Verve April 2014 by Verve Magazine

Auckland’s Boutique Magazine.

HOURS TO PARADISE PLUS — BLACK & WHITE TOGETHER THE LISTERS STYLE COACHING DARING DINING

April 2014

— FASHION BEAUTY HEALTH HOME ARTS FOOD WINE TRAVEL SOCIETY

Parnell 09 366 0015

THE NEW MINI. THE NEW ORIGINAL.

LANDING APRIL AT TEAM MCMILLAN MINI GARAGE.

MID0048_MCM_F56_VM

The new MINI is revved, ready to go and on sale in New Zealand Saturday 12th April 2014. With new engines, a new design, new options, new safety features and new driver assist features, not to mention new attitude, the new MINI Hatch is all new. Get ready to meet the new original. Contact Team McMillan MINI Garage today and be one of the first to drive the new MINI, the new original.

TEAM MCMILLAN MINI GARAGE. 430 Broadway, Newmarket. 0800 548 352. MINI.CO.NZ

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Editors’ Note Almost Ten “Magazines have ‘bones’ — the unchanging elements that give structure to creativity — as surely as gardens and houses do” — Vanity Fair Editor, Graydon Carter. Verve is proud to announce its impending tenth birthday celebration issue, due out soon. When our company was launched ten years ago, our publication looked rather different to the version you see now; we’ve come a long way and are proud of what we have achieved. Our bright, vibrant magazine is full of brand new looks, style ideas and pages dedicated to an infinite variety of creative people and their inspiring stories. This April edition you hold in your hands is no exception. There is something about Op Art that no baby boomer could forget. Op Art

artists were criticised for being all about ‘surface’, but their work was also about colour, line and the feelings they elicit. With bold strokes and graphic silhouettes, they harnessed art’s power to challenge the eye, creating maximum visual impact. Verve sensed that this new season of fashion will be all about coming clean. Much like the Op Art artists, we envisage a cutting through the visual clutter, stripping back to the essentials — these were the thoughts that motivated the April fashion shoot, the final effect of which we believe is refreshingly minimalist but most certainly appealing to the majority of our readers.

for reading during a relaxing time out, for example: Living Off The (electrical) Grid; Meat Your Goals (Professor Tim Noakes’ take on eating Paleo); Fabergé’s extraordinary Easter eggs; baked Easter treats with Sophie Gray, and a collection of inspiring articles on gorgeous getaways. Last but not least, if you are one of those readers who simply love Verve Magazine and would enjoy a whole lot more Verve in your life, let us know by liking Verve on Facebook. And don’t forget to share with your friends.

Bearing in mind that the Easter break is just around the corner, we have included a store of unmissable features just right

Editors’ Pick HI TEC FASHION — CHARGE ON THE GO WITH MIGHTY PURSE Handbag Butler’s Mighty Purse is the creation of Ana Slavka, (responsible for the best-selling Handbag Hook). With the combined business acumen of her husband, Stephan, the savvy duo identified a real need for charging your phone on the go — and with early sales exceeding expectations, the Mighty Purse is being snapped up by women — and men — of all ages! The Mighty Purse has a built in smart device charger with adaptors sold separately for iphone 4 and 5 that can fully charge your phone more than two times! The purse battery is then simply recharged by connecting to a USB port. It’s that brilliant and that simple! For more info call (09) 378 7701 or email melissa@carolinemitchell.com

Next issue, Verve May — Celebrating 10 years in Publishing + The Design Issue!

VerveMagazine — Editors-in-chief: Fran Ninow and Jude Mitchell Writers: Jamie Desplaces and Angus Brown Layout Design: J. David Contributors: Neil Gussey, Paris Mitchell, Melissa Kachelhoffer, Ryan Renwick, Jackie O’Fee, Doris Mousdale, Jenna Moore, Glenn Stirling and Dennis Knill Intern: Meeke van Dal

Published by Verve Magazine Ltd. Level 1, 430 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland 1023 PO Box 99-288, Newmarket, Auckland 1149 GST: 90 378 074 ISSN 2253-1300 (Print) ISSN 2253-1319 (Online) Advertising enquiries: P: +64 9 520 5939 E: jude@vervemagazine.co.nz Editorial enquiries: P: +64 9 520 5939 E: fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Subcriptions: www.vervemagazine.co.nz/subscribe.html

VERVE MAGAZINE is published monthly (except in January) and has an estimated readership of 40,000. It is a free community/ lifestyle magazine delivered to selected homes, cafés and businesses in the following areas: Parnell, Newmarket, Remuera, Meadowbank, Epsom, Mission Bay, Kohimarama, Herne Bay and Stonefields. Copies of Verve Magazine are also available from: Parnell Inc., The Strand Vet, Home Ideas Centre, Just Rentals – Meadowbank, LJ Hooker – Remuera, Constant Cravings, Barfoot & Thompson Parnell, Quest Hotels – Parnell, Remuera, and Newmarket, Parnell Community Centre and Library, Verve Café, Little Nuffield, Robert Harris – Remuera, and Level 1, 430 Broadway, Newmarket (above Mini showroom). Verve is also available from all popular cafés in its main distribution areas as well as in E-book format. 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. Verve is printed by Webstar and distributed by TOE Distribution. www.vervemagazine.co.nz

COVER: Black & White Together Photographer: Neil Gussey Model: Isabella and Matilda @ 62 Models Makeup: Imeleta Kellet Location: Kingsize Studios, Grey Lynn Isabella wears: Roll Neck Knit in light grey by Witchery. Matilda wears: Roll Split Back Knit in black by Witchery, Lead Shirt in white by Moochi, rings by Underground Sundae. See stockists details on page 33.

APRIL 2014

Contents WIN WITH VERVE! HOME 92.

Win with Miny & Mo, Remington, Specsavers and more!

26.

The Future is Modular

27.

Mies van der Rohe

3 HOURS TO PARADISE

27.

08.

FASHION

The Boatshed

10.

Off The Grid

12.

The Gallery and Café, Helena Bay Hill

18.

East Meets West

20.

Hiking the Globe

Treasures of Marrakech

29.

A-style: Alayna Robins

30.

Black & White

36.

HEALTH &BEAUTY ART & ABOUT

YOUNG AT HEART

43.

60.

84.

62.

86.

64.

89.

Vanessa Baxter Chats to Verve

44.

Do You Love to Dance?

46.

Louise Wind of Caci Chats to Verve

49.

A Modern Decision

PORTRAITS WITH A DIFFERENCE CONTACT US TODAY. www.bellephotography.co.nz bellephotography@xtra.co.nz 027-485-1993

86. 69.

55.

Recipes for Easter

58.

Daring, Drinking and Dining

If Only They Told Me Babycoach NZ The Emperor’s New Clothes

BUSINESS & SOCIETY PETS

54.

38.

Out It Goes!

Coming Up At The Movies

Beaming About Beamers

Style Coaching

39.

Book Reviews

FOOD 4 THOUGHT Destitute Gourmet, Sophie Gray

Easter and The Story of Fabergé

Massively Minute

The Listers

80.

90.

Martha, the Dinosaur Gobbler

91.

Dogs Deserve Wool Too

Matters of Interest

LAST WORD

83.

96.

Mercy Hospice: Calling All Volunteers

Meat Your Goals

ALTHOUGH WE AGREE IT IS VERY RUDE TO STARE. WE MADE AN EXCEPTION.

APRIL 2014

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V E S P A 9 4 6 C O L L E C T I O N : R I C O R D O I TA L I A N O . A M U S T - H AV E L U X U R Y I C O N

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The Boatshed

Words and Photos: Glenn Stirling

Soothing music floats through the soft ambient light and architecture, as the smell of gourmet cuisine wafts and intrigues the nose. The sun streams in through great windows and warms the soul a little more.

five-course meal delighted the taste buds and pleasured the mind. Enhanced not just by the setting, or the company, but also by the wines, described and suited with knowledge, to perfection.

Less than an hour from the bustle of Auckland’s streets lies the idyllic Boatshed, on the beautiful Waiheke Island.. Atop a hill, the views will take your breath away, along with your stress. Time stands still or moves too fast, I cannot tell, I only know I am left wanting more. Through the telescope, the boats in the bay come to life, though quickly attention is drawn back inside to the intimate luxury hotel, which captivates through its decor, design and elegant beauty. The beauty comes from the attention to detail through artwork, shells and micro-interior design.

Comfort and luxury blend so well here that one feels at home in the sophistication and elegance. The detail follows through to the bedrooms, where the grand beds embrace and cocoon the soul into deep slumber.

The nautical theme, displayed with such beauty, forms the romantic idea that one has of sailing a luxury yacht. Although one doesn’t think of the wind, the rocking of the boat, pulling the mainsheet to draw the sail in tight; no, one romanticises relaxing on deck, wine in hand, peering out over the enchanting bay and deep sea. One romanticises of The Boatshed. A voyage of luxury and peace, with every whim answerable at a moments notice. I stretched my legs out on to the deck where I reclined for canapés and a glass of the local Waiheke Wine, adding to the serenity. The warm sun, golden on the horizon, sank down and I was welcomed in for the dinner that can only be described as an experience. The

Breakfast is another event, with delicious options professionally designed to begin a day of luxury, whether it be drifting through the wineries, lazing on the beaches or reclining to music, book in hand, awaiting the next delicious meal. A large garden at the rear of the hotel supplies the kitchen with fresh produce for meals and snacks that are made to order. I am told that in the summer months one can go into the garden with nothing but a knife and some olive oil and eat like a king, as it is bursting with fresh flavours. Now, as we near winter, I am only too happy to have the kitchen do it all for me. The Boatshed caters to the individual’s needs and the friendly staff are always ready to help, whether it be organising a tour, a massage, or another cheese platter with wine. David Scott’s design has made this once cottage, grow into one of New Zealand’s best-loved small luxury hotels. His son Jonathan now keeps the Boatshed in its glory here on Waiheke Island.

01 — The Boatshed at sunset perched above Waiheke’s Little Oneroa Beach 02 — Plenty of peaceful nooks to explore and curl up in 03 — Three Boatshed rooms look out over Oneroa Beach 04 — The kitchen garden at The Boatshed is a great source of food inspiration

For more information visit www.boatshed.co.nz or call (09) 372 3242 to make a reservation.

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3 HOURS TO PARADISE

01 — Imagine lying in a bath full of steaming solar heated soft rainwater, pumped by electrons charged with sunlight, along with the delightful sounds of kakas, tuis and wood pigeons in the background. Pure bliss.

