

What advice would you give to all those who’ve decided to try to get healthier with the start of a new year?

“Start small! Don’t try to overhaul your entire life at once. That’s when you find it hard to maintain and feel like a failure if even one thing slips.

Make one change today—start with breakfast!”

Simone says that she’s personally not one for resolutions, believing that life should “constantly be for making change and trying to better yourself”. Her number one focus, always, is around her happiness and mental health: “Everything else has a flow on affect from these.”

Motherhood aside, grand business plans are afoot for 2021. Towards the end of last year, she and Trent launched all-inclusive activewear label, Embrace, inspired by Simone’s difficulty in finding decent workout clothing back in her plus-size days.

Words — Jamie Christian Desplaces

“Looking at websites where the models were a size six through to size 12, I just couldn’t relate or even picture the items on my body,” she recalls. “I felt isolated and alone. Like I was the only person who couldn’t find quality activewear. What I have realised over the course of my six-plus-year journey is that I was never alone, women around the world felt my same pain and struggle.”

She hopes to change negative shopping experiences into one that are empowering.

“Embrace is not only an activewear brand, but a community,” she adds. “This is my goal for 2021, to expand our range and ensure more women around the globe feel supported every single day.”

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

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

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Coming Soon

Skincare as simple as it should be.

Watch this space for all the benefits of oil-based beauty products.

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Verve is collaborating with kari gran. These stunning skincare products will be available to purchase from Verve in March. #skincaring @vervemagazine

NEW YEAR

N E W YO U 2020 will go down in the history books. One thing that last year taught us is the importance of self-love. Treating ourselves to quality beauty products and treatments that help us feel like the best version of ourselves helps! From nourishing skin products that make us feel fabulous, to simply just getting those stray eyebrow hairs eradicated, Verve has listed the best ways to battle the back-towork blues and channel that 'new year, new you.'

BEAUTY ENGINE HAND CREAM With ingredients found in New Zealand farms, and without harmful chemicals, this nourishing hand cream by the Beauty Engine is Verve’s pick to keep your hands hydrated, soft and glowing all year round. Easy to love and effortless to use, you'll embrace the quality of the natural sources used in this hand cream. The wisdom of lanolin and honey and their revival power helps the fragile skin. Make a small but oh-so-nourshing step towards enriching your daily skincare ritual in 2021 by supporting your skin with the help of the natural Engine.

beautyengine.co.nz

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FEBRUARY 2020

LINDEN LEAVES

SOYA GARDEN

The perfect addition to your evening beauty routine this year, Linden Leaves Regenerating Night Cream offers targeted overnight regeneration – naturally! Perfect for dry, mature and sensitive skins, this ultra-rich cream leaves your skin soft and supple each morning. With dreamy marshmallow to hydrate and plump, goji berry to firm and tone, meadowfoam to moisturise and soften and antiageing organic white tea. Certified natural, veganfriendly and made in New Zealand. Available now online and at leading beauty retailers nationwide.

This Soy Mask by Soya Garden has a luxurious creamy texture, and it's packed with an exclusive microbiological fermentation nattō extract that promotes your skin's natural regeneration process, giving your skin the hydration it needs. Plus, it’s supercharged with encapsulated potent proteins that are activated by plants, and NZ mānuka honey to calm and soothe your complexion while reducing the look of inflammation, give you that glowing-from-within look all year round.

lindenleaves.com

soyagarden.co.nz 75

VALENTINES WTH SPRING

UP LASHES AND BROWS

MAD ABOUT U

Start the year with a fresh new look at UP® Lashes & Brows — Auckland’s most trusted lash, brow and microblading specialists. The internationallyawarded team has 30-plus years' experience and will help you find the look that best suits you and your lifestyle. Complimentary, obligation-free, consultations available, subject to terms and conditions.

It's all about U this Valentine's. Repair and replenish with our exclusive U Beauty resurfacing facial, the ultimate hydration boost for a plump and radiant complexion. Perfectly paired with a mini manicure to give your tips the TLC they deserve.

75mins, $155.

springspa.com

upsalons.com

vervemagazine.co.nz

The New Avène Sun Care Range Verve Beauty Crew Reviews

Sensitive skincare specialists at Avène Dermatological Laboratories have poured their knowledge and expertise into producing high quality sun protection that offers efficacy and skin tolerance for even the most sensitive skin.

Our Verve Beauty Crew were sent their four new Sun Care products to put to the test - Avène Face Emulsion, Avène Face Lotion, Avène Face Spray and Avène Face Spray for Children.

Christine, 69

Geraldine, 30

Francesca, 26

“The Face Emulsion is effective and just glides on with no residue or 'sticky' feeling.”

“It is so hard to find a sunscreen product that is light on skin and not greasy.”

“The Cliquot of sunscreen.”

Shari, 34

Gabrielle, 25

Felicity, 58

“The Avène products left my skin feeling moisturised. This will definitely be a staple in my personal and professional makeup kit.”

“It’s a dry touch sunscreen without the Casper the Ghost white cast! Avène offers all of the essentials you need from a sunscreen.”

“I’ve found products which have allowed me to look ‘sun-kissed’ without harming my skin. Even the 20s have been raiding my beach-bag.”

Alice, 28

Natalie, 53

Sandie, 44

“Feels like a primer and wears beautifully under makeup.”

“My face still felt soft and hydrated 2-3 hours after application.”

“I loved that the smell and the visual effect on the skin were discreet.”

ABBI E BE AU TY.C O. N Z

PHOTO GRAPHY BY FRAN C ES H ÉM ON @D OUX .VOYAG E.VISUAL

@AS K. A B B I E.BEAUTY

ABBIE GARDINER OF

ABBIE BEAUTY Abbie Gardiner has racked up a wealth of commercial experience in the makeup artist industry since launching Abbie Beauty in 2006. She has recently added scalp micropigmentation (SMP) to her list of services. We caught up with Abbie to find out more about this procedure.

SCAL P MICROP I GM ENTAT I ON

What is scalp micropigmentation?

It is a non-surgical, long-lasting hair loss treatment during which natural pigments are applied within the dermal layer of the scalp, either replicating a natural shaved head or in other cases, adding the illusion of more hair density in my longer hair clients. SMP can also be used to conceal scars from hair transplantation and hide the visual impact of burns, alopecia or scars on the head. Scalp micropigmentation can be performed on all skin types and hair colours as the pigment is custom blended for each client needs.

Who would you recommend SMP to and do you treat both men and women?

BE FORE

I would recommend SMP to anyone that is experiencing hair loss. Either adding back your natural hair line or filling in any bald areas that have been worrying you. I have had numerous women with hair loss issues book in sessions with me for more hair density as hair loss is not just a male problem.

How has this helped your clients?

AFTER

I have been blown away watching reactions from my clients. It can often be quite an emotional experience. Their confidence blooms before my eyes. They are beyond grateful and often say they feel and look 10 years younger. As this is a semi-permanent procedure, I feel so happy watching my clients leave with so much confidence. I have heard numerous times: “You’ve just changed my life.”

It is incredibly rewarding.

Is there a special reaction story from one of your clients?

I had a wonderful session with a gentleman that had recently separated and wanted to get back out dating again. He had shared that he no longer had confidence and was so conscious about his balding hairline. After our first session of SMP he broke down, it was a very emotional experience. Seeing someone’s confidence and excitement grow before your eyes is a wonderful thing. I feel I am doing something so meaningful for my clients. It is life-changing.

What made you want to get into SMP as opposed to the common beauty treatments?

I have worked closely with people for almost 20 years as a makeup and hair stylist. Enhancing how someone looks and feels has been a very important part of my trade, but this has always been temporary. During this time, I had so many clients share their stories with me about their thinning hair. I then started my research into this area. I instantly knew this is my calling.

SMP is relatively new to New Zealand but has been a very popular answer to hair loss issues overseas for almost 20 years. It is the best feeling knowing I have enhanced someone’s life with these semi-permanent results. I feel I have found my calling.

Abbie has Afterpay available in store.

MENTION VERVE AT THE TIM E OF BOOKING AND RECEIVE A 20% OFF DISCOUNT.

GLOWbody

Cosmetic Acupuncture Founded by qualified acupuncturist Hannah Johnstone, GLOWbody is a beautiful Ponsonby studio which transforms into a luxury acupuncture clinic when stepping into the treatment room. We caught up with Hannah to learn more about cosmetic acupuncture and the benefits.

Book in with a friend you both get 15% off your cosmetic acupuncture.

Cosmetic acupuncture: $100 Cosmetic acupuncture for two: $85 each

glowbody.co.nz

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Tell us a bit about yourself and what led you to get into cosmetic acupuncture?

My name is Hannah and I am a qualified acupuncturist.

I started looking into cosmetic acupuncture last year during lockdown and the more I researched the more I couldn't get over the amazing results. I couldn't understand why it isn't well-known in NZ! Knowing that there is a natural alternative option to anti-ageing, reducing fine lines, acne reduction and brightening your complexion - I just knew there are so many like minded people that would love to try this treatment and love their results!

On average, an acupuncture needle is around 0.25mm in thickness; this is four times thinner than a sewing needle and over 100 times thinner than a medical syringe.

What is cosmetic acupuncture and what are the benefits?

Cosmetic acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s natural production of collagen. When you break the body’s skin barrier, it triggers the body’s healing response, sending red blood cells and white blood cells to the area. When we use needles to do so, the 'micro trauma' created also requires a protein to repair the 'damage', and that protein is collagen.

How many sessions do I need?

When it comes to acupuncture, it has accumulating effects which means, the more treatments you have, the better your results! However, it really does depend what your treatment goals are, and these are tailored to the individual.

The benefits of cosmetic acupuncture include: • being 100% natural • anti-ageing — reduces fine lines and wrinkles • promotes collagen to the face naturally • evens out skin tone • brightens your complexion • helps clear acne and scarring • tighter skin and more contoured jawline and neck What does it feel like? Does it hurt?

It's okay to feel some anxiety or nervousness about needles, and we are able to discuss this with you. You may feel a tiny prick from one of two needles, however most go in with no feeling! My goal is to always make you feel comfortable and relaxed, and wants your experience to be as enjoyable and as pain-free as possible.

Do you offer other treatments?

I do! I have a special interest in treating women's health issues; this can be anything from fertility, pregnancy (including morning sickness and inducing labour) as well as mental or internal health. I'm also ACC registered and can treat injuries.

Do I need to know any important information before I book an appointment?

Yes, a few things: Firstly, make sure you eat before your appointment as it can be quite stimulating and we don’t want you feeling faint or light-headed.

If you do want to have cosmetic acupuncture before a big event please make sure you come in five days prior to the event. This is to leave space in case of any bruising that needs to fully heal (this is very rare).

Also, please be aware that you shouldn’t touch up your makeup for up to four hours after a session.

Lastly, clients can have cosmetic acupuncture anytime prior to Botox injections, however, should wait four weeks post-Botox if they are wanting cosmetic acupuncture in the area Botox was injected.

Clients can also have cosmetic acupuncture after facial surgery as it can help encourage and support healing of the skin post-surgery.

Rust Never Sleeps, Neither Does Pigmentation With our aggressive UV and ever-increasing long, hot summers, we are not surprised that it is estimated that 90 percent of people will develop some form of photo-ageing and/or pigmentation by the age of 50, if not earlier.

