Verve. July 2021. Issue 177.

An uplifting monthly eclection of life, style and happenings.

JULY 2021

This month, we channel plenty of French flair, trial some superb homegrown health, beauty and wellness products, and chat to yogi Adele Kinghan about an inspiring prison yoga programme.

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What’s Inside

106

French Feature 14

Recycled Clothing Feature 88

Art & About 124

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91

130

Health Beauty & Fitness 60

Queenstown Feature 92

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104

Fashion 84

Food & Wine 122

French Connection Historic Montmartre

The Collective

Flotsam & Jetsam

The Art of July Decoding NFTs 138

Meet Jules Bright

Rest, Rejuvenate, Reset

Quintessentially Queenstown Secluded Experiences

Horoscopes Business, Education and Society 104

A Law Firm for Locals 144

Australian Fashion Week

Dessert Wines

Xanevo 146

Meet Verve’s Pets

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

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

Editors-in-Chief Fran Ninow and Jude Mitchell

IN THIS GUIDE YOU WILL LEARN

Senior Writer Jamie Christian Desplaces

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

Sub-Editor Jamie Christian Desplaces

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

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

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

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

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

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

Head Graphic Designer Zanalee Makavani Junior Graphic Designer Yamin Cook Social Media Ashlee Lala Contributors Manish Kumar Arora, Paris Mitchell Temple, Aimée Ralfini, Vicki Holder, Melanie Dower, Nick Ainge Roy, Zach Thompson, Bella Sampson Dennis Knill and Angie Atkinson Subscriptions online@vervemagazine.co.nz Published by Verve Magazine Ltd 13 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021 GST 90 378 074 ISSN 2253-1300 (print) ISSN 2253-1319 (online) Editorial Enquiries (+64) 9 520 5939 Fran Ninow: fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Jude Mitchell: jude@vervemagazine.co.nz 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 A Carousel in Firenze

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Verve Magazine is published monthly (except in January) and has an estimated readership of 60,000. It is a free lifestyle magazine delivered to selected homes, cafés and businesses in Devonport, Epsom, Herne Bay, Kohimarama, Meadowbank, Mission Bay, Newmarket, Parnell, Remuera, St Mary’s Bay and Takapuna. Verve Magazine is placed in magazine stands for free collection from locations in Auckland City, Devonport, Epsom, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay, Mairangi Bay, Milford, Mission Bay, Newmarket, Parnell, Ponsonby, Remuera, St. Heliers, Stonefields and Takapuna. Visit vervemagazine.co.nz for exact locations these magazine stands.

Verve is also available from all popular cafés in its main distribution areas as well as in ebook format. Visit vervemagazine.co.nz to sign up for your free monthly ebook. Verve is printed by Ovato. It is distributed by Ovato, Admail and Mailchimp.

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

Amazing futures

Years 7-13

Open Day Tuesday 24 August

Register: stcuthberts.school.nz

Kristin School WORDS—JAYNE DE LA HAYE

The Freedom to Leverage our Expertise and Deliver Effective Programmes A big advantage of teaching and learning in an independent school is the freedom to create an educational experience that truly aligns with what we believe learners need. The Ministry of Education requires independent schools demonstrate they are safe places for children, but they are not required to follow the National Education Guidelines. Instead, they can work with their parent community to deliver a curriculum that meets the values and expectations of those who have chosen the school. Commitment to EOTC (Education outside of the Classroom) experiences like forest learning in the Junior School, and Camp Week for the Middle and Senior Schools (years 7-13), are examples of this at Kristin.

The media has shown renewed interest in some teaching and learning approaches advocated by the Ministry of Education.

How best to teach students is a worthwhile debate but exemplifies the fatigue many teachers endure from the introduction of such initiatives. More disheartening is teachers experiencing ideas going full circle with disregarded techniques reintroduced with snappy new titles. This is the reality faced by many within the system, accounting for huge investment in time and money in resources, training, planning, and assessment.

Many educators are attracted to the independent sector by the freedom to develop a curriculum and a teaching style grounded in evidence-based experience and best practice. It allows schools like Kristin to attract teachers passionate about meeting individual students’ needs. The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum that underpins much of our curriculum is the result of years of collaboration and research from dedicated teachers with real-life experience, from around the globe. Unique among educational systems, it explains why the IB retains a reputation for excellence.

Up Front

In the Middle School, the IB Middle Years Programme encourages academic excellence alongside a range of learning experiences to ensure well-rounded students with academic, social and study skills are ready to meet the challenges of Senior School and beyond. Senior School students have the freedom of dual pathways, allowing them the choice between NCEA and the IB Diploma programme.

In the Junior School, our independence guarantees our approaches to the basics of literacy and numeracy remain balanced. A ‘structured literacy’ approach, which has received much support in the press, ensures our youngest learners are taught phonics, and the essential foundation of phonological awareness. Phonics has always been a part of Kristin’s Junior School literacy programme as our experienced teachers understand how important a sequential approach to learning sound and letter relationships is to mastering literacy skills.

They draw on the best of both a phonics approach, alongside an understanding of how to develop children’s love of books, and a can-do attitude to reading and writing.

For teachers who truly love seeing the difference they make, there’s no more rewarding place to work, than an environment with the freedom to embrace their expertise, while empowering its use in the most effective ways.

Jayne de la Haye, Principal of Junior School and Early Learning at Kristin has spent over 20 years teaching and leading in a variety of top-tier schools internationally. kristin.school.nz

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Small class sizes.

Huge opportunities!

Kristin Senior School (Year 11-13) provides: • Small class sizes (12 students on average) and high quality teachers

• The choice to study either the

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma or NCEA curriculum

• A huge range of opportunities across sports,

performing arts, clubs and groups, leadership, outdoor education, service and more

• School-dedicated buses travelling 20 routes across Auckland

Register your attendance at www.kristin.school.nz or email admissions@kristin.school.nz

Kristin Senior School Info Evening THURSDAY 5th AUGUST 2021 7-8PM

Editors’ Notes Fran Ninow

Jude Mitchell

Co-Editor

Co-Editor

Someone asked me a while ago what it was that drove me to do what we do, each month publishing on average 150 pages fi lled with page turning life-affi rming stories and carefully curated spreads. In the rush of everyday life I realised that for a long time I have not thought about what I love about publishing.

The reason is that I simply adore words and photography, both individually, and the way they work together. But combined, their beauty and meaning are so often elevated, something that is truly rewarding.

These past few months we have been going through the rigorous motions rebranding, a super exciting experience for all of us.

Over time, I’ve come to realise that even more important are the relationships I’ve formed—staff, colleagues, clients, and readers all bring meaning to my day. I spend a great deal of my waking hours at a computer keyboard and screen, and so a lot of the connections formed are via email – I guess one would call them virtual – just words on a screen, and yet, they are pretty damn awesome.

So to all our friends out there, we are delighted to bring you this issue – the fi rst issue under our freshly designed masthead: We hope you fi nd it as aesthetically pleasing and user friendly as we think it is. Thanks to Tana of Studio Akin. You have done us proud.

14 July is Bastille day and almost 250 years later we continue to celebrate La Fête Nationale, a day that meant freedom for so many. With this day and its essence top of mind, we have created a tribute to France and tout ce qui est français: a bit of armchair travel for those of us hankering after a bubble-free adventure. This, along with all the usual lifestyle staples Verve has become known for, including an in-depth look at eating disorders, yoga in prisons, and plenty of health and beauty content, make this spanking new issue a cosy winter read not to be missed.

Emma Kaniuk and Tana Mitchell, who run the fabulous Auckland-based design and branding company Studio Akin (studioakin.com), have been working with us to reimagine, redefi ne and reinvigorate Verve, all without losing sight of what we do so well. We are incredibly happy with the delicate changes: new fonts, a new masthead and other elements which have revamped Verve. One half of Studio Akin, TanaMitchell, is my creative, beautiful daughter-in-law. Thank-you Tana!

We love the results and hope you enjoy the new experience as you scroll or fl ick through the pages.

I also wish to share with you some touching experiences I have had recently. Last week, I arrived home to beautiful gifts from my adult children’s friends. Gifts of thanks for being there over the years and sharing so many great memories with them while on holidays.

And again, another friend (my adult children’s friends once again) came to my place and cooked a beautiful meal for us.

It was such a lovely gesture, especially in giving my partner Gerard a break, who has been continuously supportive of me while my foot has been in plaster. He has been so amazing: pouring me baths and adding beautiful KariGran oil (that we sell on our online store); brewing me coffee; making dinner and generally just being pretty amazing while I’ve been horizontal on the couch. Words cannot describe how grateful I am for each of these kindnesses.

Jude xx

We invite you to dive in and enjoy. À bientôt Fran xx

Up Front

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PAR SOFA / FROMAGE OTTOMAN

www.dawsonandco.nz

Meet The Verve Team

Pam Brown Advertising Sales

Ashlee Lala Advertising Sales + Social Media

Jamie Christian Desplaces Senior Writer

When I am not working, I love catching up with friends, whether it’s for a coffee, meal, movie, or weekend away. We’re so busy but must remember to make time to connect with dear ones, even if it’s just a phone call. I love visiting new venues and enjoy meditation—it’s so great for the mind, body and soul—and relaxing with a good book and a café latte.

When I’m not working at Verve, you’ll probably fi nd me on my yoga mat, at the gym or going for a beautiful hike – I love being active. I also feel very grateful to have such an incredible circle of friends to spend time with and play endless rounds of Monopoly Deal.

When I’m not working, I’m likely with my partner, Heather, walking our pup or hanging out with our small, but nearperfect circle of mates.

Christine Cormack Admin

Zanalee Makavani Graphic Designer

Yamin Cook Junior Graphic Designer

It’s winter and time to hunker down and enjoy yummy soups and casseroles.

I am enjoying visits from my darling “grand fur babies” and taking them for walks and spoiling them with treats.

I have now been with the Verve team for 3 years and just love it. Jude and I have been friends for so many years and we look forward to many more yet.

When I’m not working you can catch me yelling at the top of my lungs trying to sing along to my fave songs.

When I’m not working I’m hanging out with friends, watching shows and making things.

Up Front

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Celebrating all things French

In commemoration of Bastille Day, we add a little of oh là là and joie de vivre to our July issue.

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July 2021

TEXT—NOREEN JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY—GREG COX

French Connection

An urbane and intimate Paris pied-à-terre, this sophisticated apartment is filled with a collector’s choice of the finest mid-century modern furniture as well as contemporary design and art.

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July 2021

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It’s a small area – just 70m2 in total – but feels spacious and expansive. This is the result of the building’s elegant ‘bones’, which include high ceilings that make for light-filled rooms and interconnecting doors with original glazed panels that open up the space and again allow light to move through.

Homeowner Emmanuel de Bayser designed the built-in bookshelf in the living room. The rare vintage Visiteur wood and metal chair is by French midcentury designer Jean Prouvé, and the cream upholstered lounge suite is by Pierre Jeanneret. The black standing lamp is by French lighting designer Serge Mouille (sergemouille.com), the small wooden shelving unit is also by Jeanneret, and the coffee table with the reflective surface in the centre of the room is by Israeli industrial designer Ron Arad (ronarad.co.uk).

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The chair in the hallway outside the bedroom is by Pierre Jeanneret, and the mirror on the wall above it is by Georges Jouve. In the bedroom, the building’s classical period mouldings and elegant floor-length curtains pair remarkably well with mid-century modern pieces that include a rare armchair by French mid-century designer Pierre Guariche and sunburst mirrors by French midcentury jeweller Line Vautrin.

‘French mid-century design is timeless, and also mixes so well with the architecture from periods before it was created.’

In the bedroom, boldly patterned bedlinen by French contemporary designer India Mahdavi (india-mahdavi. com) combines beautifully with the room’s original neoclassical details, a wall-mounted lampshade by French lighting designer Serge Mouille (sergemouille.com) and Mahdavi’s wooden Starr table. The table lamp and colourful ceramics are all by Georges Jouve, and the vintage Standard chair is by French modernist designer Jean Prouvé (find re-editions of Prouvé’s work at Vitra vitra.com). The striking artwork above the bed is by Peruvian contemporary sculptor Aldo Chaparro.

Emmanuel tends to need new points of focus now and then; his large collection of ceramics

by French mid-century ceramicist Georges Jouve was begun in part, he says, because he “had no space any more for furniture”.

Emmanuel de Bayser’s Paris apartment is situated in a grand neoclassical building that is typical of the structures created under the guidance of Paris city planner Georges-Eugène Haussmann, whose famous ‘renovation’ of the city took place in the middle of the 19th century.

The building’s original lift is clad in ornate cast-iron detailing.

French Feature

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Emmanuel’s apartment is situated in an elegant neoclassical building and looks out over a Parisian park that is filled with trees and other greenery.

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Uzès House WORDS—PETA MATHIAS

Living in the South of France is like living in a sun-drenched olive grove. Living in Uzès is like living in a 16th-century museum. It is officially one of the most beautiful towns in France and the Saturday market is the best in the south.

French Feature

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I’ve escaped more houses than I’ve said Hail Marys but nevertheless, one day in 2013, I bought a small two-storey house in the centre of Uzès (half-an-hour from Avignon) and turned it into a three-storey home with cooking school and big terrace on the third floor.

Every single friend in Uzès said, “You are making a big mistake, the house is only of interest to cockroaches, your filthy neighbours will make your life miserable and you have no garden.” My friends in Auckland talked to me as if I’d had a psychotic episode, slowly and patiently, in an effort to dissuade me. But I had a dream.

There were some extraordinary features in that house. One, it was a heritage protected building in a protected street in a protected town. Two, it had two small Roman (Uzès is a Roman area) plinths in the kitchen. Three, it had a 16th-century Louis X1V chimney in the living room. I mean, hello!

That horrible house turned into a stylish cooking school with a linear chandelier over the sink, restored Louis X1V chimney, and hand-painted mural on the stone terrace wall. I was so thrilled with it that I wrote a book about the do-up called, Never Put All Your Eggs In One Bastard.

The house was designed by my friend Gina Godoni in Uzès and she project-managed the build. I wanted a dwelling just like hers — open, industrial, exposed beams, white wooden floors.

After the house was finished I discovered Nama Rococco, the hand-painted wallpaper of American artist Karen Jo Combes (namarococo.com). I contacted her and she designed a funky colourful riot for the living room wall. She starts with white archival paper, paints a design on it then screen prints a black design on top.

Another wonderful feature is the golden wall at the opposite end of the living room, painted in a complicated layered technique by a Swiss artist who does it in Arab countries where they have whole houses painted like this, giving new meaning to the word excess.

The only thing that’s really French about the house are the kitchen floor tiles and the turquoise Lacanche stove. I was talked, against my spiritual inclinations, into putting fake grass on the third floor terrace and now I love it because I wake up in the morning and look straight out over the green to the trees outside.

What happened to the filthy neighbours? They were evicted and now I have fragrant, adorable neighbours who grow flowers and plants all over the passage.

The house is currently available for holiday rentals: petamathias.com/uzes-rental

The heritage association made life very difficult for the build, only allowing me to put windows on one side of the house, so Gina put entirely plate glass from top to bottom.

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July 2021

French Architecture

WORDS — NICK AINGE-ROY IMAGES — RICHARD WEIL

While sheltering from the winter storms, and with borders closed, continue to dream of holidays north of the equator with these lesser-known French architectural wonders.

French Feature

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Church of Saint-Pierre in Firminy

The last major work of famed modernist architect and urban planner Le Corbusier, the Church of Saint-Pierre appears more closely related to a Jedi temple than a traditional French chapel.

Situated within the neighbourhood of Firminy-Vert in the town of Firminy, the Church of Saint-Pierre is one of four buildings designed by the renowned architect as part of an urban renewal project that took place after the Second World War in an attempt to address the town’s housing and public needs.

Though the fi rst stone was laid in 1971, six years after Corbusier’s death, construction did not truly begin until 1973 before being completely abandoned in 1978, leaving the shell of the church to languish for over 20 years.

In 2002, it was declared that the church was of interest to the local community, who raised the necessary funds for its completion under the supervision of Corbusier’s former student, José Oubrerie.

Built entirely from concrete, Corbusier introduces levity to the hulking structure through a split level construction that positions a truncated curvilinear cone atop a square base, while lightboxes and a series of perforations in the form of the constellation Orion along the eastern wall illuminate the spartan interior in such a way as to retain the dim solemnity of its religious roots.

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July 2021

Notre Dame du Raincy In Le Raincy

IMAGE — PHILIPPE MOULU

In the east of Paris lies the suburb of Le Raincy, a small administrative municipality that is home to 13,000 people and, like so many other neighbourhoods in Paris, a church. As French churches go, this one is neither very old nor very large, and so may not seem very impressive when compared with its peers across the city, but it does hold the distinction of being the first church in France to be built of a rather unceremonious material: concrete.

from the fi ligreed excesses of the art nouveau style and a clear new vision for the 20th century. Notre Dame du Raincy emerged from this new style as a fully realised example of what art deco could be, it’s tiered bell tower appearing as a diminutive predecessor to the Empire State Building, the geometric tessellations in its facade offering a restrained response to the ornamentation of art nouveau.

Once a simple neighbourhood parish, Notre Dame du Raincy came into being at the end of the First World War when the parish priest, Felix Negre, proposed building a new church to commemorate the French lives lost at the Battle of the Marne.

Through connections in his congregation, Negre was able to contract the Perret brothers, Auguste and Gustave, to build his church but stipulated that they were on a tight budget.

Inside, the grandiosity that was for centuries a hallmark of European cathedrals is stripped away in favour of a simple barrel vaulted ceiling supported on slender columns and a wide rectangular nave. Dark, claustrophobic alcoves are banished and replaced with a flood of light in bright yellow and the richest blue, a feature that acknowledges the tradition of stained glass while eschewing its stuffi ness, and was achieved by inserting hundreds of coloured glass panels into the fenestrations that puncture the church’s walls.

An experienced pair born to a Belgian stonemason, the Perrets initially trained in architecture in their family fi rm and at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, where they would spend most of their professional life.

Though still relatively early in their careers, the brothers had already won acclaim for their design of the Theatres des Champs-Elysees, a design with the distinction of being the fi rst art deco building in Paris, signifying both a radical departure

French Feature

The overall impression of du Raincy is that of a truly eradefining shift in architecture, a building that marries the material strength and precision of a newly industrialised world with the dignity of the old, a church that is able to meld the traditions of its form with a vision of the future; modern, elegant, familiar and sacrosanct, and all without a single stonemason.

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At the top of the hill:

WORDS — ZACH THOMPSON

Historic Montmartre From iconic architecture to the French Resistance France is famous for its storied history. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the cobblestone streets of Paris’s 2,000-year-old hilltop Montmartre district.

French Feature

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Opposite page: Sacré-Cœur Right: A street in Montmartre

“Montmartre’s architecture can be used to trace the whole history of the place.”

Montmartre’s architecture can be used to trace the whole history of the place. In the 19th century, the foundations of a Roman temple were discovered, adding a layer of intrigue to this part of Paris. The temple is dedicated to Mercury, who in Roman mythology was, among other things, the god of interpreters and translators, as well as wealth and good fortune. This is perhaps quite fitting for the haven of artistic expression and indulgence in life’s pleasures that Montmartre would later become known for.

The Sacré-Cœur is a Roman Catholic church built with stones containing calcin, a substance the stones produce when it rains that helps them (or at least the ones that the rain touches) maintain a pristine white appearance. This means that the building, situated on the highest point of Montmartre, looks as elegant today as it did when it was fi rst fi nished in 1923. It is for this reason that the church remains the second most popular monument to visit in Paris.

The architectural attraction of this region for some of the most famous painters in history was le Bateau Lavoir.

An iconic symbol of the art world of Montmartre’s past, the building was an old piano factory nicknamed by French poet Max Jacob. It translates in English to ‘the Laundry Boat’, in reference to its dark and dirty interior and the way it swayed in the wind on cold and rainy days, reminding Jacob of the laundry boats found on the Seine River.

Le Bateau Lavoir was converted into artists’ studios in 1889, each occupied by many an important face as the years went by, including painters PierreAuguste Renoir, Henri Matisse, and Pablo Picasso, as well as novelist Gertrude Stein, all of whom made lives for themselves in Montmartre. The original building was destroyed in a fi re in 1970, leaving only the front façade standing.

However, it was completely rebuilt in 1978 and remains a popular spot for tourists and art lovers alike to this day.

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If you’re keen to watch painters work in real time, la Place du Tertre is also a great location to visit.

Another prominent part of Montmartre’s architecture is its windmills, which can be found throughout this area. But one of its most famous is the one that sits atop the Moulin Rouge, the club known for its lavish cabaret shows. While the building as it once was burnt down in 1915, the Moulin Rouge as it stands today is just as magnificent and eloquent as its predecessor, with many a glamourous show to indulge in.

Montmartre is an incredibly popular part of France, and therefore very expensive to live in. But if you are lucky enough to fi nd yourself on holiday in Paris, a trip to this iconic hilltop district will inspire your creativity, and its mesmerising sights will have you feeling like you have travelled back in time.

July 2021

Reasons to love France…

Words— Janine Marsh

It’s the lofty Eiffel Tower that makes some fall in love with France. For others, the vineyards of Bordeaux, or pétanque under plane trees.

For me it’s a mixture—not least the French love of tradition and the friendly locals where I live in the rural north…

French Feature

Left: Inside the Château de Chambord

Janine Marsh is editor of thegoodlifefrance.com and author of My Good Life in France: In Pursuit of the Rural Dream and My Four Seasons in France: A Year of The Good Life.

Apéro or aperitif. A way of life—both a drink and an event.

A time for socialising, and a pre-dinner drink. Nowadays, anything goes—wine, pastis, champagne, or cocktails. Add nibbles, music (try Indila’s Dernière Danse, fi nd it onYoutube), and conversation. A perfect French moment.

Boulangeries. Bread is a cultural experience. From queuing at

your favourite bakery, to eating the end of the baguette (called le quignon) on the way home – impossible to resist. As much a symbol of France as the Eiffel Tower.

Cheese. Fromages of France charm all cheese-lovers. No

matter that other countries produce delicious cheeses, too.

What makes it different is difficult to describe. A combination of history, legends and love, the fact that it’s made with raw milk sometimes, and sometimes, small bugs (Mimolette). It might be dipped in ash, or covered in mould. Distinctively shaped or available only certain times of the year. French cheese has that certain je ne sais quoi.