Off The Grid Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

Floridian Robin Speronis recently made global headlines regarding her battle with local authorities for her right to continue to, “live without being dependent on the system.” The Cape Coral resident took the off-grid living concept to town, disconnecting her home from her city’s water and electrical system and begun a twoyear tussle with a council hell-bent on arrest and eviction. “Going off the grid in an urban setting was easy and inexpensive,” she told the Examiner. “I lived seven months in an RV in the woods so I had all the basic skills. This is a natural way of being self-sufficient, depending on ourselves, nature, our family and our communities.” Continuing with the ever-growing trend toward sustainability, buying organic and the like, living off the grid offers an alternative, all-natural lifestyle. Commitment levels vary. Some choose to just supply their own power via wind or solar, while others go the whole hog with the collection of rainwater and disposal of

their own waste. It’s a lifestyle most would associate with more rural-type dwellings, but a 2006 US study estimated over 180,000 American homes to be supplying their own power. New Zealand, too, has its very own ‘unconnected’ community on Great Barrier Island. “The 800 inhabitants live off-grid,” author and neuropsychologist Jenni Ogden writes on her blog, “making their power with solar panels, windmills and generators, collecting their own water, disposing of their own waste, growing their own food and making their own entertainment. Even my computer is solarpowered!” Mobile phones don’t work in some places, so the only on-grid service is the telephone. She says, “visitors come to see the many rare birds and native bush, and for the peace, beauty, fishing and hiking, often taking home some of the beautiful art works created by the many artists who live here.” In 2012, Kiwi couple Alistair and Rose Hughes moved into their newly

constructed off-grid home in Wairarapa, outside Greytown. “Many make the assumption that we are ‘grid-tied’ – able to sell excess power back to the grid or draw on energy company’s wares when we really need them,” wrote Alistair in the Dominion Post. “But the only energy supplier we are linked to is the sun.” As well as the eight solar panels on their roof, the couple also have independent water access and waste disposal systems too. During the first year’s winter months, there were times they had to make use of the generator. “Living in an off-grid home isn’t so much about doing without,” concludes Alistair, “but about being constantly aware of the pulse and respiration of your power system and living within its scope.” It’s certainly a concept that requires commitment, hard graft and adaptability, but like all of life’s best – and often most simple things – one that is utterly rewarding.

APRIL 2014

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The Gallery & Café Words: Glenn Stirling

The scenic country road that weaves its way through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful landscape en route to the old capital of Russell, holds a little known gem. Subtropical gardens surrounded by magnificent bush rolling down to the ocean, creates a stunning setting and sea view that The Gallery & Café Helena Bay looks over from its hill top perch. This is the perfect stop for a weary traveller heading north or a worthwhile day trip to enjoy artwork by established and emerging New Zealand artists, many of whom are Northland based. Contemporary Maori and Pacific artists add to this wide-ranging collection of paintings, wood art, handmade furniture, sculpture, jewellery, glass and ceramics. A walk through the gardens to discover the sculptures and to relax after cruising the Old Russell Road, under the shade of native trees, will start the creative process and let the mind wander – before you enter the gallery, where the process soars excitedly from piece to piece, each as captivating as the next. The eclectic range is food for the soul and a worthwhile venture that need not end there but rather be taken home for perpetual enjoyment. The artwork shows off Kiwi and Pacific culture, highlighting our roots in an amazing artistic way. The café adjacent to the gallery, rain or shine, is a special experience. You have fed your soul in the gallery, now feed yourself. Run by a lovely German couple, the café provides something for everyone: special German beers, local wines and a terrific European menu to be enjoyed on the vast deck with a view of the north. Or, if not out on the deck, snuggle up and get cozy and watch the

wilderness through big glass doors with a steaming hot coffee and a delicious treat. Group bookings can be made, including functions outside of the general hours of 10am – 5pm (café winter hours may vary). The Gallery and Café Helena Bay are open seven days a week, and are a must as a point of call when heading north. Take a right off the State Highway 1 at the Old Russell Road and take

in New Zealand and its bounty. The journey holds just as much beauty as the location, and with hidden gems such as The Gallery and Café, why would anyone take the highway?

APRIL 2014

“

Visit our gallery, relax in the beautiful subtropical gardens and café with breathtaking views. The gallery has a wideranging collection of artwork from local Northland and New Zealand artists. This is paired with wonderful meals, treats and great coffee from the adjacent fully-licensed café.

01 — Sculptures in the surrounding garden 02 — Lunch with a view

For more information visit www.galleryhelenabay.co.nz or call (09) 433 9616 Gallery & Café Helena Bay Hill 1392 Old Russell Road, RD 4 Hikurangi, Northland 0184

The Oyster Inn Just 40 minutes from Auckland but a world away, The Oyster Inn is the perfect escape from Auckland, whether for just a night, a weekend or longer. The Inn features a large restaurant and bar, a beach boutique, a private event space and three luxuriously simple guest rooms. Opened in 2012, The Oyster Inn has gained local and international attention, being featured on Travel and Leisure’s 2013 IT List and Metro’s Top 50 Restaurants. With a gorgeous but unpretentious interior by designer Katie Lockhart, The Oyster Inn has fast become one of the island’s most popular destinations. In the restaurant enjoy delicious, uncomplicated cooking, with a menu of coastal classics with a modern touch, with a focus on the freshest fish and shellfish available. As its name suggests The Oyster Inn celebrates oysters, sourcing delicious pearlers from Bluff, Glory Bay, Mahurangi, Orongo Bay, Paroa Bay, Tio Point, Waiheke’s very own Te Matuku Bay, and elsewhere. They’re always shucked to order, ensuring maximum freshness and retaining the delicious liquor inside.

The menu is matched with an extensive wine list, featuring a good variety from across the country with an excellent edit of the island’s best vintages. Enjoy a glass on the verandah while taking in breathtaking views towards the Coromandel across Oneroa Bay. Stay in one of the chic but simple rooms, featuring super king beds, flat screen TVs, super soft cotton sheets, fluffy pillows and Aesop bath products. Rates include transfers to and from the ferry pier and full breakfast for two. Stylish essentials for island life are available in the shop, from brands like Orlebar Brown, Saturdays, as well as the shop’s private label, The Waihetian. Shop for caftans, towels, sandals, swim shorts and more. The private room — The Pearl Room, is the ideal space for celebrations, corporate conferences and private gatherings. Seating up to 32, The Pearl Room is the perfect place to host your event with fabulous food and wine to match.

At the Oyster Inn you can come for dinner…and stay for breakfast. But one night may not be enough! The Oyster Inn. 124 Oceanview Road, Oneroa, Waiheke.

“

As its name suggests The Oyster Inn celebrates oysters, sourcing delicious pearlers from Bluff, Glory Bay, Mahurangi, Orongo Bay, Paroa Bay, Tio Point, Waiheke’s very own Te Matuku Bay, and elsewhere. They’re always shucked to order, ensuring maximum freshness and retaining the delicious liquor inside.

For more information visit www.theoysterinn.co.nz or call (09) 372 2222

Island Safari Words: Dennis and Rosamund Knill

Dennis and Rosamund Knill explore rare beauty and tranquillity in a place where you might just want to get stranded. We must be in heaven. We’re sitting on a glorious white sandy beach with turquoise hues of the Coral Sea that’s beckoning us to come closer. Far away from the coastline between Townsville in the north and Mackay in the south, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s great wonders created by mothernature. Alongside this is the Whitsunday Islands. It was Captain James Cook in 1770 who named this group of beautiful islands scattered along both sides of the Whitsunday Passage. Curiously, Cook misnamed them as he didn’t really sail through them at all on Whit Sunday, in fact he was a day late, having overlooked the international dateline completely. Flying into Hamilton Island (houses airport for the Whitsunday Islands), the Whitsundays start to unfold: 74 volcanic islands dotting the Great Barrier Reef rising from an ocean of turquoise and emerald green, some towering like pyramids above the sea covered with pines and dense tropical rain forests. These islands are perfect for those wanting to fritter away their time peacefully sunbathing, snorkelling, swimming or bush walking. Accommodation caters for everyone, from those who are budget orientated to the ultimate in luxury. Of all the islands, Hayman deserves the title of being the most famous and the stay of your dreams for those with an appetite for the finer things in life. Stunningly beautiful, Hayman has all the ingredients of an island paradise. It is the island most northerly of the Great Barrier Reef and looks right down the Whitsunday passage. Hayman Island Resort is one of Australia’s most awarded and celebrated. The sound of lapping waters on a crescent shaped beach merely enhances this unique lifestyle oozing luxury, if the form

of suites, penthouses and freshly minted beachfront villas overlooking a coral sea. An elegant and tranquil enclave of courtyards, terraces, gentle fountains, spectacular pools and lush tropical gardens, complete with all its wildlife, all vie for your attention. And if physical activity appeals to your senses, you have the freedom to pursue your own adventure pleasures such as parasailing, water-skiing, windsurfing and scuba diving. The less adventurous can settle for snorkelling, tennis or squash. For fitness freaks there’s a gym and health club too. Not to be outdone, another dimension to the Whitsundays is Hamilton Island. Of all the islands, Hamilton is the most advanced, with a slew of recently built developments. It’s rather like a small town in another world, complete with its own international airport. It’s a high-end tourist destination that has evolved from a small hideaway into a much sought after playground for the rich and famous who jet in and sail out. Step ashore and the very first things you see are golf buggies buzzing around madly in all directions. Our first impression was that we had arrived on a fantasy island! The 400 boat marina, its state of the art yacht club and its adjacent stylish villas bustle with activity, as do the cluster of waterfront shops that stock literally everything. The area swarms with boutiques, bars, cafés, restaurants and a post office that resembles a set from Universal Studios. The marina is the main hub of the island. After a short stroll up to the ridge and then a descent to the beach, there is a diverse range of accommodation consisting of Polynesian style bures, low and high rise apartments, some 20 storeys high. The sheer size of the island’s development will impress. Set apart in its own secluded estate on the northern-most tip, with a relaxing and mesmerising calmness, is the adults-only Qualia Resort. It is a 7-star luxury hotspot

with private villas for all of those in the mood for love and with every facility that you could possibly wish for. Included are infinity swimming pools, gourmet restaurants, a gym and a quintessential Australian spa for mind, body and soul. Isn’t this what indulgence is all about? There’s a variety of sea cruises that operate daily out of Hamilton Island with visits also to the Great Barrier Reef. A vacation in the Whitsunday Islands would be incomplete without visiting the reef. Not a solid structure but rather a maze of 2,900 reefs, 950 islands, spread languidly over 2,600 kilometres, this vast coral spectacle is the world’s largest living structure that occupies 350,000 square kilometres of marine territory. It’s the world’s largest marine park, larger than the Great Wall of China and the only living thing visible from outer-space. Pontoons are moored on the edge of the reef where you can dive and snorkel, feed the fish or view the coral and the amazing marine life from partly submerged mini-submarines. For the intrepid you can stay overnight — an experience not to be missed. If your preference is to remain on the mainland and settle for day trips, Airlie Beach is a convenient and inexpensive place to stay. A mere 10-minute drive from Shute Harbour, Airlie Beach is geared towards tourists and reminiscent of what Port Douglas was like a decade ago.