Phase 1 – in the clinic The cosmelan 1 mask is applied in clinic and left on the skin for a period of time which is determined by various factors including skin conditions. This is usually around eight hours.

Our strong UV is one of the major culprits with regards to this, but genetics, acne, postinflammatory conditions, photosensitising medication or even products can all come into play too. All of these types of pigmentation are extremely difficult to treat.

Phase 2 – at home maintenance The mask is removed at home and followed by an application of melan recovery cream. cosmelan 2 maintenance cream is applied at home along with a recommended home care regime, including the all-important SPF. The objective of this highly effective maintenance cream is to help continue the brightening of the complexion and assist in preventing the signs of age spots, all the while enhancing luminosity.

It has always been a delicate dance when it comes to treating these conditions, as many treatments and techniques can actually exacerbate the condition instead of rectifying it.

We want real results for you. We do not want to just treat the surface, we want to treat the cause at the source, at the melanocyte.

What has us so excited? How are we now effectively treating this common skin condition?

We use the mesoestetic cosmelan programme.

Case study and images from After Glow Skin, UK

What is cosmelan? cosmelan is a one-time, professional skin brightening treatment developed to help reduce the appearance of age spots and blemishes and even out skin tone in a matter of weeks, with minimal side effects. The clinically proven results are truly impressive, achieving up to 95 per cent improvement in the majority of cases.

Treatments with the mesoestetic cosmelan topical solution are tailored to each individual and the results are long lasting.

The treatment consists of two phases and it is imperative that you follow the directions given by the treating professional to achieve complete success.

Peeling of the treated skin usually begins in about 3–5 days. We are in frequent contact with you to see you through this stage. Follow-up is in 7–10 days at which point a marked reduction in major discolouration should be noticeable.

The cosmelan home maintenance product programme must be adhered to for the next six months for effective results.

What is mesoestetic’s cosmelan used for?

Cosmelan is used to treat: • freckles • pigmentation including Hyperpigmentation • melasma Who is this treatment for?

All skin types who have suffered sun damage, hormonal blemishes or dark spots or melasma. cosmelan is here now and we are using it. The results are real! Call us now for a consultation to see if cosmelan is the best solution for you.

Case study and images from Admire Beauty, Australia

Shop 2/224 Kepa Road, Mission Bay 09 528 9010 | louisegray.co.nz

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

ADASHIKO Collagen Water – a world first!

The newest offering in water — Collagen Refresh. A pure collagen ready-to-drink water for health, beauty + hydration! Replenishing your collagen stores with a premium pure collagen supplement, supports the whole body from the inside out. Leaving you feeling good, with a radiant glow. A natural way to refreshen with Parkers Pure Artesian Water and to conveniently get your daily ADASHIKO Collagen dose whenever, wherever your day takes you. The finest collagen in the world, right here in New Zealand. adashiko.com

Eva’s Wellbeing Supplements Eva's Wellbeing Supplements are all about balance, feeling good on the inside, and ditching diet culture.

Here at Eva’s, we focus on creating 100% natural products that will nourish and fuel your body. Eva’s smoothies are the perfect balanced, convenient, and delicious meal option, with the purpose to make it as easy as possible for people to get their vital nutrients in every single day. evas.co.nz

Health & Wellness

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The Method NZ NZ’s very own group fitness instructor training.

The Method NZ quickly sold out of their first teacher training last year and this year's courses are shaping up no differently! As the world responds to COVID many of us look to retrain and upskill. Become a barre instructor, jump on our pre & post natal workshops, TRX, Pilates & online short courses. All REPs certified. Want more info?

Check @themethodnz themethodnz.co.nz

vervemagazine.co.nz

Studio Three — Boutique Fitness at it's Best!

Studio Three specialises in boutique fitness classes and private training. Our pilates, reformer, barre, TRX & yoga classes are carefully designed to set you up for success! Your individual goals are our commitment and our highly trained team are technique focused, offering hands-on guidance in a welcoming environment for all ages and fitness levels. Our beautiful Grey Lynn studio is spacious with wooden floors, large windows to offer plenty of light and fresh air along with all the equipment and extra touches needed to complete your positive experience. studiothree.co.nz

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 Men and women

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

From New Kid on the Block to Star of the Show

Profhilo® – Biostimulator Extraordinaire

When Clinic 42 introduced Profhilo® to their treatment range back in August 2020, they weren’t quite prepared for just how popular it was going to be.

We had read all the data, it was quite extensive given that over one million syringes have been administered worldwide, and we were impressed with the very well-established safety profile.

Colleagues from overseas had shared their results and we knew it was an exciting and innovative development in the world of filler, but we underestimated how strong the patient demand was going to be.

Profhilo® is a bio-remodelling product that works through the slow release of both high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid. While it consists of pure HA, it is not a dermal filler in the traditional sense, as its function is not to volumise but to induce biostimulation of cells.

This means it stimulates the laying-down of new collagen and elastin in the superficial layers, just under the surface of the skin.

Once injected Profhilo® spreads and become integrated into the skin.

The result is lifted tissue with fewer lines and wrinkles, improved texture and intense hydration, with no added volume

Clinic 42 09 638 4242 321 Manukau Road clinic42.co.nz

Profhilo® is a two-stage treatment with appointments one month apart. So you wouldn’t expect to see an improvement until a couple of weeks after your second treatment, however over 50 percent of clients report a very positive effect within a couple of weeks after their first treatment.

So very quickly we were fielding enquiries from people who wanted 'whatever she’s had' as well as people who had previously been treated overseas.

Since then, patients who had their faces treated and experienced a good outcome have been returning to have their necks and décolletages and hands treated.

Another aspect that makes Profhilo® so appealing to patients is that it can be done in a 30-minute appointment, there are very specific injection points used, although our expert doctors at C42 have already managed to adjust it for a personalised treatment and the actual treatment takes only 10 minutes. Plus it’s a relatively low discomfort level.

Profhilo® really does represent a new concept in anti-ageing medicine. We are pleased to have been amongst the first doctors in New Zealand offering it, and our doctors were involved in the Australasian trials of this product. We look forward to developing new and exciting ways to utilise this innovative treatment in the near future.

What is the cost of Profhilo®?

Two treatments, one month apart will cost you $1,600.

How long will it last?

It is recommended to repeat annually, but the treatment can be repeated every six months.

Who should have it?

Everyone! With our natural collagen and elastin formation slowing from as young as 20 years of age anybody and everybody can benefit from Profhilo® whether you are 30 or 70, male or female, you will notice the difference.

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

The Movement 1

5 2 3

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Chic activewear has become a wardrobe staple for many of us during the Covid-19 pandemic and fabric technology has never made athleisure wear more appealing. Whether you need high-performance gear for a gym session or a yoga set to take you from workout to brunch – there is a sportswear label for you.

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P R I S M² Since launching PRISM in 2009 with a collection of stylish yet functional eyewear, founder Anna Laub applies the same ethos to PRISM², a 10-year anniversary capsule of multifunctional sportswear, swimwear and underwear.

Designed for a modern wardrobe, the collection combines comfort, functionality and a fashion-forward mindset with a focus on sustainability, styles are made in Italy using a seamless construction, ensuring minimal waste, then coloured through eco-friendly techniques. Inclusivity is at the heart of the brand, ensuring each design is a true fit for every body, for everyday wear. One size fits all.

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1. Ernest Leoty Anais underwired stretch-jersey bodysuit | 2. PRISM² | 3. Live The Process, Geometric Legging | 4. Live The Process, Corset Bodysuit | 5. PRISM² Elated racerback low-impact sports bra | 6. PRISM² Awaken ribbed-jersey leggings | 7. WOA Keyhole Bra in Caviar and Free Throw Full Length Legging

E D IT— PAR IS MITCHE L L-TE MP L E

LIVE TH E P RO C ES S Live The Process is ethically made in America by women who are dedicated to creating your high quality product.

Our high standards of care for this creative process come from our dream to make the world a better place. Each piece not only looks beautiful and reflects a conscious lifestyle, but also allows you to perform at your best thanks to high-tech innovations like four-way stretch, breathability, heat reduction, moisture wicking and wind repellent fabrications.

E R NEST LEOT Y Designed in France, using fabrics from Italian mills, made in Europe, Ernest Leoty takes their time to craft the perfect product. Priding themselves on fitness wear at the highest standard. With roots in nineteenth century Paris, when Maison Leoty was the city’s most fashionable corset maker. While most corsets constrained the body, Ernest Leoty corsets allow easy movement.

Their smart cut and elasticity give women room to breathe. They are modern and technical for their time without compromising style.

WOA WOA is an emerging young brand founded in New York in 2019. The driving force behind the brand’s identity is a passion to support a lifestyle driven by activity with the desire to feel really good while doing it. Wear One’s At was brought to life through the art of movement.

Functionality that doesn’t try so hard.

WOA supports a lifestyle driven by activity with the desire to feel really good while doing it.

Yvonne Marvin.

Practitioner for coolbody.

KICK START 2021: MAKE IT ALL ABOUT YOU These are the results from the client featured in the December issue of Verve:

Tummy can be gone in four weeks 1) Grab It.

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

BEFORE TREATMENT

AFTER TREATMENT

26 College Hill, Freemans Bay coolbodynz@gmail.com

2) Day of treatment.

3) Just four weeks later, the fat is gone.

Don't let it spread to far!

Pull your body into line.

• Freeze excess fat • Makes your body look more streamline • Age doesn't matter • Pull yourself together through the 'Demand Kick Start Special': Four Areas: $1,800, saves $600 Three Areas: $1,500, saves $300 • Don't miss out

To book call 021 923 430 for a

FREE CONSULTATION

Coming Out Of

The first step in coming out of your sexual shell starts with feeling confident in your skin. So get dressed in something that makes you feel amazing. Whether that’s putting on a dress you love, a pair of jeans that make your butt look great, or wearing your favourite perfume — your confidence will skyrocket when you look good and feel good.

Or, if you really want to turn up the heat and ignite some sensual energy, slip into some sexy lingerie that really empowers you. Lingerie is different for everyone, but to me, lingerie is any clothing or undergarment that is designed to make you feel sexy. You may love a matching bra and panty set, or if you’re more into leather, try a wet-look bodysuit Dust off your favourite sexy underwear and see how quickly you start to feel sensual. Or, since Valentine's Day is just around the corner, why not treat yourself to some new lingerie — something that makes you excited (and maybe a little bit frisky).

CH A NT E L LE OTTE N ' S TOP TI PS

EXP LORE YO U R BO DY

GETT ING BAC K TO BAS I C S

What better way to start anew than by embarking on a journey in becoming your best sexual self? Now is the perfect time to embrace your sensual side and let loose the sexual butterfly that lies within. With this in mind, global sexual wellness brand Lovehoney’s resident psycho-sexologist Chantelle Otten has shared her top tips for coming out of your sexual shell.

Once you're feeling fabulous in your lingerie, it’s time to get reacquainted with your body.

Being out of the game for a little while can make us feel somewhat lost, particularly if you’re single. But don’t worry, with a little practise, you’ll be feeling fabulous and in touch with your body in no time. Because trust me, it’s just like riding a... bike.