Paris. No one thing makes the City of Light so special. The

Châteaux. No one knows exactly how many castles there are in France, around 45,000 is a good guess. They come in all shapes and sizes. Some are huge, like the Château de Chambord with its 426 rooms, 282 fi replaces and 83 staircases. The tallest is Château de Brissac in the Loire Valley, a whopping seven storeys (it’s also the poshest B&B and said to be France’s most haunted castle). Some are petite, like the Château du Clos Lucé where Leonardo da Vinci lived and died. All are glorious.

Annecy. The jewel of the French Alps, this small city nestles

architecture for sure, all those gorgeous Haussmann buildings, gothic churches, medieval sites, the modern Pompidou Centre, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe. The list is long, very long.

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Then there’s the history. Kings and queens who’ve left legacies (and their heads) behind. The bars, restaurants, street markets, and book sellers on the Seine’s banks. The flower market in the shadow of Notre Dame, wandering Montmartre, touring the Paris Opera looking for signs of the Phantom, the museums and galleries, and the fabulous shops. Ladurée with its macarons, hot chocolate at Angelina’s Tea Room, listening to a concert in the 800-year-old Sainte-Chapelle church. Paris seduces, captivates, enchants…

on the edge of a translucent turquoise lake. Known as the ‘Venice of the Alps’, it’s criss-crossed by canals and winding cobbled streets lined with ancient buildings and is simply breathtakingly beautiful.

Sensibio Micellar Water and Hydrabio Tonique Lotion available from French Pharmacy

French Inspired Décor

Featuring: Allium All Things French Dawson And Co Jardin Le Berre Vevaud Meillart Mydriaz Stephanie Coutas The French Villa Trenzseater Stephaine Coutas

All Things French

1. French oak table, $2,900 2. Rene Gabriel Mobilier de reinstallation buffet V150, $2,800 3. French chestnut coffre, $2,500 4. Black enfilade, $3,900

allthingsfrench.co.nz

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Dawson & Co

1. Crystal chandelier $6,329 2. Odeon 5 ring pendant $6,949

dawsonandco.nz Showroom 115 The Strand, Parnell

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July 2021

Trenzseater

trenzseater.com 80 Parnell Rd, Parnell

Chateau Sideboard

Le Berre Vevaud

Plaine Monceau

by French Architects, Le Berre Vevaud. Private Residence and Offices 160m².

Photography by Stephan Julliard.

French Feature

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Mydriaz mydriaz-paris.com

Jardin jardin.co.nz 92 Parnell Rd, Parnell

Allium

alliuminteriors.co.nz 11C Teed St, Newmarket

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1. Bianca Tray, $225 2. Garance Portrait, Limited Edition print, numbered and signed, $875 3. Ming Blanc Stackable Dishes, $240 4. Christian Lacroix cushion, $375 5. Baby Alpaga Cabinet, $1,550

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Meillart

meillart.com

BDM.Art Studio tables are curved and have a shape similar to that of a wave.

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July 2021

The French Villa

thefrenchvilla.co.nz Shop M135, Milford Shopping Centre, 24 Milford Rd, Milford, Auckland

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1. Parisian Florentin 4 Drawer Chest 2. Provincial Leopold Occasional Chair 3. Parisian Florentin 3 Drawer Chest

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French Country

frenchcountry.co.nz 6 Jervois Rd, Ponsonby

1. French Country Lars Kitchen Island, $3, 999 2.

French Country Diana Cut Glass Chandelier, $1,789 3. French Country Elenor Chair, $1,790

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French Feature

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Delux Interiors Delux Interiors offers french style furniture from french country collections to opulent baroque.

Our artisans skillfully recreate the style of French furniture with hand carved pieces and aged golden leaf or natural finishing.

madde r & ro uge An interior world filled with layers of rich colour and texture. Contemporary French brands available in store and online.

25 Teed St, Newmarket • 09 522 1062 madderandrouge.co.nz

deluxinteriors. co.nz 15-31 Wellesley St, Auckland CBD 0800 994 930

Maison Lesage WORDS — NICK AINGE-ROY

Over the past 30 years, fashion as a product has disseminated around the globe and diverged into a number of distinct forms: streetwear, techwear, vintage, luxury and high fashion. But of all the style varieties and flavours of fashion, there is one that stands outside the rest and truly in a league of its own—haute couture.

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Founded in 1858, Lesage began life under the name of Michonet and with the adoration of the French.

Translated literally as ‘high sewing’, haute couture is the apex of the fashion world, a tiny circle of the fashion system where dresses are handmade over hundreds of hours and at a cost of hundreds of thousands of dollars, in a process that only a small handful of companies and artisans are skillful enough to produce.

One of the oldest and perhaps most prestigious of these is Maison Lesage, an embroidery house whose clients include Chanel, Dior and Saint Laurent. Founded in 1858, Lesage began life under the name of Michonet and with the adoration of the French upper crust, whose desire for luxury was fuelled by the restoration of the royal house of Napoleon III during the Second Empire, and in particular his wife Eugénie, whose fondness for the designs of Charles Frederick Worth—an Englishman otherwise known as the ‘father of haute couture’— dictated high society taste.

Michonet continued this work over the subsequent decades until the arrival of a young Frenchman called Albert Lesage.

Albert had begun his career in fashion after the First World War, becoming director of women’s clothing at the prestigious Marshall Field’s department store in Chicago in 1919, before returning to his native Paris in 1922 to take a job at Michonet, where he met Marie-Louise, an assistant in charge of embroidery at Madeleine Vionnet—a loyal Michonet client and one of the leading figures of Paris fashion in the interwar years.

The couple purchased Michonet in 1924 and renamed it Albert Lesage et Cie, a name that would soon outshine even its storied predecessor, and become unrivalled in the art of embroidery.

Through the 1930s, Lesage would come to be associated most notably with Elsa Schiaparelli, a longtime rival of Coco Chanel, whose Zodiac collection of 1938 championed the embroiderer's intricate work on jackets, dresses and capes inspired by the astrological signs. Despite this long standing and fruitful relationship, it would take the sudden death of Albert in 1949 and the ascension of his son, François - at the time just 20 years old—to the head of the house for Lesage’s presence to be felt throughout the fashion industry. François pursued collaborations with the fathers of French luxury Dior, Balmain, Balenciaga, Givenchy - when these men were at the height of their powers, while others such as Yves Saint Laurent worked exclusively with Lesage for more than 40 years, employing the full scope of the house’s talents in his jaw-dropping 1988 homage to Van Gogh’s Irises.

Nowadays, as it was with Schiaparelli and Saint Laurent, Lesage is synonymous with another great house: Chanel. After beginning their relationship in 1983, Chanel acquired Lesage in 2002 under subsidiary company Paraffection as part of its Métiers d’Art, an initiative aimed at preserving the traditional skills of artisans like Lesage, and one that will ensure its breathtaking creations survive well into the 21st century and beyond.

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July 2021

Chasing L’amour

with Amélie

What do you do for a job? I am a mobile EMS personal trainer. It's a 20-minute workout straight from Germany. It has been life-changing for me since a young age. It is short, intense, fun and gives you the best results. I love my job and I get to meet amazing people throughout the day.

I am very grateful for anyone who has opened their home or office to me and I hope I can bring a bit of light to their busy day and help them to get or stay in shape and reset.

How long have you lived in NZ? In

August, it will be 10 years that I have lived here!

What prompted you to move here?

Many reasons brought me to New Zealand, but believe it or not the fi rst one was to learn English. I wanted at fi rst to go to London but many of my friends were mentioning that it will be exactly like living Paris so I decided to look further and at different options. Then I picked Australia because of the hot weather and the sexy surfers, it sounded more exotic! A couple of months before I left, I heard that the rugby World Cup was on in NZ and thought it would be a great opportunity to fi nd a job easily and to be part of a great experience, even if I knew nothing about rugby! Next minute I was on plane with my 20kg backpack and ready to say, “kia ora”. I can remember every single emotion that came with this decision, it was a great time in my life!

“I was young and madly in love so I left everything without thinking about the consequences.”

What do you love most about New Zealand? What I love the most

about New Zealand is the outdoor lifestyle. Growing up in a big city I never experienced that side of my personality. But seeing the ocean every day and being surrounded by green all the time is something I could not live without anymore. New Zealand is a big playground for freedom and the beauty of its landscape is breathtaking. Living surrounded by nature gives you a more down to earth approach to life. Never wore a pair a gumboots in my life before I came here but I love it !

What is your favourite Kiwi food ?

Kumara. I eat them pretty much every day. A nice slow cooked lamb leg in red wine with some roasted kumara is as good as a Sunday night meal can be!

What do you miss the most about France? Paris! By saying how much

I love New Zealand's nature I also really miss the Parisian lifestyle. There are never two days the same! The old and rich culture and diversity in France is something else: food, architecture, people, artists, and travel. You are always entertained without making any effort.

Creativity is everywhere. Being a Parisian is a real mood and I miss that every day.

What is your favourite French food and are you able to get it here? That is

probably the hardest question to answer.

I was raised in a home where food was everything. Dad would always invite the whole neighbourhood for dinner and Mum was always rushing to get the best ingredients and make the most delicious meals. We could stay hours sitting at the table and just enjoying our meal. But if I have to pick one, it would to be a baguette

with some cheese and butter from the market and a beautiful glass of SaintEmilion. But my list could be long. New Zealand has an amazing food selection and I am defi nitely a happy girl every time I go to Farro or Maison Vauron, but the selection is way smaller. I still cook pretty much French food pretty much everyday — beef bourguignon is still my favourite home dish on a cold day.

What is the biggest cultural difference you have noticed? The

cultural difference is very big between the two countries. I have found the biggest to be the way we manage our emotions. French people are all about letting it out, the good and the bad, which Kiwis tend to keep to themselves and be way more controlled about. You will rarely see negative emotions from a Kiwi unless you are close to them, while a French person will give you a more instinctive reaction at anytime to anyone.

Did living here take some time to get used to? It did, but my situation was a bit

different. I didn’t choose New Zealand as a home, I chose a Kiwi as a life partner.

I was young and madly in love, so I left everything without thinking about the consequences! One week before I was about to leave NZ and was all packed and jobless, I decided to stay here, l’amour.

It was all so rushed when reality hit me and it was a real struggle for sure. Being a foreigner on the other side of the world is way more challenging than what I anticipated but it had nothing to do with New Zealand.

(especially when you have kids), and a whole culture that isn’t yours. However, 10 years later, I am happy to have New Zealand and France as my two homes.

Both are amazing countries that are the perfect ying and yang in my life.

You have three children? My three kids were born in New Zealand but have a very French life here! They go to French school in Ponsonby, are fluent in both languages and love French food. I also have a lot of French friends here that are a big part of my kids' life so there is a lot of oh la la at home. Before covid we were very lucky to be able to go back to France every year so they have a lot of memories over there. I am also very close to my mum and we call her pretty much every day so they do miss France a lot.

However, the fi rst thing on their list is to go to Disneyland Paris which is actually an American concept!

How old are your children? Pia is eight years old, Benoit is five-and-a-half, and Lottie is almost four! I love being a mum and you quite naturally raise your kids the way you were raised, but I had to adapt a little bit. We have a very different approach of raising our children. In France we are way more strict than here, and our emotions are not hidden.

We have a bit more of a ‘raw’ approach.

We talk a lot about our feelings. Here it is way more laid back. I fi nd the Kiwi approach way more polite and proper.

The three of them have very different personalities too, so honestly, I feel like most of the time I learn from them, not the opposite!

I was actually very lucky that life brought me here and not somewhere else. But it doesn’t take away the challenges of being far from your friends and family

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July 2021

Oh là là!

France feels like a long way away right now, but we can transport ourselves around the world by enjoying the delicious wines they produce, at home.

WORDS — ANGIE ATKINSON, THE WINE WRITER

Available at Caro’s $114.00

One of the largest wine producing countries in the world, all of the major grape varieties can be found there.

Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in Burgundy, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in Bordeaux, Syrah and Grenache in the Rhone, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc in the Loire, the best aromatic varieties are grown in Alsace and of course, they have the spiritual home of sparkling wine, Champagne.

Champagne-Gosset Grande Reserve Brut NV

Founded in 1584, Gosset is the oldest wine house in the Champagne region.

Originally a grower, and producing still red wines from their own vines, Gosset is a Grande Marque house sold worldwide and has just recently found its way back to New Zealand. Its distinctive bottle, a replica of the bottle fi rst used almost 300 years ago, and unique bottle neck label makes it easily recognisable.

Available on Black Market $21.99

Anne Gros and Jean-Paul Tollot, two talented Burgundy winemakers, combine their knowledge and passion to produce wonderfully delicious wine.

A blend of old vine grenache, syrah and carignan, fermented and aged in stainless steel to produce a deliciously juicy and lively red wine.

This wine just so... yummy! Dark purple with ripe aromas and flavours of blackberry, cassis, fresh plum, and spice with a soft, velvety tannin structure and a splash of refreshing acidity.

Avoiding malolactic fermentation during the winemaking process produces a crisp, clean champagne with aromas and flavours of green apple, citrus, and white peach. These fruity characters are balanced by 36 months on lees, producing warm biscuity notes that intertwine with the delicate bubbles and linger on the palate.

French Feature

Gros Tollot La 50/50 2018 Southern France

Perfect with charcuterie, roast beef, or to drink on its own.

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“A pretty pale pink with raspberry, strawberry and watermelon aromas.”

Available at Glengarry stores $29.99

Rameau d’Or Petit Amour Rosé 2020 Southern France

Picked when the grenache and syrah reach the desired ripeness and acidity levels, the grapes are pressed with very little skin contact to produce the perfect pink. The juice is fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel tanks to retain the delicate red fruit and floral notes in the fi nished wine.

Available at Glengarry stores $33.99

A pretty pale pink with raspberry, strawberry and watermelon aromas.

A lovely light, crisp and dry Provencestyle rosé with citrus, red berry and white blossom notes on the palate.

The perfect way to start a meal, this rosé is great with light snacks, chicken salads, and fish tacos.

Côtes du Rhône

is back.

PER BOTTLE CASE OF 12

2018 Burgundy

Domaine de Bellene is organically farmed, carbon neutral and aims to minimise its impact on the environment as much as possible. This wine is 100% pinot noir from high-density planted vineyards on clay and limestone soils.

The wine is vinified in old oak barrels and bottled unfi ned to produce a wine with fruit purity and a sense of place.

Medium ruby in colour, with aromas of red berries, dark floral notes and touches of dried herbs.

A medium-bodied and structured wine with cherry, raspberry and cranberry flavours with underlying savoury notes, dusty tannins and a long fi nish.

A champagne style

Our Juicy, fruity

$18.99

Domaine de Bellene Bourgogne Rouge

GREAT VALUE FROMFRANCE WWW.GLENGARRY.CO.NZ P: 08 00 7 33 505 E: SALES@GLENGARRY.CO.NZ

Sparkling

$16.99

PER BOTTLE CASE OF 6

With Love From France

MVAURON.CO.NZ 5 MCCOLL STREET, NEWMARKET

Step through the front door of Maison Vauron, and it’s as if you’ve stepped through a portal into France.

French Feature

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The sun soaked café counter is replete with cheeses, pastries, preserves and all manner of treats.

The sun soaked café counter is replete with cheeses, pastries, preserves and all manner of treats. At the counter, you’ll be greeted in French, a treat for Francophiles and French expats alike, and good luck choosing from a menu on which every item is as lusciously tempting as the last. Of course, a café au lait, pain au raisin and Croque Monsieur (or madame!) is always a great choice to make you feel as if you’re in a café on the streets of Paris.

At the cheese counter, you can revel in the cheeseenthusiast heaven that is the café’s L’atelier du fromage - a deli home to many sought-after cheeses that you probably won’t find anywhere else in New Zealand: Le Campagnier, Epoisses from Berthaud and the decadent Brie a la Truffe from the wonderful Madame Rouzaire If you’re looking to put together a truly impressive cheeseboard, this is the place to come.

And it just keeps getting better—upstairs you’ll find a veritable maze of a wine cellar. On wooden shelves, with tasting tables in between, you’ll find wines, apéritifs, digestifs, ciders and even beers from all over France.

Their selection is so hallowed that many of Auckland’s restaurants buy their vino from this very cellar. Of course, Maison Vauron also does tasting nights, where you can sip wine from a chosen region and be regaled with tales, and tasting notes of the wine - always by French wine experts and sometimes by the winemaker themselves.

Just when they couldn’t get any more French, they are doing a newsletter following the Tour de France (sign up on their website!). This gem of an Auckland café is French down to its very soul, so if you’re craving a trip to Burgundy, Paris, or Cannes, you needn’t go further than Newmarket.

À bientôt!

July 2021

Let’s Cook French

Let’s Cook French, is a fun, interactive, bilingual family cookbook that introduces the art and joy of French cooking from Claudine Pépin—featuring 30 classic recipes, along with notes on French culture and suggested menus for your next family soirée.

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Recipe — Claudine Pépin Illustrations — Jacques Pépin

Crêpes

Breakfast—Petit-Déjeuner

When I was little, my father travelled a great deal, teaching cooking classes across the country. When he was home, he’d often make crêpes for us as a late breakfast. Now we make them for Shorey, and when we visit my parents, Shorey’s grandfather makes them for all of us. I hope these become part of your family.

Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes

Serves: 4–6 (about 12 crêpes)

Ingredients

Method

2 large eggs ¾ cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon sugar ¾ cup milk, divided 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

Mix the eggs, flour, sugar, and only ¼ cup (60ml) of the milk thoroughly with a whisk until smooth. This will make a thick batter and will prevent lumps. Add the remaining milk and melted butter and whisk again.

Fillings

diced fresh fruit Nutella apricot jam whipped cream cheese

Heat a 20-25cm non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of butter, and when it is melted and hot, add ¼ cup of batter to one side of the skillet. Very quickly tilt the pan in a circular manner to ensure the batter covers the bottom of the pan in one thin layer.

Cook for about 1 minute on the fi rst side, then fl ip the crêpe using a fork or spatula and cook for about 30 more seconds.

Place the cooked crêpe on a plate and repeat until all the batter is used and you have a stack of crêpes. You may want to keep them in a low oven so they stay warm.

Spread 2 teaspoons or so of your favourite fi lling and fold or roll the crêpe and enjoy.

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July 2021

Beef—Boeuf Egg Noodles—Pâtes Aux Œufs Mushrooms—Champignons

Boeuf Bourguignon

French Feature

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We often make this beef stew on the same day we make the first fire of the season. Make it a day ahead or freeze for later; it only gets better and better. My father thinks I use too many mushrooms, but I like it that way. You should make it the way you like, too. We serve ours with buttered egg noodles, but it’s also great with mashed potatoes or rice.

Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 2 hours

Serves : 8

Ingredients

Method

170g slab bacon 1.3kg chuck, blade, or shank beef roast 2 tablespoons 38g kosher salt 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1½ tablespoons 21g unsalted butter 455g sliced mushrooms 2 medium yellow onions, diced 4 whole carrots, sliced 1 large celery stalk, minced 4 garlic cloves, chopped 1 tablespoon thyme leaves 1 bay leaf 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1½ cups fruity red wine 3 cups chicken or beef broth

Remove the skin from the bacon and cut into 1x1x2.5cm pieces.

Sauté in a heavy 12-quart (11.3l) dutch oven (or sauce pot with a lid) until beginning to brown but still tender. Remove the bacon pieces and set aside.

Cut the beef into 2.5cm dice and toss with the salt. Sauté the beef in the bacon fat (in batches if necessary) until nicely browned. Remove the beef and reserve. Pour off most of the fat and discard.

Lower the heat to medium low and add the butter. Scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spatula. Add the mushrooms, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme leaves, and bay leaf with a pinch of salt and sauté until the vegetables just begin to soften, 2 to 3 minutes.

Sprinkle the flour on top of the vegetables and mix well.

Continue to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the wine and the broth. Scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate the fond (yummy brown bits on the bottom). Add the beef and the bacon into the pot. Stir well.

Simmer on the stove top until the beef is very tender, stirring occasionally, about 2 hours and skim any fat that collects on the surface.

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July 2021

Akaroa Cooking School

Directly opposite the main wharf in Akaroa lies the Akaroa Cooking School that has been home to Lou and Ant Bentley where they have entertained guests for the past 12 years. Their oneday classes are popular with guests from all over the world and they have a range of more than 15 classes to choose from throughout the year. Whether you are wanting to enhance your dinner party repertoire or learn about the flavours of Europe or Southeast Asia there is a class to suit everyone. Lou and Ant draw on their extensive travels throughout these regions of the world over the years and bring their favourite flavours and ingredient combinations to the cooking school.

The Akaroa Cooking School 81 Beach Rd, Akaroa 021 166 3737 info@akaroacooking.co.nz akaroacooking.co.nz

Akaroa Feature

Their guests enjoy a truly indulgent day learning about where to source the best ingredients, how to cook them perfectly and tips on how to make it look amazing on the plate. Lou and Ant source most of their ingredients locally from around the Banks Peninsula and many are grown in their large home garden and tunnel house.

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The day culminates in a sumptuous four-course meal for the guests at the large dining table with matching wines and a chance to get to know their fellow classmates. “We are often asked by guests why we chose Akaroa to run the cooking school and we simply look out the window at the gorgeous harbour and surrounding hills and say, ‘Why not?’”

Akaroa is a destination town and a day at the cooking school can be enhanced by a night or two’s stay to enjoy some of the many other attractions Akaroa has to offer. *Named by Lonely Planet as one of the top 10 cooking schools in the world.

Beaufort House Akaroa Luxury Boutique Accomodation Step back into another time and pace.

Step back into another time and pace. Beaufort House Akaroa offers

luxury accommodation in an idyllic setting – with all the heritage, charm and character of a bygone era. There are tranquil views from each of the five bedrooms – whether it be the vineyard, surrounding hills, our garden or the sea.

Enjoy waking to the sound of birdsong in this beautiful homestead that was built in 1878, and just a short stroll from Akaroa Village.

Our complimentary breakfast is an

event not to be missed, with fresh fruits, Bircher muesli, and a traditional full cooked English breakfast or une omelette extraordinaire.

Enjoy wine and canapés in the evening Multiple night rates and group bookings available, call Sharon direct on 021 1904456 www.beauforthouse.co.nz

Be sure to visit the Akaroa French Festival on 15-17 October. For more infomation please visit akaroafrenchfest.co.nz

with your hosts Noel and Sharon. Sharon is an avid collector of antiques, Noel an Ocean Yacht Master who has completed many international voyages aboard his yacht Roaring Meg.

MADEIRA HOTEL YOUR LOCAL IN AKAROA

48 Rue Lavaud, Akaroa madeirapub.co.nz 03 304 7009

Sea. Food.