01— Hayman Island poolside 02 — Reefworld Pontoon 03 — Qualia Resort’s beautiful accomodation 04 — Kayaking near Hamilton Island 05 — Qualia Resort’s pool view

Sailing the Whitsundays is a yachties paradise, small coves and bays abound, unspoilt, uninhabited and secluded anchorages are seldom more than an hour apart. And if you’ve ever considered chartering a yacht as we did, Whitsundays Rent-a-Yacht offers a range of sailing craft that will make this an unforgettable holiday. Their personnel are fully trained professionals who will advise and assist you for as long as it takes. You will however need to satisfy the management that you are competent enough to sail these waters unaided, but if all else fails a skipper can be provided. Many who say that they have visited the Whitsunday Islands, have only spent a few days either in Hayman or Hamilton Island, then tell their friends that they have seen the Whitsundays. Not so. The Whitsundays are so much more than merely these two islands, offering an experience that is larger than life, complete with deserted beaches, forest walking tracks, and the chance to lose yourself completely.

Getting there: Air New Zealand fly daily to Brisbane from Auckland. Contact Air New Zealand Holidays 0800 747 222 or airnewzealand.co.nz Virgin and Qantas fly daily from Brisbane to Hamilton Island. Where to stay: Hamilton Island Yacht Club www.hamiltonislandyachtclub.com.au Boathouse Apartments www.outrigger.com Hayman Resort www.hayman.com.au Qualia www.qualia.com.au

For us, the Whitsunday Islands were more than special, an unforgettable holiday, and a place of rare beauty.

Background reading: The Whitsunday Book by David Colfeit, The Whitsundays by Jeff Toghill

Dennis and Rosamund Knill were assisted by Air New Zealand and Southern Cross Travel Insurance

Further information: www.queenslandholidays.com.au

Right — Harbourside Market Photo by Nicola Edmonds

East Meets West Chinese philosopher Kong Fuzi (Confucius) once said, “wherever you go; go with all your heart.” Spurred on by the fact that the National Museum of China has sent their prestigious double exhibition to Te Papa, we take a look at the fusion of East Asian flavours and experiences you can find in the capital over a long weekend. CULTURAL EXCHANGES CHINA at Te Papa (Until 22 June) Throne of Emperors tells the story of 2000 years of China through the personalities, politics and imperial lifestyles of seven Emperors of China, one from each of the major dynasties ranging from 221 BCE to 1911. Items on display include silks, earthenware, silver, scrolls, jade, porcelain, and a model of a ship from the Ming Dynasty. Get a unique insight into the history, culture and personality of one of the world’s greatest civilisations. In Shi Lu: A Revolution in Paint. Discover the art of a modern master of Chinese painting, who maintained his unique artistic vision during a time of political and cultural revolution. Shi Lu was a modern Chinese artist whose life was full of adventure, frustration and tragedy. Shi Lu painted in the traditional literati style, known for his images of labouring people and animals on the highlands and in the lofty mountains

of his home province. During the Chinese Cultural Revolution, Shi Lu was imprisoned and his paintings were branded as, “crazy, odd, black and chaotic.” If you’re visiting Wellington towards the end of CHINA‘s time at Te Papa, be sure to take a short walk to City Gallery Wellington (Civic Square) and check out Seung Yul Oh: MOAMOA which runs from May 31 to August 24. The Korean-New Zealand artist’s playful shapes and colourful forms will delight and engage. Born in Seoul in 1981, Seung Yul Oh attracted early attention with an exhibition in which he deep fried all his paintings. MOAMOA is the first major survey exhibition of the large-scale sculptural work of the artist recently described by the Guardian UK as ‘one of the rising stars of the Asian art market’.

For evening dining, Dragonfly (70 Courtenay Place) is a sophisticated dining lounge with a modern Southeast-Asian menu. The décor is cool and dark and you can tuck yourselves away in a secluded booth or relax in the hidden courtyard. Choose a selection of dishes to share and match with some classy cocktails, craft beer or local wines. If you’re in town on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, keep an eye out for their special drink deals. For Japanese-style dining try Arashi Kushiyaki Bar (41 Courtenay Place). Kushiyaki refers to skewer-grilled dishes of seafood, beef, pork, chicken or vegetables and are the house speciality. However a wide range of Japanese cuisine is available at this lively, popular eatery. For the traditional Japanese experience, reserve a low table and take a seat on tatami mats.

WOK STARS

AFTER DINNER DELIGHTS

Yum cha dining is a regular ritual and rite of passage for many Wellingtonians. This traditional Chinese style is all about hand-prepared morsels of delicious dim sum dumplings, steamed buns, rice rolls and more, all washed down with tea. It’s a great alternative for a Sunday brunch (be sure to book), and the city has a number of restaurants that specialise, including Majestic Cuisine, Regal Chinese Restaurant, Big Thumb Restaurant and Grand Century Chinese Restaurant — all on or just off Courtenay Place.

As the Japanese proverb says, ‘we’re fools whether we dance or not, so we might as well dance.’ At Good Luck Bar (126 Cuba Street) the atmosphere is cool, with a sense of fun and as the DJ spins superfly jazzy beats you can get your groove on. Dance-related thirst can be managed with a selection from Good Luck’s fabulous cocktail menu, based on the I Ching system of divination. A combo of hip swinging and delicious mysticism makes for a good night at Good Luck.

01 — Periphery, 2013, Seung Yul Oh. Courtesy of the artist and One and J. Gallery, Seoul. Photographer: Max Bellamy 02 — Wellington Night Market 03 — Portrait of Emperor Qianlong 04 — Shi Lu painting

At Ancestral (31-33 Courtenay Place), as the name suggests, they build a future on the foundations of the past. The atmosphere evokes 1930s Shanghai, where traditional values mixed with international influences to create something unmistakeably modern. This approach extends to the drinks list where an oldschool structure arranges concoctions along historical lines; cocktails, smashes, fizzes, juleps, sours, highballs and more, while ingredients reflect the experimental spirit of modern mixology. MARKET PLACES Street market shopping may not be unique to East Asia, though many say it was perfected there. In Wellington, market shopping Kiwi-style regularly brings people together to explore, buy, taste and be entertained. The outdoor Harbourside Market is open every Sunday morning in a beautiful location next to Te Papa. Swing by after checking out the CHINA exhibitions to collect fresh fruit and vegetables, hot food and artisan produce. Musicians play and a fishing boat pulls up alongside to sell that morning’s catch. Next door the indoor City Market is for real food enthusiasts. From boutique wineries and bakeries, cheeses, chocolates and much more, you can taste delicious produce and meet the makers. For example, Vicky Ha from House of

Dumplings showcases her hand-crafted, all natural, free range dumplings and will talk passionately with customers about her philosophy on food.

Vicky’s dumplings can also be found at the bustling Wellington Night Market, along with a whole raft of international food stalls. A joyful riot of colour, aroma and music, the Night Market fills Cuba Street’s Left Bank arcade every Wednesday and Friday night. Philosopher, poet and author of the Tao Te Ching, Laozi once wrote, “the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” To take a step towards planning your next weekend getaway, visit WellingtonNZ.com.

www.vervemagazine.co.nz

Hiking The Globe Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

01 It’s Oxfam Trailwalker month, which sees brave teams of four spending 36 hours walking 100km around Lake Taupo. According to the charity, “it’s the most life changing, team building, foot slogging, friendship forming, group hugging experience… ever!” And of course, all for good causes. In honour of the great event, Verve brings you more great hikes from seven corners of the globe. EL CAMINO SANTIAGO, SPAIN Known in English as St. James’ Way, it’s a collection of routes in northern Spain where rests the shrine of James the Apostle. Originally established as a penance to pardon medieval sinners, the hundreds of kilometres long treks now attract Christians and non-believers in their thousands. It can take up to a month to complete, though you don’t have to do it all at once, of course.

INCA TRAIL, SOUTH AMERICA Possibly the world’s most famous trek, the Inca Trail snakes six countries through the Andes, ancient ruins and Sacred Valley, ending at the gates of Machu Picchu. The classic trail starts from a choice of two points lasting 82-88km, usually completed over five days. Numbers are limited and demand is high, only a few hundred visitors are allowed to traverse each day. APPALACHIAN TRAIL, USA America’s Appalachian Trail spans 3,500km and stretches through 14 states from Georgia to Maine. The brainchild of forester Benton MacKaye, in the early 20th century he sought to establish a scenic stretch so city dwellers could experience the area’s abundance of farms and wilderness. There are over 2,000 rare and endangered animal and plants, including the black bear living in the Appalachians. CONTINUES ON PAGE 22

Open every day, Brick Bay is spectacular in the Autumn. Explore the Sculpture Trail, relax in the Glass House with a platter, taste MATAKANA

the wine, or just pop in for great coffee and delicious cakes.

Open every day 10am- 5pm | Brick Bay Wines & Sculpture Trail Arabella Lane, Snells Beach | Phone 09 425 4690 | www.brickbay.co.nz

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01 — El Camino Santiago, Spain 02 — Inca Trail, South America 03 — Appalachian Trail, USA 04 — Langtang Valley, Nepal 05 — Tongariro National Park, New Zealand 06 — Atlas Mountains, North Africa 07 — South Georgia Island, Antarctica

04 LANGTANG VALLEY, NEPAL Situated to the north of Kathmandu on the border with Tibet, Langtang Valley snakes some of the world’s most spectacular alpine scenery. In 1971 it was established as Nepal’s first national park and is home to a collection of week-tomonth-long routes. There remain dozens of glaciers along with stunning highaltitude lakes and forestry teeming with deer, monkeys and Himalayan tahr.

TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK, NEW ZEALAND The nation’s oldest national park, established in 1887, boasts deserts, lakes and smouldering volcanos. The northern circuit, one of the nine great walks, is 43km and takes 3-4 days to complete. The alpine crossing sports some of the best bits compressed into one more manageable day of 19km. ATLAS MOUNTAINS, NORTH AFRICA Though stretching 2,000km from the Atlantic coast to Tunisia, the majority of the mountain range remains in Morocco. It is split into the smaller sections of Anti, Middle and High Atlas, with Jbel Toubkal taking North Africa’s highest peak title at 4,167m. The area is famed for housing some of the continent’s rarest animals, many of which can only be found there, and some of which are now extinct, such as the North African elephant and Africa’s only species of bear, named after the mountain range.

SHACKLETON’S ROUTE, SOUTH GEORGIA ISLAND, ANTARCTICA Not actually on Antarctica’s mainland, this hike covers 35km and a good dose of history concerning the doomed 1915 stranding of polar explorer Ernest Shackleton. A life-changing journey, it spans crevasse-strewn glaciers and black sand beaches home to penguins, elephant seals and countless birds such as the Arctic tern and light-mantled sooty albatross. Shackleton’s grave rests on the island, too.