So, before you venture on that muchanticipated first date, it might be a good idea to re-discover your body through sensual touch and selfpleasure. Masturbation is an amazing way to reignite that passion in your body, because after all, you’re the only one who knows exactly where and how you like to be touched. But if you’re reading this thinking, “Ahh, I have no idea,” then all the more reason to find out!

Run yourself a nice warm bath, light some candles and let those hands wander! The longer we go without sex, the harder it may seem to rediscover our sexual passion. But we only need a single flame, so let’s start it from the comfort of our rooms before we take on the rest of the world.

Your Sexual Shell

FEBRUARY 2020

LOVEH ONEY.C O.NZ 09 801 5093

Now that you’ve reignited your sexual flame and are feeling more empowered, it’s time to set some goals that you would like to achieve sexually. Have a think about what you desire, what you’re craving and fantasising about the most.

T RY SOM ETH IN G NEW

Whether it’s trying a new position, experimenting with a new toy or even reconnecting with an old flame, writing down these fantasies makes for a very exciting to-do list.

This sexy to-do list might be the inspiration you needed to think outside the box and discover your deepest desires. So don’t hold back, give yourself permission to dream BIG and free those fantasies.

BE K IN D

C REATE G OA LS

WHERE IS YOUR DRINKING TAKING YOU?

Re-discovering your body and coming out of your sexual shell is a journey, so it’s important to be kind to yourself. It may take some time, but it’s worth the effort.

Is 'Wine O'Clock' ruling your life?

Do you dream of being sober but don't know how to get there?

Give up and get well at Ocean Hills, a discreet, private rehab in Hawke's Bay. We know – through lived experience and proven clinical treatment methodologies – that recovery is possible with the right support.

If you are struggling with addiction and don't know where to turn, call Elaine for a confidential chat to see if we can help you into a sustainable sober life.

There are endless ways to incorporate fantasy into real life, from sexy lingerie and sex toy kits, to erotic literature and games to get you in the mood.

.

Once you've written your erotic dream list, you might need to go back a step to that self-loving phase... particularly if you're being a bit descriptive!

At first, you may feel overwhelmed, or maybe even a little silly, but don’t give up! Your pleasure should be your priority and practice makes perfect.

After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day!

vervemagazine.co.nz

Call Elaine on 027 573 7744 OCEANHILLSREHAB.CO.NZ

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Hope and Bravery: Dealing with Addiction

“For those without such issues, by far the biggest misconception about people struggling with addiction is why they can’t just stop,” laments Elaine Atkinson, founder of Ocean Hills, a private detox and rehabilitation sanctuary based in Hawke’s Bay. “But it’s not that easy for people that are dependent on drugs or alcohol. They can’t ‘just stop’.”

Elaine is speaking from first-hand experience. Now into her fifteenth year sober, she established Ocean Hills after her own healing process in order to help rehabilitate other alcoholics.

“I’d always partied hard and drank until I got really drunk,” she says. “After years of this, I was starting to get spooked by more and more blackouts and big gaps in my memory.

There were times I didn’t know where I had been or what had happened, which was scary. I knew I had lost control of my drinking.”

Alcohol is the country’s most consumed drug. In the decade preceding 2018, though beer sales dipped slightly (0.5 percent), sales of wines increased by seven percent and spirits by more than a third. Of the four in five Kiwi adults that consume alcohol, one in four drink hazardously (rising to two in five for young adults), with men twice as likely as women to drink to excess. Around 50,000 Kiwis seek help regarding their alcohol or drug use each year.

Elaine says there will be different levels of “rock bottom” for different people, depending on their circumstances, that will eventually drive them to seek help.

“It could be regularly not turning up for work on time because of hangovers, partners being constantly angry, or poor parenting,” she says. “Some become so dependent that they need to be hospitalised to be detoxed off the alcohol. Many out there drinking and drugging are sick and tired of keeping up the façade, and they just want help.”

For Elaine, the “final straw” came on her fortieth birthday, when she wound up hospitalised with a burnt oesophagus, chest pains and “unable to eat properly for days on end”.

“I knew I was sick, and I knew I should stop, but I wanted to drink more,” she says. “Later I went to a support group and realised from seeing all these happy, healthy people that there was a way to stop drinking. From there, I finally got sober and stayed that way, with the support of the support group, and my doctor.”

Though cannabis is New Zealand’s most popular illegal drug, methamphetamine is said to be easier to buy.

According to NZME documentary Fighting the Demon, Aotearoa is home to one of the world’s most lucrative meth markets, with around $1.4-million worth sold each day.

The NZ Drug Foundation reports that 8.5 percent of the

“We want the stigma around substance abuse broken... For the subject to be openly talked about, and more resources to be made available for both whānau and addicts.”

population smoke cannabis monthly, versus one percent for meth, but a disturbing study released last year revealed that more than a quarter of middle-aged New Zealanders had tried methamphetamine at least once in their lives.

Erin Scarlett ONeill, co-founder of addiction support group, Brave Hearts NZ, says that contrary to popular belief, meth addiction affects “all socio-economic groups and professions, not just those on benefits or lower incomes”.

“For every addict who is hurting, there is a husband or wife, mother, father, brother or sister also hurting,” says Erin. “This needs to be addressed and family and whānau supported, not only for ourselves, but because sometimes we are part of the problem.”

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Brave Hearts NZ offers such a service, for free, providing support and direction “for people with loved ones with substance and addiction issues”. Erin established the group following her own son’s “long and painful journey with meth addiction”.

“I moved to Tauranga and met Ros [Potter, co-founder] who had also been on a journey but had been helped by a local policeman, Lindsay Red Smith,” says Erin. “We decided to start up a group for other parents and enlisted Red’s support in organising a meeting for whānau. We had 60 people turn up to that first meeting in 2016, so it was obvious that people were crying out for help. Not only did they not know where

to get it, but it was often limited, with agencies themselves stretched in their efforts to help addicts, let alone the suffering families. And so Brave Hearts NZ began.”

Though based in Mount Maunganui, Brave Hearts also facilitates regular meetings in Auckland, Tauranga, Hamilton, Nelson, Motueka and Clutha, with Christchurch a possibility early this year.

“We have one-on-one, free of charge sessions with educators who sit with you family to tailor a plan that will teach you to cope with the daily, terrifying trauma of living with, or being close to, a meth addict.”

Elaine echoes that support of family and loved ones is an integral part of every recovering alcoholic's journey.

“People often make the mistake of believing that once they leave rehab, they are fixed, but post-treatment care is crucial,” she says. “We have to get the message across that, although they’ve done really well, their recovery is only just beginning. They will be in a world surrounding by booze and drugs and advertising which is a real challenge to those attempting a life of sobriety.”

“We want the stigma around substance abuse broken,” says Erin. “For the subject to be openly talked about, and more resources to be made available for both whānau and addicts.”

Making Brave Hearts Beat – – –

– –

“Our aim is to: educate, advocate, support, and counsel,” says Erin.

Aside from the group meetings, the charity facilitates awareness seminars with professional speakers.

“Brave Hearts works so well because we have been through the experiences ourselves,” says Erin. “We offer ‘head knowledge’ and total empathy. We want to pass on that knowledge to help alleviate others’ suffering.”

Anyone in distress can call Brave Hearts’ freephone number 0508 272 834 Donations can be made at the website, bravehearts.nz

Ocean Hills, A Santuary For Sobriety – –

– – –

Tailored clinical treatment programmes are offered, usually lasting two- to four weeks, with a weekly aftercare service.

The “sanctuary from the chaos of addiction” offers addiction, education, relapse prevention and mindfulness. Activities include nature walks, yoga, art and equine therapies.

Clients may self-refer, or be referred by their GP. Only four guests at any given time ensures a high-level of support and care.

“We see, live, and breathe the miracle of recovery every day,” says Elain. “We never give up hope.”

Words – Jamie Christian Desplaces

KAINOS ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTRE

Kainos is a rehabilitation centre located in the beautiful paradise of Long Bay on the North Shore. Offering three different tiers of programming and focusing on a holistic, mental and physical approach, this centre offers a special and unique way of rehabilitating. Verve spoke to the Director of Administration of Kainos, Victoria Cavanagh.

The Kainos Addiction Treament Centre

I have a friend who needs help – what do you suggest I do?

Firstly I would talk to your friend and tell them you care.

Often when people or loved ones are in the struggles of addiction their self-worth is very low and they often feel isolated and alone. Unfortunately those around them don’t always know the best way to approach someone in addiction so they tend not to. As far as the practical side of things go, you can phone our 0800 number 24 hours a day. Talk to your friend and see if they are ready and willing to get help.

Can you treat clients with a dual diagnosis?

If the diagnosis was made during sobriety then yes, we can treat the client, but the decision is ultimately made by our doctor and nurse and is on a case-by-case basis.

The Kainos point of difference?

Kainos was established for addicts by addicts. Most of our staff completed treatment at residential treatment centres and we took the parts that worked for us and combined them with our own lived experience.

We only take four clients at a time so we can create an individualised treatment plan for each client. We also place a strong emphasis on holistic health, education, spiritual, mental, and physical. We approach this by employing a full-time therapist, personal trainer, yoga instructor, and holistic therapist. We also have weekly outings that encourage pro social fun like days out on our jet skis, beach and nature walks, tenpin bowling, laser tag, and many more. When in active addiction we often lose the will to enjoy the simple things in life. It’s not about learning to give up drugs and alcohol, it’s about learning to love life again.

Detoxing at home. Is this a safe process to undertake, or should a person always seek professional help?

It can be very difficult to detox at home and refrain from

drinking or using. It can also be life-threatening, so we would always recommend seeking professional help and detoxing under the supervision of a doctor and nurse. We regularly detox clients at Kainos.

If we have a lock down again do you still continue to treat patients at Kainos?

Yes. We remain open as an essential service and with a maximum of four clients at any one time it is relatively easy to create and remain in our own ‘bubble’.

What time of continued care do you have after treatment?

Each of our programmes include a minimum of 18 months continuing care. We encourage clients to return at least once a week for our support group. We also welcome clients back to continue training at Kainos with our personal trainer and participate in relaxed breathing classes.

Does your programme encourage family support?

Yes. Families visit twice a week and family counselling is offered at our centre. Children often stay overnight during treatment.

How do you measure success?

We measure success by the change in our clients, from when they arrive to the day they graduate is astounding.

There is a lightness in them, sometimes it is the first time they have been clean in 10 years or more. They have routine, their natural body clocks have been reset, they have reengaged with their families and loved ones, they have self-esteem and self-worth, and most of all, they now know they can do it. No treatment centre can provide a cure, and addiction is a life-long disease. Success for us is when clients keep coming back for ongoing support and immerse themselves in our wraparound service. We are truly blessed to see so many of our residents moving forward and creating the lives they were destined to live.

We see success daily.

7 HEADLAND DRIVE, LONG BAY, AUCKLAND / 0800 524 667 ADMIN@KAINOS.CO.NZ / KAINOS.CO.NZ

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HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

We welcome guests throughout the country into a safe and caring environment led by highly qualified professionals and volunteers whose drinking, drug or other substance abuse problem has been solved.

RECOVERY

STARTS H ERE

www.theretreatnz.org.nz

HAVING PROBLEMS WITH DRUGS OR ALCOHOL? We are here for you Call us on 0800 608 007 or visit WWW.THERETREATNZ.ORG.NZ 92

Looking for supportive & reliable respite care service?