Sea. Ma Maison is one of Akaroa's hidden gems. The dining area is decked out with an open fire and bi-fold doors, so the breathtaking waterfront views overlooking Daly's wharf and the Akaroa Harbour remain uninterrupted.

Founded in 1872 by Antonio Rodriguez, a Portuguese immigrant, the Madeira keeps the colonial heritage of Akaroa alive and kicking! The Madeira Hotel has a contemporary, gastropub offering.

Popular for our steak and burgers and our chef’s signature lamb rump dish. Enjoy our sun-trap beer garden or newly renovated dining room with our locally sourced craft beer and wine. The Madeira is the late night hub of Akaroa with a regular program of live music and humming nightlife.

Food. Our menu is a culinary expression of this region. The focus is on freshness and simplicity, using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Our intent is to create a delicious home cooked meal worth leaving your own house to enjoy.

We're open for Brunch, Lunch and Dinner

MA MAISON

Restaurant & Bar 2 Rue Jolie, Banks Peninsula 7520 Phone. 03 304 7668 - Email. dine@mamaison.co.nz

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July 2021

Verve Reviews:

The New A-Oxitive Range by Avène WORDS—ASHLEE LALA

My recent birthday celebrations were accompanied by the somewhat confronting realisation that I can no-longer claim to be in my ‘mid-20s’, alongside a new-found devotion to the highest quality skincare products that will preserve my youthful skin. Like so many of us, I sit in front of screens all day, making me very susceptible to blue light damage. Combine this with the negative effects of UV, pollution, and a busy modern lifestyle, and it’s no surprise that my skin is highly susceptible to oxidative stress — a direct consequence of consistent exposure to these daily aggressors. Aesthetically, oxidative stress shows up as uneven skin texture, fi rst wrinkles and fi ne lines, loss of tone, and accelerated ageing.

To help fight against this, Avène has developed a Chronoactive ProVitamin routine that cares for your skin day and night. I have been using Eau Thermale Avène skincare for over a year now, and always have their Thermal Spring Water on hand. So when I found out about their A-Oxitive Anti-Ageing range, lavished with their Thermal Spring Water, I knew this was a product I wanted to try.

The A-Oxitive Range consists of three products: An Antioxidant Defense Serum, Smoothing Water Cream and Night Peeling Cream. The Antioxidant Defense Serum is

ultra light and quickly absorbed into the skin, making it an easy addition to my pre-makeup morning routine. Used in conjunction with the Smoothing Water Cream , my whole

complexion feels more energised and vibrant, ready to go about my day. The combination of ProVitamins C and E work together in both of these products to produce an antioxidant shield complex, by reinforcing and stimulating the skin’s natural defence mechanisms to promote cell-rejuvenation. Personally, I feel that the most innovative feature of these products is the gradual release of vitamin C throughout the day. So rather than overloading the skin all at once, which can lead to pesky breakouts and irritation, vitamin C is released in a much gentler way, leaving my skin feeling bright and smooth all day rather than for just a few hours in the morning!

After a long day at work, I’m defi nitely not one for a lengthy night-time skin routine so I love the fact that the Night Peeling Cream does everything I need (especially with the addition of evening primrose oil). Like all Avène products, it is gentle and glides on with a non-greasy velvety fi nish. The combination of ProVitamins A and E in this product restore and boost cellular activity, detoxifying the skin from free radicals as you sleep. I’ve noticed that my skin feels so much more rested and relaxed, and visibly I wake up looking a lot less tired, with less redness.

I haven’t hit 30 yet so I’m not going to start examining myself for wrinkles, but I am making a commitment to protecting and preserving my skin’s beauty capital. I can already see the visible results of using Avène’s A-Oxitive Range, and understanding the long-term benefits makes these products even more worthwhile.

Ageing Why is it such a dreaded word?

Ageing is a rite of passage but one that is not afforded to all of us. Those that have been granted this gift should want (and need) to do it well.

I am ageing.

The years are ticking by, I know this not only by calendar years but also in the way I see things and how my perspective has changed in regards to ageing. I now look at ageing not only physically but as a mindset.

As a practitioner, educator and advisor I am always seeking (craving) the latest research when it comes to ageing. When I am sourcing the latest products, treatments, skin technology for you, I am actually doing this if I am honest, for very selfish reasons. I am wanting this for myself!

So what have I found?

SKIN

Firstly get your Skin DNA tested. This takes all the guess work out of what you actually should be using in the fi rst place. Do you genetically have a problem with glycation (sugars)? Then you need ingredients that will stop glycation topically before the typical skin ‘pillowing’ occurs. No brainer? Start using only what you need.

Getting digital is important. Make sure any professional skin consultation includes digital imagery. At Louise Gray we use the Reveal Skin Imager. This will track your journey and also ensure that progression is being made in the right direction, always backing up your Skin DNA test. These two are inseparable.

LED light therapy not just a disco for your skin. A targeted

treatment working at a cellular level triggering ATP ( Adenosine triphosphate), cellular energy.

LIFESTYLE

Keep active, this is not only in the form of exercise but also socially. Get moving and even better when you grab a friend.

Weights can also be your friend. Become a cat but in more ways than one. Stretch either fi rst thing in the morning or after a warm shower, your body will love you for it. If you need to, curl up, a power nap can and will surprisingly revive you.

SUPPLEMENTS

Well this area can be a mind-field but I keep this very simple, these are what are keeping me on track. NZ Longevity Nanoparticle Vitamin C, why? For overall health and I increase the dosage when I feel something lingering. Also fantastic for the health of your skin, collagen and elastin support, the scaffolding for a great skin. Bestow Beauty Flaxseed Oil, ensuring a strong barrier function so that whatever life throws at me externally (weather conditions) or systemically (eczema) I have a strong base. Clinicians ViraActive, a must throughout the year especially as we head into the cold and flu season and it secretly has some incredible ingredients in it for skin. Finally my latest discovery is telomere support. Telomeres are the caps that are on the end of your DNA strands and they continue to hit the headlines in regards to longevity. I take one to support the health of them and most importantly if they are not functioning correctly or ‘die’, one to get rid of them as quickly as possible.

Tackling ageing at a cellular level! I use One Truth Scientific Supplements for this.

The Louise Gray Skin Care team are very proud to be local and enjoy taking care of our community. Providing guidance whether it be dealing with problematic skin conditions, to managing hair growth or to looking in-depth into age management solutions. We are here to help, make sure you stop by next time you are passing.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate and SPF is not negotiable, enough said.

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

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July 2021

Meet Jules Bright The Founder of Earth’s Kitchen Sunscreen Jules Bright had a highly successful nursing career which skidded to a halt in 1997 while living in India, where she was involved in a serious motorcycle accident. After being taken care of in the mud hut of beautiful village folk, Jules’s realised she had witnessed healing straight from the heart of nature thanks to the potent powers of coconut. Inspired to set forth on a new pathway, Jules founded Earth’s Kitchen, a skincare brand built on the philosophy that nature knows best when it comes to caring for our skin.

It took me 18 years to perfect my natural sunscreen to a transparent, water resistant, luxuriously concentrated body balm, that has now won eight global awards and Natrue certification (100% certified natural). Now SPF 65.8 and both the baby/sensitive sunscreens and family sunscreens are based on our NZ forest plants and premium oils which smell divine, leaving a soft and silky invisible after-feel.

Can you share with us a bit more about your journey and how your career and life experiences fed into the creation of Earth’s Kitchen? After a wonderful 15-year nursing career I

dioxide that act as a physical barrier deflecting the sun away from the skin – like mirrors, if you like. Natural sunscreen is made of plant and mineral goodness that feeds and nourishes our skin.

needed a break so journeyed to India. That turned into a decadelong, deep journey where I learnt of ancient healing techniques, plant medicine and alchemical ways with indigenous cultures all around the world.

After the motorbike accident I was determined to keep learning, so on arriving home to NZ I gained my diplomas of naturopathy, medical herbalism — specialising in rongoā — and traditional body therapies. Becoming an ambulance officer and running my natural, emergency health clinic kept my skills up. Pilot training gave me bush pilot skills. Creating 100% natural native plant spa ranges and therapeutic cremes and balms became an obsession in my forest lab, and we went global.

Pregnant with my fi rst child, I was determined to only use natural sunscreen alternatives on my new baby. It began only as SPF22, with a white, ghosty sheen and smelling like a wet dog — like most natural sunscreens today. I wanted to create a product that would have similar aesthetics to synthetic sunscreens but be 100% natural. The industry told me it was impossible — which I loved!

What is the difference between natural and chemical sunscreen? Natural sunscreens contain zinc or titanium

Synthetic sunscreens contain chemical UV absorbers like oxybenzone, avobenzone and octinoxate which are harmfully absorbed into the body. These ingredients harm and kill coral, which is why many places including Hawaii, Florida and Palau have now banned the sale of ‘chemical’ sunscreen.

What does Natrue certified mean? Certified 100% natural, non-GM, cruelty free — from seed to the manufacturing processes. It means it’s rustworthy and transparent, so no greenwashing. eksunscreen.com jules@eksunscreen.com

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A Fountain of Youth Miss Currant Blackcurrant Powder misscurrant.com info@misscurrant.com

Inspired by the extraordinary nutraceutical and health benefits of the New Zealand blackcurrant, Miss Currant’s blackcurrant powder contains 38 powerful antioxidants (anthocyanins, procyanidins, flavanols and phenolic acids) to fight free radicals—which can damage cells and cause ageing. When you consume high quality antioxidants from Miss Currant, they will protect your body cells from the free radical damages and slow down the aging process—hence ‘A Fountain of Youth’.

95% of other products in the market, Miss Currant is made from whole, fresh blackcurrants, without any artificial and chemical process and additives. You are getting the maximum nutrition from the fruit’s skin and seeds, with no waste.

How do antioxidants and anthocyanins help to slow down the ageing process and benefit our body? The most

We use freeze dried technology to preserve maximum benefit and freshness, maintaining nearly 90% of the nutrients from fruits to powder. Traditional processing methods using heat can destroy the key antioxidants and nutrients.

important benefit of anthocyanins is that they are an important antioxidant which can fight radicals, reduce inflammations and help our cells and tissues to recover naturally.

Miss Currant’s powerful blackcurrant powder can protect the cellular functions of the body for the maintenance of optimal health, covering cardiovascular health, eye health, blood circulation, lung and respiratory health, skin and collagen production, immunity, brain health, energy and exercise recovery, blood sugar metabolism and breast health.

Can you explain the health properties of blackcurrants when compared with other, more well-known berries such as strawberries and blueberries? Blackcurrant is

known as the ‘King of Berries’, it outshines other berries in antioxidant (anthocyanin) level. Miss Currant has maximised this benefit by concentrating 600g of blackcurrants into 100g of powder, therefore every sachet is giving you the benefit of 30g blackcurrant fruits.

We only use the fi nest variety of blackcurrant Ben Ard from Canterbury—the world’s top growing region. It is a precious breed with the lowest yield and highest level of anthocyanins.

After being freeze-dried, our blackcurrants are milled into fi ne powder, meaning it is much easier to digest. Miss Currant has also individually sealed the powder into convenient daily sachets with recyclable packaging, making it easy to transport and keep the freshness for longer.

Miss Currant does not contain any additives or preservatives, just pure nutrition with good taste. It is gluten-, dairy- and GMO-free without added sugar.

What are some of your favourite recipes and ideas for adding Miss Currant Blackcurrant Powder into your daily routine? A simple and delicious recipe is to mix 1-2 sachets

of powder into your yoghurt or smoothie. Use cool or luke warm water less than 60°C. This adds the RDI of vitamin C and vibrant colour to your drink as well as loading it with great nutrition to cover your daily antioxidant needs.

What makes Miss Currant Blackcurrant Powder unique?

We only use whole fruit with real nutrition, not extract. Unlike

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July 2021

Essence of Youth

It’s a natural fact of life that over time, the markers of antiageing – wrinkles, pigment issues, sagging skin and signs of fatigue, will present themselves. Here are some of the best products and treatments for a more youthful look.

Elegance Skin and Beauty

Eau Thermale Avène A-Oxitive Range

Indashnee Devkurran is passionate about skin laser and advanced skin needling treatments and is a specialist in all natural Honey Sugaring Wax and Hydrafacial. Skin Rejuvenation and Vascular Treatments are designed to target the most commonly visibly affected areas of ageing, and reduce broken capillaries, spider veins, rosacea, fine lines and wrinkles. This will improve skin tone, texture and refresh the skin by increasing the production of collagen. Visit Indashnee at 2/2 Commissariat Rd, Mt Wellington. elegancebeautynskincare.co.nz

Avène’s A-Oxitive Range is enriched with powerful antioxidants, protecting your skin from daily aggressors and preventing the first signs of ageing (wrinkles and fine lines). The A-Oxitive Range consists of three products: Antioxidant Defence Serum, Smoothing Water Cream and Night Peeling Cream. The ProVitamins C and E in the Antioxidant Defence Serum and Smoothing Water Cream combine together to produce an Antioxidant Shield Complex, while ProVitamins A and E in the Night Peeling Cream form the Renewing Complex. eau-thermale-avene.co.nz

Earth’s Kitchen

CODAGE Paris Anti-Aging Facial - Spring Spa

You don’t need to be a dermatologist to know that protecting your skin from the sun is one of the best things prevent premature ageing and many forms of skin cancer. Earth’s Kitchen SPF50 sun protection, is a NATRUE certified and multiple Global-Award winning all natural alternative to harsh chemical sunscreens. Transparent, water-resistant, cruelty free, reef-safe and smells lush! eksunscreen.com

Inspired by traditional French apothecary, CODAGE are experts at curating high-performance skincare to suit your changing lifestyle. A diverse range of targeted skin care products are available including anti-ageing serums to improve skin’s firmness and elasticity. CODAGE Anti-Aging Facial by Spring Spa stimulates cell renewal, reduces fine lines, dark spots and blemishes. Included is a micropeel with combined AHA, BHA and fruit enzyme action to lighten and restore radiance. Skin will look youthful, soft to touch and perfectly glowing - 60 MIN $112 springspa.com / springstore.co.nz

Health, Beauty & Fitness

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

TruSculpt iD is the latest technology available to permanently and noninvasively remove body fat. “We have been leaders in non-invasive cellulite and body contouring treatments in Auckland for 19 years,” says Sue Crake, owner of the Remuera salon.

How does truSculpt iD work? truSculpt iD uses a unique form of monopolar radio frequency energy that penetrates evenly and deeply and is able to treat the entire fat pad — from skin to muscle. Given each patient’s unique biological complex, the truSculpt iD is able to adjust the energy output to ensure the most effective treatment for each person. Realtime temperature control and monitoring sensors ensure the therapeutic temperature level is reached in the fat, while maintaining a skin temperature of 3-4°C cooler.

How is treatment performed?

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

Visit us at our new address 437 Remuera Road, parking on site

How do I know if I am a candidate?

Call to book your FREE consultation and assessment

Unlike other non-invasive fat removal procedures such as CoolSculpt and SculpSure, truSculpt iD does not have any body mass index (BMI) or weight restrictions.

Almost anyone can be treated with the truSculpt iD.

TruSculpt ID Benefits — — BEFORE

TWELVE WEEKS AFTER ONE TREATMENT

— — — — BACK ROLL BEFORE

BACK ROLL TWELVE WEEKS AFTER ONE TREATMENT

—

— 437 Remuera Road, Remuera 09 520 5331 finessefaceandbody.co.nz

Unlike CoolSculpting, there is no mark where treatment ends Treats an area 3x larger than CoolSculpting’s coolmax (largest applicator) From just 15 minutes!

Painless Suitable for males and females Tightens the skin by remodelling collagen Amazing results — some patients have reported over 35% reduction in fact (***measured by ultrasound in clinical trials) Treats ALL areas including the abdomen, love handles, bra rolls, chin, thighs, arms and calves

How many treatments will I need?

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

Is the treatment painful?

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

How long before I see my results?

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

A Prison Stretch Adele Kinghan is one of Aotearoa’s most prominent yogis. Verve sat down with the enlightened, inspiring woman to find out more.

WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

Having been a lover of all things dance, Adele turned to yoga in her mid-20s following a cancer diagnosis—in the 15 years since, she has founded RISE Yoga (where she is lead facilitator) and guided hundreds of keen yogis to become yoga teachers themselves. For the past six years, Adele has also served on the board of trustees for the Yoga Education in Prison’s Trust.

“My original impetus to get involved with the mahi (work) of the trust was a desire to make yoga more accessible. It seemed like only a certain privileged few were attending my classes. In that way, I went to the extreme in figuring out who struggles to access the tools and wisdom of yoga most, and who could most benefit from it. The answer was clear.”

The Yoga Education in Prison Trust has been in operation since 2009, but Adele says that it’s not yet commonplace—not because of a lack of interest, but simple logistics.

“It’s quite a complex environment, to offer weekly in-person yoga classes. Which is why we’ve developed our distance learning programme, ‘Freedom from Within’. It enables inmates to learn and apply yoga practices, science and philosophy in a self-directed way, with mentoring support from teachers, regardless of where they are.”

The programme is becoming ever more popular, with a defi nite uptick since the pandemic struck.

“More students are making their way through the entire course, which culminates in them learning to teach yoga to their peers.

It’s a free programme, and they can also continue it once they’re released.”

How do the classes benefit the prisoners, and are they tailored any differently? “I often reflect on Dr Kim Workman’s

[criminal justice advocate] comment that results would be improved if prisons were run with the belief that inmates were suffering trauma that must be addressed. We support the view that it’s what the inmates have experienced—rather than what they’ve done—that’s led them to where they are.”

The yoga is aligned with the te whare tapa whā model, the four cornerstones of Māori health: taha tinana (physical health), taha wairua (spiritual health), taha hinengaro (mental health), and taha whānau (family and social relationships). The purpose of the programme is to “interrupt cycles of harm”, opening the doorway to “growth and transformation”.

“In this way, we’re able to support other programmes prisons might be participating in, like addiction recovery, as well as cultivating a greater understanding on who they are beneath and beyond their criminal behaviour. Hurt people, hurt people, whereas, healed people, heal people. I guess in this way it is quite different to regular yoga classes, but not too different— trauma shows up in every yoga room.”

“The purpose of the prison programme is to interrupt cycles of harm, opening the doorway to growth and transformation.”

What is the general reaction of inmates, prison staff, and the public? “It does take quite a bit of education as to the

value of yoga. There are still misperceptions as to what yoga is.

Unfortunately, the collective consciousness believes it’s about stretching or an alternative form of exercise. Some believe ‘prisoners don’t need to stretch’ to rehabilitate or develop prosocial behaviours. The beauty of educating people is that the proof is in the pudding. One class proves the immediate benefits like inmates being calmer and more attentive, and better regulation of moods and sleep.”

What were your expectations going in, and how did reality compare? “Well, I knew it would be a stark contrast to the

zen-like feel and aesthetic of yoga studios, and all I really had to go on was what I saw on TV. Fortunately, the induction process really helps you get a good sense of what to expect, and once I was in the unit teaching my fi rst class to the 14 tāne that showed up for it, everything that felt unfamiliar—like the chaos and noise, and the badly lit, barren room akin to a fishbowl with onlookers—all fell away. The curiosity and openness of the students was all that mattered. I know people do wonder if it’s ‘safe’, and all I can say to that is that I’ve never felt unsafe. The support of the staff, and the gratitude of the inmates who know I’m there for them, gives me a sense that ‘they’ve got my back’.”

Do you build a rapport with them?

“A pre-requisite for openness to the wisdom of yoga, and the transformation that is possible, is a foundation of trust. So yes, in that way I build a rapport and really try to meet them where they are in terms of physical needs, as well as their mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. Most of my students are Māori, and so I parallel their te ao Māori wisdom and understanding about the nature of the world and themselves, with the wisdom tradition of yoga; both speak to ‘connectedness’. And so, our time together

is often an exploration of, ‘What are we connected to?’” Adele says that she discourages inmates from discussing their crimes, choosing instead to focus on the ‘now’, on their breathing and what’s happening in the their body.

“It’s about the shifts I see in how they stand and breathe, the light that fl ickers in their eyes when they reconnect to their mauri, and the softening in their holding patterns when I validate the understanding that what’s happened to them doesn’t defi ne their worth,” she says. “We also get many quotes from students doing the correspondence course in terms of how it’s changed them, and how meaningful the material is for how they navigate prison life and beyond. This is all fuel for the fi re I need to keep showing up to do the mahi together. In the words of Martin Luther King Jr: ‘No one is free until everyone is free.’”

Do you work with both female and male prisoners, and is there a difference in their approach and interest?

“I teach two classes a week for tāne at Mt Eden Correctional Facility, but we also have teachers in other prisons, including women’s prison. From what I know from my colleagues who teach wāhine, there is just as much interest and commitment.

I mentor a lot of wāhine through our distance learning programme and the shifts I see in them as they work through a lot of the self-reflective material in terms of self-understanding, compassion and inner empowerment is remarkable. This is also true of the tāne I mentor. For them I also think it particularly helps them fi nd a greater perspective on what they’ve been born into, and the lives they’ve led as a result of that. It’s a process of moving from a state of whakamā (shame), and all of the destructive behaviours that are a result of that, to a state of whakamana (inner power).”

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“How this mahi intersects the worlds of both yoga and social justice, can’t help but transform you.”

You must have learnt new things about yourself also?

“Absolutely. This kaupapa (practice), particularly with how this mahi intersects the worlds of both yoga and social justice, can’t help but transform you. While it’s true that you must have good boundaries and self-care practices, as some of it can be quite heartbreaking, there’s also an element of allowing yourself to be vulnerable in the shared learning space of the class—to also be shaped by the dedication and vulnerability of the prisoners in how they show up. There’s a commonly understood term in therapeutic work called vicarious trauma, but what I fi nd equally fascinating as a result of this mahi, is vicarious resilience. I’m much more in touch with my own capacity to be resilient as a result of those who demonstrate resilience in the face of overwhelming hardship and oppression.”

I fi nish up by suggesting to Adele that it must also have greatly shaped her views on Aotearoa’s justice system. It’s a tricky topic to navigate, she admits, but believes the current punitive approach to be self-defeating. “I’m a prison abolitionist insomuch as I believe there will be much better societal outcomes if we address the underlying causes, or trauma, alongside developing greater community accountability and restoration,” she continues. “It’s not a pipe-dream, but perhaps a long way off, which is why I’m working within the current system to help broaden the approach. Even something as simple as starting with a strengths-based view, asking ‘What’s right with you, what are your strengths?’ rather than ‘What’s wrong with you? can be transformative for those who’ve only ever known a life of ‘being wrong’.”

Leave your feet in our hands!