APRIL 2014

09 529 9933

treesfurniture.co.nz

430 / Broadway / Newmarket

Trust in trestles Many colours, designs and table tops

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HOMES

Trenzseater: Drapery and Luxaflex TRENZSEATER is the obvious choice for those wanting the sophistication and ambiance that our international collection of drapery fabrics along with our LUXAFLEX portfolio of products can offer your residential or commercial project! TRENZSEATER offers solutions for all your window furnishings over a large portfolio of products, to ensure you have the very best available to you to enhance your interior. This collection of products, which ranges from some of the very finest international drapery brands, innovative track, rod and finial collections and complemented with the LUXAFLEX range. TRENZSEATER is now a LUXAFLEX showcase retailer so we can demonstrate all latest blind, shutter, duette and venetians available on the market. If you are considering drapery for your home, TRENZSEATER has professional interior design consultants who can visit your home and work with you to achieve exactly what you are after, offering professional sound advice. Often it is the fine details which can be overseen that a professionally interior design consultant will pick up on to ensure this is avoided. To begin your search for the latest in drapery trends visit TRENZSEATER design studio, where we have a comprehensive collection of samples of these distinguished brands, ranging from relaxed linens, to classic tailored stripes, through to glamorous velvets and silks. We have a LUXAFLEX portfolio in store which enables you to easily visualise what the product will look like in your home. This collection includes roller blinds, suncreens, duettes, aluminium

and timber venetians, shutters, panel glides and specialty curtain tracks. To experience a truly dedicated LUXAFLEX range of products you need to visit TRENZSEATER today! TRENZSEATER also has a renowned reputation for entertaining commercial projects, so if you have commercial requirements, talk with our interior design consultants who can work through the best solutions alongside our commercial rates we can offer. We look forward to your visit when you are next considering window furnishings or if you wanted to view our fantastic collection of furniture we have in our showroom at 80 Parnell Road, Parnell. We are open 7 days and have a comprehensive website which you can visit also at www.trenzseater.com

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If you are considering drapery for your home, TRENZSEATER has professional interior design consultants who can visit your home and work with you to achieve exactly what you are after, offering professionally sound advice. Often it is the fine details which can be overseen that a professional interior design consultant will pick up on to ensure this is avoided.

DESIGN APRIL 2014

F UR N I TU R E

INT ERIO R DESIGN

DR APE R Y

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HENRI ARMCHAIR - $2931 as pictured

CABANA ARMCHAIR - $2848 as pictured

DILLON 3.5 SEATER - $6138 as pictured

CAPRI 3.5 SEATER - $6212 as pictured

TRENZSEATER

MONACO OTTOMAN - $1498 as pictured

BORDEAUX SIDEBOARD - $5821 as pictured

TRENZSEATER Auckland I 80 PARNELL RD, AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND. T. (09) 303 4151 TRENZSEATER Christchurch I 121 BLENHEIM RD, CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND. T. (03) 343 0876 Opening hours: Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm, Sunday 11am - 4pm

Meet us on facebook today at www.facebook.com/trenzseater

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The Future is Modular Box™ architect Tim Dorrington shares his views on why prefabrication, kitset and modular homes will play a bigger part in New Zealand’s design landscape – and explains the differences between the three forms of building. The words ‘kitset’, ‘prefab’ and ‘modular’, once anathema to the architectural cause, are now sprinkled around home design magazines like confetti. Globally renowned architects such as the UK’s Sir Norman Foster have long lauded the merits of prefabrication and recently, Italian Pritzker prizewinner, Renzo Piano, designed a ‘micro house’, a transportable cabin that is made in his workshop from prefabricated parts. It’s not only the high-end ‘starchitects’ who should be looking at this methodology. With price per square metre building rates creeping ever upwards, beyond the reach of the average homeowner, architects and their clients are seeking new design solutions that deliver value on an aesthetic and monetary level. In this respect, prefabrication and its construction cousins are stepping into the spotlight. Yet most people have preconceived ideas about prefab — and there’s a lot of confusion between the terms — so here’s a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of each building method: KITSET Don’t opt for kitset if you battle to assemble a flatpack item of furniture you’ve just bought online! Kitset homes are usually self-assembled from a medley of parts. Of course, you can always pay someone to connect the bits. Generally they are a form of lightweight construction. PROS: / Suitable for those on very tight budgets. / Simple to build. / A cost-effective option for short-term applications such as in a pop-up shop, a surf shack or temporary accommodation. /Can easily be moved off site and/or on sold. CONS: / Quality of the design may be compromised. / Quality of the materials may be compromised.

01 / Often not suitable for long-term occupancy. PREFAB Uses prefabricated components that are assembled on site. A system of building that is not aimed at the DIY market but usually put together by a builder or the company itself. Lockwood was the original New Zealand house company that used pre-made timber parts locked together (assembled) on site. There are two types of prefabrication:

01 — This Box™ Classic House in Peka Peka is designed as a holiday home to a grid of 1.2 metres.

i) Components or elements are fabricated in a workshop then brought to site and assembled. Similar to kitset but potentially of a more bespoke nature. ii) A whole or half a building can be made off-site then transported as a 3D volume (not flat-packed). PROS: / Elements are manufactured under controlled conditions, which could mean potential improvements in quality and in the speed of the build. / Waste is centralised and either fed back into the production process or recycled. CONS: / Some difficult-to-access sites are not suitable for prefab buildings. / Because this uses standard component sizes, the design is not as bespoke. / Due to the overheads involved in maintaining a prefab business (factory lease, paying employees even in down times), this method is not necessarily cheaper. MODULAR This is not, strictly speaking, a building method but rather a design philosophy. Basically, it is about designing and building to specific dimensions which are increments of standard material sizes. At Box™ our modular components are the posts, beams, wall panels and glazing panels. Modular houses also use repeatable building pieces. At Box™, the brackets that join the posts and

02 — Box™ architect Tim Dorrington believes that the future of home building in New Zealand lies in creating systems that use the eco-friendly and budget-wise constructs of modular architecture. 03 — This home in Wellington was recognised in the 2013 New Zealand Institute of Architects’ Awards for Small Project Architecture.

beams together and the stainless-steel cross braces that anchor the structure are recurring parts. PROS: / More centralised production under one roof means better quality components that are made faster in a controlled environment. / There is opportunity to design waste out of the process (so more ecofriendly). For example plywood comes in 1.2 metre x 2.4 metre sheets so the home would be designed to those increments with no offcuts. / Since a lot of the home arrives pre-made it is quicker to build on site. / The building system is flexible enough to respond to different briefs and a range of sites yet still uses standardised parts to give certainty of cost. CONS: / Kiwis traditionally love bespoke buildings so a re-education as to the advantages and possibilities of a modular design-and-build system is needed.

AT HOME WITH KARAKTER

TREASURES OF MARRAKECH

German born Ludwig Mies van der Rohe is widely regarded as one of the 20th Century’s greatest architects. He spent the first half of his career in his native country and received his first commission (Riehl house) at only 20 years of age. Mies quickly became a leading figure in Berlin and was widely respected in Europe for his innovative structures, including the Barcelona Pavilion.

Joy Stockwell’s love affair with the magical Kingdom of Morocco, began at the age of 19, “when those of us who travelled there, were wanderers and explorers. There were no tourists. It was a very exciting time in history.”

LUDWIG MIES VAN DER ROHE 1886-1969 of the supporting structure and the supported surfaces, often employing cantilevers to enhance the feeling of lightness created by delicate structural frames. During this period, he collaborated

closely with interior designer and companion Lilly Reich.

Once settled in Chicago in the late 1930s Mies spent the remainder of his career there and became an American citizen in 1944. Alongside masterpieces in architecture, he designed modern furniture pieces using new industrial technologies that have become popular classics, such as the Barcelona chair and table and the Brno chair. His furniture is known for it’s fine craftsmanship, a mix of traditional luxurious fabrics like leather combined with modern chrome frames, and a distinct separation

Our favourite design is the iconic Brno chair (Mr50). Designed as bedroom furniture for Tugendhat House in Brno (now Czech Republic). Made from a single piece of steel forming a C-shape creating the arms and legs. The steel frame was also bent under the seat to form the cantilever. The steel components make these chairs very robust and heavy. These chairs are available in both tubular and flat bar versions. BUYING GUIDE / Brno Chairs — post 1953 — should have Knoll Studio and Mies Van der Rohe signature stamped on the outside of the lower left leg at floor level. There should be Knoll fabric to the underside. / Barcelona chairs — post 1953 — should have Knoll Studio and Mies Van der Rohe signature stamped on the frame, Knoll fabric to the underside, cushions should be angled at joint to match frame angle. Eight leather straps on back with no visible fixings. Nine straps on base. No visible joints on frame corners (made from one piece of steel).

Karakter sources the finest examples of mid twentieth century furniture and accessories from Europe and is delighted to have a number of pieces by this celebrated designer available to view in its Parnell showroom

Karakter 100 Parnell Road, Parnell 09 550 8749 | www.karakter.co.nz See Karakter’s ad in Verve’s Market Place on page 94.

She has journeyed across the Atlas Mountains, explored the villages on the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, spent many moments of meditation at the edge of the Sahara desert, but it was her love for the tribal textile arts that led her to become an expert on the amazing tribal carpets, which have become highly collectible worldwide. Her collection of early-mid century pieces was featured at the renowned Fenn Gallery in Santa Fe, New Mexico in 1982.

Marrakech was, and still is, her favourite city, and she returns at least once a year to her traditional Riad (courtyard home). Joy, who has been a New Zealand resident for 10 years, has brought into the country a stunning collection of antique and modern tribal carpets, hand hammered copper bathtubs, ancient doors, exquisite traditional mosaic courtyard fountains, prehistoric fossil basins and tables, jewellery and much more. Her boutique/ showroom, Treasures of Marrakech, truly has the ambiance of the souks of her beloved Morocco. If you have ever been, or dream of going to Morocco, you’ll be transported there once you step in the door!

discover the...

Treasures of Marrakech BOUTIQUE SHOWROOM

EXHIBITION/SHOP Now through to 7 June

Tuesdays-Saturdays 2-6 pm and Thursday & Friday evenings until 10 pm or by appointment Three Lamps Plaza, 283 Ponsonby Road283 PONSONBY ROAD THREE LAMPS PLAZA, UPSTAIRS, 2-6 pm Tuesdays-Saturdays or by appointment

 Antique tribal Carpets  Handmade Mosaic & Fossil tables  Ornate Iron Furniture & Chandeliers • Antique Tribal Carpets  Ancient doors (some made into tables)  Metal • Handmade Mosaic & Fossil Tables Lanterns Traditional Tea Sets & Tagines • Ornate Iron Furniture & Chandeliers  Stunning Mosaic Fountains • Ancient Doors (Some Made Into Tables)  Painted wooden Chests • Metal Lanterns  Hand Made Tiles • Traditional Tea Sets & Tagines • Stunning Mosaic Fountains  hand hammered copper bathtub & sinks • Painted Wooden Chests  Interior design consulting

• Hand Made Tiles Shop: 09 378 6800& | M: 021 179 1707 • Hand Hammered Copper Bathtub Sinks | treasuresofmarrakech.com •mogador2004@hotmail.com Interior Design Consulting

Shop: 09 378 6800 | M: 021 179 1707 mogador2004@hotmail.com | treasuresofmarrakech.com

SO MUCH TO SEE. ALL FOR FREE.