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

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FEBRUARY 2020

Q&A

Janet Thompson C H AIR P E RSO N O F T H E R E T R E AT N Z

We talk to Janet Thompson, the chairperson of The Retreat NZ, a non-profit alcohol and drug rehab centre in Auckland that offers a successful 12-Step residential programme that has some of the best recovery rates in NZ. We discuss their programme and the stigma around alcohol and addiction.

Tell us about The Retreat NZ? What type of facility is it?

The Retreat NZ is an alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility that offers two main programmes: • 30-day residential rehabilitation programme based on the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous • 12-week evening programme, held one evening each week.

We are not a 'flash' rehab, we offer comfortable, clean and safe facilities, with amazing meals, your own room and a programme that really works. We want people to find the freedom, dignity and joy that comes with long-term recovery.

What motivated you to take on this role?

I am passionate about helping those who are still sick and suffering. It is a real privilege to walk alongside someone who is struggling and see the change taking place. One of my roles is also to advocate — I know that we have a programme that works and it frustrates me that our proven programme which has helped millions of people globally over the last 80 years does not meet the criteria for government funding in New Zealand. I really struggle with the fact that funding continues to be prioritised to non-community based models. I love that we are a charity and I resonate with our vision which is that recovery will be available for all New Zealanders who want help and the stigma of alcoholism will be overcome.

What is your opinion on the stigma surrounding seeking rehabilitation?

Typical stereotypes of people with alcohol dependence are that they are unreliable, emotionally unstable, financially dependent on others, self-pitying, and incapable of changing their behaviour. Because of these stereotypes, people are ashamed of their drinking and believe that coming forward will only open themselves up to criticism.

Instead of getting into a programme that can help them, they choose to continue their struggle alone. They will likely never get sober and the problems they are experiencing will get significantly worse.

One way to help combat the stigma around alcoholism is to openly talk about the issues surrounding alcohol. But we need to be careful how we do that. The language we use is important. Stigma can, and often should, be challenged. If we speak about more personal stories of people who are leading highly successful and fulfilling lives in recovery, this will lead to more empathy and less discrimination. In turn, this will help everyone, family, friends, employers, colleagues, neighbours in supporting those who may be struggling with alcohol problems.

What makes The Retreat NZ stand out from other rehabilitation centres?

One of our main advantages is that all our staff are in recovery themselves. The connection that you can get when talking to someone who has walked the same or similar journey cannot be understated or underestimated. We also have volunteers coming in to share their own experience, strength and hope. In any one day, if you add the years together of those who work or volunteer here, a guest can be surrounded by over 300 years of solid recovery. That wisdom is like gold and it’s something that you cannot get from a textbook.

How do you know when to seek help?

Ask yourself, "Is alcohol causing a problem in my life?" If the answer is "yes", then it is time to seek help. You may not need residential rehabilitation but you may need help. If alcohol is causing a problem in your life, then reach out for help. It may be the best thing that you do all year, not only for yourself, but for those around you. Usually we can take in a new guest at short notice and it's a relatively easy process.

Some signs you may have a problem with alcohol: • Once you have one drink, you can’t stop or you have no control • When you are not drinking, you are thinking about when you are going to have the next drink. You increasingly organise your life so that you can drink • You are increasingly irritated, restless and discontent with your life, even though externally, you may seem like you are living a successful life.

• Alcoholism does not discriminate – just because you are successful in your career or in society does not mean that you cannot be an alcoholic.

Anything else you would like to add?

If you have a friend, workmate or family member who is having problems with alcohol, please remember that they have not turned into a 'bad' person, they are a sick person and they need the same help you would give them if they were suffering from a different disease. Alcoholism is a disease (as recognised by the World Health Organisation, the American Medical Association and The British Medical Association). It is important to remember: • You can’t wish it away • You have to deal with it – many people deny that it is a problem, even when it is blatantly obvious that it is. Your whole reality is distorted • By not dealing with it, it does not go away or get better.

Alcoholism is a progressive disease.

• You think that there is no way out, and that there is no other way of living – you become resigned to living a life that is unmanageable, but we can show you that you can live a happy successful life by working a programme of recovery.

If you or someone you know needs help, give us a call on 0800 608 007 or look us up on theretreatnz.org.nz.

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Young Blood

“When you’ve never had a baby, there’s so much stuff you just don’t know, when you’re pregnant, there’s tsunami of information that you have to deal with and it’s so overwhelming.

But parents are good at deciding what’s important.”

Being perched at the bottom of the planet sure has its perks when it comes to a pandemic, but for other medical situations, Aotearoa’s positioning can prove quite the hurdle. It was this geographical isolation that, nearly two decades ago, drove Jenni Raynish to co-found Cordbank, a state-of-the art New Zealand company that stores babies’ cord blood so that its stem cells may be used to treat all manner of diseases and conditions that can occur from childhood through to old age.

B I RTH O F TH E C O R DBAN K “My now-19 year-old daughter, Valentina, was the inspiration behind the business,” Jenni tells Verve. “I first read about cord blood banking in an American fitness magazine while I was pregnant with her. It just seemed so straightforward, to use these perfect, brand new backup cells to help fix something that goes wrong later in life.”

Jenni’s father’s death was still a painfully fresh memory at the time also—he’d succumbed to a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s the previous year.

“I watched him lose his facilities and abilities one by one over the years,” recalls Jenni, “and I was just thinking, ‘What makes someone go backwards like this?’ Obviously, it has to be cellular—ageing is about cellular death.”

C ORDBAN K .C O.N Z 0 8 0 0 C ORDBAN K + 6 4 9 302 9511

Reading about cord blood stem cells’ regenerative properties, Jenni had a “lightbulb moment”. There were plenty of opportunities to bank cord blood in the US, but it must

be processed within a strict window, and, regardless of potential delays, the flight time alone across the Pacific poses a massive risk.

At the time, there were no companies offering the service here—or even in the wider AsiaPacific region.

“On the one hand, you have this incredibly organic product that is very easy to collect, but then everything afterwards is super technical and specific,” says Jenni. “Once collected and at the lab, it takes around four hours to process, and is then stored at minus197°C. It requires a lot of kit.”

Jenni remembers experiencing “that tyranny of distance for New Zealand”, and lamenting the lack of opportunity for Kiwi kids to store their cord blood, “so I decided to start a cord bank for New Zealand families in New Zealand”.

BLO OD BASI CS The stem cells in cord blood—the blood that stays in the umbilical cord after it has been cut—serve as “the building blocks of organs, tissues, blood and the immune system”, while also possessing the ability to transform into other cell types, such as heart, muscle, and nerve cells.

“Those stem cells are a perfect match to you,” says Jenni. “They can be reinfused into you to do all kinds of things, including rebuilding the immune system after chemotherapy.

The cells are programmed to grow—you effectively grew from them in the first place.”

FEBRUARY 2020

“On the one hand, you have this incredibly organic product that is very easy to collect, but then everything afterwards is super technical and specific, once collected and at the lab, it takes around four hours to process, and is then stored at minus-197°C. It requires a lot of kit.”

They can even be used for close family members, and more and more research is showing the treatment to be even more effective, and certainly more accessible, than bone marrow transplants.

If someone had a genetic, or inherited disease, would the stem cells also be ‘infected’?

“Cord blood wouldn’t kill a genetic disease, but that’s not its purpose. We’re not genetic engineering. What they do is regenerate and repair. If you think about it as photocopying, when you’re born, you’re this perfect, crystal clear image, but as you age, the image becomes paler and more faded. When you add stem cells, it’s basically a reboot, because those cells don’t dissipate, they divide and replicate.”

Like injecting more ink into the photocopier?

“Yes!” Are there religious issues?

“No, the controversy tends to be when people are taking stem cells from embryos, but these are actually live babies.”

The collection process takes minutes, is completely painless—both for mother and child—and is carried out by the midwife or obstetrician who will have been informed in advance.

“There is an easy online consent process that must be completed, as parents’ are creating this contract on behalf of their unborn child, and the cord blood belongs to the baby,” says Jenni. “Once they’ve done that, they’ll receive a sealed, sterile collection kit which they’ll hand over at the hospital. When the blood is collected, it’s picked up by a courier and taken straight to our lab in Auckland.”

Banking cord blood is becoming a popular gift from grandparents, too.

“A lot of them see it as a legacy gift,” says Jenni. “Something that they can pay for that will outlast their lives and will last the whole of the child’s life. Something that will be useful forever. There is no downside.”

What’s more, it’s surprisingly affordable, with an initial payment of $2,900 (to cover the collection kit, processing, testing and courier), followed by a storage fee of just $225 per year.

Why is cord blood collection not standard practice?

“I wish it was, but there are just so many demands on the health systems in western countries and it ultimately comes down to funding—often short-term funding takes precedence. But it’s difficult for people who make those funding decisions, a choice between current demand and future thinking.

I do believe that the healthcare system in New Zealand needs to radically change.”

Is it in the pharmaceutical industry’s interest for cord blood banking to not be better funded?

“I wouldn’t disagree with that. What we do is disruptive in a way that is pretty extraordinary.

A lot of experts are saying that pharmaceutical medicine has really reached the point where it's discovered all that it’s going to discover, and that the breakthrough of this century of the 21st century will be stem cells. That they'll make as dramatic a difference in the lives of the kids who have them stored as antibiotics made to the generation of all of us alive today.

And it makes perfect sense to me because pharmaceuticals generally treat the symptom, they don't fundamentally solve the problem.

Whereas cord blood stem cells do solve the problem, because they are actually designed to build.”

Research shows that one in 200 children born today will require a stem cell transplant in their lifetime. Jenni tells of Frances Everall, who was diagnosed with stage four cancer when she was just four years old, a prognosis so dire that her parents were advised to take her home to die. But they opted for cord blood stem cell treatment, and it worked: “You can treat cancer, but you often die because there's no way to rebuild your immune system. She's the only stage four neuroblastoma child to survive in New Zealand because she had the cord blood stem cells.”

Jenni laments that Cordbank’s challenge is raising awareness.

biggest

The Ministry of Health classifies cord blood banking as a medicine, which means the industry is strictly regulated and a licence required, with CordBank being the only family cord blood banking company in New Zealand with this license.

“When you’ve never had a baby, there’s so much stuff you just don’t know,” she says.

“When you’re pregnant, there’s a tsunami of information that you have to deal with and it’s so overwhelming. But parents are good at deciding what’s important. Cord blood banking makes them stop for a moment, and think, and when they do, when they really look into it, it’s just such an obvious and straightforward decision.”

“We are rigorously inspected and audited annually,” says the founder of Cordbank—

For more information go to cordbank.co.nz or phone 0800 CORDBANK.

BAN KI N G SAVES LIVES

C ORDBAN K .C O.N Z 0800 C ORDBAN K + 64 9 302 9511

which is Australasia’s longest established and most experienced cord blood collection, processing and storage company. “In fact, we probably have the strictest regulations in the world—to the point where people at international conferences are taken aback that we are regulated to that degree!”

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

09 367 1200 | obstetrics.co.nz

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

Monday Morning Cooking Club

THE MONDAY MORNING COOKING CLUB have generously shared a couple of their recipes from their latest book – Now for Something Sweet, which as Helen Goh so aptly sums up is “stunning recipes with heart and soul” So turn the page and get cooking.