RATED IN THE TOP 5 PODIATRISTS IN AUCKLAND WE SPECIALISE IN:

· Ingrown Toenails · Nail and Skin Fungus · Warts and Verruca · Cracked Heels · Corns and Calluses · Orthotics (medical insoles) · Medical-grade Pedicures · Paediatrics

· Gait Analysis · Knee and Shin Pain · Footwear Advice · Flat feet and High arches · Ankle and Foot pain · Sports injuries · Ingrown Toenail Surgery · Verruca Excision and Dry needling

We are also Southern Cross and ACC affiliated!

09 524 4360 www.joneshealth.co.nz

kaisarah@joneshealth.co.nz sharon@joneshealth.co.nz

360 Remuera Rd, Remuera Free parking above ANZ

Align Chiropractic Verve sat down with Dr Brian Kelly who has been a chiropractor for 30 years and has worked in academia and private practice.

Can you explain the relationship between spinal adjustments and the nervous system? Hippocrates (the

father of modern medicine) was one of the early pioneers to write on this in 400BC. Essentially, the brain, spinal cord and nerves control and coordinate every body function and have a profound effect on our health and wellbeing.

As many nerves pass through the movable spinal column, they are susceptible to interference when spinal vertebrae misalign.

This is called a subluxation.

Some subluxations affect muscles, some affect brain function and some affect how the body is functioning. It can even manifest in headaches and spinal pain. Spinal adjustments help reduce interference caused by subluxations, allowing the nerves and nervous system to function more effectively.

Can chiropractic care assist with managing the daily stressors that most of us are subject to in our fast past modern lifestyles? What about mental health? Stress

manifests in different ways for different people and can show up as different symptoms. The three most common reported changes when beginning chiropractic care are getting better sleep, having more energy, and being able to deal with stress better – all of which can tie in to better mental health. A number of people fi nd changes in their anxiety levels as well.

Who should see a chiropractor? Anyone can get chiropractic

care, and you don’t need to be in pain—95% of the time you can have subluxations and not be in any pain at all. People go to chiropractors either because they want to get well, or to stay well and enhance their wellbeing. For example, we work with many elite athletes who want to get back on the field, and

others who want to perform at their best. There has been a chiropractor on the NZ Olympic medical team for many years.

Children also benefit from chiropractic care in myriad ways. In our clinic we also work with patients from all over NZ who have had a concussion injury. We do a very specific upper cervical technique called Atlas Orthogonal that has a dramatic effect on concussion recovery.

As well as being a chiropractor for 30 years, you have worked extensively in academia, as the President of the NZ College of Chiropractic and the President of Life Chiropractic College-West in California. What changes have you seen in chiropractic practice in this time? The

main change has been the increase in research into chiropractic and the increased utilisation, i.e., more and more people see chiropractors (including whole families) as part of their health care team. When I left San Francisco, Google and Facebook had just employed 14 full-time chiropractors (on staff ) for their staff. They saw it as a major wellness benefit.

You’ve also led several outreach trips to India, what inspired you to do this? We were part of a mission organisation, and we

got to help some of the poorest people in the world, and some of the most grateful. We were also invited into hospitals to deliver chiropractic care. It was a very moving experience.

Align Chiropractic & Wellness Level 3, 4 Vulcan Lane, Auckland 09 222 1299 alignchiro.co.nz info@alignchiro.co.nz

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July 2021

Active Health Osteo Using proven osteopathy practices, Active Health Osteo is committed to giving back patients their quality of life. Verve caught up with Kendyl and Simone to find out how.

Top-bottom: Kendyl and Simone

activehealthosteo.co.nz 585 Beach Rd, Rothesay Bay info@activehealthosteo.co.nz 09 475 5489

Health, Beauty & Fitness

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KENDYL

SIMONE

What led to your career as an osteopath? I injured both hips badly going from competitive rhythmic gymnastics in South Africa to rowing during my teen years once we moved to New Zealand. For around five years, ongoing pain impacted my health. I tried everything, but nothing helped. Someone suggested an osteopath, and after a couple of sessions, my pain was manageable! I’d always wanted to help others and had assumed the best way was to become a doctor. However, the calm, safe environment and hands-on treatment of osteopathy, combined with the wonderful results from treating the root of problems, rather than the symptoms, struck a chord. I’ve never regretted my decision to make osteopathy my career.

Why did you become an osteopath? During my fi rst year studying to become a physiotherapist, I injured myself playing rugby and was recommended to see an osteopath. Incredibly, the osteopath not only diagnosed me, but found out why my body was more vulnerable to getting this injury. I had no idea other areas of my body were connected to the injury site, contributing to the pain I was experiencing. The osteopath eliminated my pain and gave me exercises and advice specific to my situation and my body. From then on, I knew I wanted to be an osteopath. I not only wanted to help people gain shortterm pain relief but equip them with the tools and knowledge necessary for long-term relief.

How does this passion for competitive sports feed into osteopathy? I understand the pressure high-performance sport

Why do you have a particular interest in the areas of pregnancy and rehabilitation? Rehabilitation has always been

has on athletes. I can talk them through coping mechanisms. I’m also able to correspond well with the entire management team where needed. Working with competitive athletes requires not only treating injuries but enhancing the performance of injuryfree athletes, like increasing runners’ stride lengths, swimmers’ reach, and generally improving form, flexibility, and strength.

You’ve extensively researched osteoarthritis, can you tell us more? A covering of cartilage exists over the bones that

make up most joints. Osteoarthritis is the process where that covering of cartilage is worn down. Currently, there are no ways to reverse the process of osteoarthritis, which everyone will experience at some point in their lives. However, we can slow the process down and preserve the cartilage that we do have by doing a few simple things such as keeping fit and active, managing weight, and eating healthily. Osteopathy helps slow the process of osteoarthritis by decompressing the joints, maintaining range of motion, getting the joints moving smoothly, improving blood supply to the area, and strengthening muscles that stabilise the joint.

How have you seen osteopathic treatment impact the dayto-day life of your patients? I have seen elderly people with

arthritis able to stand up straighter, walk for longer distances with decreased pain and able to maintain movement in joints.

Pregnant women able to sleep longer without hip pain, able to walk without grating pelvic pain or lower back pain. In children suffering from growing pains, Sever’s disease, and Osgood Schlatter’s disease able to run again and do the sports and activities they love. Athletes who are able to perform at their peak again, achieve their personal bests, win world champs and qualify for the Olympics!

of interest as I was continually getting sports injuries growing up. The way the body heals itself is incredible and rehabilitation is a way we can observe its miraculous healing powers. Patients soften share their experiences of repetitive injuries due to not having the correct rehabilitation support post-injury.

Repetitive injuries can be prevented by retraining the brain to trust the injured body part, strengthening the area, and slowly reintroducing impact training. A full recovery from injury is possible if the patient and practitioner work together and stick to the programme.

Pregnancy is a reasonably new interest. I’ve more recently become aware of the wider stressors of pregnancy on the body.

There are so many women out there doing an incredible job of carrying their precious little ones. However, it’s common to experience body aches and pains due to increased weight distribution, as well as hormonal changes. I’ve had the pleasure of supporting so many lovely mothers-to-be with their aches and pains, which many had no idea could be fi xed.

Can you share one of the most rewarding experiences or feedback you’ve had as an osteopath? One patient who

comes to mind was a patient who came in hunched over in immense pain and could hardly move. This patient was unable to work, could hardly sleep, and their pain levels were affecting every area of their life. After diagnosing and treating this patient, I could see an instant change in their mood, behaviour, and movement patterns. I feel so privileged to be able to help people in need and impact their lives in a positive way, just like I did this patient. I hope that I can continue to make both small and large impacts and people’s lives for a long time to come.

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July 2021

Stillpoint Osteopaths Osteopathy in the cranial field holds the potential for deep, whole body changes.

We spoke to the team at Stillpoint Osteopaths to find out more.

Health, Beauty & Fitness

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As a team we embrace continued in-depth study of anatomy, physiology, its embryological origins and the body’s expressions of motion and function.

How does cranial osteopathy differ from a standard osteopathic treatment? Osteopaths have varied

treatment approaches and each practitioner chooses what is most appropriate for their client. This often involves gentle manipulation, soft tissue work, muscle balancing and rehabilitation techniques to name a few. Commonly considered standard osteopathy, these approaches are more physical and movement based.

Osteopathy in the cranial field (cranial osteopathy) works with the more subtle expressions of movement in the body.

It encompasses the whole using gentle techniques to allow the body’s internal corrective abilities to create change and restore balance. Although cranial is in the title, this approach treats all areas of the body.

Osteopathy in the cranial field is part of standard osteopathy and is introduced in most undergraduate training programmes. However, most practitioners using this approach do further postgraduate studies to develop their skills.

What inspires your osteopathic team to pursue this career path? Our osteopathic team

are motivated by the desire to provide mindful healthcare to promote better health and wellbeing.

Stillpoint Osteopaths 54 Mt Eden Road, Mt Eden appointment@stillpointosteo.co.nz 09 638 9256

They resonate with the philosophy and teachings of osteopathy. Osteopathy promotes working with the body as a whole unit of function and that as practitioners we are attentive with our hands to the body’s natural abilities to self-correct.

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As a team we embrace continued indepth study of anatomy, physiology, its embryological origins and the body’s expressions of motion and function.

These understandings and learnings guide our hands on work.

Who is cranial osteopathy best suited for? We are a family-oriented practice

offering osteopathic management for newborns to our more senior members of our community. The gentle nature of this therapeutic approach lends itself to all age groups. Osteopathic assessment and management is suitable for acute and chronic conditions, issues ranging from sporting injuries, physical trauma, emotional wellbeing, to chronic illnesses.

What does a cranial osteopathic treatment feel like? Everyone’s

experience of an osteopathic treatment can be different. Patients describe different sensations from waves through their body, heat, body movements, to feelings that intensify and ease, relaxation, and a feeling of being held and supported.

What would you say is the ultimate goal of osteopathic treatment? The

ultimate goal is to assist the patient to reach their own individual health goals and objectives. This could be to reduce pain, increase mobility, rehabilitate after injury among other things. Practitioners will work through a full case history and examination and will establish your goals to develop a management plan. In the treatment process itself our aim is to create a therapeutic space that allows the patient to express their own corrective mechanisms to instigate change and restore function.

July 2021

Richie & Claire

Richie Hardcore is a Muay Thai

WORDS — MELANIE DOWER

Health, Beauty & Fitness

coach and public educator of family violence prevention, masculinity and mental health. Claire Robbie teaches meditation and yoga, is the founder of No beers? Who cares! and recently opened The School of Modern Meditation.

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Together, they balance their love of life and each other around their different interests.

Our Story

Richie

Claire

We met at a party five years ago and I thought Claire was cool and interesting but I was in a committed relationship at the time. However, that relationship ended and so did hers.

The fi rst time we met was when my best friend was having a house party and I had just moved back from LA. Richie was there with his girlfriend at the time and I remember thinking he was American. He was covered in tattoos and he reminded me of where I had lived in Venice, California. A couple of years later, I started No Beers? Who Cares! a mindful-drinking movement, and Richie got in touch to let me know that if I needed any help he had worked in alcohol and drug harm reduction for years.

She had moved back from Los Angeles and was at the outset of living a life without alcohol and found New Zealand a hard place to socialise without booze so started No Beers? Who Cares! I was working in alcohol and drug harm reduction so messaged her and said, “I’d love to help with your project.”

I’ve been publicly sober for a long time and she invited me to speak at one of her events.

That night, I was talking about how growing up with an alcoholic parent impacted me and how I tend to be attracted to damsels in distress and Claire made this quip, “Will you rescue me?” and everyone laughed. Later, I went to one of her yoga classes and asked, “Would you like to go on a date?” We’re both divorced, so we went into it intentionally and slow. Here we are four years later and I’m still grateful for that.

Claire has a really loving and connected nuclear family, but I didn’t grow up like that so it’s quite foreign to me. She has a child, who is now my step-son and I love him heaps. Watching Claire love her son is quite profound; it’s a cosmic experience that I don’t know how to put into words and it’s nice to see every day.

I can stand on a stage in front of 8,000 people and talk about sexual harassment, or put on a pair of shorts and knock another man out, and yet sitting at home with a kid, drawing pictures was new for me and it has really enriched my life. Claire’s helped me soften and step outside of my routine just by how she lives and I’ve had to learn to be more comfortable in that role. We met each other at the right intersection in our personal histories.

Claire has an enquiring mind and she’s always open to learning and self-reflection, which I fi nd exciting. She knows what she likes, she’s strong and forthright, educated and funny and she challenges me a lot, because I’m really opinionated, and I love her for it. I fi nd her desire for growth perpetually attractive, and I love her more and more as time goes on.

He became one of our fi rst ambassadors, yet for me there was no chemistry until I heard him speak at one of our events. He’s a phenomenal public speaker and I remember listening to him and thinking, “Oh, pretty amazing.” The next day he came to my yoga class and asked me on a date.

Richie’s an incredibly warm, very emotional, intelligent, articulate, hilarious human being. My favourite thing about him is how much he makes me laugh. I wish people knew how funny he is because he can seem quite earnest and serious in his social media posts, and he is, but he’s also not at all. He looks kind of tough on the outside, with all his tattoos and the kick-boxing, but he really isn’t. He’s quite a poetic human being and I think that’s probably what’s so appealing to me, that contrast really.

We’ve got very different tastes in things like music and how we spend our time, but we’re very similar in that we’re both incredibly passionate about certain things. Richie feels things very deeply and it’s beautiful to see and wonderful role-modelling for my son. He’s definitely not ashamed or embarrassed about his emotions at all, and I find that very endearing.

We’ve also both been divorced, which for each of us was incredibly devastating. Meeting later in life, we’ve been able to be patient with each other because we understand and have worked through a lot of the reasons why our past relationships haven’t worked, and have now settled into something that’s really beautiful and honest. I came from a really conventional upbringing and I was really sad when I realised I wasn’t going to raise my son with his dad, but it’s a really beautiful thing to watch Richie with him and I’m really thankful for our relationship.

Richiehardcore.com Clairerobbie.co

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July 2021

Time To Screen Auckland’s DHB Bowel Screening Programme, running less than six months, is already saving lives, with 14 cancers found through screening. Available for 60-74-year-olds, it aims to catch cancers early, when they’re often more treatable.

Anthony received his bowel screening test kit in the mail

and after completing the test at home, returned it in the prepaid envelope. He had a positive FIT (faecal immunochemical test) result, meaning blood was found in his bowel motion.

“I was surprised because I didn’t think there was a problem. My weight’s stable, my bowel motions regular, and I feel well. It was scary, but the staff were reassuring and the information they provided easy to read.”

Only around seven in every 100 positive tests are cancerous, and with early detection, far more likely to have a successful outcome. Those diagnosed with early-stage bowel cancer, who receive treatment early, have a 90% chance of long-term survival.

Anthony was surprised that his friends didn’t participate in the screening as bowel cancer is more common in those aged 60-plus, with men at higher risk.

“I told them to just get on with it. Men are their own worst enemies when it comes to this stuff. We get complacent and take so much for granted living in New Zealand.”

Two weeks after receiving his results, Anthony went for a colonoscopy at the Greenlane Clinical Centre, where small biopsies were taken for further analysis. Anthony was delighted to get the all-clear.

“The procedure was fast. I was given medication to help me feel comfortable. There was no pain during or after the procedure. I can’t emphasise the positive benefit of doing the bowel screening test. At least I can be confident and know that I’ve done the best I can by participating.”

Anthony will happily partake in the screening process again to check in on his bowel health.

Bowel Screening is free for those aged 60-74 years and eligible for publicly funded healthcare. Invitations to participate appear in letterboxes of those eligible, continuing on a two-yearly cycle. For more information, visit timetoscreen.nz or talk to your family doctor.

ARPHS ADHB Bowel Screen Adverts (Team) APR21_v1.pdf 1 4/9/2021 5:17:02 PM

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Free phone

0800 924 432 or talk to your doctor

Mole Removal Clinic 42

Winter’s a popular time to have moles and lesions removed as its easier to cover up and avoid sun exposure during the healing process. But removals can be performed at anytime throughout the year.

Healing typically takes around 10-14 days. Some areas of the body, such as the face, heal faster than others. But it is important to follow the post-procedure advice you are given to ensure the best result.

At Clinic 42 , we treat moles and lesions, or changes under the skin, for functional or cosmetic reasons, or if there is a concern about possible malignancy.

This often involves:

We have a number of options for treatment, including liquid nitrogen, radio frequency treatment with Surgitron, or defi nitive excision by minor surgery. Once our doctors have examined your skin, they will advise you on the most suitable modality.

· Keeping it hydrated as a dry wound has more risk of significant scarring

· Modifying some activities in the initial stages of healing

· Minimising exposure to the sun or UV rays and wearing SPF 30+ sunscreen

Liquid nitrogen involves a short, repeated, targeted freezing

The treated area will remain pinkish for a few weeks, whilst the skin is younger. As the new skin cells mature, they will more closely resemble the normal colour of the skin.

technique, appropriate for thickened lesions, such as seborrhoeic keratosis (age-related beauty spots), or precancerous changes.

Depending on the treatment method, the risk of mole or lesion return in the treated area is very low.

Radiofrequency Surgitron uses a compact machine to take very thin shavings from the skins surface. This is most suitable for raised, benign lesions, such as skin tags, moles, and larger seborrhoeic keratoses. Local anaesthetic is injected under the lesion prior to removal. Typically no dressing is required, and the huge advantage is the lack of obvious scarring once the area has healed.

Surgical excision is a minor surgery procedure, usually

reserved for flat moles or lesions that may be malignant. The lesion is marked, typically in the shape of an ellipse, and local anaesthetic is administered. With sharp dissection, the offending lesion is removed, with a ‘margin of safety’ around it. This excised specimen is sent to the laboratory, so it can be examined under the microscope to ensure clearance of the lesion. One or two layers of stitches are used to bring the skin edges back together, and a simple dressing will be applied. The after care is slightly more than liquid nitrogen and Surgitron, although straightforward.

Any procedure where the barrier of the skin is interrupted, comes with some risks, albeit mild and uncommon, including: bleeding, bruising, infection, thickened or unsightly scar formation, and altered sensation in the area. Your doctor will discuss these with you prior to the procedure, and a consent form will be completed.

Cost varies dependant on method, typically removal by Surgitron (our most common method) is $500 for a 45-minute consultation including removal of ONE mole. Additional moles are $100. If you don’t go ahead on the day you will only be charged a consult fee of $120. We can also quote you for the removal of several moles.

To book an appointment please contact us on 09 638 4242 or email reception@clinic42.co.nz

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July 2021

Rest, Rejuvenate, Reset

Rest, rejuvenate and reset your health at New Zealand’s leading wellness retreat. Resolution Retreats is New Zealand’s only live-in weight loss, health and wellness retreat exclusively for women. Positioned on the restful borders of Lake Karapiro, it’s just two hours from Auckland.

Health, Beauty & Fitness

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The 35-hectare restorative retreat boasts gorgeous rural surroundings with the aptly named Sanctuary Mountain looming as an impressive backdrop.

LEFT — RESOLUTION RETREATS FOUNDER JOELENE RANBY

The specially created programmes that begin from three days to 21-day stays gently guide, support, and educate women to live happier and healthier lives by fi rstly allowing them time and space to delve inwards and be totally taken care of. Lifechanging techniques have a refreshingly realistic approach to health, all delivered by a female-only team of passionate industry professionals.

Resolution Retreats founder Joelene Ranby tells Verve more about her globally recognised health and wellness offering.

What led to you founding one of Australasia’s largest health and wellness retreats? Resolution Retreats began as a passion

Testimonial “I really can’t express my gratitude enough: You put food, exercise and health into a format anyone can understand.

From day one I never felt deprived or physically challenged beyond my comfort zone and look at the results - 8.3kg down as of this morning. I am looking forward to putting more of what I’ve learnt, into practice. I’m so thankful for the fabulous group of ladies with whom I was privileged to share the beginning of our journey with, and feel grateful with my lot.”

project I ran during weekends, and away from my role in the corporate world; a way to share what I had learnt and experienced in changing my own health. As word spread, it became apparent that the escape we provided for women who craved an opportunity to put their health and happiness fi rst and kickstart some changes was more needed than we could have imagined.

— Anon

You’ve been named New Zealand’s Best Wellness Retreat.

What sets you apart from other health retreats? Many

things, but key is that Resolution Retreats’ programmes are designed and run by women, for women. Our realistic health mantra, ‘progress not perfection’, and habit-change psychology, offer a unique and refreshing approach to health, helping guests understand why they do what they do, when they know what they know. For women, positive health changes are more about psychology than science.

The resort looks like the ultimate holiday of rest and relaxation in itself. Can you give us a glimpse into what a day typically looks like for a guest on retreat? Many guests

come to us exhausted, so we aim for a good balance of activities and rest. We rise with some sort of movement like pool fitness, followed by breakfast. Mornings will generally include a health workshop, which depending upon your retreat package, may focus on nutrition, habits, hormones, stress and heart health, body positivity, or mental or gut health. Lunch is followed by

RESOLUTION RETREATS CONTINUED

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a slower afternoon known as ‘bliss time’—guests have some downtime to read a book in their chalet lounge, play tennis, hydrate in the steam room, attend a Yoga and meditation session, or enjoy the other facilities. Pampering in our onsite spa also helps guests unwind in the afternoons before our wellattended pre-dinner cooking workshop. After dinner it’s either time to retire to your chalet for a soak in your in-room jacuzzi, or optional activities to allow further bonding with other guests.

What are some of your realistic expert tips for women wanting to reset their health but feeling overwhelmed by where to start on their wellbeing journey? Overwhelmed is

unfortunately a really common starting point – knowing that you need to do something but don’t know how to begin or fit it in amongst everything else you’ve got going on. Being realistic is the fi rst place to start – different things work for different people. Setting unrealistic expectations is a path to feeling worse, not better. Put fi rst things fi rst – work out what is the biggest challenge in improving your health and begin there.

Focus on that until you have made some progress, rather than tackling everything all at once. If you have habits that are distracting you from your health, next time you’re living one out, work out what is your ‘why’ for doing so. What are you getting out of it consciously, or subconsciously? It’s only once you understand the psychology behind your habits that you’re able to change them.

In 2021, you expanded your offering with Resilience Retreats, your recently launched professional and personal health retreats. Can you tell us a little bit more about how this much-needed new offering came about and who would benefit most from these retreats? Workplace wellbeing has

become a necessity, particularly in industries more susceptible to burnout. Employers have a lot on their plate. Many are aware that the wellbeing of their people is important, but may not have the time or skills to really assist with that in addition to the pressures involved with running an organisation. So, individuals or teams can join on one of our Resilience Retreats to step away, rest and re-energise, while learning practical skills and strategies to help build personal and professional resilience to take care of themselves, and cope better when they return home to life and work.