104 Mt. Eden Road, Mt. Eden | P: 09 638 8463 | www.lahood.co.nz

PHONE 638 8463 NOW for a FREE in home design consultation

30% OFF BLOCKOUT LININGS*

20% OFF BLINDS BY LAHOOD*

30% OFF ALL CURTAIN MAKING*

CURTAINS • BLINDS • SUNSCREENS • ROLLER SHADES • VENETIANS • SHUTTERS • ROMAN BLINDS • INTERIOR DESIGN *Special conditions apply. Offer finishes 30/04/2014

04314 - Lahood - Verve Mag - April 2014 - 180x133 - v2.indd 1

19/03/14 5:29 PM

APRIL 2014

FASHION

FASHION:

A-STYLE It’s a new season which often signals a time when we want a new look or style.... it’s the perfect time for a transformation and having a personal shopper and stylist on hand is a great way to avoid making expensive clothing mistakes. Have you ever felt like you just can’t find the right clothes to suit you? You buy things that look fabulous in the shop but the moment you get them home they somehow look completely different and get relegated to the back of the wardrobe, never to be worn? Or you wear them but never feel quite right or comfortable? You are not alone. Many women go through their days wearing things that don’t make them feel good. The idea behind A-style, says Director Alayna Robins, who has over 10 years fashion and styling experience, is to bring out your individual style by helping you realise what outfits work best for your body shape. Says Alayna, “we can often be wearing a certain style for years out of habit, for instance loose shirt and pants and then find that actually we are more suited to tailored dresses and jackets. Or we can have our style locked down and looking good but, our wardrobes are completely out of control.” HAND CRAFTED RUGS

96 ST GEORGES BAY RD, PARNELL WWW.ARTISANFLOORING.CO.NZ PHONE: 0508 ARTISAN

An A-style consult works in two parts – first the wardrobe assessment. Says Alayna, “often we don’t even know what we have in our wardrobes as they tend to be the one room in the house we tidy the least – out of sight, out of mind — open the door, grab something to wear from the front of the rack, put it back there later on. Then repeat the exercise the next day. We start feeling like we have no clothes, so rush out to buy other things and simply end up buying the same black top over and over again. The wardrobe assessment can be a look at your wardrobe to help streamline your garments and decide what needs to stay and what you may need to part with. It’s an interesting exercise. You could find you have seven pairs of pants that are all a similar style but you’ve only got one or two jackets or tops to go with them. I help you to figure out what you actually have in your wardrobe and what items you may need in order to make it work the most efficiently.” Following the wardrobe sort is the styling update. This can either be done by Alayna looking online for clothing options to help with your next purchase or you can book her to accompany you on your next shopping trip, to search out the particular pieces you need. Remember — how you present yourself is how people remember you. You are your own personal billboard. It is important as a woman that you feel confident and comfortable in your style choices so that you can in turn project that confidence to the world. And let’s face it, if we look good, and feel confident then we will be happy. A-style offers non intrusive help and advice to help you project your inner sparkle.

VERVE READER SPECIAL Receive 25% discount when booking in April/May.* *CONDITIONS APPLY

Pure linen sheets, quilts and duvets to bring a touch of nature to bed with you SHOP 7, NUFFIELD ST PRECINCT, NEWMARKET. PH 09 524 4452

www.harrowsethall.co.nz

Contact Alayna Robins: 021 207 0616 www.astyle.co.nz alaynafashion@gmail.com facebook.com/astyle.nz

Black& White

Photographer — Neil Gussey Hair and makeup — Imeleta Kellett Styling — Verve Magazine Models — Matilda and Isabella @ 62 Models Location — Kingsize Studios

Opposite page: Heyden Skirt by Elizabeth and James — Muse Boutique, Black T-shirt by KAF, Bobber Boots in black by Soles — Mischief Shoes, jacket stylist’s own

This page: Black Ship Dress by Miss Crabb, Fur and Wool Scarf by Country Road, Chevrille Shoes in black croc by Soles — Mischief Shoes, rings by Underground Sundae, King Arthur Stool in American Oak by Trees Company Ltd.

Matilda wears: Olympus Shirt Dress in black silk by Miss Crabb, rings by Underground Sundae

Isabella wears: Olympus Shirt Dress in white cotton voile by Miss Crabb, Chevrille Shoes in black croc by Soles â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Mischief Shoes, rings by Underground Sundae

Left: Faithful Pure Wool Sweater in houndstooth, Kiss Kiss Kiss Pure Wool Skirt in houndstooth, Olympus Shirt Dress in white cotton voile by Miss Crabb, Bobber Boots in black by Soles — Mischief Shoes, rings by Underground Sundae

Right: Cashmere Sweater in black and white by Autumn Cashmere — Muse Boutique, Drawstring Short in black by Lonely Lounge

STOCKISTS AUTUMN CASHMERE www.museboutique.co.nz, COUNTRY ROAD www.countryroad.com.au, ELIZABETH AND JAMES www.museboutique.co.nz, KAF www.kafkids.co.nz, LONELY LOUNGE www.lonelyheartslabel.com, MISCHIEF SHOES www.mischiefshoes.co.nz, MISS CRABB www.misscrabb.com, MOOCHI www.moochi.co.nz, TREES COMPANY LTD. www.treesfurniture.co.nz, UNDERGROUND SUNDAE www.undergroundsundae.com, WITCHERY www.witchery.com.au

ONLY ONE IN NEW ZEALAND

18kt Gold Bracelet with random multifaceted cut natural stones. Gold engraved manually using a burin. $12,972.00

shop 4, 25 teed street, newmarket, auckland phone: (09) 522 8620 email: jewellery@belloro.co.nz opening hours monday – saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm sunday – closed

114 Main Highway Ellerslie 09 579 3535 Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm | Sat 10am-4pm

SUBTLE AUTUMN PINKS LAYBY NOW

LOOBIE’S STORY OBI : CATALYST SILLS : CALLIOPE MEREDITH : DAVID POND ARTSTYLE : REDHEAD PAULA RYAN : JETBLONDE

APRIL 2014

VERVE CHATS TO: THE NEXT FACE OF NEWMARKET Five minutes with Brianna ButlerGallie, the winner of the Next Face of Newmarket Competition

would be Victoria’s Secret — their shows look amazing!

Verve: How did you feel when you were announced as the Next Face of Newmarket? Brianna: At first I was stunned and surprised and then extremely excited!

V: Who do you look up to in the modelling industry? B: My manager Amanda Bransgrove is definitely a big inspiration to me. She has taught and guided me through everything — she is truly wonderful.

V: What does this opportunity mean for you? B: This has given me huge opportunities to meet many amazing people and also further my modelling career — I am really excited to see where it can take me.

V: What’s next for you? Do you plan to go overseas with modelling? B: I would love to see where it takes me, I’m trying to gain as much experience as I can, but overseas would be an amazing opportunity!

V: What are you hoping to get out of being the Next Face of Newmarket? B: I hope to gain a lot of new skills and expand my knowledge of the modelling industry, while having fun along the way.

V: What’s your favourite part of modelling? B: This will sound ridiculous, but I love getting my hair and makeup done! It’s fun and also gives me a chance to talk and get to know so many hilarious and talented people. Of course I love challenging myself with the photo shoots and walking is always a massive adrenaline rush.

V: Who would be your dream designer to walk for? B: There are so many amazing designers I would love to walk for, but an ultimate

UNION CLOTHING

WINTER 2014 BONE COLLECTOR IN STORE NOW

299 Ponsonby Road - Three Lamps Tel: 09 376 1122 www.unionclothing.co.nz - online store Shop hours Monday to Saturday 9.30am - 5.30pm Sunday - 10.00am - 2.00pm

Union is the result of the collective force of Wendy Nelson and Shona Parore. Having reached similar crossroads in their ives they combined their creative talents to form their new label Union. Both have long standing careers in the fashion industry, and their knowledge base in design and all aspects of the industry makes their union a very powerful one indeed. Wendy started the iconic Chlorofile on Ponsonby Road in the 80s, while Shona was Trelise Cooper’s right hand in design and head of her design room for over 15 years. Shona and Wendy’s vision for you, the Union customer, is that you begin a special relationship which will have you returning again and again for clothes that make a statement and make you feel great. All of the garments are designed and made in New Zealand, with the exception of several embellished pieces that are produced off-shore by trusted suppliers. Silk and other natural fibres are used to create simple trans-seasonal shapes,

L-R — Wendy and Shona of Union Clothing

which can be layered together to create a foundation for a wardrobe that is easy to wear and designed to fit into the New Zealand lady’s lifestyle. The store, located at 299 Ponsonby Road in Three Lamps, was opened on Friday 13 December 2013 in the heart of the thriving Ponsonby area. So far the store has been an utmost success and the pinnacle of their new venture. Shona and Wendy believe the store is full of joy and they can’t wait to see what the future holds. They encourage and welcome new and returning customers with the hope that the in-store experience is one that is warm and inviting.

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ROSE & THORNE

STYLE COACHING

VERVE’S FAVOURITE ITEMS FROM THE SERENITY COLLECTION

VERVE TALKS TO STYLE COACHING GURU, MARGARITA

Rose & Thorne creates New Zealands’s best everyday intimates that are comfortable, affordable and accessible, without ever compromising on style. The new Serenity Collection by Rose & Throne reflects the change of season in a cascade of colour, feminine florals, exquisite lace and sophisticated designs. Visit www.roseandthorne.com

Margarita is a postive, bubbly, caring woman – one who you would trust if you wished to change your career path and become a Style Coach™.

EAZY PEEZY The Easy Peezy flatters most women, with an elegant deep V-neckline in a galloon edge lace. This stunning style is the epitome of elegance.

For a long time we have had image consultants, personal stylists, personal shoppers, colour consultants and life coaches. But over the last 10 years, you may have noticed an emerging specialisation has been revolutionising the image training industry — Style Coaching™ has been organically growing! “Style Coaching™ transforms lives” says Margarita. “I have seen women/men totally blossom from this course – they seem to get their private life and their careers all sorted at the same time”

CURVYLICIOUS The Curvylicious shape in a beautiful botanical print customdesigned by Rose & Thorne is the perfect and pretty choice for smaller and fuller busts alike.

BETTY BOOBS The Betty Boobs in elegant navy with a bright bolt of colour is a delicate yet fully supportive bra that embodies every day glamour.

Margarita explains,“our course is diverse and those attending realise that our appearances have an affect on many aspects of our lives — our confidence, enthusiasm, motivation, inspiration and many other emotions, both positive and negative.” Style Coaching™ offers a layered approach. The surface layer is where we discuss the following: body shape analysis, style personalities, colour characteristics, wardrobe makeovers, personal shopping, makeup and grooming. The course is all about you and what you can do to achieve and grow in all aspects of your life. You can then pass this on to others.” “Then, merged and entwined between all of these topics we have the deeper layers,” Margarita says, “where we look at how appearance interrelates with the emotional states we experience on a daily basis.” If you are interested, visit www. stylecoachinginstitute.com or call Margarita on 021 284 3948. Or see the Style Coaching Institute™ ad on the next page.