‘The Monday Morning Cooking Club is a remarkable excursion into the realm of comfort food. You just want to eat everything.’ – Yotam Ottolenghi

How did it all begin?

We got together in 2006 with a seed of an idea to write a cookbook and raise money for charity. We wanted to create a book that could sit in any bookstore in the world, alongside the best of the best.

We all knew each other to some extent through Sydney’s (not so large!) Jewish community. Four out of the original six of us were born in Australia but come from diverse family backgrounds, reflective of our community’s melting pot: Hungary, Poland, Russia via China, South Africa, England.

We had no idea how to start but met every Monday morning (thus the name!) and the project slowly evolved into what it is today — a platform for collecting, curating, preserving and sharing the treasured recipes of our food obsessed community.

Our unwavering mission is to preserve recipes from past generations for us, and from our generation for the future. We are immensely proud of having published four best-selling cookbooks which honour and celebrate the most treasured family recipes, alongside moving stories of warmth, family, friendship, community and survival.

Food styling and photography. How important is it to get this right? Who does yours?

They are such an important element in all our books. When we were in the early planning stages of the first book we would sit and (seriously!) ogle a pile of gorgeous cookbooks and the things they had in common were the beautiful photos and gorgeous design. Many of them were shot by Australian photographer Alan Benson and we were lucky enough to get him on board to shoot our first book. And he’s been with us ever since. We have used David Morgan, food stylist, on all our books except the first and we feel so grateful to have had such an amazing team. We pride ourselves on the fact that we actually cooked all the food for the shoot (except for a handful which were cooked by the person who shared the recipe with us) and that anyone who cooks from our books will be able to easily replicate what they see in the

pictures. The styling and photography part of the book process is important although nothing is quite as important as the recipes themselves, and we take the recipe writing very seriously. Our recipes are tested and re-tested many times until we are certain that anyone who reads them can follow along and create exactly what we created.

Any all-time favourite recipes?

Merelyn: My mother gave her Custard Chiffon Cake recipe to us to use in the first book. It had been her secret recipe for almost 50 years and was well known at cake stalls and charity fêtes around Perth. I was thrilled when she decided to share her recipe with us, and it has proved to be legacy now that she is no longer with me. We hear from people all over the world about how much they love her cake. It truly is one of the best cakes in the world! We love it so much that we have reproduced it again in Now for Something Sweet.

Lisa: Mine is the Almond Butter Biscuits from Now for Something Sweet. The recipe comes from my late mother-in-law Talia. When I first met my husband more than 30 years ago, I remember the huge jar of almond butter biscuits in Talia’s kitchen. I used to sneak down to the kitchen when I thought no-one was looking and eat them by the handful. I don’t know till this day if anyone ever noticed how many were missing! Whenever I make them (and I make them often, although not too often as my husband now eats them by the handful!) I feel like Talia is standing beside me in the kitchen.

A bizarre fact about the ingredients stored in the Monday Morning Cooking Club fridge?

Our fridge has seen more butter go through it than most suburbs do in a lifetime.

See full interview online at vervemagazine.co.nz under Food and Wine. Visit mondaymorningcookingclub.com.au

Monday Morning Cooking Club – Now For Something Sweet

Aperol Spritz Granita Serves 6

Our Australian summers are pretty hot and Sydney can get mighty humid. The best Aussie antidote to heat is an ice cold slushy. So if you love an Aperol spritz (as we all do), then this combo is essential for those hot days. Make this gorgeous do-ahead granita as a refreshing dessert after a good Aussie barbecue lunch or for late-afternoon summer drinks.

Ingredients

Instructions

— 180ml (¾ cup) Aperol (or Campari)

1

— 250ml (1 cup) Prosecco (or other dry Italian sparkling wine)

2 In a small saucepan, gently heat the Aperol, prosecco and sugar over medium–low heat until the sugar is dissolved. Do not let it boil.

— 220g (1 cup) white (granulated) sugar — 250ml (1 cup) freshly squeezed orange juice — 125ml (½ cup) sparkling mineral water — leaves from ½ bunch mint, to serve

Start this recipe the day before serving.

3 Add the orange juice and mineral water and stir, then remove from the heat and allow to cool.

4 Pour into a large freezerproof container, cover and place in the freezer overnight. The next day, use a fork to break up the ice crystals and place back in the freezer for an additional 6 hours. Use a fork to break up the crystals once again. Serve in individual glasses, garnished with torn mint leaves if you wish.

5 Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month.

Monday Morning Cooking Club – Now For Something Sweet

Fig and Caramel Sour Cream Pavlova Serves 12

Merelyn has always found pavlova so alluring but the meringue just too sweet. Sour cream (even more glorious whipped) is now her go-to topping, and a salted tahini caramel adds an irresistible layer of umami. The caramel recipe is tweaked from one of Katrina Meynink’s on goodfood.com.au; she discovered it in Yotam Ottolenghi and Helen Goh’s beautiful cookbook, Sweet. When figs are at their seasonal juicy peak, you don’t need to bother grilling them.

Ingredients Pavlova Meringue — 6 egg whites, at room temperature pinch of salt — 400g (1¾ cups) caster (superfine) sugar — 2 teaspoons cornflour (corn starch) — 1½ teaspoons vanilla bean paste — 1½ teaspoons white vinegar Salted Tahini Caramel Sauce — 80g (1/3 cup) caster (superfine) sugar — 2 tablespoons water — 40g unsalted butter, chopped — 2 tablespoons pure (35% fat) cream — 50g (¼ cup) tahini (raw sesame seed paste) — ¼ teaspoon sea salt Topping — 500g figs, quartered — 1 tablespoon honey — 2 tablespoon shelled pistachios, roasted — 375g (1½ cups) sour cream, whisked to soft peaks

Instructions on the next page →

FOOD & WINE

Fig and Caramel Sour Cream Pavlova

Instructions 1

This meringue base is best started 1 day ahead.

2 Preheat the oven to 150°C (Gas 2). Grease an ovenproof cake platter.

3 To make the meringue base, whisk the egg whites with the salt until soft peaks form, then slowly add the sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing continuously until all the sugar is incorporated. Whisk until glossy, about 5 minutes, then add the cornflour and whisk again for a few more minutes.

4 Test to see if all the sugar has broken down by rubbing a bit of meringue between your fingers. There should be virtually no grains of sugar remaining. Using a metal spoon or a spatula, gently fold in the vanilla and vinegar.

5 Pile the meringue on top of the platter and flatten a little with a spatula to form a circle of about 25cm. Reduce the temperature to 110°C (Gas ½) and bake for 2 hours, then turn the oven off and leave the pavlova in the closed oven until completely cool (or overnight).

6 To make the caramel, place the sugar and water in a small heavy-based saucepan over medium heat, and cook, stirring, until the sugar has melted. Bring to the boil, then continue to simmer over low heat for about 8 minutes or until the mixture is a rich, dark brown caramel (and just reaches 175°C on a sugar thermometer).

10 4

7 Remove from the heat and add the butter and cream, stirring constantly and taking care as the mixture may spit.

Add the tahini and salt and whisk thoroughly until combined. The sauce can be stored in the fridge and warmed very gently in the microwave for drizzling. If it splits when warming, add 1 tablespoon of hot water and stir.

8 For the fig topping, preheat the oven grill to high and line a baking tray with aluminium foil. Place the figs on the tray, drizzle with the honey and grill for 5 minutes or until warmed through and slightly collapsed. Set aside to cool. Roughly chop the pistachios and set aside.

9 To serve, top the meringue with the sour cream, then the figs. Drizzle the tahini sauce on top and scatter over the pistachios (even though we forgot them in the photo).

Presented by:

March

5–6 2021

AND

festival Ganesh Raj sponsored by:

Gourmet food stalls Live music Entertainment Cooking masterclasses with Ganesh Raj For more information visit the Thames Business Association Facebook page.

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LE CHEF AND APEROL PRESENT

A RETURN SEASON OF LA LONGUE TABLE DU CHEF Nobody does al fresco dining better than the French. No wait, it’s the Italians. Regardless we can agree the memory of Aperitivo on the tiled streets of Paris or Milan is something to savour.

La Longue Table du Chef returns to Auckland over multiple nights in February to bring this little slice of Europe to life on our isolated shores.

Each evening 100 guests will come together to dine at one long table under the open city sky of Upper Vulcan Lane, devouring a delicious five course meal and sipping Aperol Spritz.

The menu – curated by the talented team at Le Chef bistro – is dolloped with French sophistication, matched to Aperol, the bittersweet orange aperitif, synonymous with Italian style and celebration. With live music & DJs, revelry and a truly passionate team of European foodies, this sell out event is not to be missed.

17  21 F E B R U A RY 2 0 21 UPPER VUCLAN LANE Tickets available now via iTicket. $115 per person, including Canapés, Entrée, Main, Cheese & Dessert plus one Aperol Spritz on arrival

ABOUT LE CHEF: Located in the heart of Auckland CBD, in the famous little pedestrian street Vulcan Lane, Le Chef will bring you to an authentic French Café/ Bistro/Bar. An invitation to "voyage".

09 373 4723 info@le-chef.co.nz le-chef.co.nz

T WO RAW S I STE RS

MAKES / 12 FRITTERS

Zucchini Pea Chickpea Fritters 107

INGREDIENTS

2 zucchinis, grated

2 tsp sea salt

1 cup peas

1 tsp baking powder

blanched in boiling water then drained

1 tsp curry powder

1/2 red onion, diced

black pepper

handful of fresh herbs, roughly chopped

1 1/2 cup water

zest + Juice of 1 lemon

oil

1 1/2 cups of chickpea flour

METHOD

In a medium bowl mix together all ingredients, until a batter is formed and everything is well combined.

Cook for approximately 3 minutes on each side.

Heat a non-stick fry pan over a mediumhigh heat. Add some oil and then start cooking your fritters.

Once cooked remove from the pan and continue cooking the fritters until all of the batter is used up.

Each fritter is 1/4 cup worth of batter.

Make sure you don’t cook too many fritters at once or else they will become difficult to flip. We recommend cooking 3 at a time.

Serve either warm or cold. Any leftovers will last in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 4 days or alternatively you can freeze them.

vervemagazine.co.nz

T WO RAW S I STE RS

SERVES 8 — 10

Sea Salt Dark Chocolate + Tahini Torte INGREDIENTS

SHORTBREAD

FILLING

1 cup rolled oats

150g salted caramel dark chocolate

3/4 cup desiccated coconut

400ml can of coconut cream (only using

1/2 cup sunflower seeds

the solid cream at the top + 1/4 cup of

1/2 cup dates, stoked in boiling water for

the liquid)

5-10 mins to soften

1 tbsp honey

1-2 tbsp water

1 tbsp tahini paste

1 tsp vanilla extract or paste

1/2 tsp sea salt

pinch of sea salt

METHOD

Add oats, coconut and sunflower seeds to a blender. Blend into a fine flour.

Add the remaining shortbread ingredients and blend until you have a cookie dough consistency.

Line a tart tin with baking paper. Place the shortbread dough into the tin and evenly press up the sides and across the base. Set aside.

For the filling add all of the ingredients into a blender and blend until silky smooth.

CREDIT

Pour the filling into the shortbread base.

Place in the freezer to set for 2 hours or until set.

Once set, sprinkle with sea salt flakes.