Your retreats offer follow-up support. Why is this so important in keeping guests accountable for their health journeys? It’s important for both sides. Guests become part of

our retreat family and our dedication to, and support of, their health journey doesn’t end when they leave us. It’s important for our guests to know they have a team cheering for them who genuinely care about their progress. Someone they can call for a pep talk, to celebrate successes, or somewhere to escape when life throws them a curveball. It’s important for us as an organisation, that our care is genuine, and we are engaged with guests’ health needs so they can lean on us when they need us.

It makes our hearts happy to see them go on and do great things.

Testimonial “Resolution Retreats saved and changed my life. Joelene and her team were absolutely amazing, so welcoming and personable. The workshops with highly qualified speakers were deeply informative. I experienced a major breakthrough in regards to my current mind-set because of tools taught, health education, yoga, exercise and beauty treatments. Best experience ever!”

— Anon

1002 Tirau Rd, Lake Karapiro resolutionretreats.co.nz

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Health, Beauty & Fitness

“The deadliest of mental illnesses, eating disorders are thought to affect at least nine percent of the global population.”

The deadliest of mental illnesses, eating disorders are thought to affect at least nine percent of the global population, up to a fifth of whom will die without treatment—mortality rates comparable to, and often exceeding, road deaths and some cancers. According to the USA’s National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD), more than a quarter of people with the condition will attempt to take their own life.

“Eating disorders can be such a hidden illness that it can be affecting your colleague or the person sat next to you on the bus, and you wouldn’t know,” says Kristie Amadio, who had an eating disorder for 14 years, and founded Recovered Living NZ, a not-for-profit eating disorder recovery organisation based in Christchurch. “When it comes to the medical profession, our systems are completely overloaded. My waiting list is 12 months long.”

A GROWING PROBLEM

In the UK, admission numbers for treatment for eating disorders more than doubled between 2010 and 2018, a continuing trend that has been compounded during the covid crisis.

As the pandemic took root in 2020, mental health organisation the Priory Group reported a 61 percent rise in inquiries at its private clinics for treatment of anorexia nervosa, and a 26 percent increase for binge eating disorder treatments inquiries. Dr Agnes Ayton, chair of the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Eating Disorder Faculty, describes a “tsunami” of patients at her Oxford workplace, with admissions of urgent referrals up to 80 percent, from the usual 20 percent, as of February this year.

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Eating Disorders Association of New Zealand (EDANZ) says that emails and calls to the charity’s helpline also doubled last year, with no signs of letting up in 2021. EDANZ president Nicki Wilson laments that health professionals are so overworked “they just can’t cope with the demand”, with wait times so long “people are becoming much more unwell than they should…and the suffering is terrible”.

Kristie says that eating disorders don’t discriminate, with little regard for “age, gender, ethnicity or socioeconomic status”.

“It’s said that one in 10 men have an eating disorder but based on the split in my practice right now, I’d estimate it to be higher,” she continues. “What we’re seeing with a lot with men is muscle dysmorphia, which is leading to multiple hours at the gym without rest days, and steroid use, as well as eating disorders.”

From 2019 to 2020, admissions of 10- to 15-year-olds, and under 20-year-olds, doubled at Starship Hospital, with similar jumps at Waikato Hospital, and increases of nearly a third in Wellington during the same period.

Elaine [not her real name] was 14 when she developed an eating disorder, which, she says, was down to a “passionate interest in latest fashions—and especially those who modelled them”.

“I wanted to be those people, and look equally amazing,” she tells Verve.

“And with each kilo I lost I felt closer to that goal.”

But Kristie does emphasise that “it’s a misconception that only adolescents or those in their twenties are affected”, or that it’s always about body image.

Her oldest client is 72 years, and her July 2021

Every disorder is different and there needs to be an individual approach for each client’s disorder’s characteristics.

youngest, shockingly, just seven years old. I ask her what drives such a young person to such a condition.

“If I knew that, I’d be a well-published author. We still don’t know exactly what causes eating disorders. We do know that there is a genetic component, but it’s often said that while it’s the genes that load the gun, it’s the environment that pulls the trigger. There could be two siblings with that gene, but only one develops the eating disorder because of the experiences they’ve had. Like with the breast cancer gene, multiple people have it without ever developing the disease.”

SOCIAL MATTERS

Social media has intensified the issue, with some ‘influencers’ going so far as to glorifying the like of self-starvation.

“Social media exploited covid on a whole new level,” says Kristie. “Places like Instagram—which many call ‘pro eating disorder’ sites—has people promoting eating disorders as a cool thing to do.”

I ask Kristie if the emphasis on body positivity and promotion of plus-size models as cover stars has helped alleviate the issue in any way.

“It’s another complicated issue because although it’s fantastic that there are more diverse models out there, there is still that part of it that’s all about a focus on the body.”

Kristie says that though there is a broad framework of treatments, “every disorder is different and there needs to be an individual approach for each client’s disorder’s characteristics”.

Health, Beauty & Fitness

one wants it badly enough. But I knew that I could never ever let myself go down that tunnel again. Basically, I did a lot of growing up – and fast.”

I ask Kristie if eating disorders are a kind of ‘inverted addiction’, and she says that it’s a “hotly contested debate” with different philosophies.

“If you’re addicted to alcohol for example, then abstinence is part of the recovery process. But if you have an eating disorder, you can’t abstain from food because you need it to live. You need to form a different relationship with that ‘substance’ that you are using to numb your emotions or deal with anxiety or whatever it may be.”

There was a time when many believed that people with depression should just ‘snap out of it’, are there now similar misunderstandings about eating disorders?

“Defi nitely. So often you hear people say they just need to eat or to stop throwing up, but the truth is that it is a mental illness, and if they could stop, they would. Just because it’s a mental illness doesn’t mean you can’t recover from it.

No one was born with an eating disorder, and no one should have to live with one."

But what makes eating disorders so difficult to confront is that they are so easy to hide, with many people being otherwise highly functioning professionals, and often parents.

“Many with eating disorders remain in denial because they’re living relatively normal, busy lives,” says Kristie. “The majority of my clients are what most would call a healthy body weight.”

For Elaine, it meant regularly consuming high calorie foods, specially formulated drinks, refraining from strenuous exercise, and regular weight checks.

When Elaine’s parents encouraged her to seek help, she told them they were overreacting.

“I learnt to treat what I read and saw in the media with a grain of salt,” she says.

“And that one can turn things around if

“I was too young to really understand what I was doing to my health, and I became critically ill,” she recalls. “I

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continued to lose weight, getting weaker, and at one stage weighed only 28kg. It was only when I woke up to the fact that I was dying, and also causing those I loved tremendous distress, that I decided to claw my way back to normality. I had never meant to get sick in the fi rst place, it just happened. In the end I just desperately wanted to be a normal teenager, go to parties, have boyfriends, that sort of thing.”

Recovered Living NZ runs a virtual recovery support group every Thursday, 5:30pm-6:30pm. It costs $10, with all proceeds going towards the charity. Visit recoveredlivingnz. com for more information.

Signs to look out for in for those worried that a loved one may have an eating disorder include fad diets “that appear more an obligation than a choice”, loss of spontaneity or flexibility with food, or withdrawing.

“I’m really an advocate for people speaking up rather than walking on eggshells,” says Kristie. “So many don’t want to say anything for fear of making things worse, but I believe that the biggest encourager for an eating disorder is silence.”

Recovery from eating disorders is 100% possible Real help for eating disorders.

NZEDC is a group of highly skilled clinicians providing Specialist Evidence Based Treatments for Eating Disorders

www.nzeatingdisordersclinic.co.nz 52 College Hill, Freemans Bay

Australian Fashion Week

Michael Lo Sordo

Albus Lumen

Jordan Dalah’s first debut collection opening Australian Fashion Week

Iordanes Spyridon Gogos

Christopher Esber’s 10-year anniversary show closing Australian Fashion Week Jordan Dalah’s CURATOR — PARIS MITCHELL TEMPLE

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Christopher Esber

Commas

Sydney hosted the world’s first real-life fashion week in more than 12 months.

As Australia’s fashion scene descended upon Sydney, emerging and established designers presented their Resort 22 collections.

Wrap Up In Style CURATOR — PARIS MITCHELL TEMPLE

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1. Quilted down jacket, € 555, by ACNE STUDIOS from mytheresa.com 2. Ultra light down jacket, $59.90 USD by UNIQLO from Uniqlo.com 3. Web-panelled padded jacket, $2,686, by GUCCI from farfetch.com 4. Bucket Shoulder Bag, $1035 USD, by MONCLER from ssense.com 5. Parnaiba Coat, $1620 USD, by MONCLER from ssense.com 6. PFD puffer jacket gunmetal , $259.00 USD by ENTIRE STUDIOS from entirestudios.com 7. 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket, $500 by THE NORTH FACE 8. Men's Nuptse Bootie 700, $220 by THE NORTH FACE

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July 2021

K OC AILY T S W GD E N VIN RI AR Designer Recycle Wearables Selling designer labels at pre-loved prices for over 30 years

o

High end recycled clothes, shoes, scarves, bags and jewellery.

383 Parnell Road

09 377 9235

nutou_designer_recycle

nutou_designer_recycle

匀䄀䰀䔀 一伀圀 伀一

Fashion

nutou.co.nz

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稀攀戀爀愀渀漀

Ethical shopping makes the link between environment and mental health

The Collective The Collective offers a fun, eclectic range of pre-loved furniture, clothing, home décor and objects of desire that are good for the environment, and the mind. Verve caught up with them to chat about how it started and what one can expect from their shopping experience.

The Collective is a very special retail experience. What do you feel are your points of difference? We provide a

more conscious way to shop, allowing customers to ‘shop with intention’ but also support something bigger by reducing the impact of mental health in our families, our communities, and in Aotearoa. Our space is creative and inclusive, and our products carefully curated to ensure there is some pre-loved joyfulness for everyone!

You support the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand in a very meaningful way. Why were you inspired to do this? I’ve always struggled

‘quietly’ with anxiety and in 2009 after the birth of my daughter, I experienced post-natal depression. Coming out the other end of this taught me that something needed to change. That meant embracing vulnerability, being okay with the ‘uncomfortable’ feelings and

Recycled Clothing Feature

to stop being quiet about the things that matter. So, I told my story and started The Collective in the hope it could inspire others to do the same. It is my belief that sharing our stories builds community – and hope.

backbone but we need more of them!

Volunteering with us doesn’t just have to be in-store, although we love that too!

We also need people who can help with graphic design, marketing, social media, PR, sign writing... you name it, we need it!

What might one find at The Collective, and how do you source these items?

How can our readers support The Collective? We always appreciate

We’re fortunate to have some of our items donated, but we also buy from a number of sources as well. Our range is totally eclectic. You’ll fi nd mid-century, vintage, contemporary, art deco, and Pacifica. We love and appreciate all aesthetics!

Recycling and repurposing are a must-do these days. Fortunately, it is fun and creative too. Would you agree?

Yes! We are ridiculously passionate about all things recycled and upcycled, living sustainably, and conscious buying. We love nothing better than breathing life back into unwanted pieces to nurture a brighter future for our community.

What can one look forward to if they volunteer at The Collective? Working

with the best team ever, free therapy, helping to build community — and hope.

Our small team of volunteers is our

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good quality donations of clothing, accessories, home décor and furniture.

If it’s quirky and imperfect, we’ll love it even more!

Anything else you would like to add?

Grab a friend or two and come and visit us, we’d love to see you!

50% of our profits go to The Mental Health Foundation NZ Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @thecollectiveaotearoa Address: Highbury shopping centre, 37 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead Open 7 days, 10am – 4pm

Sustainable style, community compassion Discover a curated selection of new-to-you fashion, furniture and home decor that keeps on giving.

— thecollective.co.nz � 0800 843 265 Highbury Shopping Centre: 37 Mokoia Rd, Birkenhead team@thecollective.co.nz � @thecollectiveaotearoa

CLOTHINGGIRL DESIGNER RECYCLE

Clothinggirl is based at Greenwood’s Corner Epsom, Open 7 days and has fabulous stock arriving daily. Top NZ designer labels as well as samples and end of line stock. We also stock plus sizes.

There’s something for everyone, pop in for a browse when your passing.

Open 7 days with free parking right outside.

Clothinggirl Designer Recycle 553 Manukau Rd, Epsom 09 623 0993

Ponsonby Store 84 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby 09 361 3831 Open 7 days

Vintage English stoneware spice pots $15 each

Vintage European enamel flour bin $165

Retro plastic celery containers $20 each

Popular Mechanic magazines $2 each

Vintage glass comport $85

Vintage books $5 each

Acme Union mugs $12.50 each

Recycled Clothing Feature

Vintage soap powder boxes $15 each

Vintage steamer baskets $25

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Vintage Onehunga bowling club numbers $4.50 each

TOP QUALITY, NEW AND RECYCLED LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL LABELS

NOW AVAILABLE: 305 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby | 09 376 1667 78 Main St, Greytown | 06 304 7280

www.fashion-recycle.co.nz

WORDS — ZACH THOMPSON

Quintessentially Queenstown Queenstown offers many ways to admire its breath taking views, and a number of these options even take into consideration your own personal preferences for what you’d like to do with your time in this wonderful city.

Why a trip down South this winter is more than worth the effort.

While the first thing that might come to mind when you think of the South Island in winter is ‘absolutely freezing!’, this is the perfect time of year to visit Queenstown, because this is when the scenery is at its best. Here are a few things to do and see that make this fantastic city exactly what it is.

If you’re after an experience that will literally take your breath away, Ride to the Sky offers a great way to get outdoors and into nature. They have a range of guided eBike tours that allow you exclusive access to some great locations, including the lake, and the mountain tops through a private trail – the exercise on a brisk day is also a great way to enjoy your snow – capped mountain surroundings while keeping warm!

But if being cosy indoors is more your thing, Indulge Mobile Spa offers a great opportunity to unwind while still letting you take in the sights. A five-star massage without even having to leave your lodgings – if you’re in search of a spot of truly indulgent relaxation, it really doesn’t get much better than that.

The night life in Queenstown is also worth checking out. Being that it is a cosmopolitan city, there are many gorgeous dining spots offering a wide variety of cuisine, and with live music venues scattered about the place, there’s really nothing to stop you immersing yourself in Queenstown’s eclectic atmosphere.

With their head office firmly planted on the soil of the city, Sotheby’s are the go-to for all your real estate needs in Queenstown. With premium holiday accommodation and luxury rentals, they have plenty to offer in the way of an escape from the everyday. And if you find yourself struggling with the prospect of returning home, or you want to invest in property, there is always something on the market to cater for that, too.

QUEENSTOWNNZ.CO.NZ

July 2021

Aro Ha

Aro Ha Wellness Retreat is an intentional space nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps, located in Glenorchy, 40 minutes from Queenstown.

Mindfulness is the foundation of every experience at Aro Ha — from the minimalist luxury embodying open spaces adorned with natural light, world class spa, vistas of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, rolling farmland and Lake Wakatipu, to the carefully curated retreat programmes.

The six- or eight-day programmes are designed to elevate the body and mind, based on research that suggests we can fundamentally transform our physical and emotional health through our daily habits. It is a space of transformation where all aspects of natural health are embraced, as guests adventure into their wellbeing with daily yoga, mindfulness, hiking, strength classes, intuitive eating practices and daily massages.

From mindfulness to healing bodywork, Aro Ha encourages guests to awaken movement within, rewild themselves in nature and disconnect to reconnect; harnessing the art of living exceptionally well.

aro-ha.com

Guests often report improved mood, sharper thinking, better sleep, lower blood pressure, prolonged weight-loss and improved direction in life. If one person can be inspired to change, then eventually the world can too — a philosophy Aro Ha embraces to carve the path for the future of wellbeing.

Queenstown Feature

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Queenstown Sanctuary M O D E R N LU X U R Y A N D E XQ U I S I T E D E S I G N

FOR SALE

1-3 Highlands Close, Queenstown Hill

This beautiful home embraces stunning lake and mountain views with an intuitive tri-level floorplan revealing high end entertaining zones and impressive accommodation. Flawless in design and craftsmanship, this contemporary home was built to exacting standards. The robust exterior comprises of concrete and steel - both aesthetically pleasing and offering reassurance of solidity.

The high stud height and floor to ceiling glazing makes it feel light, bright, refined and relaxed. Enjoy the home in its entirety or you have the ability to split it into a three bedroom, four bathroom residence with a two bedroom, one bathroom apartment for rental purposes or visiting friends and family.

After much soul searching, our international Vendor has decided to sell his exceptional Queenstown home so now is your chance to secure an epic turnkey residence.

5 5 3 Floor Area: 343 sq m Land Area: 1,050 sq m FOR SALE: Price Upon Request VIEW: nzsothebysrealty.com/QBS12551 GERARD BLIGH gerard.bligh@nzsir.com +64 21 909 198 HADLEY VAN SCHAIK hadley.vanschaik@nzsir.com +64 21 885 517 Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

nzsothebysrealty.com

SLOW Store SLOW is a must visit for your home styling inspiration, and a unique shopping experience

Known for its Danish aesthetic that embodies style, form and sustainability, SLOW has earned its name as the destination for premium designer furniture, homewares and lifestyle products, many of which are unique to the New Zealand market. Born from a sheer love for design, SLOW was founded by Martina Blanchard who relocated from Auckland to Queenstown three years ago for a change of lifestyle and slower pace of life. SLOWs’ brick and mortar store resides in an experientially designed space located in the heart of Queenstown at 85 Beach Street.

Although the majority of visitors come to Queenstown to be ‘daring’ and to test their valiant spirit for adventure, Queenstown is equally a place to ‘slow’ down, to pay attention to the natural surroundings, your feelings and wellbeing. SLOW store has embraced the ethos of the slow movement by hand picking lifestyle and interior products for their authenticity,

Queenstown Feature

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transparency, sustainability, craftsmanship and quality aspects.

The store’s primary focus is to showcase simple, timeless and neutral colour schemes across all categories emphasised by a focus on materials, textures and refined aesthetics.

SLOW is a must-visit for your home styling inspiration, and a unique shopping experience – conscious clothing from brands such as Deiji Studios, Vince and Aiayu & Karhu sneakers. See our renowned Danish brands such as Ferm Living, Pols Potten, ByOn or Muuto for timeless homewares and furnishings. Emma Lewisham and Frama Apothecary also top the list for consciously chosen beauty products for you to come in and try.

Slow Store 85 Beach St, Queenstown 03 4282555 slowstore.co.nz @slow_thestore

Akarua Wines

akarua.com

If you know and love Akarua wines,

a visit to their cellar doors should be top of your list of things to do while you’re in town. Take a drive from Queenstown along the winding road through Kawarau Gorge — cliffs rising steeply on either side, bright blue river rushing below — to Akarua Cellar Door in Bannockburn. Visit the winery and vineyards in the foothills of the mountains and gain deeper insight by tasting their wines just moments from where they are grown. If a lazy glass or two over lunch is more your style, a visit to the beautiful garden setting of Akarua Wines & Kitchen by Artisan on Lake Hayes , with tasting shed on

site, is your second glorious option (bookings recommended). akarua.com

Designer clothing boutique in Queenstown Discover the latest designer fashion from NZ and international brands at Angel Divine — OPEN 7 DAYS · SEARLE LANE, QUEENSTOWN ...ARROWTOWN OPENING MID JULY ANGELDIVINE.CO.NZ

GREAT BRITISH EXCELLENCE

Great British Excellence Exclusively available at Angel Divine, Queenstown and Arrowtown

Queenstown’s luxury mobile spa service Indulge Mobile Spa delivers the best massage in Queenstown. Winners of Luxury Travel Guide’s Mobile Massage Service of the year, Indulge provides a luxury spa service with therapeutic massage in your own relaxing environment.

The boutique 5-star service has been created for guests that appreciate an expert therapist and enjoy an indulgent experience.

— INDULGE.NZ 021 158 6836

Walk in with your preloved treasures and walk out with money in your pocket!

Preloved D e s i g n e r F a s h i o n B o u t i q ue

D I S C O V E R

WINTER IN THE ALPS

Explore Aoraki/Mount Cook and enjoy serenity at the Hermitage.

Book direct and save with all-inclusive packages.

H E R M I TA G E . C O . N Z

Ride to the Sky guided eBike experiences in Queenstown offer exclusive tours to the wineries, around the lake, or climbing to the top of a mountain on a private trail.

The local and knowledgeable guides will provide support and local history every pedal of the way.

Feel special - book with Queenstowns premium eBike tour company.

RIDETOTHESKY.CO.NZ 021 150 2029

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July 2021

Your Island Paradise Awaits

Parohe translates as “relaxed, easy going mood”—exactly how the team behind the retreat wants their guests to feel upon arrival at this natural oasis situated on Kawau Island, a jewel of the Hauraki Gulf.

Parohe Island Retreat is the idyllic setting for a destination retreat; just far enough away for privacy and seclusion, but close enough to Auckland to be easily accessible.

Parohe translates as “relaxed, easy going mood” – exactly how the team behind the retreat wants their guests to feel upon arrival at this natural oasis situated on Kawau Island, a jewel of the Hauraki Gulf. Opening in July, the 20-hectare Parohe Island Retreat incorporates dynamic, flat open spaces contrasting against dense native bush alive with songbird. Nature trails weave through the landscape, suitable for all fitness levels.

Parohe’s accommodation is thoughtfully designed, a minimalist approach emphasises the deep connection with nature, with ample touches of luxury. The cabanas are spacious and rustic, the suite has a kitchen and living areas. The Scandanavian style cabins are a real favourite, boasting a private bathroom and lookout over the bush or ocean. The ‘Bigeye’’ hilltop villa reigns supreme, overlooking Parohe with views as far as the retreat’s private marina. For the romantic at heart there, the Honeymoon Cottage, built in the 1860s, famously hosted a ‘good friend’ of Governor Grey! For every bedroom there is a full-sized bathroom with sumptuous amenities handcrafted in Aotearoa.

The Enchantment Pavilion houses our restaurant, reception,

and conference space. Immersed in nature, it is the central hub for workshops and dining, featuring as outdoor space, replete with fi replace, that’s ideal for stargazing and socialising.

General manager, Rawinia Buchanan explains: “Our connection to the land has led us to adapt a blended approach that combines

organic, regenerative and sustainable practices into our balanced way of living. The gardens are spray-free and lovingly tended by our retreat team. Most of our vehicles and equipment are batteryoperated to minimise noise and our environmental footprint.