“

Our course is diverse and those attending realise that our appearances have an affect on many aspects of our lives — our confidence, enthusiasm, motivation, inspiration and many other emotions both positive and negative. CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

I am very grateful for the opportunity to complete The Style Coaching Institute’s course. I learnt so much, not only to help others but also for my own personal growth. I now have a new career doing what I love. Thank you. — Susie Jones-Cook

APRIL 2014

STYLE COACHING INSTITUTE® NEW ZEALAND WHETHER YOU ARE AN EXPERIENCED IMAGE PROFESSIONAL LOOKING TO TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL, A LIFE COACH LOOKING TO ADD AN EXCITING NEW DIMENSION TO YOUR WORK, OR A COMPLETE NEWCOMER WHO WOULD LIKE TO HAVE A BRAND NEW CAREER, THEN THE STYLE COACHING™ DIPLOMA COURSE IS THE PERFECT CHOICE FOR YOU! Style Coaching™ is a powerfully sophisticated yet pure and simple formula for inner and outer transformation! The Style Coaching Institute® created and defined the field of Style Coaching™. Unlike copycats, we offer you the highly developed Style Coaching™ formula that has been TRUSTED, TRIED and TESTED by over 1000 professionals and companies in 60 countries around the world!

ACCREDITED DIPLOMA COURSES STARTING JULY IN NEW ZEALAND VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO FIND OUT MORE AND SIGN-UP FOR OUR FREE MINI LESSONS!

www.stylecoachinginstitute.com

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01 — Peter Carl Fabergé 02 — The Basket of Wild Flowers Egg made under the supervision of the Peter Carl Fabergé in 1901 03 — The Rose Trellis Faberge Egg is a jewelled enameled imperial Easter egg made in Russia under the supervision of Peter Carl Fabergé in 1907, for Tsar Nicholas II of Russia. It was presented by Tsar Nicholas II to his wife, the Empress Alexandra Fyodorovna, on Easter 1907 (source:wikipedia)

Easter and The Story of Fabergé Words: Angus Brown

02 Aside from the Christian connections, for most people, Easter means a fabulous four day weekend and lots of chocolate filled eggs (followed by a few weeks of regret). In 1885, for the Empress of Russia, it meant a gift from her husband, Tsar Alexander III, of an exquisite objet d’art, which is now known as the first Fabergé egg, or ‘The Hen Egg’. The gift was most likely presented to mark the occasion of the 20th anniversary of their engagement, but it also coincided with Easter, the most significant event in the Russian Orthodox Calendar. And so, in the fascinating story of Fabergé, we find a tremendous point of intersection where religion, history, beauty and ultimately tragedy abound.

for the one proviso, every egg had to contain a surprise. His designs became more elaborate with each passing year and were invariably stunningly beautiful. All in all, 50 eggs were made, 43 of which have survived to this day. The Russian Revolution in 1917 spelled the end of the Romanov’s, the House of Fabergé and necessitated a one-way trip to Switzerland for the unfortunate Fabergé family. The company and its intellectual property were now in the hands of the Bolsheviks, but it continued to operate as the years went by, and in 2007 it came full circle with new ownership and direction and a reunification with the Fabergé family under the guidance of Tatiana and Sarah Fabergé, the great grand-daughters of Peter Carl.

In selecting the famous gift for his beloved, not only did the Tsar set the bar altogether too high for every other husband in the world, he also immortalised the egg’s designer, Peter Carl Fabergé, as a jeweller of legendary reknown. So pleased was the Empress with her white enameled golden egg, that Fabergé was commissioned to design another one the following year. Alexander’s son, Nicholas II, had wisely observed his father’s example and in 1894, continued the tradition by presenting an egg to both his mother and his wife — they knew how to keep their women happy those Romanov’s. Fabergé was given free rein in the design, save

Today, Fabergé continues to make stunning precious gem encrusted jewellery, the designs of which consistently pay homage to the Imperial Easter Eggs – what I wouldn’t give for a pair of ‘Boris Diamond Cufflinks’. Pearl and diamond bracelets, magnificent egg-shaped pendants, sapphire encrusted rings and sublime timepieces with price tags of USD $47,000 are all available to those with the money and the inclination to buy them. So as you indulge this Easter in a Cadbury crème egg, ponder if you will, the fortunes of the Fabergé’s and the Romanov’s and the beautiful creations their shared history gave to the world.

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APRIL 2014

SIGNATURE STYLE

Your questions answered by

OUT IT GOES!

Meghan Maher Repertoire’s Style Director

Everyone knows about ‘spring cleaning’, where debris collected over winter is shifted to make room for the summer (never understood it myself, I love my cleaner). Equally important therefore must be the ‘autumn clean’ – perhaps the name is slightly less sexy, but surely putting away the chilly bin and extra outdoor furniture is derigueur as the weather cools?

I noticed an abundance of dresses in last summer’s collections, are dresses still on trend this winter?

Doing a seasonal clean out of your wardrobe is a task that is admittedly one of those ‘urgh’ jobs, but vital at the beginning of each season. I say beginning because you need to get rid of the stuff that is simply taking up hanger space to make way for the new, however, this is only one outcome. A seasonal ‘audit’ is essential to help you create a plan for what you need going forward. It’s worth spending a little time taking stock of what you have, looking at what has or hasn’t worked for you. This enables you to focus your efforts on what you need. Although some of us buy whatever takes our fancy at any given time, I doubt I’m the only woman who has bought something home to think “Oops! That’s quite similar to my other one!” To start the wardrobe de-cluttering process, the three pile rule works well: pile one is for the garments that are worn out, dated, don’t fit or you no longer like – these should go. Pile two is for the things to be mended or laundered and pile three, the things you love but are unsure of how to wear, or no longer have anything to wear with. What’s left in the wardrobe should be the garments you actually wear. Next step: take a look at what is left hanging — can any of that be teamed back with the clothing in pile three? No? Create a list of what is needed to make those ‘pile three’ garments work – a jacket? Slim pants? Whatever it is, it goes on your list. Be ruthless with pile three: if you can’t see how you can make it work, perhaps it’s time to retire it. Love it too much? If you have space, give it a ‘holiday’ for a season, it may work next winter. I feel that my last piece of advice needs a caveat — if you love it too much but can’t make it work, be tough. Don’t simply hold onto garments that are no longer stylish because when they were, you loved wearing them. Jackie O’Fee is the owner of Signature Style, Auckland’s leading personal style consultancy. Want some help? We’re experts at creating wonderful wardrobes that work for our clients. Call us on 09 529 5115 and let us come and make sense of your closet. Further details are on our website signaturestyle.co.nz

Signature Style 35 Broadway, Newmarket 09 529 5115 See Signature Style’s ad on page 95

Dresses are strong this winter season, especially the shift dress (made famous by Victoria Beckham and Kate Middleton) which has become the stand out or ‘must have’ piece in your wardrobe. We love this style at Repertoire and have a number in our collection. It can be teamed up with one of our many winter coats. Even though the shift dress is straight in nature, it is very flattering and forgiving in styles and fabrics that skim the body rather than hug it. The simplicity echo’s the individuals silhouette. I always recommend a finishing length of just above or just below the knee as this is the most flattering and age appropriate solution. If you have an amazing pair of legs then this is the season for you! Invest in a shift dress as well as other dresses to show off your greatest asset. Alternatively if you aren’t crazy about your legs don’t shy away from the shift dress, instead style it back with great hosiery and long length boots that are tonal, which will elongate your legs.

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SHEER DELIGHTS Fashion by: Paris Mitchell

Translucent fabrics will always have their place on the runway. Whether it’s mesh layers, organza detailing or a delicate knit. Looks from AW14 include Victoria Beckham, Calvin Klein and Ports 1961.

Above — Victoria Beckham AW14 Right — Calvin Klein AW14

01 02

Georgia Alice’s autumn/winter 2014 collection ‘Battenberg’ is now available in stores and online. www.georgiaalice.com

VERVE PICKS

Above: The Brothers Hemmingway sleeve. $285 Available from www.thebrothers.co.nz Right: For the living room: Linda McCartney. Life in Photographs. A retrospective of Linda McCartney’s life and photography. Available from www.amazon.com

01 — Ruby Downtown Longsleeve $159. Available from www.rubynz.com 02 —BCBG Max Azria Gisella Long Sleeve Wrap Top $249. Available from Just Glamour Boutique, 1 Kingdon St, Newmarket 03 — Witchery Leopard Print Shirt. Available from witchery.com.au

APRIL 2014

POSTSUMMER BEAUTY Beauty by: Paris Mitchell

Even the most diligent SPF-wearers among us have some unprotected summer sun moments. And come fall we pay the price with redness, brown spots, fine lines and moisture loss.

Dries Van Noten AW14 was filled with print and hints of shimmer, however the hair stemmed from one of the 40s dresses that were part of the collection. Fudge Salt Spray was also used in the Dries Van Noten AW14 collection to add a lived-in, dry matte texture. Available from www.fudge.com

NIMUE’S NEWLY REFORMULATED SKIN REFIRMER A light and luxurious treatment, which contains four peptides designed to firm, elasticise, moisturise and thicken skin, allowing for immediate tightening and lifting just minutes after application. $190 Visit gobalbeauty.co.nz for stockists.

VERVE PICKS

NEW TRILOGY BLEMISH CONTROL GEL (20ML) RRP $24.90 This certified natural gel formulation is a powerful and concentrated treatment for spots, by clearing congestion and debris, while the natural antibacterial properties of lemongrass and mandarin help control breakouts and aid healing. Whatever the cause, Trilogy Blemish Control Gel is a highly effective botanical blemish blaster. Apply directly to blemish 1-3 times daily.

LINDEN LEAVES HERBALIST RANGE Linden Leaves uses natural ingredients contained in beautiful, recyclable packaging. They create their products with love and a sense of pride, without animal testing. Linden Leaves shampoo and conditioner are effective products to nourish the skin and nurture the soul, offering a sense of delight every day. Visit www.lindenleaves.com for stockists. Pictured: Linden Leaves Herbalist: Rosemary and Cypress Shampoo 300ml $39.99 Linden Leaves Herbalist: Balm Mint and Tangerine Conditioner 300ml $39.99

HAIR TIP: You really can’t over-condition hair after a summer’s worth of sun, If you have the time, leave conditioner on for at least five minutes. No need to worry —your hair will absorb only what it needs. Just rinse thoroughly.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

101 FITNESS

IS TRAINING TOO OFTEN MAKING YOU FAT? I often get asked, “am I training enough?” I simply answer that usually those (both men and women) who take their fitness seriously, over-train. This leads to reduced results, which people then try and compensate for by training even more. It’s a bit of an viscious cycle as I will explain below. When a goal of exercise is to lose weight or improve energy,

overtraining can clearly be a major barrier to achieving those goals. Here are a few techniques to avoid overtraining while still gaining the benefits of high intensity exercise and additionally makes sure you have a lower level of cortisol in your body: 1. Reduce the frequency. Pushing hard at the gym is not inherently problematic, but doing it too often during the week is over-training. High intensity, high stress exercise should be limited to once or twice a week max, especially for those who are dealing with other health issues or demanding work-life conditions. Compounding those stressors with extra stress

from your exercise routine will not leave you healthier, and can easily cause you to become more sick. 2. Get adequate rest. Not only is taking time to let your body recover from exercise important, but getting adequate sleep is vital in avoiding over-training syndrome. Make sure you are getting adequate sleep, particularly on the days you train. Interestingly, one symptom of over-training is disturbance of sleep, so if you’re feeling restless and having trouble sleeping through the night, you may want to take a few days off exercising. 3. Mix it up. While high intensity exercise may be ideal for losing body fat

and improving lean muscle mass, we know that high levels of cortisol can cause the body to hold onto fat. For this reason, consider trying a complimentary type of exercise that can help modulate your cortisol levels. Find something you enjoy that relaxes you and you will find you recover more quickly from your more intense exercise schedule. High intensity exercise is a great way to improve body composition and enhance your general health — if done the right way. Remember your body takes time to repair and adjust — you have to allow time for this to happen.