To serve, cut the torte into slices and add a dollop of ice cream or coconut yoghurt.

Leftover torte will store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Passionate plant-based foodies, Rosa and Margo of Two Raw Sisters, will be hosting a live cooking demonstration at LiveFit Festival - New Zealand’s only health, fitness and wellness Festival at The Trusts Arena on 13-14 March. Their cooking demonstration will take place at the Healthy Living Kitchen on Sunday 14th at both 11am and 3pm. For more information around all of the inspirational and interactive things you can discover at the LiveFit Festival, and for tickets, visit livefit.co.nz

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Included is ricotta cheese cake with whipped ganache and mango sorbet, raspberry and coconut chocolate bar with honeycomb ice cream and chocolate fudge with caramelised popcorn and passion fruit curd designed to appeal for those not watching their waistlines.

And to the menu. Brent Martin, executive chef of international fame, shows his technical skills in starter dishes as fish ceviche ($18), served with coconut cream, tomato and lime, freshly shucked oysters ($23) with red wine mignonette and lemon. From the salad selection roasted beetroot ($19) with goat’s cheese, raw honeycomb and toasted pumpkin seeds, prawn caesar ($23) served garlic crostini and seared tuna nicoise ($23) with tomatoes, olives, potatoes and beans are theatrically presented with unstinting attention to detail.

For such a first class act the wine list is limited but who’s complaining?

LET’S EAT OUT

DENNIS AND ROSAMUND KNILL

First impressions count. The décor and surroundings are splendid and take full advantage of sweeping vistas across the Viaduct. The lighting is abundant from the large floorto-ceiling windows, the seating is comfortable and the wellplaced tables are something of a novelty giving a smart feel.

And the verdict? The message is subtle but consistent and as a consequence it’s popular as ever leaving the locals smiling. The menu is about how it manages to effortlessly engage all the senses. Confident and professional staff are efficient and knowledgeable. Bang for buck, it’s hard to beat.

The kitchen also works magic with a lesson in how to be big and bold with large highly worked plates as open steak sandwich ($24) served with roasted tomatoes, rocket and onion rings, salmon bruschetta ($22) with salted buffalo, curd, pickled onion, apple and frisee salad, kumara gnocchi and lamb ragout ($24), grilled ham and mozzarella ($19) with chunky fries and dijonnaise sauce, stir-fry noodles ($21) with fresh vegetables and tofu. And for those wanting to reel in something simple fish and chips ($23) with mushy peas and tartare sauce are a must do.

MENU CUISINE WINE LIST SERVICE DÉCOR VALUE FOR MONEY

And don’t leave without trying desserts ($13). The expertly prepared sweet pleasures are notable for not only freshness but proof that good food never goes out of style.

8 8.5 7 8 8 8.5

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FEBRUARY 2020

Summertime Sipping

Summer is here and we all love a beverage or two in the sunshine, but do you ever wonder what the professionals are sipping? I asked a few of my favourite Auckland hospitality legends and wine aficionados to share what they’ve been enjoying on these long, hot days.

WORDS—ANGIE ATKINSON The Wine Writer

1

2

3

4

1/ MATTHEW AITCHISON Owner Stanley Avenue Milford

2/ LEAH KIRKLAND Restaurant Manager Mr Morris Britomart

Already a local favourite, Stanley Avenue is serving up delicious dishes that are worth popping over the bridge for. Fresh, vibrant flavours with brilliant service, and wine of course!

Michael Meredith is back and his new establishment, Mr Morris, is outstanding!

The cabbage entrée is divine, and the risotto side dish is a stroke of genius. Book now, you can thank me later.

At the moment I'm drinking 2018 Champalou Vouvray from the Loire. It is imported by the great guys at Maison Vauron in Newmarket whom I've been on wine trips through France with a couple of times. Vouvray is a perfect summer wine. 100% chenin blanc, it is light, clean, delicate, and fresh, with a soft mouthfeel and a balanced finish with notes of citrus.

Great on its own or with light food as well – seafood on the barbeque and fresh salads.

I’ve been dipping my toe into dry sherry this summer (not literally), and really enjoy a glass of Manzanilla or Fino on a warm evening while preparing a dinner spread for friends. I love to graze over platters and salads over summer and a dry sherry works perfectly with those Ortiz anchovies, olives, and plates of well-dressed tomatoes. The La Gitana ‘en Rama’ Manzanilla is a firm favourite (we serve it at Mr Morris by the glass) and for a real treat – La Bota de Fino from Equipo Navazos.

3/ POI ERUERA Operations Manager Odettes Eatery/Hugo’s Bistro Central Auckland

4/ WARREN FORD Director Public Assembly Commercial Bay

Odettes is one of my favourite places to brunch, (the Bloody Mary is outstanding!) but their innovative lunch menu, served with a carefully selected wine list, is also not to be missed.

Ever wonder where the cool kids are? Well, I can tell you! Saxon + Parole, The Poni Room, Ghost Donkey and Liquorette. They are all operated by Public Assembly, local management company for New York based AvroKO Hospitality Group.

‘It’s a great day for rosé’ and ‘When in doubt, drink bubbles’ are my wine mottos to live by, and over summer I have been enjoying both. My current fave is Coal Pit Pinot Noir Rosé 2020. Late last year I happened to pop into Hugo’s Bistro as Sophie, our restaurant manager, was sitting down with Kate from Coal Pit – a small family-owned vineyard in Gibbston, Central Otago. I fell in love with their rosé; all strawberries and cream, pomegranate and rose, with fresh, crispy acidity. Like eating an Eton Mess in the sunshine and then jumping into a refreshing ice-cold river. I have enjoyed it out of a paper cup on the beach with fish and chips; nothing better.

vervemagazine.co.nz

The wine I’m drinking this summer is Scout Pinot x Pinot 2020. Pinot noir, grown in the Southern Valleys and Waipara, blended with pinot gris from Marlborough. 100% whole bunch and skin fermentation, carbonic maceration, basket pressed and aged in old French barriques. I had this wine some time ago and was reintroduced to it recently by way of a Christmas gift. It’s little unusual being a blend of pinot gris and pinot noir, but it’s smooth, vibrant, and fresh.

Definitely drink chilled!

1

ATLAS MOUNTAINS DREAMING OF TRAVEL

I am dreaming of a formidable mountain range expanding more than 2,500km of terrain, where peaks and valleys meet to create a location of utter seclusion and beauty. A place where you can become one with nature and enjoy a bit of R 'n' R, whether that be relaxing at a day spa or spending a day finding your way in the wilderness to discover some of the most spectacular views one can find in this modern world.

The Atlas mountains is a place where comfort meets tradition, it is a place you may not have heard of but need to travel to, a place to dream about and start planning for and after a day exploring the awe inspiring scenery, that I must admit I am having a great deal of trouble putting into words, I have found the best places for you to catch up on some much needed sleep.

FEBRUARY 2020 WOR D S — NIC O L E HEALY

The Atlas Mountains have left me in awe of what I didn’t realise I was missing out on in this world, I hope you are dreaming about this too because this hidden gem is one not to be missed.

Kasbah Tamadot If you are after luxury Kasbah Tamadot is the place to stay.

Like a castle balancing on the edge of a mountain this beautifully crafted retreat is a gallery of all the beauty that Moroccan architecture has to offer. Designed with luxury in mind and a history behind it the entire building is filled to the brim with treasures hand-picked from a private collection previously owned by a renowned interior designer. Sit in the courtyard and enjoy a warm cup of mint tea as you let your mind absorb the valleys below, dine under the stars in devilishly comfortable Moroccan loungers and finish your day swimming in the pool.

Kasbah screams luxury in my opinion and is the perfect place to just be.

Kasbah Bab Ourika For a more relaxed vibe Kashah Bab Ourika has everything you could want and more. Unhindered views of the surrounding valleys, it is hard not to be inspired in a place like this, breath in and be inspired by the snow-capped peaks in one direction and with another breath enjoy the view of fruit filled valleys below. With a focus on rest and relaxation the idea is to feel refreshed when you leave and there is plenty here that will accomplish that. Sit in the gardens and watch the sun go down, or simply experience an array of spa treatments filling you with positive energies as you welcome in a more positive you.

Douar Samra For something a bit more traditional choose Douar Samra, set amongst its own flowering garden filled with fruit and vegetables this place is unlike any of the other places on my list. This small idyllic hotel will make you feel like you have come home as you are welcomed by the owner as if it were their own home and you a treasured guest. The focus of this hotel is about experiencing the traditional Berber culture and becoming closer to nature, with guided tours of the mountain or local villages you will find it hard pressed to be bored here. After the day is up enjoy a communal dinner in the Berber dining room meeting people from all over the world while you are served up traditional tagines and meals cooked with vegetables from the hotels own garden.

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LEARNING Key to Surviving Adversity

After the year from hell, anxiety levels are at an all-time high. People talk about the need to pivot. Many simply can’t. Frozen into inaction, many struggle to move forward.

When you have the massive amount of adversity we have experienced and you’re tackling things you have no experience of, equipped with just the tools you had before the adversity happened, anxiety levels reach extreme levels, says Frances Valintine, CEO and founder of New Zealand's most innovative postgraduate school, The Mind Lab. “You don’t have the ability to process it.” But, she says, there is a very effective way to cope.

“The single most powerful thing you can do to broker the new world we live in is to gain knowledge through learning.

WO R D S — VI CKI HOL DE R

“Unfortunately, New Zealand has a long-held mindset that you frontload learning into your compulsory education years – from five to 19 years – then you’re done.”

THE MIND LAB

“People came to learn because they wanted to remain relevant and have longevity in their careers. They come to us because their work experience is not enough to get them to their next chapter in life.”

TH EMI NDLAB.CO M

She says New Zealand is low in OECD rankings for professional development learning. Except for those who are in the C-suite of large corporations, they don’t participate in formal education once they’ve completed their undergrad or postgrad studies.

“You don’t see people mid-tier, 10 years into their careers thinking about what they can do to upskill.”

And because people haven’t kept on learning, they hold some potentially dated ideas. They haven’t replaced them or had the debate about what things could look like.

“Take, for example,” says Frances, “a bunch of people working for an engineering firm. They all came out of the same engineering school and they’ve been working together for 20 years.

The chance of them having divergent views or thoughts or conversations about things outside their world is low so they get over-indexed by a lot of the same information. That becomes the limiting factor in their growth.

“It’s a bit like the ultimate act of insanity where we do the same thing multiple times expecting a different outcome.”

As soon as they put themselves among people who are learning, people who are actively involved with reading and debates or watching interesting documentaries and have a diverse group of friends and work in an office where there are lots of people from different backgrounds, they get very intimidated.

“This often happens with leaders because leaders are most likely to have fixed views because they are held in high regard because of what they’ve learned.”

→

mid-2020 showed digital processes advanced across the world by five years in just eight weeks.

Through necessity, many people took a risk, established their business online and moved to remote working.

The fact New Zealand was so successful at curbing the spread of Covid-19 and only had one big six week lockdown actually worked against us. “We crept the other way,” explains Frances.

In fact, for multiple years, New Zealand’s productivity has been going backwards.

“Most small businesses haven’t had the resources or knowledge to take the leap to improve productivity through digitisation. As other nations have come online and productivity has increased, we’ve slipped well behind.”