Parohe has a colourful microcosm of helpers including bees, chickens and nature’s lawn mower—alpacas!”

Menus are designed by the in-house naturopath and consultant chef who create farm-to-table style cuisine with ingredients from the onsite gardens. Not only does the food taste and look delicious, it also provides balanced macronutrients to ensure optimal nutrition.

Seasonal retreat programmes are designed to restore balance throughout the year, with specialised programmes that bring people together in a wholesome environment with a common purpose. Upcoming programs include a 5-day Spring Detox + a Full Moon Women’s Wellness escape.

Parohe has an array of land and water activities suitable for all fitness levels. Morning yoga sees the sunrise, either on our private wharf or on our purpose-built, bush-immersed yoga platforms. The protected marina’s calm water is ideal for paddle-boarding and kayaking—the tidal waters require reasonable water confidence—however, if it’s simply relaxation guests crave, they may unwind in the outdoor sauna, pool, or soak in a bath under the night sky, taking in the constellations.

The relaxed attitude of Parohe allows guests to take their stay to whatever level they like, and with a dream location, luxury accommodation, and bespoke retreats, it is also the ideal location for weddings and events, with private venue hire available. The multipurpose natural oasis allows for tailored weddings with up to 300 guests in a marquee, or a smaller, intimate weekend gathering with accommodation. Corporates are able to book the retreat for their staff to escape the office (and the traffic) to develop business plans and build their teams into strong, motivated units.

Located only 20 minutes from Sandspit, a regular ferry transports guests directly to the private wharf. There is a private sheltered floating marina with moorings available for up to 15 vessels. Parohe is also accessible via helicopter or seaplane; alternatively a private water taxi or ferry can be arranged through Kawau Cruises. parohe.co.nz 09 366 1039

SMALL GROUP TOUR SPECIALIST

Let the Scenery Unravel with Twilight Travel

Stay 2 nights & Save 15%

Taranaki Garden Festival

Join our coach tour and discover the secret gardens of Taranaki from delightful town gardens to large rambling estates.

Complimentary Wifi + King bed or twin beds + 2 people

• Visit 10 private gardens open for the festival, Pukeiti, Crosshills Garden and Hamilton Gardens • Includes 5 nights accommodation, breakfasts, dinners, garden tickets and admissions • Last night at the historic Grand Chateau Tongariro.

Take some time to explore Christchurch with a stay at The George - stay for 2 nights and save 15% off the best available rate.

Departs Auckland 2nd November 2021

thegeorge.com · 0800 100 220

0800 999 887 · TWILIGHTTRAVEL.CO.NZ

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July 2021

Secluded Experiences

Want to feel like you’re away from it all?

Image credits: Pretty Beach House

Take a look at these secluded experiences close to a city: • Australia’s most exclusive luxury lodge, Pretty Beach House, is situated just 90-minutes north of Sydney on the New South Wales Bouddi Peninsula, but feels worlds away. Nestled in a coastal national park, the boutique property offers only four pavilions within walking distance of bushwalks, golden beaches and remote bays. Visitors can enjoy a guided walk in the morning, followed by an ocean or pool swim and fi nish the day with a seasonal, Italian dinner on the property’s luxurious private boat or in the grand dining room.

• Step back in time when you take part in an intimate, twoperson Wheel of Fate tour at Port Arthur, just over an hour's drive from Tasmania’s capital city, Hobart. You will enjoy a private tour to discover the town’s most notable individuals, see where they worked, slept and ate. With exclusive access to Port Arthur’s historic buildings, visitors can go behind bars to explore 19th-century life in this infamous prison settlement, sample local Tasmanian amazing produce prepared just for you by the in-house chef, and spend the evening within the walls of this secluded World Heritage-Listed Site.

• Be guided across the highest points of Adelaide Oval’s roofl ine on an exclusive, private climb while learning about Adelaide’s historical wonders and enjoying 360-degree views of the South Australian city. Feel on top of the world as guests take the journey along the purpose-built path to marvel at the incredible vistas and key landmarks. Celebrate the moment with an individual tasting plate of local produce and premium South Australian sparkling wine on the rooftop before descending back to the ground.

Ziplining with Rotorua Canopy Tours

ULTIMATE ROTORUA FAMILY ADVENTURE

With Rotorua Canopy Tours for 2 Adults and 2 Children

Come cycling in stunning Central Otago. Check-in with the experts, we personalise everything to suit your needs.

Visit Rotorua for an adventure-filled family getaway. Enjoy a 2-night stay at the stunning Regent of Rotorua with complimentary breakfast and experience the Ultimate Canopy tour with Rotorua Canopy Tours, one of Rotorua’s favourite attractions!

Great multiday adventures for everyone. Two day fantastic rides. Long weekends and our awesome One Day Wonders.

Now taking bookings for 2021 and 2022.

BIKEITNOW.CO.NZ • INFO@BIKEITNOW.CO.NZ 0800 245 366 NZ freephone

regentrotorua.co.nz • 1191 Pukaki St, Rotorua • 0508 734 368 105

July 2021

Design Of July

EDIT—BELLA SAMPSON

Mathieu Lehanneur Le Passage Standing Mirror

Cinna Clock Brass Clock

Ligne Roset Parachute Light

Saint Louis Water Jug Excess

Marie Christine Dorner Indigo Blue Vase Large Model T

Baccarat Mille Nuits Flutissimo

The French Villa Munro Hurricane Candle Holder

French Bedroom Company Tapered Blue Glass Side Lamp

Constance Guisset Nubilo Couch

Constance Guisset Francie Mirror Coffee Table

RH Lorraine Chair Indigo

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July 2021

Scented soy tealights in 24 fragrances now in store — TH E RIALTO CENT RE 1 6 3 B R OADWAY, NEWMARKET 09 524 5 8 9 0 R ETR EATNZ. CO.NZ

CREATE YOUR SANCTUARY CORSO COLLECTION BESPOKE NEW ZEALAND MADE SOFAS & CHAIRS

BESPOKE SOFA DESIGN | FURNITURE | HOMEWARE

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

Roses Looking for an old-school classic bloom that never goes out of fashion? Winter is the perfect time to start planning out and planting roses in the garden.

OUR TOP 5 VARIETIES Pink Ribbon: An exclusive rose from Matthews Roses, the

beautiful Pink Ribbon has continuous displays of soft pink cupped blooms paired with compact, bushy foliage. $2 of each sale is donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.

Absolutely Fabulous: An award-winning gorgeous butter-

yellow floribunda with old-fashioned blooms which hold a high fragrance said to be similar to liquorice and spice. The compact growth habit makes it perfect for smaller gardens.

Blue Moon: One of the best ‘blue’ roses available on the market, the Blue Moon hybrid tea has soft lavender repeat blooms (which are perfect for picking) that are accompanied by a strong fragrance.

TIPS ON PLANTING

Pick a spot in the garden that gets at least six hours of sunlight.

Dig a hole twice the height and width of the pot the rose comes in. For clay soil, sprinkle some ClayBreaker Gypsum in the bottom of the hole . Backfi ll with a mixture of your soil and compost, place your rose in and fi ll around the sides with the remaining mix. Water deeply and add a layer of mulch around the bottom – making sure it isn’t touching the canes.

TIPS ON ROSE CARE

Spray with a mix of liquid copper and conqueror oil. The oil will kill off overwintering pests such as scale, and the copper is an important fungicide to keep diseases at bay.

Prune roses now, and use rose gloves to protect yourself from the sharp thorns.

Dublin Bay: Available as both a shrub and a climber, the deep red

blooms continuously flower throughout the season on healthy canes, making this rose a must-have for any rose garden.

kings.co.nz 0800 PLANTS

Purplelicious: This rose has deep, gorgeous purple flowers that have a delicious fragrance. Purplelicious has an old-fashioned flower style coupled with the modern habit of mass blooming on disease-resistant foliage.

Home & Design

110

TUBEROSE 15 YEARS YOUNG CELEBRATION BIRTHDAY SALE Specialists in an exclusive blend of gifts, fashion accessories, and designer homewares, including irresistible home fragrances and candles.

2 WALTO N ST, REMU ERA · 09 520 5 6 35 · TU B EROSE .CO.NZ T RAD ING HO URS . MO N - F RI: 1 0A M – 5 . 3 0PM · SAT: 1 0A M – 4 . 3 0PM

GROW with

CONFIDENCE

We’ll help you grow the garden of your dreams with expert advice from our team of gardening specialists, ongoing support with our online Plant Doctor, and an extensive range of quality plants, all backed by our Sure to Grow Guarantee.

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

Ranfurly Village Auckland’s striking 118-year-old Ranfurly House, originally built for war veterans, forms the heart of boutique retirement community, Ranfurly Village.

This landmark property has undergone extensive redevelopment, with major restorations and planned rollouts placing the village in an inimitable position moving forward.

Recently, the fi rst of two Mount Victoria Apartments was completed, adding a gymnasium, multipurpose recreational room, and workshop. Residents are working closely with management to design and fit out the workshop space. “The residents have been thrilled to be part of the planning process,” says Graham Mitchell, village manager.

“The workshop will accommodate woodwork. In addition, jewellery making and glass work are potential additions to the space to complement the softer craft room for existing activities like knitting and sewing.

“The large multipurpose room is also being used for tai chi and physio classes, table tennis, and indoor bowling.”

Mt Victoria Apartments’ second building will be the fi nal stage of development, featuring a swimming pool, extending the comprehensive range of village amenities.

Ranfurly Village now features a café, restaurant, hobby and craft studio, billiards room, library and study, lounges, gymnasium, multipurpose room, pool, bowling green, and boutique cinema.

Mt Victoria Apartments have been well-received with most residents having already moved in. Only a small number of apartments are still available.

Graham says: “We’ve begun foundation work for the last stage of the development. There is a real feeling of momentum, with the project on track to be completed mid-2022.”

RANFURLYVILLAGE.CO.NZ

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

T EA M ROS S HAWKINS Yo u r re a l e state n ee d s cove re d

CALEB RUFER 021 0258 3304

ROSS HAWKINS 0274 720 577

RICHARD BULL 021 443 361

TRACEY PATCHING Personal Assistant

‘Edition’ 2a, 2 Churton Street PARNELL

104/15b Augustus Terrace PARNELL

5 Garden Road REMUERA

607/70 Sale Street AUCKLAND

Black Group Realty Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)

RES IDENTIA L | APARTME NTS | OF F-PLAN | INVE S TM E N TS LIFES TYLE | DE VE LOPME NT | HIGH-E ND | COASTAL

Nothing Has Changed

40 St Johns Rd, Meadowbank

JUST RENTALS LTD MREINZ

09 528 4818 or 0274 870 550

The last two months have been unusual, and it’s continuing this month too with very few enquiries. Possible renters are also cancelling their booked viewings.

I had a 3:30pm viewing at a property in Mt Wellington and the perspective tenant called to cancel just as I pulled up outside. It’s all very frustrating, but this is how it’s going.

We are also losing stock as owners take their property back in order to sell.

Yes, we are still renting but in a lot of cases, it is taking months, not weeks, to secure tenants—very frustrating and disappointing for us. In this market, you must make sure your rental is looking good, compliant with the Healthy Homes requirements, trees topped, gardens tidied, and mossy and slippery paths and decks cleaned. First impressions are very important.

Do not forget the gutters—this is a

Sylvia Lund Areinz: justrentals@xtra.co.nz

stipulation in the Healthy Homes Act— they will be full of leaves and need to be cleaned. But, it’s not all doom and gloom. The bright yellow of the daffodils are beginning to appear and how they brighten up my day when I bring them into my office!

These are unusual times, and we need to follow our usual procedures—whatever is causing the rental market to be so unpredictable is beyond our control.

Covid-19 has affected many industries and uncertainty runs rife throughout the business community.

I can only suggest going to buy the biggest bunch of daffodils, they do wonders for one’s mood. I am off now to purchase a lovely bunch of daffidols for the office.

Good renting.

Sylvia Lund, Director

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.

— 50 6 P T CH E VA L I E R RD, AU C K L A N D 0 9 81 5 6 6 36 | P TC HE V B E AC HCA FE .CO. NZ

Quinoa Nourish Bowl

Whether you call it a nourish, poke, or Buddha bowl, this skin-friendly meal offers a powerhouse of nutrients, fibre and protein, and it tastes great too. Nourish bowls were invented to use up leftovers, so you do not need to use every element in this recipe — use what you have. I love this topped with cashew cream or white bean sauce, as it makes the zucchini pasta creamy; or try omega salad dressing with chives for a vinaigrette.

Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 45 minutes

Serves: 2

Ingredients

Method

150g edible shungiku chrysanthemum greens 150g bok choy 150g komatsuna Japanese mustard greens or mustard greens 150g spinach 75g mitsuba 135g Japanese aubergines peeled at intervals for a striped effect 3 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoons mirin 3 tablespoons grated fresh ginger 150g daikon or other root vegetable such as turnip scrubbed and cut into thin julienne

Preheat the oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with a silicon mat or baking (parchment) paper and set aside. You can boil, steam or roast the baby beets. First, wash and scrub the beets then, if roasting, place the beets onto a tray and cover with a little oil (you will peel the beets after roasting). Cook in the oven for about 45 minutes or until soft.

Extracted from The Healthy Skin Kitchen by Karen Fischer (Exisle Publishing), $37.99.

Place the chickpeas into a pot or container that has a lid, coat with 1 teaspoon of oil (if using), sprinkle on salt, close the lid and shake lightly to evenly coat the chickpeas. Then place the chickpeas and sweet potato onto the same baking tray as the beets — these ingredients will take 30 minutes to cook, so add them to the beet tray 15 minutes after the beets have been placed into the oven. To cook the quinoa, rinse with water in a fine sieve then place into a pot with the water. Cover with a lid and bring to the boil, then remove the lid and turn to a low heat, which will allow for a light simmer. Once the water has reduced and the quinoa is just cooked turn the heat off, cover with the lid and set aside to continue steaming for another 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the chicken if you are using it instead of mozzarella. If using chicken, salt the chicken and pan fry it on medium–high heat until thoroughly cooked through and nicely browned. Now prepare the zucchini. Rinse it and cut off each end. The zucchini noodles can be made with a vegetable spiralizer (like we did in the photo) or use a basic vegetable peeler to create a long, flat noodle shape. Remember to check on the vegetables and chickpeas throughout the cooking process to ensure they do not overcook.

Remove the mozzarella from the refrigerator and slice it into 1 cm thick slices. You can briefly fry the slices in a pan on low heat to make it look like halloumi. Remove the vegetables from the oven and peel the beets. Assemble all the ingredients into two large, wide bowls, top with chives or pea shoots and serve alongside your dressing of choice.

117

July 2021

Healthy Fish Tacos

Serve these fabulous fish tacos in lettuce leaf cups, which is the quick gluten-free and paleo option, or if you have more time, make delicious Soft Tacos. If you are following Menu 4 use iceberg lettuce (not cos/romaine) or make Oat and Leek Flatbread or Soft Tacos; choose the freshest white fish; avoid Cashew Cream and use no oil or a little sunflower oil or rice bran oil when cooking the fish.

Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes

Serves: 2

Ingredients

Method

1 iceberg lettuce or baby cos/romaine or Oat and Leek Flatbread or Soft Tacos 300g flathead fillet or other small white fish of choice, skinned and deboned ⅛–¼ teaspoon quality sea salt (optional) ¼ cup washed and finely chopped fresh chives 1 teaspoon oil of choice ½ serve Caramelized Leek Sauce ½ cup washed and shredded red cabbage ¼ cup washed and finely sliced spring onions (shallots, scallions), washed ¼ cup bean sprouts or pea shoots/sprouts, washed ½ serve Cashew Cream

Rinse the lettuce leaf cups (if using), gently shake them dry(ish) and place them onto serving bowls or plates. If using iceberg lettuce, you can use shallow condiment bowls to hold them upright.

Slice the fish into thin chunks about 2–3 cm in length and season lightly with salt and half of the chives.

Place a non-stick frying pan or skillet on medium heat, add the oil and gently fry the fish on all sides until cooked through and slightly browned. You can lightly fry the cabbage and spring onion in the same pan or leave them raw, then mix them with the leek sauce.

Fill each wrap or lettuce leaf cup with the cabbage, leek sauce and spring onion mix, place the fish on top and sprinkle with sprouts (if using) and the remaining chives, and drizzle with Cashew Cream.

Extracted from The Healthy Skin Kitchen by Karen Fischer (Exisle Publishing), $37.99.

119

July 2021

A new local and ecofriendly coffee delivery service.

A Q&A with Casey Deane, GM of Atomic Coffee Roasters Tell us a little about Atomic Coffee Roasters? We fi rst started roasting

coffee on Ponsonby Road in 1992. At that time, it was a small, scruffy team, pumping out live music and great coffee.

In 1995 we moved to Kingsland, as the business grew, and we’ve been at our New North Road site ever since.

filled with freshly roasted coffee will be delivered to your door. Like the old school milk bottle run, we’ll collect your empty coffee canisters to be refilled; so, there is no packaging waste. I think it is the first coffee service like this in New Zealand.

So, you are using reusable canisters instead of coffee bags? How does that work? When you place your fi rst

Coffee is our absolute focus—we’ve built our reputation on rich, robust flavours and we’ve stayed true to that approach— it’s the Atomic way. We’ve built our brand over the years and we now supply many amazing cafes nationally, plus, in addition to our roastery and café, we have three of our own espresso bars in central Auckland. We love being a part of the central Auckland community.

order, you’ll pay a small fee for your fi rst canister, just three dollars. You’ll only pay that once if you return your canister to be refi lled. We’ll collect the empty canisters when we deliver your next coffee order and your Brew Run account will be credited $3 for every returned canister.

We thoroughly clean and sanitise all returned canisters before we refi ll them.

You have a new local delivery service?

Who can access this service?

Yeah. We wanted to create a truly personalised delivery service, one where we look after our coffee from roast, right through to the delivery to your door. A service that ensures you receive the freshest coffee, which tastes the best, and one that is better for the environment. It’s called Brew Run. How does this delivery service work?

You’ll order coffee via our Brew Run app and the next weekday, a reusable canister

Food & Wine

Delivering coffee is new territory for Atomic, so we are starting with a confi ned area, servicing the 8,000 locals and businesses that reside within a 2km radius of our roastery! It is truly a local service. Once we fi nesse our systems, we’ll look to extend our delivery zone.

If I order my coffee on a Friday when would I expect delivery? Our new

Atomic moped will be out on the road from 7am every Monday to Friday.

120

Orders placed on Friday, Saturday or Sunday will be delivered the following Monday. As we grow the Brew Run, we’ll look to deliver seven days a week to make our service even more convenient.

Is there a minimum order for the coffee? No minimum order—well, you

need to order at least one canister, and we deliver free of charge.

What coffees are available? Can I order ground coffee? We have our three

signature Atomic coffee blends, and a rotating selection of single origins. We can grind beans to your drinking preference – plunger, filter, stovetop, or espresso.

If they are ground beans do you put a roasting date on the coffee? Freshness

is essential for great Atomic coffee. We roast our main blends every day, so your coffee will always be delivered within a few days of roasting. Fresh coffee tastes the best, and we will always have a roasted-on date on our canisters, so you know exactly when the coffee has been roasted.

A DELIVERY SERVICE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

FRESH BEANS

ROASTEd &

DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR.

BY ATOMIC

n u R w e r B e r Explo

Dessert Wines The Wine Rack

WORDS— DENNIS KNILL

Served after dinner or paired with a dessert can be misleading. Dessert wines are not always sweet and are not always consumed after dinner. Because dessert wines are usually rich and brooding, and sometimes treasured like a glass of premium scotch, I like to open a bottle to consume with an entrée or with cheeses just to enjoy the tongue pleasing experience and the pronounced flavour and added strength.

are left on the vines for much longer to allow them to dehydrate to improve the sweetness and flavour.

Dessert wines mostly come in half bottles because there is less juice per grape and because they can be costly to produce. As a result, it takes a lot more to fi ll the bottle. Best served in a small glass, chilled, but not too cold, here is a selection at similar price points that will not disappoint.

As a rule, dessert wines are produced from white grapes and come in a variety of styles that range from still to sparkling and from sweet to dry, with riesling grapes being the most popular. And even with the rising popularity of dry wines signalling the death knell for sweet and fortified wines there will always be a place for dessert wines.

An award-winning, well-balanced wine with densely concentrated, flavoursome fruit oozing with fresh citrus that gives a long lingering fi nish on the palate. $40 ’18 Riverby Estate

Ripe and bold in colour, this exceptional wine is driven by intense concentration of fruit, with moreish aromas and a rich sweetness that enlivens the palate. The perfect ending to an evening meal. $35 ‘17 Babich Winemakers Reserve Late Harvest Riesling

This fi nely balanced rich and sweet wine, with its pure and intense mouth-fi lling citrus gives a persistently refreshing fi nish on the palate. $35 ‘19 Pegasus Bay Reserve Finale Noble Semillon Sauvignon

From a winemaker’s prospective, the aim is to produce dessert wines that are complex and layered with high levels of sugar. To achieve this, the grapes

Food & Wine

’18 Villa Maria Estate Reserve Noble Riesling Botrytis

Enticingly delicious, with a long and sweet vibrant fi nish of intensive aromas on the palate, this beautifully balanced wine will instantly appeal. $42 122

Pies made with roti paratha Lighter, flakier, chewier and full of flavour − Available from Farro Fresh, La Cigale and Clevedon Village Farmers Market

The team at Mr Spicer found an abandoned restaurant at the edge of Ponsonby Road that enabled them to reimagine what an Indian diner could be. The best represent what contemporary youth culture in India is all about: roaming stall-filled streets with friends, gathering at hotspots to share food, stories and laughter, any time of day.

14 Ponsonby Road, Grey Lynn 09 215 2025 mrspicer.co.nz mrspicerakl@gmail.com

The Art of July

Words— Aimée Ralfi ni

Top: Emily Mafi le'o 'Tatt' Killer of a Time Courtesy of Vunilagi Vou Bottom: Emily Mafi le’o ‘Notebook’ Killer of a Time Courtesy of Vunilagi Vou

South Auckland is undeniably the epicentre of culture within Tāmaki Makaurau When was the last time you looked objectively at New Zealand for all of its cultural offerings? And where is our cultural melting pot? Wellington has long been nurtured into that role, however as a proud Aucklander I beg to differ. Yes we have the arts district of Karangahape Road, but that’s just one cog in a much larger cultural wheel.