Melissa-Anne Smit Director 101 Fitness www.101fitness.co.nz

25 Minutes to a Younger You At 101 Fitness, we make sure that achieving a younger, fitter you is as convenient as possible. Which is why it only takes 25 minutes, once a week! And you get a reserved car park. Your trainer will have already set up your private studio for you. Your workout will be intense...our secret to getting you feeling and looking younger. Afterwards, you can shower and enjoy a healthy shake in our luxury facilities.

Call now for a younger body

(09) 940 7744

www.101fitness.co.nz

APRIL 2014

01 — Vanessa Baxter 02 — Vanessa Baxter cooking at Nosh Melting Pot

Verve Interviews: Vanessa Baxter 01 Name

She made it through to the top four in last year’s MasterChef television series. She is passionate about food, her family and life in general, and lately, 101 Fitness. Vanessa Baxter chats to Verve, about what 101 Fitness is doing for her.

Dates 14/01/2014 17/01/2014 22/01/2014 28/01/2014 4/02/2014 8/02/2014 13/02/2014 18/02/2014 5/03/2014 11/03/2014 Grand Total

Verve: As a busy mum of two boys, why did 101 Fitness appeal to you? Vanessa: I liked the idea of making an appointment that needs to be confirmed and kept. I also love that I only need to go once a week. I am busy with two young boys and all of their activities plus a dog who needs walking, so I tend to put my exercise needs last. V: So far you have completed 10 sessions with 101 Fitness. Tell us about the changes you have noticed? VN: I notice that I feel a lot stronger. When I walk the dog, I don’t puff so much going up hills. I find I am using my legs more and feel the muscles doing the work. I have also noticed little muscles in my arms — ones I didn’t use to have before! V: As an avid foodie teaching people how to cook and eat healthily, how important is fitness to you? VN: Well, this is the problem for me. I so love cooking and eating, and whilst I keep things fairly healthy in the kitchen, I do tend to be on a roller coaster as far as my fitness is concerned. In the past, I have simply monitored my food and drink to maintain a certain weight, rather than actually build up any strength and personal fitness. V: What else do you do to stay in shape? VN: I walk with the dog and I race around all day long. I am rarely seated and tend

Vanessa Baxter Values Back 60 62 68 68 68 70 70 70 70 70 70

Legs 118 130 150 156 160 166 168 172 174 176 176

Pull Press Abs Neck 180 88 36 20 188 92 38 20 194 102 44 24 198 104 44 24 198 104 44 26 198 104 44 26 198 106 44 26 198 106 44 26 198 108 46 26 198 108 46 26 198 108 46 26

Vanessa Baxter 250

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Axis Title

150

Back Legs Pull

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Press Abs Neck

Above — Vanessa’s amazing results over a 2 month period and in just 10 sessions. This shows on average a 25% increase in overall strength.

02 to be tearing about getting things done and feel as if I am always on the go. V: What was your main reason for trying out 101 Fitness? VN: To be honest, it was the small time commitment required. I was amazed to find out that I only had to turn up for 25 minutes, which meant that I would be in and out in 30 minutes flat. And only once a week – it’s insane! I also loved that someone follows up with you and makes sure you are OK for your next session. Making the commitment to turn up means it is in the diary just the same as the other appointments.

V: How do you find the team and facilities at 101 Fitness to work with? VN: The facilities at 101 Fitness are fabulous, and the team is both committed and determined to help you succeed. The trainers are firm but in a way that has you through your 20 minutes without you realising what you have achieved — until you try to climb the stairs as you are leaving! V: Any last comments? VN: I am thrilled to have discovered 101 Fitness. I really dislike the idea of gyms and exercise in general. 101 Fitness has opened my mind and to my surprise I actually enjoy the experience. In fact I even look forward to my next session — and I can honestly say that I have never felt that way before!

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BODYWISE PILATES

OF 20 WOMEN TO TRY FOR FREE!* DO YOU LOVE TO DANCE? BETOTALONEBARRE At Bodywise Pilates Studio we are having a lot of fun shaping and toning women with our popular new Total Barre programme. Combining music, dance and pilates, Total Barre is the latest in fitness. It will get you up and moving to music, enjoying yourself without even realising you are working out. We use a combination of music, including contemporary, tribal rhythms and retro, all at a tempo that make the movements achievable. It is suitable for all ages, and those with no experience — if you can bend your knees and stand on your toes you can do Total Barre.

01 — Total Barre instructor Donna.

Total Barre was inspired by professional dancer’s workouts, which use ‘barre exercises’ to warm up their bodies and prepare to dance on stage. Experts have developed the programme so that you can enjoy a balanced and enjoyable workout. It is excellent for building strength in your legs and improving flexibility. It is easy to learn and fun to do.

FIND OUT WHY YOU GO GREY When grey hair starts popping up, one of your first thoughts may be, “Why me? “ Well, the answers to that question might not be what you think they are. This is particularly true if you’ve been blaming stress. Here’s the real deal on the three major factors that determine when and why you go grey. GENETICS It turns out that you may have your parents to thank for those grey strands. Your hair will likely start turning grey at the same age that your parents’ hair did. That means if one or both of your parents went grey prematurely, then chances are that you will too. Genes play the biggest role in regulating the point at which hair follicles will start losing their pigment. This loss of pigment is really all that greying is. HEALTH AND HABITS While genetics largely determine when your hair turns grey, your health and daily habits can determine and even speed up the rate of greying. Smoking, vitamin

At Bodywise Pilates, we are excited to have Donna teaching Total Barre for us. Donna trained as a professional dancer and danced with the Royal New Zealand Ballet. She has continued to teach dance, with an occasional performance at concerts. This is a return to her roots, and she is loving bringing barre work, and the opportunity to move your body to music, to everyone. She says, “it brings a great sense of poise, and amazing tone to your calves, thigh and butt!” At Bodywise Pilates we want to offer 20 women the opportunity to come along and make their own mind up about Total Barre. You have until April 30 to contact Jenny at Bodywise Pilates and book your place, please feel free to bring a friend or colleague to try the class. Bodywise Pilates E: jenny@bodywisepilates.co.nz P: 09 965 3011 www.bodywisepilates.co.nz

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Genes play the biggest role in regulating the point at which hair follicles will start losing their pigment. This loss of pigment is really all that greying is. responsible for producing the melanin pigment. When they become damaged or begin dying (which is natural with age) our hair begins to grey. and nutrition deficiencies and thyroid conditions can influence the production (or lack thereof) of melanin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for providing colour to hair. DAMAGED OR DYING MELANOCYTES OK, so the loss of melanin is the catalyst for the greying process, but how exactly does that work? Melanocytes are the cells

So does stress cause grey hair? Not necessarily. Stress often gets a bad rap for bringing on the greys, but it’s not usually to blame. Stress is more closely linked to hair loss and shedding than it is to silver streaks. The good news is that grey hair can look great, in part precisely because of its otherness, so don’t be scared of going there.

Dr Anton Wiles and Dr Candida Hatherley

Your General Practitioners Skin / Melanoma Checks (incl. MoleMate)

Airlie Court, 320 Remuera Road, Remuera Free Roof Top Parking Monday - Friday 8am to 6pm, Late Night Thursday by appointment.

www.remueradoctors.co.nz

Come and see us for fantastic gifts for all ages, all your family’s health needs and excellent advice.

Pat

Gina

– Ample Free Parking – 145 West Tamaki Road Phone: 528 3636 elstreepharmacy@xtra.co.nz STOCKISTS OF INNOXA SKINCARE AND STYLI STYLE COSMETICS

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Right — Louise Wind of Caci Epsom

Verve Interviews: Louise Wind of Caci Epsom Words: Verve Reporter Photos: Glenn Stirling

TREATING SKIN AND ENHANCING APPEARANCE Tucked away down a busy side street, just up from the Greenlane-Manukau Road intersection, a stone’s throw from The Lido, and on the upper floor of a charming character building, is the calm and tranquil space that is Caci Epsom. The first thing I noticed about this beauty clinic is its tasteful flowing design. The interior is light and airy and the treatment rooms are comfortable, well appointed and sophisticated. I was meeting with Louise Wind, owner of this prestigious clinic. Louise, who has the most amazing skin, tells me that she was a customer of New Zealand’s original Caci Clinic, the one in Newmarket, which this year, celebrates two decades in business. A few years ago, needing a more flexible working life, the opportunity arose to buy Caci St. Lukes. “Having been a regular client for years, I was familiar with the treatments they did, and although my background was in banking and I knew little of the beauty business, it felt right.”And as they say, Louise never looked back, so much so that a few months ago, Louise was able to add Caci Epsom to her portfolio, where amongst other things, she works as treatment coordinator. As treatment coordinator, Louise is likely to be your first port of call at this prestigious Epsom clinic. At a

complimentary consultation, Louise discusses your beauty concerns with you and does a full assessment of your skin. She then recommends the most appropriate and accurate treatments. Not only will Louise tailor a treatment programme that is best suited to your skin’s needs, but she can set up an easy and manageable payment plan, making great results easy to achieve. “We are a treatment provider rather than a spa,” says Louise. “Our purpose is to improve men and women’s skin, and in turn, their confidence. Coming to Caci is not only about having a nice relaxing facial, it is about gaining the best results. We only do treatments that have been proven effective in an international arena, and will never offer a treatment unless it is 100% appropriate. We have both beauty therapists and registered cosmetic nurses on our staff, with the nurses being responsible for the injectable and fractional laser treatments.” When asked about trends she noticed amongst her clients, Louise answered that even her younger clients are asking for Botox, hair removal continues to be big, and that she is seeing many more men enjoying the benefits of what they have to offer. “But the enduring trend is for women wishing to look fresher, brighter and the best that they can possibly be, which is great, because this is what Caci Espom is all about — treating skin and enhancing appearance.”

CACI EPSOM Appearance Medicine, Skin Rejuvenation, Laser Hair Removal and Beauty Therapy 409b Manukau Rd , Epsom  T (09) 638 8933 epsom.caci.co.nz

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Coming to Caci is not only about having a nice relaxing facial, it is about gaining the best results. We only do treatments that have been proven effective in an international arena, and will never offer a treatment unless it is one hundred percent appropriate.