And contrary to what most people think, New Zealand has slipped down the innovation ratings for almost two decades.

“We’re pretty good at coming up with good ideas but we’re not good at executing those at scale.”

The question we need to resolve, she says, is how to reach the rest of the world from where we live in a way that’s competitive with a point of difference offering something uniquely different.

According to Frances, Covid-19 has brought a significant and growing divide between people who understand what a digital economy looks like as opposed to those who are still operating in an analogue, paper-based economy.

The tools of 2020 and beyond are new skills. And that’s where the The Mind Lab comes in.

So when the lockdown came along, many were unprepared.

Last year, because their programmes offer future-focused and hands-on learning, The Mind Lab saw a surge in students who sought new ways of doing things.

Ironically, the year-long lockdown was a blessing in disguise in other parts of the world.

A McKinsey Global Institute study completed

“People came to learn because they wanted to remain relevant and have longevity in their careers. They come to us because their work

THE MIND LAB

“They come with an open expectation of wanting to be comfortable with change again. They want to have conversations that are tricky and challenging. They want to understand the technology that’s shaping the future.”

TH EMI NDLAB.CO M

experience is not enough to get them to their next chapter in life. That’s partially because of roles changing and becoming more digitised, partly because of the merging and morphing of technology. They come with an open expectation of wanting to be comfortable with change again.

They want to have conversations that are tricky and challenging. They want to understand the technology that’s shaping the future.”

The Mind Lab and Frances’ other institute Tech Futures Lab attract students whose average age is between 35 and 55 with between 10 to 30 years’ work experience.

All courses are NZQA accredited and primarily part-time. Niche and very focused, they offer a range of programmes where it’s about improving the bottom line or where the main driver is to do good in the not for profit sector. From leadership programmes to updating digital skills programmes to unlocking human potential – there is something for everyone.

The Mind Lab also recently won an MBIE tender to create a new learning platform for small businesses on how to digitise.

“During lockdown, MBIE realised the companies they were having to support and those that lost trade and failed were those that had not digitised. For the future economy to be robust for when the next major adversity happens, people need to take this seriously.”

The Mind Lab is a place where you can come to be among peers from different sectors who all want to learn, to broker the new world by understanding what you want to achieve and actually achieving it.

“The single most powerful thing you can do is to have knowledge. And when you start learning, it’s like an endorphin,” says Frances. “It’s hard to disconnect. You won’t want to stop that rush.”

Postgraduate Certificate in Leading Change for Good

Postgraduate Certificate in Digital & Collaborative Learning

Starts April 12 for 35 weeks part-time

Digital Skills for the Workplace Intakes starting in March and May running for 7 weeks part-time

A leadership programme for people who want to make a positive difference, and lead with purpose rather than for profit. People who are passionate about sustainability, humanity, community, iwi, people who work in education – they come because they want to lead with a different type of model, underpinned by authentic value.

Reskilling teachers in digital and collaborative learning to prepare the students of today and tomorrow for the workplaces of the future. A fun, collaborative, postgraduate certificate that allows teachers to find their love for teaching and learning again.

An NZQA-accredited micro-credential in the form of a 7-week online course to improve digital skills and build online confidence. You’ll get handson experience with useful digital tools that you can take straight back to your workplace or small business.

You'll walk away with:

You'll walk away with:

Starts March 4 for 34 weeks part-time

You'll walk away with:

• The ability to identify new and emerging business models that prioritise purpose over profit, and adapt them for your context.

• The ability to evaluate and apply contemporary leadership approaches to drive change for positive impact on communities, organisations and businesses.

• A deep understanding of global and indigenous social change practice and considerations, and how these can be relevant and applicable in your community or workplace.

• A detailed change strategy that harnesses leadership to create sustainable, authentic value in NZ’s changing social, economic, political, and cultural environments.

• New theoretical and practical knowledge about teaching and learning, supported by research and applied practice • Knowledge of contemporary education practices and learn how to integrate relevant technologies and techniques into your classroom • A more student-centered and collaborative approach to learning • Opportunities to innovate and lead in your professional practice

• An understanding of what digital channels, tools and training you and your workplace needs, and how to set up and run them • Increased productivity through using digital tools designed to create efficiency • A strategic digital presence, that’s realistic for you and your work • The ability to be adaptable and prepared for change with an online workplace

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MIT1194

Canine Comfort Words—Jamie Christian Desplaces

Last year a DNA study confirmed dogs to be not only our “best friend”, but also likely our very first one, dating back at least 11,000 years to the last Ice Age. What makes the domestication of dogs even more remarkable is that it was done when humans were still hunter-gatherers—while cats, for instance wouldn’t be domesticated for another 5,000 years, once we had begun to settle and farm.

There are various theories as to how this intimate interspecies relationship came to be, with the most prevalent being that dogs likely descended from wild wolves that had become ever more comfortable around humans, stealing, then accepting scraps, until tame enough to serve as hunting mates and guards.

Canine Companionship

Everyone knows what wonderful companions canines make, with study after study proving they do everything from strengthening our immune systems to reducing blood pressure and boosting our mental health. While it’s pretty common knowledge that those loving interactions with our furry friends causes spikes in ‘cuddle chemical’ oxytocin in both hound and human (I have a Staffie puppy snoring on my lap as I type this!), the connection could even have evolved to be on par with that of parent and infant—for those crafty canines are capable of hijacking the same parts of the brain usually reserved for the likes of mother and child bonding. Fascinatingly, a Japanese study that examined this most wholesome of interspecies relationships found it to be so unique that similar brain responses were not present even in wolves that had been raised by humans.

"Dogs successfully coexist with humans because they have adapted the bonding mechanism [used in] relations with humans,” says study author Miho Nagasawa, of Azabu University. “On the other hand, humans also likely went through some sort of evolution that allowed them to bond with another species.”

An amusing British study a couple of years ago asked participants to make £5 donations to rescue “Harrison”, with half of the adverts showing a picture of a baby boy, and the other half adorned with an image of a young pup. The dog raised more cash. An experiment by Boston’s Northeastern University also found that injured puppies elicited a stronger emotional response than even an injured baby, with researchers concluding that the subjects did not view their dogs as animals, “but rather ‘fur babies’, or family members alongside their human children”.

So, it’s little wonder that in these most stressful of times, we’re turning to (hu)man’s best friends for comfort. As the pandemic—then lockdowns— took hold over the past year, dog fostering and adoptions both soared. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) nearly doubled the number of dogs it fostered, while here in Aotearoa, the SPCA has reported similar spikes. Following last year’s main lockdown, it was reported that demand for therapy dogs in Aotearoa doubled.

“To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring — it was peace.”

– Milan Kundera

Canine Assisted Therapy

Therapy dogs are used to calm folk in all manner of stressful or anxiety-inducing situations such as in hospitals, nursing homes, schools and scenes of even scenes of disaster; Auckland oculoplastic surgeon Dr Katheelya Strang-Veldhouse has begun training one for her patients.

“I’ve been with the ADHB Greenlane Eye Clinic for about 10 years now,” she says. “When I remove an eye, the patients are sent to see the ocularist for their prosthetic fitting—though I am now learning to make the prosthetics—which is like sending them into the abyss, before I eventually see them with their artificial eye. But I’ve always felt a bit incomplete with regards to my ability to treat my patients, which is why I am am now learning how to make ocular prosthetics myself.”

Considering getting a family puppy for Christmas anyway, Kathleeya decided they should get one that can be trained to also soothe her patients in rehabilitation and opted for a golden doodle (golden retriever poodle cross) that has been named Bodhi.

“I wanted to have the temperament and intellectual ability of it being a working dog, while shedding little and being hypoallergenic,” says the doctor. “He’s still doing basic training, learning to sit, stay still and not get excited while we jog around him! He’s still a real puppy, but he’s a good boy in general.”

And already showing great promise. Kathleeya and Bodhi are working with the Perfect Partners Assistance Dog Trust, as well as KURI Dog Training.

“Perfect Partners have accepted Bodhi as a Facility Dog to work alongside me in the eye clinic.

A facility dog is a type of therapy dog where Bodhi

Dogs For All Seasons

will be extensively trained to work with me in this clinical setting.”

Aside from simply providing a comforting presence, therapy dogs can be trained to sense dangers or changes in human behaviour. If, for example, an autistic child is on the verge of suffering an emotional meltdown, the dog will calm them by climbing onto their lap. It has also been shown that therapy dogs can help lower symptoms of depression, post traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety. They’ve even been used in schools to help kids with learning disabilities gain confidence, and as a motivating tool.

“Creating a prosthetic is a very drawn out process that requires sitting in a chair for several hours,” says Kathleeya. “It’s an extremely emotional day for the patients, and there’s been a lot of research and work around the benefits of animal assisted therapy in this area.”

And it’s not just the humans that benefit, studies have shows therapy dogs to have higher levels of endorphins and oxytocin than most regular family pets.

“I’ve been really excited and encouraged by talking to patients about it,” adds Kathleeya. “Bodhi will probably find other uses in the eye clinic, too. We’re a really busy department, with a paediatric clinic as well. So, his role might include helping patients with low vision as they look towards their options for the future, through experiencing the therapeutic benefits of interacting with a specially trained dog.

But first, it’ll be about calming patients and offering support. We’re just at the start of the journey, and we’ll see how it progresses.”

– A dog’s sense of smell is so powerful that they sniff in part per trillion—this essentially means that could detect a tablespoon of substance in an area the size of two Olympic-sized pools.

– Such an olfactory capacity means they can not only detect drugs attempted to be smuggled across borders, but even detect disease in people.

They’re also showing great promise in sniffing out coronavirus infections—a service that may prove invaluable at airports.

– Similarly, allergy detection dogs can be used to alert children of potentially life-threatening ingredients such as peanuts or gluten.

– Diabetic alert dogs, or ‘dads’, are trained to alert their owners to take action upon changes in their blood sugar levels before it reaches the point of debilitation.

– Similar to seeing eye dogs, hearing dogs will, through touch, inform their human’s of alarms, door bells or crying babies.

"My daughters’ names are Talia Veldhouse (age 9) and Mikayla “Miki” Veldhouse (age 6).

They have been great help as junior handlers!

The larger golden retriever in the photos is Addie, Belinda’s disability assist dog."

Paul Goldsmith Comments...

On The Potential For Travel Bubbles

The question top of mind for many people is when we will be able to return to travelling internationally – not just for holidays, but of course for business and to reconnect with family members overseas – without the burden of lengthy quarantines.

Sadly, nobody knows the answer to that question and much remains beyond our control – whether the virus mutates further, what happens in other countries, what happens at home.

In January, Jacinda Ardern gave the gloomy prediction that restrictions may remain all year.

As I write this column Australia has just temporarily suspended its travel bubble with New Zealand, which allowed Kiwis to travel there without quarantine (not the reverse) because of a community transition in Northland.

Small gains can be wiped out so quickly.

We can only hope to have some control over things in New Zealand.

Hon Paul Goldsmith National List MP Based in Epsom paulgoldsmith.co.nz 09 524 4930

The imperatives of controlling the border properly and in the managed isolation facilities remains paramount. The better we do that, the sooner we will be able to improve the flow.

Second, we need to get on with the vaccination roll out quickly. On this score, New Zealand seems to be well off the pace.