If Auckland were Paris, then South Auckland would be Montmartre. It is the undeniable epicentre of culture within Tāmaki Makaurau. The landscape alone illustrates this with its high ratio of electro-Eiffel towers: a recent visit to the newly re-stablished Vunilagi Vou at The Alexander Café further backs my claim.

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Vunilagi Vou X Alexander Cafe

It felt like summer walking into The Alexander Café in Ōtara. Having followed the journey of Ōtāhuhu’s fi rst art gallery Vunilagi Vou and it’s creator Ema Tavola, from its fi rst location on the main street, to the artists home during covid, I was curious to experience the third iteration.

My thoughts? Third time’s a charm! The space itself is warmly industrial with generously high ceilings that allow both the sunlight in and a view of the bright blue sky above. I’ve yet to see such a large space as well activated with art as the new Vunilagi Vou at The Alexander Café.

There is music, food, cooking smells and cosy nooks for local artists to meet

and make plans. There is room to work quietly, and most importantly there is room to view the art on display, from a distance and up close, while you sip on your coffee.

South Auckland Gallery Info: Vunilagi Vou X Alexander Café

4/100 Alexander Crescent, Ōtara Fresh Gallery Ōtara

The space is warm and happy, buzzing with creative energy. Viewing artwork in this environment is a joyful experience and absolutely the way forward. I highly recommend putting a day aside to do a South Auckland Gallery tour as more galleries burst into life in the area.

5/46 Fair Mall, Ōtara

Māngere Arts Centre – Ngā Tohu o Uenuku

Corner Orly Avenue & Bader Drive, Māngere

Artwork of the Month

Tony Lane Easter and Road

Tony Lane’s work draws inspiration from art history through the ages: Byzantine altarpieces, Italian frescoes, early Renaissance landscapes, and 17th-century Spanish still-life. Using traditional methods and materials, Lane explores themes and concepts that occupied his predecessors for centuries: divinity, nature, and how colour affects us. Contained in hand-gilded frames, his gessoed and waxed panels proffer an enigmatic combination of religious motifs which pose a delicate balance between ritual and routine. These are three magnificent works now available from his personal collection.

Orex Art

221 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby

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Easter and Road Tory Lane 63 x 126cm, oil and gold gilding on gesso with hand gilded frame

Since graduating from Elam in the 1970s, Lane has held more than 100 solo exhibitions in museums and galleries throughout New Zealand, and exhibited in galleries in New York, London, Barcelona, Seville, and Gstaad.

His work is represented in major public collections in New Zealand: Auckland Art Gallery, Dowse Art Museum, Dunedin Art Gallery, Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Te Papa Tongarewa.

021 213 4449 orexart.co.nz

Greer Clayton Painted From Memory: the Landscapes of Greer Clayton

Contemporary artist, Greer Clayton, has seen much of the world, travelling extensively while also exhibiting in Sydney, London, and Scotland. However, New Zealand remains her muse, indulging her self-confessed “obsession” with our breathtaking horizons. Working in mixed media acrylic on canvas, Greer sensitively enquires into subtle variations in colour, light, and form. Her work is often described as ethereal. Ahead of her upcoming exhibition, Light Layers we sat down with Greer to discover which New Zealand locations are dearest to her heart and have influenced her work.

Greer is passionate about conservation of our treasured natural landscapes that inspire her work and in 2019, as an invited artist with Heritage Expeditions, she travelled to New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands, including Campbell Island, Auckland Islands, The Snares, and back through Stewart Island, Doubtful and Dusky Sounds aboard the Flightless with adventure boat charter business Pure Salt. This proved to be a

pivotal journey for Greer, as evidenced in much of her work since. Pure Salt shares the Department of Conservation’s vision for Tamatea / Dusky Sound to be one of the most intact ecosystems worldwide and Greer is passionate in her support of their Dusky Sound Restoration Project.

In response to her journey with Pure Salt, she created a series of paintings, some which were sold to help support the project. For Greer, the impact of her journey is long lasting and she continues to be inspired by her experiences as one of her upcoming exhibition paintings, ‘Fiordland Glow’ shows, exuding the profound beauty and sense of serenity the region is known for.

Other noteworthy locations that have made their mark in the artist’s work include Mangawhai in Northland, where her parents are longtime locals of the coastal township, and idyllic Hatepe near Taupo, where Greer, her husband, and two children enjoy time together at their holiday bach. The family are avid hikers and heading south to Te Anau, they

recently completed the Kepler Track, with the majestic views along the 60km hike inspiring another exhibition piece, ‘Manapouri Light’.

As much as she enjoys adventuring up and down the country, it is Auckland that the Claytons call home. Every day, morning and night, Greer walks their family dog along Narrow Neck and Cheltenham beaches where she can muse with Rangitoto Island as her picturesque backdrop; a ritual that she says bookends her daily creative process.

Rather than a direct topographical representation of the landscape, Greer sensitively captures a sense or ‘feel’ of a place, and through the many layers that make up each of her paintings, she shows us a clear and powerful connection to the natural environment.

Greer Clayton’s ‘Light Layers’ exhibition will be on display at Parnell Gallery from 6-20 July. View all exhibition works at www.parnellgallery.co.nz.

LEFT-RIGHT: FIORDLAND REFERENCE IMAGE FROM THE ARTIST. ‘FIORDLAND GLOW’, MIXED MEDIA ON CANVAS

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THE

W I T H PAQ U I TA 12 - 14 AUG Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre

SUPPORTED BY

NATIONAL TOURING PARTNER

THE FIREBIRD CHOREOGRAPHY/ LOUGHLAN PRIOR MUSIC / IGOR STRAVINSKY COSTUME & SET DESIGN / TRACY GRANT LORD

PAQUITA CHOREOGRAPHY/ MARIUS PETIPA MUSIC / LUDWIG MINKUS & EDOUARD DELDEVEZ COSTUME DESIGN / PATRICIA BARKER & DONNA JEFFERIS

BOOK N OW

rnzb.org.nz

Royal New Zealand Ballet

Awakens a New Production

by Loughlan Prior

A newly commissioned Royal New Zealand Ballet (RNZB) production of The Firebird will is set to soar.

Following the triumph of Hansel and Gretel in 2019, RNZB artistic director Patricia Barker invited Loughlan Prior to create a new production for the fantastical fairytale. Barker says, “How we treat one another and the world for the next generations is at the forefront of our new production. Loughlan has dived into the world of The Firebird and the magic of Stravinsky’s score, creating a work that brings us closer to our own humanity.”

First staged in Paris in 1910, The Firebird changed the direction of ballet, making a superstar of Igor Stravinsky. The Firebird sees the natural world threatened and humanity faced with extinction. Captured, the Firebird—a fertility goddess with magical powers—offers redemption if humankind is brave enough to follow.

Prior says, “The Firebird draws on Earth’s beauty at its most elemental, the vastness of the cosmos and the impact—both good and evil—of humans on our precious world.”

Generations of choreographers have been inspired by the power of Stravinsky’s music, and by the timeless, untamable Firebird.

The iconic score sees sinuous melodies spiked with shimmering orchestration, creating an exotic universe full of wild enchantment far removed from the classics of Russian ballet.

The RNZB has paired The Firebird with the Russian classic, Paquita, two very different kinds of ballet. Paquita, fi rst staged in 1846, features sparkling tutus inspired by Russian master jeweller Fabergé, fleet footwork, soaring leaps, spectacular turns, and a fi nale which leaves the audience breathless.

The Firebird with Paquita lands at the Aotea Centre’s Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre 12-14 August.

Neil Driver A painter of light

‘PEARS AND YELLOW POTS’, ACRYLIC ON BOARD

Ahead of his fi rst exhibition in four years, we review the works of celebrated South Island painter, Neil Driver. From breathtaking landscapes spied through meticulously detailed interiors to captivating still life works featuring vessels, blooms and fruit, his works evoke serenity, calm, and presence with effortless grace. This gifted artist brings life and beauty to the simplest objects, such as a collection of timeworn pots reflecting brilliance through its stillshining glaze, or a freshly picked plum resplendent in its delicate coating of white wax bloom.

‘WINDOWS TO THE BAY’, ACRYLIC ON BOARD

Driver began his career in painting in 1973. Having spent his childhood in Dunedin, he moved to Central Otago in 1975 where he has remained, and it’s easy to understand why. With its magical light and awe-inspiring landscapes, it is from this land that Driver derives his inspiration. His and wife Christine’s heritage villa in Clyde overlooks the Clutha River, and the beautiful house serves both as a frame and backdrop within Driver’s works – featuring in some of his most recognisable paintings.

The purchase of a campervan in 2009 encouraged frequent trips to coastal locations further afield, providing the observant artist with an even more diverse geographical spring from which to draw inspiration. Northland’s east coast, and South Island’s Bull Creek, Moeraki, Brighton, and The Catlins, are just a few examples of places Driver has made his subject, inviting the viewer to gaze out at shores and sea views through light-fi lled windows and open doors.

An element of surrealist influence sees Driver depict the sense of a place, rather than topographical representations, placing the scene outside windows and doors that do not actually exist in the location. It’s this artistic licence or allegorical freedom that emphasises

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a dream-like quality within the work, allowing us to be transported to a place that sits outside of time.

Through a balance of traditional and contemporary painting styles Driver sensitively guides the observer toward details that might otherwise be overlooked - the beauty to be found in the texture of a wooden crate, the beguiling light reserved only for its reflection on warm floorboards, or the intricate charm of rust lines working their way over enamelware clearly loved for generations.

Each of his works carry an intense sense of human presence while the figure itself is absent from the scene.

Driver’s paintings exude a timeless quality, shadow and light punctuating the scene with a gentle and lasting stillness.

His works are held in private collections worldwide and in public collections at the Hocken Library, Department of Foreign Affairs, Bank of New Zealand and State Services Commission.

Neil Drivers upcoming exhibition will be on display at Parnell Gallery from 27 July – 10 August. View all exhibition works at www.parnellgallery.co.nz

July 2021

Decoding NFTs

Words— Jamie Christian Desplaces

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“NFTs, sometimes called ‘nifties’, stands for ‘non-fungible tokens’, which can be used to prove ownership of just about anything that has been digitalised—think films, books, songs, games, GIFs, or, currently most commonly, artworks.”

In 1989, British scientist Tim BernersLee created what would become the world wide web, and famously gave up the source code (the ‘language’ of numbers, letters and symbols used to develop computer programmes) for free. Last month, Sotheby’s announced that they would be auctioning an NFT representing that original 10,000-linelong source code on behalf of BurnersLee, with the proceeds used to benefit unnamed initiatives supported by the computer scientist. Bidding on the NFT, titled ‘This Changed Everything’, was to begin at $1,400, with no final sales estimate from the auction house offered due to the item being “so unusual”. (In March, Christie’s auction house sold an NFT artwork called ‘Everydays: The First 5000 Days’, by digital artist Mike ‘Beeple’ Winkleman, for $98 million.)

“The ability to offer a digital-born artefact is a paradigm shift within the rare books and manuscripts world,” says Sotheby’s global head of science and popular culture, Cassandra Hatton. “For years, people have been asking ‘what do we do with digital born artefacts?’ NFTs are making this possible.”

WTF IS AN NFT? NFTs, sometimes called ‘nifties’, stands for ‘non-fungible tokens’, which can be used to prove ownership of just about anything that has been digitalised— think films, books, songs, games, GIFs, or, currently most commonly, artworks.

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Which all makes very little sense without first knowing what ‘fungible’ means.

‘Fungible’ refers to goods or assets that are not unique and can be traded for goods or assets of the same type or value, the most obvious example being cash or cryptocurrency, while nonfungible items are one-of-a-kind objects like a Renaissance painting, a house, or an iconic photograph.

“NFTs in their current form represent a collision of these two forms: currency, specifically cryptocurrency, and art,” notes Diana Seave Greenwald, an assistant curator at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, for Foreign Policy.

NFTs are built using similar programming to cryptocurrency, making trading even easier (you’ll need a cryptocurrency account, or digital wallet, in order to purchase the tokens). As with cryptocurrency, ownership of the NFT, each of which has a unique digital signature, is lodged on a decentralised shared ledger retained on numerous computers around the world—meaning forgery is impossible—a system known as the ‘blockchain’.

WHAT’S THE ATTRACTION? An NFT can only ever have one owner at a time, and though the digital tokens have been around since at least 2014, the past few months their popularity has exploded. The purchase of the

July 2021

NFTs are essentially computerised collector’s items, so it’s all about the bragging rights.

tokens is often compared to obtaining an autographed print, but just like an autographed print, there is nothing to prevent someone from taking a copy of it (in the case of an NFT it would likely be a screenshot or a download from Google images) to hang on their wall.

So, what exactly is the point? NFTs are essentially computerised collector’s items, so it’s all about the bragging rights—countless copies of the ‘Mona Lisa’ in the form of postcards, t-shirts, posters and framed prints in circulation there may be, but that doesn’t prevent the original from being priceless. However, rather than acquiring an original da Vinci, owners of NFTs are getting perhaps a piece of internet history, in the form of a digital file (the NFT of Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey’s first ever tweet fetched more than four million bucks).

Information can also be incorporated within an NFT’s metadata which allows, say, artists to ‘sign’ their creations. It also means that ‘stars’ of memes can finally benefit from, if not always reclaim their identity, of a viral photo or video which they have unwittingly created.

Zoë Roth was just four years old in 2007

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when her father snapped a picture of her looking mischievously over her shoulder as a building burnt in the background. The snap was digitally snatched and sent into the infinity of the internet to take on a whole new life of its own as ‘Disaster Girl’, one of the webs earliest memes.

“Any time anyone looks up your name, that is what is going to show up,” Roth tells the Guardian . “So it feels as though you’re always being reduced to something… One picture can never define some fully for their life.”

Last April, Roth sold the image as an NFT for nearly $700,000, money which will help clear her student loans. Though it doesn’t make up for an adolescence of being an unpaid, non-consenting internet punchline, she draws satisfaction from having “some sort of control over what was happening… for once”.

WORTH IT, OR WORTHLESS? “NFTs are risky because their future is uncertain, and we don’t yet have a lot of history to judge their performance,” Arry Yu, chair of the Washington Technology Industry Association Cascadia Blockchain Council and

NFTs are risky because their future is uncertain, and we don’t yet have a lot of history to judge their performance.

managing director of Yellow Umbrella Ventures, tells Forbes. “Since NFTs are so new, it may be worth investing small amounts to try it out for now.”

But the NFT market is certainly currently on a roll, and worth big bucks—nearly 500 million of them over a 30-day period as of early May. Though it has slowed, at the time of writing NFT sales are still in the region of $14 million per week. However, even recordsetting artist Beeple admitted before his auction that it could be a bubble, and that “we could be in that bubble right now”.

“The more you look at it, the more you realize how bonkers it is,” Nicholas Weaver, who studies cryptocurrency at the International Computer Science Institute in Berkeley, tells the journal Nature. He believes auctioning physical papers, rather than digital receipts, makes far more sense.

“trying to come up with a new form of worthless magic bean that they can sell for money".

All sentiments further echoed by former Christie's auctioneer Charles Allsopp who describes the idea of “buying something which isn't there” as “just strange". "I think people who invest in it are slight mugs,” he tells the BBC, “but I hope they don't lose their money."

Financial ethics and possible instability aside, there’s also the environmental impact to consider. NFTs and cryptocurrency leave a massive carbon footprint owing to the sheer levels of energy required to keep that blockchain running. Bitcoin’s annual power consumption, for example, is estimated to be comparable to that of the Netherlands—which will likely cause a backlash that, some say, will may lead to the cryptocurrency and NFT bubbles to burst.

David Gerard, author of Attack of the 50-foot Blockchain, describes NFT sellers as "crypto-grifters", the same type of person who’s always

An exhibition telling the story of an old Kiwi shearing shed practice, which produced some of the country’s earliest export brands that represented New Zealand internationally, can be seen at Highwic now. Secret Lives of Stencils is an exhibition that celebrates the life and 150 year history of the New Zealand wool bale stencil and aims to preserve the memory of an aspect of our pastoral heritage that is rapidly disappearing.

— Highwic, 40 Gillies Avenue, Epsom highwic@heritage.org.nz ∙ 09 524 5729

HIGHWIC 17 June—22 August 10.30am—4.30pm

What’s On In July?

WORDS—BELLA SAMPSON

THE SECRET PIANO BAR 1—4 July 12 Wellesley St, Auckland

VECTOR LIGHTS FOR MATARIKI FESTIVAL 19 June—11 July Statehighway 1

THE SECRET PIANO BAR 1—4 July 12 Wellesley St, Auckland

NORTHERN LIGHTS FESTIVAL 2—10 July Ngunguru or Tutukaka

GOVERNMENT HOUSE GARDEN TOUR 6 July Savannah St, Epsom

For Matariki this year, enjoy the story of the host iwi, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and their journey to Tāmaki Makaurau, as portrayed through a light show across the Harbour Bridge. See this portrayal of their tribal lineage, pepeha, who came from beyond Aotearoa. This creative light display presents the rich history of the host iwi for this year. Light shows run every half-hour from 6pm until midnight. Varied weekend dates, check online for more information.

Auckland has a secret bar! No, not the one for people who take care, or the fine apples of this world, we hear there’s another. Okay, we might as well spill, some things are too good to remain a secret! This hidden CBD bar has fabulous cabaret artists, musicians, cocktails and late night magic. The exciting ‘old carnival’ style intimate venue is ideal for date night, peoplewatching, or catching up with an old friend. To guarantee entry, book a space online.

For those who love adventure, the Northern Lights Festival is hosting a night paddleboarding experience. The water will be lit up, so you can see the sea floor and its inhabitants like never before as you float over the luminescent light. The boards are large and comfortable, no previous experience is needed. The guide is an expert and manages the small group of eight. Book online through Eventfinda.

Government House has extended a rare opportunity for a limited number of people to explore their garden on a free guided tour. It must be booked in advance and ID is required upon entry.

It will involve stairs, so isn’t suitable for anyone with limited mobility. Although, separate tours can be arranged for those with limited mobility or for large groups. Email bookings@govthouse. govt.nz for more information.

WORLD TO TĀMAKI MAKAURAU 7 July—25 October Auckland Museum

EMMA SAVAGE HAYES PADDOCK 15 July—12 August Sidewalk Gallery, Studio One Toi Tū, 1 Ponsonby Rd, Auckland

THE GLOW SHOW 28—30 July Uxbridge Arts & Culture Centre 6 August Takapuna’s Bruce Mason Centre 27 September ASB Waterfront Theatre

MASQUERADE BALL 31 July The Civic

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Over the next year, Auckland Museum is bringing the world to Auckland through exhibitions, whilst displaying our own heritage. Starting off with Sea Monsters this month, which showcases fossils from millions of years ago and huge ocean predators. Given New Zealand’s status in the world currently, we’re one of the few that can host these exciting exhibitions to the capacity they deserve to be seen.

Emma Savage’s debut exhibition highlights nostalgic aspects of her childhood suburbia. Opening 5pm, 14 July, Hayes Paddock, Hamilton East exemplifies a relatively intact, architecturally coherent suburb embodying state housing ideals of the 1940s. In her acrylic paintings, these structures are celebrated along with gardens and other traces of those who have occupied these dwellings over the last 80 years.

The groundbreaking, glow-in-thedark giant puppet extravaganza The Glow Show is in Auckland from July to September. Bring family, friends, schools and ECE groups to enjoy this year’s wild, wonderful and very Kiwi version of Alice in Wonderland. The Glow Show is a magical experience that fuses science and the arts, intriguing tamariki around Aotearoa and encouraging them to be their most creative selves: “Hei tino auhaha koe .”

Visit glowshow.co.nz for info.

For those that have a dress or suit in the wardrobe that doesn’t see the light of day, or quality stage lighting often enough, here is your chance! Grab your fun mates or a date and make a night of it. The Masquerade Ball is back, this year it’s being hosted at The Civic in the stunning Wintergarden. Expect classic covers, disco, house and DnB. Masks provided, but awards provided to those with exceptional creativity.

July 2021

From The Bookshelf

Head to our website to win a copy of any of these books!

Award-Winning Books from Beatnik Publishing beatnikbooks.co

Hare & Ruru Laura Shallcrass

A finalist in the 2021 New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults, Hare & Ruru is a story of Hare, who struggles with noise, who goes on a journey to try and find a solution. Just when Hare thinks there’s no hope a friend, Ruru, flies calmly down and gives a suggestion. NZ Booklovers describes it as a “gentle and important story”.

The Caker Jordan Rondel

Published to critical acclaim, The Caker has sold out again globally and has just been reprinted for the third time! The talented Jordan Rondel, aka The Caker, has crafted 72 sweet recipes that are as artful as they are irresistible — and that take whole foods seriously. Organised by season, The Caker offers fresh berry cakes for summer and the reassuring presence of citrus, pears and apples in winter.

Emma Savage Hayes Paddock

Burst Kisses on the Actual Wind Courtney Sina Meredith

A tapestry of poems, focused on connection and displacement, the blurring between internal landscapes and longed for realities — we travel with the voice, invited into moments both cinematic and achingly tender. Literary star Courtney Sina Meredith was named as the University of Auckland’s Young Alumna of the Year recently.

Lloyd Jones says, “She surprises in ways that writers ought to.”

15 July — 12 August

The Glow Show Is Here!

This glow-in-the-dark, giant puppet show performs at Takapuna’s Bruce Mason Centre on August 6, and Auckland central’s ASB Waterfront Theatre on September 27.

The shows are ONE DAY ONLY! Bring family, school or ECE groups for a wild excursion with dancing flamingos, giant flowers and...a March Hare on the loose!

Depicting the neighbourhood she grew up in, Emma Savage’s debut exhibition highlights the peaceful, familiar and nostalgic aspects of New Zealand suburbia.

Sidewalk Gallery Studio One Toi Tū, 1 Ponsonby Rd, Auckland Art & About

Visit glowshow.co.nz for booking info 136

Box Office

RIGHT DATING AMBER

Moonbound 08 July

Dating Amber 08 July

When Peter sets out on a magical journey to rescue his little sister Anne, he needs to travel to mysterious territory: the Moon!

Anne was kidnapped by the evil Moon Man when she tried to help the beetle Mr Zoomzeman search for his wife. On his fantastic adventure, Peter lands on the Star Meadow where he meets the sleepy Mr Sandman. Only at the Night Fairy’s dinner in the castle in the clouds, they can find out where Anne is—but there aren’t enough seats for everyone. So they join the wild race along the Milky Way against the five Spirits of Nature: Storm Giant, Lightning Witch, Henry Hail, Rainy Robin and Mother Frost.