We should match Australia’s schedule and fast track the vaccination of all frontline workers and border staff.

We need to do this as quickly as possible to protect New Zealanders from the harm of further restrictions and lockdowns.

Five hundred thousand people depended upon the wage subsidy when the economy was shut down in 2020, with about 65,000 losing their jobs.

For many, the cost of another lockdown would mean they lose their job, their business or their home.

After frontline workers, we need to vaccinate vulnerable groups and then have a plan for the rest of the community. All this seems far off.

If we manage the border effectively and get on with vaccination quickly, then we give ourselves the best chance to join some travel bubbles and get back into the world.

Authorised by Paul Goldsmith, 107 Great South Rd, Epsom

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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

THINK RESORT STYLE LIVING IN AUCKLAND

Heritage Apartments are available now We are delighted to announce that our brand-new Heritage Apartments have been completed and are available now*.

These apartments are the final stage of the village, so if you are looking to secure a home at Summerset Heritage Park, this could be your last chance.

Our Heritage Apartments offer you the chance to move into a brand-new, modern home in a lively and established village. We have one, two and three-bedroom apartments available, as well as more premium options. With luxurious design, resort style facilities, and Summerset’s renowned continuum of care, you’ll love the life at Summerset Heritage Park.

Visit our show homes Summerset Heritage Park 8 Harrison Road, Ellerslie

For more information, contact Lisa Nelson, Sales Manager, on 09 950 7962 or ellerslie.sales@summerset.co.nz

*Licence to occupy.

SUM2767_FP

summerset.co.nz/ellerslie

BUSINESS, EDUCATION AND SOCIETY

Swim with confidence

Book your *FREE TRIAL LESSON at Hilton Brown Swimming.

Ensure that you and your family are confident and capable swimmers • We have over 45 years’ experience teaching quality lessons from infants though to adults.

• We focus on teaching correct swimming technique, so that children feel confident and can swim at least 400 metres comfortably. This helps to prepare children for any water sport they may choose.

• Our swimming instructors provide positive feedback and ensure everyone is comfortable in the water.

Call us now to book: Newmarket – (09) 529-0177 One Tree Hill – (09) 582-1111 Albany – (09) 414-5484 Hobsonville – (09) 666-0240 *One free trial lesson for new customers.

www.hiltonbrownswimming.co.nz 12 4 HBS_186g_Auck_Verve_175x130_12_2019.indd 1

10/12/19 5:06 PM

The friendly team specialising in home rentals and property management.

The “A” Team of Property Management and Rentals.

A family business that specialises in rentals and property management, we offer you friendly professional service. We are the best in the business, let us prove it to you.

Real Estate is a very competitive industry by any standards, and it is uncommon to find a true ‘team approach’ among top performers, Just Rentals proves that it can be done.

vervemagazine.co.nz

40 St Johns Rd, Meadowbank 09 528 4818 027 487 0550 justrentals@xtra.co.nz justrentals.co.nz

THE STRAND VET

CLASS OF 2021

Have you recently welcomed a new puppy into your home, or something you are considering?

You may have been researching for months to find your perfect pup, it could be that you are getting your first puppy, or you have not raised a pup for the best part of 12 years.

Preparing for the patter of puppy paws is no mean feat!

Life with a new puppy will never be the same again, although we say this with a smile on our face at The Strand Veterinarian.

Raising a puppy is rewarding, yet at times frustrating, and you can find yourself feeling a little overwhelmed. Good doggy manners do not come naturally so you must teach your pup how to behave.

Where do I start?

Enrolling your new friend at the right veterinary clinic and puppy school prior to their crucial learning period coming to an end (16 weeks of age) is the best way to set them up for success.

critical and essential advice on wellbeing and healthcare to get you and your pup off to a healthy start.

Training good dogs for life.

Run from our clinic, Sophie’s School for Pups is a five-week course and covers, but is not limited to: Life's essentials - toileting, sleeping, leaving your pup alone, an intro into cooperative care handling, dealing with unwanted behaviours, hassle-free vet visits, socialisation, loose leash walking, basic obedience, and recall.

Taking those steps into their first class, with their chubby little puppy rolls hiding behind your legs, then going on to see their confidence grow, whilst interacting safely with other pups of all different breeds is, for our pup owner, simply priceless.

Five weeks later, it is graduation day. The class members have nearly doubled in size, and bursting with pride collecting their certificate you will be astonished at all you have both learnt.

Investing your time to set up your puppy’s healthcare and training needs, including joining a short course of puppy classes, can give you the right tools to teach your puppy the skills to grow into a healthy, wellmannered part of the family.

By keeping the classes small, this ensures your puppy is in the perfect place to learn vital, social and communication skills in a safe and calm, yet fun environment, while developing basic manners.

At The Strand Veterinarian we offer a complimentary puppy consultation, so as soon as you get your puppy we can give

Book now online for your complimentary puppy consultation thestrandvet.co.nz, 093776667 or thegirls@thestrandvet.co.nz

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MAGAZINE STANDS

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BAYSID E R ENTALS

C O R P O RATE CABS

HOME I DEAS

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.

Contact 11A St Heliers Bay Rd, St Heliers 027 490 8264 or 09 575 9887 sue@baysiderentals.co.nz baysiderentals.co.nz

Contact 09 377 0773 corporatecabs.co.nz

Contact 165 The Strand, Parnell homeideas.co.nz

IE PRO D UC E

O RO NEGRO

SI M P LY WO N DER F U L

BIO GROW CERTIFIED since 2000. Your wellness store. Passionate about all things organic. Shop online or on site.

Contemporary New Zealand jewellery and greenstone design.

Stunning ladies fashion in Auckland. Find your new go-to items at Simply Wonderful.

Contact 1 Barrys point Rd, Takapuna 09 488 0211 ieproduce.com

Contact Samoa House Arcade: Shop 2, 283 Karangahape Rd, Newton 09 309 2202

Contact Birkenhead: 09 480 1501 Epsom: 09 630 0084 simplywonderfulclothes.co.nz

vervemagazine.co.nz

FEBRUARY 2020

TIM E O UT BO O KSTO R E

VE RVE CAFÉ

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.

Sign up to the Verve Weekly Newsletter and receive an email each week.

Contact 432 MT Eden Rd, Mt Eden 09 630 3331 timeout.co.nz

Contact 311 Parnell Rd, Parnell 09 379 2860 Open 7 days till 5pm

Contact 13 Westmoreland St West, Grey Lynn 09 520 5939 vervemagazine.co.nz

VERVE MAG A ZI NE

THREAD DESIGN M E N SWE A R

NZ MADE RACK AND CUSTOM

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

274a Richmond Road Grey Lynn, Auckland

vervemagazine.co.nz

09 360 1361 threaddesign.co.nz

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MARKETPLACE

Weddings - Birthdays or any special occasions

Red Shed

Palazzo

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Sunday marketS

WINNER

RuRal CafE of thE YEaR

9/07/2015 10:26:36 a.m.

Breakfast/Lunch – licensed OPEN 5 days 8.30am - 4.00pm Wednesday - Sunday 16 Jesmond Rd, Karaka Ph (09) 294 6687 Email: eat@redshedpalazzo.co.nz

Visit instore or online for our dynamic collections of footwear which will have you spellbound by the colour, texture and uniqueness available. Wedding Season? We have a great collection of special occasion styles ready for you.

164 Kitchener Rd, Milford tangosshoes.nz

WALLAC EC OTTON.C OM

12 8 JUSTRENTALS.CO.NZ The friendly team specialising in home rentals and property management.

The home of fine film in Newmarket.

See session times at rialto.co.nz.

40 ST JOHNS RD, MEADOWBANK / 09 528 4818 027 487 0550 / JUSTRENTALS@XTRA.CO.NZ

STONEFIELDS MENTION THIS AD AND GET ONE WEEK FREE ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP*

B R I D G E WAY

T & C ’ S A P P LY

C I NE MAS

Auckland’s best and most vibrant arthouse cinemas

122 Queen St, Northcote Point, Auckland www.bridgeway.co.nz

SHOP 11, 40 STONEFIELDS AVE,STONEFIELDS, AUCKLAND STONEFIELDS@FLEXFITNESSGYM.CO.NZ | 09 218 8197

vervemagazine.co.nz

FEBRUARY 2020

m Transrfsorelf You

Is Your Dog Slowing Down?

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SIGNATURE STYLE

New Zealand’s foremost personal image and styling consultancy, for that little bit of wardrobe magic.

Look your best – call us NOW!

Time to give your dog ‘Active Again’ a blend of natural food oils that possess potent lubricating properties that gives your dog more flexibility and mobility.

Resin Golfers returning in February

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Dogs love to run but often old age, arthritis and joint pain can make this difficult.

Call 09 529 5115 Visit 330 Parnell Rd, Parnell Email info@signaturestyle.co.nz

Proven by NZ Vets to work exceptionally well.

For more information or order online visit: lifetimehealth.co.nz 027 489 3489

62A BENSON RD, REMUERA / OPEN 7 DAYS / THEBAYTREE.CO.NZ

sales@lifetimehealth.co.nz

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The Point Chev Beach Café was launched on Jan 2017 and has rapidly gained a reputation in excellent cuisine, coffee and a welcoming service. Being situated beside the beach, it’s the perfect location for a family outing, a romantic date or just an ice cream!

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

→ TE WHENUA RETREAT Be in to win a four-night Plant-Based Zen Cooking Retreat at magical Te Whenua, Queenstown.

Te Whenua Retreat, situated in spectacular Gibbston Valley just 20 minutes from Queenstown airport, is the place to stay if you are wanting to be nourished body, mind and soul.

Run by Jenny Lomas (ex-Aro-Hā head chef), the highlight of the programme are their ‘Zen Cooking Retreats’ which combine a highly enjoyable and immersive experience into the preparation (and eating) of seasonal plantbased meals, along with the opportunity to rest and be nourished by Te Whenua Retreat’s serenity and warm hospitality.

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Look forward to feeling rested, inspired and equipped to bring more plant-based goodness and joyful presence back in to your kitchen. tewhenuaretreat.co.nz

New to Michael Hill for Valentine’s Day this year is its exclusive diamond flower styles – combining nature’s symbols of strength and beauty, these jewels are the perfect gift to mark an unbreakable bond.

Up for grabs — A four-night Plant-Based Zen Cooking Retreat at magical Te Whenua, Queenstown.

Up for grabs — A pair of Michael Hill's diamond flower earrings.

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DERMALOGICA

WAINAMU CAMPS

Protect your skin with Dermalogica's range of broad spectrum spf products.

What better way to celebrate love than a night enjoying nature and celebrating the good things in life at the Wainamu Camps.

We are giving away a selection Dermalogica's SPF products: • Invisible Physical Defense, $103 • Total Eye Care SPF15, $94 • Protection 50 Sport, $69

Create happy memories with the one who makes you laugh, lives life and shares that special friendship and love with you

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Wainamu offers unique, off-the-grid luxury camping on the spectacular, raw West Coast of Auckland, New Zealand. wainamu.nz Up for grabs — A one-night stay at Wainamu Camps and champagne.

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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.

Summer at the Village

Spend sun-soaked days and balmy evenings at over 2 5 shops and eateries waterside.

2 2 8 O rakei Road , O rakei 1 0 5 0

@ orakeibay village w w w.obv.co.nz

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