The Godmother

Dating Amber is a poignant, honest and funny look at the highs and lows of teenage life where the only way to fit in is to not be yourself, even if this goes against your very being. Set in Ireland during the mid-90s, Eddie and Amber decide to stage a relationship in order to stop everyone speculating about their sexuality. Eddie is keen to follow his dad into the military, while Amber dreams of moving to the liberal hub of London.

However, their ‘ideal’ arrangement begins to fall apart, forcing Eddie deeper into denial as Amber realises that a perilous future awaits her best friend unless she intervenes. Dating Amber is a love letter to all those kids who grew up in a small town and who needed to escape in order to be themselves.

The Misfits

15 July

29 July

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The effervescent Isabelle Huppert delights as Patience Portefeux in The Godmother. Gritty realism meets stoner comedy in this movie of a middle-aged police interpreter who switches sides to become a wholesale narcotics trafficker armed with insider legal knowledge and a striking designer wardrobe. Laughs aside, The Godmother is also a meaningful and heartfelt drama about female empowerment. The audience will delight in Patience’s transformation and gleefully relish in the scenes where she dominates her competition in the drug trade and thwarts detection from her colleagues in the police.

Federal maximum-security prisons can’t even hold brilliant thief Richard Pace (Pierce Brosnan). But his daring escape, eluding the authorities, ends with him being grabbed by The Misfits. This band of mysterious, modern-day Robin Hoods, led by the charismatic, Ringo, convince Pace to join them to pull off the heist of the century: stealing millions in gold bars kept under one of the most secure prisons on Earth, owned by rogue businessman Schultz, and used for funding terrorist groups worldwide. Aside from the money, Pace wants revenge against Schultz for he is the man behind his incarceration.

From LA to Abu Dhabi, it will take supercharged engines, forged identities, multiple cons, camels, nitro, and massive explosions to succeed.

July 2021

Horoscopes CANCER 21 June – 22 July

LEO 23 July – 22 August

VIRGO 23 August – 22 September

Art & About

You will benefit from a special talent, enthusiasm or passion which you could turn into income, or extra prestige. Work is a scurry of activity and this period also favours stepping up physical activity or health routines. The end result is a new-found identity and a realistic understanding of your capabilities as well. If you are prepared to work hard at love, then you should also pass all the relationship exams ahead..

You are markedly introspective at this time, perhaps isolating yourself from worldly activities and acquaintances in some manner. Health issues, generally of a psychosomatic nature, may come to the fore. You may be attracted to alternate ways of living, and to selfstudy fields, such as psychoanalysis.

Socialising on the job, and perhaps even meeting someone through work, is also part of the picture in the second half of the month.

You are far less inhibited when it comes to expressing yourself creatively, and you are a lot more fun to be around. The movement is towards a more balanced approach to dealing with practical, worldly matters. With spouse or love, a great time is indicated as you will get to express your deep feelings, which will bring closeness and intensity in your life. On the career front you will get all the success.

LIBRA 23 September – 22 October

SCORPIO 23 October – 21 November

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Your efforts now are very constructive, and you are not inclined to want to leave any loose ends untied. You are likely to derive much satisfaction from taking care of practical concerns in your life.

This is a time of long-range planning that will bring you benefits down the road. Healthy risks are likely to pay off, but be careful of overconfidence in speculative investments.

This period acts to transform your self-confidence in such a way that you question the source of your confidence to date, and discover a more solid base for pulling up inner strength. In terms of career and projects, outward signs of progress may not be as forthcoming, yet the work that you do during this transit will lay a foundation for future success and progress.

WORDS— MANISH KUMAR ARORA

MANISH@MANISHASTROLOGER.COM

SAGITTARIUS 22 November – 21 December

CAPRICORN 22 December – 19 January

AQUARIUS 20 January – 18 February

PISCES 19 February – 20 March

This month will reshape your financial destiny so analyse the facts and figures, when other people’s stake in your affairs will be crucial. You may need to be a total realist about your career and take control of your financial world. This will work well, with further gains. You may also concentrate on your love life.

You could take up some form of physical programme that completely changes the way you feel about yourself.

You enjoy an increased ability to concentrate and focus on what really matters to you. The things that give you joy and positive feedback figure prominently this month, and you feel renewed and regenerated. You also feel particularly strong and personally powerful. Those with artistic or athletic talent can be especially prolific and prosperous at this time. This is a good period to go for recreation activities to recharge yourselves.

Your sense of adventure runs high this month, and you are itching for a change of pace. You are more effective, in general, in attempts to express your creativity. You have a stronger ability to hold the attention of an audience. This month you will have to run around for earning money and fulfilling needs of family. Expenses are likely to rise and you have to become economical.

ARIES 21 March – 19 April

TAURUS 20 April – 20 May

GEMINI 21 May – 20 June

You are bound to experience your fair share of fun, romance, and good times.

Creative projects are likely to fare well, and could possibly even bring some type of recognition or reward. Cleaning out closets, reorganising the environment in which you live and work, and other such activities come to the fore. You will win hearts of all your loved ones by showing them love and affection.

You are far less inhibited when it comes to expressing yourself creatively, and you are a lot more fun to be around.

You may find great joy and reward in your creative projects and hobbies, and could discover a new hobby or creative talent you never knew you had.

Pleasure-seeking activities, recreation, and amusement are increased. This is a fabulous period in which to take a vacation you’ve always wanted to take.

Your creativity and social life are stimulated this month, and plenty of opportunities to express yourself uniquely and creatively will present themselves. You are able to find a healthy balance between work and play. For some of you, working with a romantic partner could figure. Although you could feel some pressure, you are always willing to work all the harder to meet your new responsibilities.

It’s time to formulate some clear goals and plans. Circumstances are such that you need to develop some healthy habits, routines, and schedules.

Recognising your personal limitations in terms of just how much you can give to others and just how much compassion and understanding you can show is essential now. The movement towards last week is towards a more balanced approach to dealing with practical, worldly matters and your own spiritual growth.

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July 2021

A Law Firm for Locals Kohi lawyer expands her firm to her community

Local lawyer Claire Endean has cemented herself in Kohimarama with her fi rm’s new office on the corner of Tamaki Drive and Averill Ave. Claire is the director of Dawsons Lawyers, a modern law fi rm that uses cutting edge technology as part of its service in property and commercial law, and estate planning. The Kohi office complements the Botany office which has a team of 10 talented and experienced legal professionals.

Claire secured the office space when the neighbouring Kohi Store and Eatery, co-owned by her partner James, expanded late last year.

“I live here and I’m part of the community, so I want to build a business here too,” Claire tells Verve. “We jumped at the opportunity to be in such an amazing location where we get to see so many familiar faces and have that close connection with the community.”

The location is about more than just being handy to home.

Claire says she wants to provide a service that’s welcoming, and being in the neighbourhood is part of that.

“Whether it be picking up the phone or walking in off the street, it’s important for us to be open and accessible, which isn’t always the case with some lawyers.”

Dawsons Lawyers is a family fi rm, with Claire’s father Bill having been a partner in the fi rm for 30 years. Claire remembers starting at Dawsons nine years ago and seeing a typewriter still on someone’s desk, but things have been modernised considerably since then.

“We’ve brought in technology that allows people to generate their own legal documents straight from our website, and they still have legal standing. You can draw up things like simple loan agreements or even wills without needing to come in or talk to a lawyer if you don’t want to.

“We’re a family-owned, local business, and we want to serve locals in a way that suits them.” dawsonslawyers.co.nz 09 272 0002 lawhelp@dawsonslawyers.co.nz

Property law, trusts, wills, enduring power of attorney, relationship property and business law.

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July 2021

SCOTPAC – SPECTRUM GROUP

Growing Strong with ScotPac In 2013, after 20 years as a chartered accountant, Wade Glass embraced his entrepreneurial spirit to take on new ventures of his own. His initial journey began with financial help from ScotPac and he has continued to grow with their ongoing support and encouragement.

Wade became director of RHT Holdings, and more recently, Claymark Group, both forestry and sawmilling firms, as well as well-established curtain companines Harveys Furnishing on North Island, and Millers on the South.

When ScotPac looked at the investments Wade and his partners had made in the businesses, they liked that they had ‘skin in the game’.

Words—Vicki Holder

Business, Education and Society

“They could see we had backed the businesses with our own resources. It was probably a good reason for them to invest alongside us,” explains Wade. “We liked that they hadn’t yet moved into a formulaic banking model-based on algorithms. They seemed to ‘bank the person’.”

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Wade has found success by improving existing businesses, adopting new technology and growing as well as improving high performing teams.

At Harvey furnishings, he created an app which lets him market curtains to customers all over the world.

“The app is smart enough to allow the customer to measure their own windows using a combination of manual input, our own proprietary measuring technology, or the native measuring technology inside Android and iPhones.

This allows a small Kiwi business with a great history to spread its products around the world.”

He fi rst adopted that technology in his forestry business.“We were one of the fi rst to use this unique measuring technology in our log exports from the USA to China. It provided the inspiration to apply the same technology in the curtain business.”

While his businesses have gone from strength to strength, when expanding, there are always challenges to overcome.

Wade says, often it’s about trying to understand the various perspectives – both customers and suppliers – and helping his team to create a happy place in the middle.

For example, in the current retail environment, curtain customers need some form of online offering as people are time-poor. Yet some clients still prefer to drive to bricks and mortar stores.

ScotPac has provided Wade with the flexibility he needed to grow, by going outside the hard terms of the contract for brief periods when required.

“Some of our customers prefer to come in and to touch and feel the texture of products. The feel of the products is extremely important with things like window furnishings in the home.”

Trying to cater for all scenarios, adding new layers of service, obviously requires fi nance.

The challenge with forestry, says Wade, is that it is a commodities-based business. Forestry and sawmills are not assets most banks have an appetite for. Without funders like ScotPac, says Wade, there wouldn’t be a lot of productivity in forestry.

“When things are good, people get excited and they tell people how smart they are. But log processing is driven by China and it’s volatile. It can swing either way by 30 to 40 percent in a year. You need a funding partner like ScotPac that rides the highs and can still be there for the so-called lows.”

Wade points out that ScotPac’s core business is funding accounts receivable.

Claymark was one of the fi rst to

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receive asset funding offering through ScotPac in New Zealand. It made a huge difference to the company’s viability.

ScotPac has provided Wade with the flexibility he needed to grow, by going outside the hard terms of the contract for brief periods when required. The relationship has been built on trust which is unusual these days.

“They’ve grown with us, supported us and encouraged us to do more.”

He recalls one acquisition, where a company had tarnished its reputation with other banks.

“ScotPac knew us and backed our decision. It turned out well for everyone and saved literally hundreds of jobs. This was the acquisition of Claymark, a large wood processor with more than 600 staff.

“If we hadn’t bought the company, somebody else would have bought it and broken it up. It’s probably the deal I’m most proud of. It had a lot of challenges, but we made it happen right in the middle of covid in September 2020.”

In the future, Wade will continue to grow and to fi nd new challenges. He’s particularly excited about the curtain businesses and recently extended a national contract to supply Kainga Ora properties for another seven years.

“We’re looking to buy up other businesses in that sector to utilise our manufacturing business in Auckland to expand. With ScotPac’s help, almost anything is possible.”

scotpac.co.nz 0800 72 68 72

July 2021

Xanevo

Writing should be interesting and enjoyable. But if you write online content, whether it be tedious reports, or tiresome product descriptions, it can be a chore. Xanevo offers a solution.

Its AI technology allows businesses to auto-generate custom text through an innovative toolset in partnership with AX-Semantics. Managing director Jeffrey Lim tells Verve how the business came about and what it has to offer.

LEFT—RIGHT: JEFF, JAN AND TIMO XANEVO.COM JEFFREY@XANEVO.COM

How was the idea for the company formed? Initially, the idea came from Jan, one of our managing directors. He worked as a data scientist in the pharmaceutical industry, managing and implementing solutions around natural language processing and generation. He decided to leave his job and soon after, we started working as freelancers implementing content generation projects. We saw great potential based on market saturation and the positive feedback we received. We stood out among other software partners because of our high project quality. It’s why our company offers implementation services as well as workshops and training.

Your business is unique in that you have no office, allowing you to all work remotely—was this an intentional choice? It was a clear decision to not have an office. Since the beginning we worked from different locations: Jan from Konstanz in Germany, Timo and I from Vienna, and we enjoyed the freedom. We also don’t believe in the nine till five, Monday till Friday, we’re flexible. We work when we like, wherever we like, which applies to our employees as well.

Where are you based currently, and do you hope to expand?

The company is based in Germany, but we see ourselves expanding globally. We all have a growth mindset and are keen to get in touch with many cultures.

running projects result in happy customers and are more fun as well! We function as communication gears between many parties with different interests.

You offer seminars and training in AX-Semantics software, what are the benefits of this technology? Our mission and why we offer seminars and training is to enable our clients to build and customise their own content automation projects.

Software projects should be reusable and effective when changes are made. This could be the case when new products are added or when clients try to target new user groups. Our training teaches how to save time and cost in the future with our well-established methods that we validated through lots of customer projects.

Is this technology something that can be used in any industry? The benefits from automated content are pretty much industry independent since every company has text-based processes in some way. If we had to choose an industry that benefits the most, that would be e-commerce, especially when there is a large number of products and product descriptions that can be automated. With that, the automation aspect is only secondary because primary benefits are increased web visibility (SEO) and higher conversion rates through personalisation.

What are some of the important values Xanevo has when it comes to offering business solutions? One of our core strengths is quality assurance. We invest lots of time on strategic approaches to continuously improve ourselves and the quality of projects that we deliver. For that we specialise in architecture design and code design, which both lead to better maintainability and extendibility of our projects. Well-

Also, we like to automate written reports as this can be a very repetitive task, for example monthly financial reports.

With AX Semantics as partner we have the possibility to automate content in over 110 languages which is especially profitable for international businesses or those who want to scale internationally.

Business, Education and Society

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MEADOWBANK

Meet our lovely new Care Manager, Suzette Vorster.

Ready to bring an empathetic touch to Meadowbank Care Suites.

Oceania has always believed in better and so does Meadowbank’s new Care Manager, Suzette Vorster.

Having worked in Aged Care for several years, Suzette’s favourite thing about her work has remained the same – giving back to those who’ve done so much for Aotearoa. “Our residents have a lifetime of knowledge and have worked hard in often difficult times. I see it as such a privilege to be in a position to lead a team of people who are passionate about caring for them.”

Suzette’s recipe for great care is simple.

“Great care means meeting a resident’s daily needs with empathy and warmth – to deliver the kind of care that anyone would want their Mum or Dad to have.”

She’s excited to take on a new challenge in our vibrant village beside Orakei Basin. “Meadowbank is a beautiful site– it’s a place anyone would feel proud to live in and a place families enjoy visiting.

Our Care Suites provide a feeling of independence within the comfort and security of exceptional 24/7, round-the-clock care.”

Suzette’s vision for Meadowbank goes beyond brick and mortar. “The heart of it is the people – staff who provide empathy and love, and residents who live their years to the fullest.”

To learn more about our Care Suites, with Rest Home and Hospital level care, call Suzette on 0800 333 688.

148 Meadowbank Road, Meadowbank oceaniahealthcare.co.nz

Meet Verve’s Mascots

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In the spirit of spreading some winter cheer, the team introduce their four-legged friends...

1. Jamie’s dog, Squid. 2. Fran’s neighbourhood cat, Albie 3. Ashlee’s cat, Belle 4. Jude’s granddog, Beanie 5.

Ashlee’s cat, Izzy 6. Zanalee’s cat, Bebop 7. Jude’s granddog, BonBon 8. Christine’s grandfur babies, Gus and Molly

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Business, Education and Society

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199 Main Highway, Ellerslie EllerslieVeterinaryClinic.nz 09 281 3481

Excellence in veterinary care from pooch to giant dog Cat friendly clinic (Gold Certified By The Isfm)

Luxury apparel for pampered pooches

Large or small, short or long Mr Soft Top has you covered this winter

www.mrsofttop.com 41 Matakana Valley Rd, Matakana

09 849 4036 URBANFLOWERS.CO.NZ 27 SANDRINGHAM RD, MOUNT EDEN

URBAN FLOWERS

YOUR LOCAL KINGSLAND FLORIST

NEW SEASON IN STORE NOW Visit instore or online for our dynamic collections of footwear which will have you spellbound by the colour, texture and uniqueness available.

Stunning ladies fashion in Auckland. Find your new goto items at Simply Wonderful. � 569 Manukau Rd, Epsom 09 630 0084 simplywonderfulclothes.co.nz

tangosshoes.nz 164 Kitchener Rd, Milford

BOOK ONLINE

Property management and rentals in the Bays with over 25 years' experience. Contact Sue for expert advice about your property or tenants.

CHER

Fri | 26th Nov Sat | 27th Nov Fri | 3rd Dec Fri | 10th Dec

Doors open | 6:30 PM Hors d’oeuvre | 7:15 PM Dinner | 7:45 PM Show Starts | 7:30 PM to 11:15 PM Doors Close | 11:30pm

Red Shed

Palazzo

11A St Heliers Bay Rd, St Heliers 027 490 8264 or 09 575 9887 sue@baysiderentals.co.nz baysiderentals.co.nz

www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

Breakfast/Lunch – licensed OPEN 5 days 8.30am - 4.00pm Wednesday - Sunday

ONLINE BOOKINGS

Weddings - Birthdays or any special occasions

16 Jesmond Rd, Karaka Sunday marketS Ph (09) 294 6687 Email: eat@redshedpalazzo.co.nz Red Shed Palazzo large logo.indd 1

B R I D G E WAY

AUSTIN POWERS

ABBA GALS

9/07/2015 10:26:36 a.m.

CINEMAS

Auckland’s best and most vibrant arthouse cinemas 1 2 2 Q U E E N S T, N O R T H C O T E P O I N T, A U C K L A N D W W W. B R I D G E WAY.CO. N Z

Marketplace

432 MT EDEN RD, MT EDEN VILLAGE | 09 630 3331 | TIMEOUT.CO.NZ

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Perfume Bottles Instore and Online

Contemporary New Zealand jewellery and greenstone design.

— Samoa House Arcade: Shop 2, 283 Karangahape Rd, Newton 09 309 2202 oronegro.co.nz

NOW OPEN The Bay Tree St Heliers 15 St Heliers Bay Rd 62a Benson Rd, Remuera Open 7 days · thebaytree.co.nz

228 ORAKEI ROAD, ORAKEI

165 THE STRAND, PARNELL HOMEIDEAS.CO.NZ

@ORAKEIBAYVILL AGE

|

WWW.OBV.CO.NZ

Big Brands. Better Prices.

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

Free shipping to main NZ centres.

Parmco 90cm - URCAN-9B-1000L

Enfasi 90cm - X9F-6-NF

Parmco 60cm - 15 Place - PD6-PBL

WWW.BIGBRANDSONLINE.C O.NZ • CALL US 0800 67 33 77

vervemagazine.co.nz

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July 2021

1 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna 09 488 0211 | ieproduce.com

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

VERVE Remarkable breakfasts and brunches. Sunny deck or indoor dining.

All food made on the premises. Amazing coffee. We also have a children’s menu.

W AL L ACE COTTON . COM

311 Parnell Rd, Parnell 09 379 2860 Open 7 days till 5pm

STONEFIELDS MENTION THIS AD AND GET ONE WEEK FREE ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP* T & C ’ S A P P LY

0800 789 789 corporatecabs.co.nz

SHOP 11, 40 STONEFIELDS AVE,STONEFIELDS, AUCKLAND STONEFIELDS@FLEXFITNESSGYM.CO.NZ | 09 218 8197

Marketplace

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BIO GROW CERTIFIED since 2000. Your wellness store. Passionate about all things organic. Shop online or on site.

Enjoy the ultimate cinema experience at Berkeley Mission Bay. See session times and book at HOYTS.CO.NZ

Win

Entering is simple. Visit VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ and click WIN then follow the directions. Follow us on Facebook and instagram @vervemagazine. GOOD LUCK.

Comvita’s limited-edition Mānuka Honey

ghd’s first compact and cordless styler

In celebration of Comvita’s Wellness Lab opening at the Auckland Viaduct, we’d love to give away a jar of Special Reserve UMF™ 25+ Mānuka Honey. Valued at $645, this honey is a premium example of nature and bees coming together in harmony—the perfect offering for all honey lovers!

The first compact and cordless styler by ghd, unplugged, for on the go sleek styling, with no strings attached – what more could you want in innovation designed with busy people in mind.

Light, portable and powerful, allowing you to touch-up your style without compromising on performance, with up to 20 minutes of continuous styling. It’s the touch-up tool to transform your life and delivers 65% more shine; the perfect tool to carry in your handbag, take to the gym and use while travelling with you on-the-go.

A jar of Special Reserve UMF™ 25+ Mānuka Honey valued at $645.

WIN

WIN

A ghd compact and cordless styler valued at $510.

Bondi Sands

Blunt + Ellen Porteus

Experience the next generation in self-tan this winter. Light as air and effortlessly bronzed, Bondi Sands’ range of Aero Aerated Self Tanning Foams are lightweight, long-lasting and touch dry in seconds to provide the most comfortable tanning experience yet. We have a Bondi Sands Aero pack to giveaway to one lucky winner including 1x Light/Medium, 1x Dark, 1x Ultra Dark, 1x Liquid Gold, x1 One Hour Express and 1x Application Mitt. Get your glow on all-year-round with Bondi Sands.

BLUNT Umbrellas are launching their latest collaboration this July with Melbourne-based animator and illustrator Ellen Porteus. Bursting with wit, visual metaphor and wordplay, Ellen’s signature style is unmistakable and known around the world for tessellating patterns and vibrant colour palettes. The BLUNT + Ellen Porteus Metro Umbrella will be available to purchase for $129 from the 8 July. bluntumbrellas.co.nz WIN

WIN

A Blunt + Ellen Porteus umbrella valued at $129.

A Bondi Sands Aero Pack valued at $166.

vervemagazine.co.nz

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July 2021

BOX™ MULTI AWARD WINNING We don’t build Box houses We build homes for Karin & Sam, Sophie and Sebastian...

Give us a call or drop in and see us to have a chat about your design-build project

09 520 5030 | info@box.co.nz | box.co.nz

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

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

T H E

THE ORIGINAL THRILL With power that cannot be contained, the BMW M3 delivers an unmatched level of exhilaration. Get reacquainted with the legend, the BMW M3 Sedan.

Visit Continental Cars BMW to find out more.

Continental Cars BMW 45 - 65 Wairau Road, North Shore. (09) 488 2000. ccbmwauckland.co.nz