Reformaskin®

Revealing you Reformaskin® is a skin treatment program that will reveal your true beauty and confidence for everyone to see. Whether its pigmentation, redness or scarring, whatever is hiding your true beauty we can reveal it with Reformaskin®.

At Caci our latest advanced skincare treatment uses the Fractional CO2 laser and is available as part of our Reformaskin® treatment programme designed to reveal the best possible skin for you. The Fractional CO2 laser reaches the deeper layers of the skin to encourage collagen production reversing advanced signs of ageing and damaged skin, correcting tone, firmness and texture while reducing lines and wrinkles.

Before

Be in to WIN a consultation and Microdermabrasion facial. Simply email us at epsom@caci.co.nz before the end of April and let us know why you and your skin deserve it.* Book a free consultation, ask us about the Fractional CO2 Laser, Reformaskin® and our easy payment options. Caci Epsom, 409B Manukau Rd Caci St Lukes, 87 Taylors Rd

After

0800 002 359 caci.co.nz

*One entry per person. 1 x Microdermabrasion and consultation appointment to be won. Prize drawn May 1 2014.

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CLIVE HAIR CLINICS

HAIR LOSS AFFECTS MANY MEN AND WOMEN IN NEW ZEALAND Whether it’s caused by a genetic predisposition to thinning, hormonal changes (including menopause), general stress, imbalances of nutrients available to the hair roots, scalp disorders or tension of the skin crownal area, it is clear that the earlier that treatment is started, the better the results. Clive Hair Clinics use a natural, non-drug, four to eight month therapy, depending on the severity of the condition, which includes replenishing missing amino acids along with stimulation. Over the 50 years they have been operating in New Zealand, Clive Hair Clinics have found it to be most successful, with no detrimental side effects as with other prescription drug therapies. After a consultation with a qualified Clive Trichologist (specialist in hair and scalp disorders), clients are recommended a treatment programme that works on fighting both the genetic and external factors that are likely to be causing hair loss and baldness, as well as helping stimulate hair growth and improve the circulation to the affected area.

Consultations are obligation-free and cost only $35, which is then redeemable against the cost of a treatment programme. So if you are worried about hair loss and would like to discuss your options, call 0800 40 42 47 or visit www.cliveclinics.co.nz to book. You’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain!

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Clive Hair Clinics use a natural, non-drug, four to eight month therapy depending on the severity of the condition, which includes replenishing missing Amino Acids along with stimulation.

APRIL 2014

Dr Martin Rees: A Modern Decision Words: Reneé Lang Photos: Glenn Stirling

Contemplating making a change to the way you look through cosmetic surgery? Why not? The stigma that was once associated with this kind of procedure has long gone and there are now few reasons why you shouldn’t look into it as an option – whatever your age or circumstances. Cosmetic/Plastic surgeon Dr Martin Rees, who offers a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery from his well-appointed Remuera clinic that he shares with fellow surgeon Tristan de Chalain, takes great pleasure in assisting people to achieve their goals – and he certainly knows what he’s doing given his extensive experience both in New Zealand and overseas. One of the things that Martin enjoys about his work is seeing how people from all walks of life can benefit from a range of surgical procedures – ranging from face, neck and eyelid lifts to breast augmentation and reduction, ‘tummy-tuck’ with liposculpture and facial reconstruction after skin cancer removal. Full body skin cancer/mole checks are also available. His friendly yet professional manner during the initial face-to-face consultation will put anyone – particularly if they are initially feeling a little nervous – at ease as there are plenty of opportunities to ask questions. There won’t be any surprises relating to results or costs either, as before and after photographs illustrating different surgeries can be viewed and followed up with an estimate of costs. And you

needn’t worry about having to remember a whole lot of facts; after your consultation you’ll be given a full information pack to take home and read in your own time. Martin notes that surgery to correct drooping eyelids and necks followed by sagging breasts and other breast augmentation work are among the most popular cosmetic procedures. As for where the procedure will be performed, it’s more than likely it can be done in the Remuera clinic, rather than a private hospital, as the clinic is fully equipped. Interestingly, many of the procedures on offer can be done under local anaesthetic, too – particularly face and neck lifts. In terms of job satisfaction, Martin particularly enjoys the fact that he deals with people of all ages, “from babies through to people who are almost on their deathbed.” And thanks to his broad training, he is equipped to undertake a wide range of procedures rather than specialising in one or two. “I like doing all these different procedures,” he says. So if there is an aspect of your physical appearance that you’d like to change, consult Dr Martin. He offers quality surgery at fair prices. You won’t regret it.

Dr Martin Rees enjoys helping people to feel better about themselves and seeing the happiness improved self confidence brings. Nose reduction and prominent ear correction a special interest. He offers skill and high quality surgery at fair prices.

For more info visit Rees + de Chalain Level 2, OneHealth Building, 122 Remuera Road, Remuera www.plassurg.co.nz or call 09 522 0652

Room Nine Progressive Skin Clinic: The Skin Saviours Words: Jenna Moore

Step out of the hustle and bustle of your life and step into Room Nine to experience boutique beauty therapy at its best. Room Nine is a sanctuary where you will receive specialised skin care and boutique beauty therapy. The clinic’s primary focus is ensuring your skin is healthy and beautiful. “We specialise in skin, it’s our passion,” says Amelia Story, who, along with her colleague Caroline Hunt, creates skincare magic within the rooms. Room Nine carries the Osmosis and Environ skincare ranges and Amelia and Caroline use a hands on approach. “We’ve mainly moved away from using machines as tools and focus on using our hands along with exceptional levels of proven, active ingredients and massage,” says Amelia. “In today’s fast paced society human touch has been shown to have de-stressing benefits and it’s amazing how quickly we see results from using effective ingredients.” Room Nine recently introduced Osmosis skincare to their repertoire, a brand that’s underpinned by all-natural active serums and advanced formulations with the ability to repair DNA damage, and a liposome delivery system that provides 10 times greater absorption into the dermis layer. Amelia is also a long-time user and fan of iconic Environ, which is based on a well absorbed, non-irritating form of vitamin A along with vitamins E and C, plus powerful antioxidants. Both lines have the ability to transform the skin. “Results are all-important to us,” says Amelia. “Both of these lines were created by doctors and the science behind them is phenomenal. I believe it’s a combination of remarkable science along with our holistic philosophy that’s creating the results we’re achieving.”

Below — Amelia Story of Room Nine

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The holistic side she’s referring to includes internal supplementation from the use of Osmosis Harmonised Waters, which can help with all sorts of issues from skin, hair and nails to hormone imbalance and menopause, and Bestow Beauty Oil and Powder which are like edible cosmetics and packed full of skinnourishing nutrients. Room Nine progressive skin clinic is the home of beautiful skin. “We believe in beauty within and beauty without, it’s the perfect recipe for glowing, radiant skin,” says Amelia.

AUCKLAND 19 Surrey Crescent, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021 Phone: (09) 282 7376 or 021 546 896 www.roomnine.co.nz | amelia@roomnine.co.nz

Room Nine recently introduced Osmosis skincare to their repertoire, a brand that’s underpinned by allnatural active serums and advanced formulations with the ability to repair DNA damage, and a liposome delivery system that provides 10 times greater absorption into the dermis layer.

GET A SOFTER LOOK TO PERMANENT COSMETICS — WITHOUT MACHINES. BY SOFTAP CERTIFIED TRAINER MICHELLE TOULSON OF HOLLYWOOD EYES PERMANENT MAKEUP IN AUCKLAND.

STRAIGHT TEETH. SIX MONTHS.

A beautiful new smile is now yours in only a few short months – thanks to Magic Braces TM by Smilefast TM

SofTap® Permanent Cosmetics is the most natural way to look your best, 24/7. Professionals specialising in the SofTap® hand method use 100% disposable hand tools to gently and delicately implant permanent colour into the skin. This method is non-invasive, highly controlled, and produces the most natural looks you will ever see in permanent makeup. SofTap® professionals can give you anything from a soft, virtually undetectable beauty enhancement to a complete reconstruction of missing eyebrows. Permanent eyeliner is gentle, long lasting, and permanent lips are soft and full. The results are so natural you have to see it to believe it. Visit www.hollywoodeyes.co.nz for training opportunities at Hollywood Eyes.

Forget metal braces and costly treatment that lasts two or three years. Magic Braces are designed to have a great smile in a short amount of time. Stop hiding your smile and speak to us today about how we can get you started on your new smile. Call us on 09 528 3146 to find out about our fantastic introductory offer. Interest free options available. Terms and conditions apply. If Magic Braces TM are not for you Dr Karen Harris can offer a range of orthodontic and cosmetic dentistry options, including Invisalign.

Meadowbank Dental 93 St Johns Road Meadowbank Auckland 09 528 3146

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INTRODUCING:

NEW BEAUTY-BOOSTING SUPPLEMENT UNIQUELY KIWI

DR SALLY DAVIS

New Zealand marine collagen combined with hyaluronic acid (HA), astaxanthin, and locallysourced avocado oil are the key ingredients in Clinicians new Rejuvenate — the unique formula, beauty boosting supplement on pharmacy shelves.

Hi, I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist in private practice based in central Mount Eden. I will be providing a column in the following five editions of Verve to introduce strategies for the more common presentations I work with (e.g. anxiety, low mood, and sleep issues). If there is a specific area of interest you would like to learn more about, please feel free to contact me.

Clinicians Rejuvenate is an innovative and natural formula in capsule-form. The scientifically-based supplement is made in New Zealand and designed to help support healthy skin, glossy hair, and strong nails from within.

To introduce myself, I am 43 years of age and have lived in Auckland the majority of my life. I am fortunate to share a close relationship with my siblings and mother who also reside in Auckland. My partner resides in the sunshine capital of New Zealand and I enjoy weekends with him in Ohope and have a private practice in Whakatane two days per week. My interests include travel, sailing, tennis, squash, and quality time with my friends and family.

Collagen from sustainable New Zealand marine sources is naturally rich in type 1 collagen, which is vital for skin elasticity and thickness. “Rejuvenate’s unique ingredient, hyaluronic acid, works in tandem with collagen to lock in moisture, helping to bring back a more plump and youthful appearance. Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that has been clinically researched and proven to enhance skin condition in all layers, as well as reduce the appearance of skin wrinkles (crow’s feet) and age spot size,” comments Clinicians technical consultant and registered pharmacist, Debora-Dale Young. She says the inclusion of nutrient-rich fatty acid avocado oil supports the absorption and bioavailability of astaxanthin. “Our bodies are constantly breaking down and rebuilding collagen. Eventually, collagen breakdown exceeds collagen repair and visible signs of aging start to appear including thin and dry skin as well as wrinkles and sagging skin. Clinicians Rejuvenate has, therefore, been formulated for adults 35 and older who want to supplement collagen and support the integrity of their skin, hair and nails. Of course, if you want to maintain healthy skin it’s also important to protect your skin from the sun, not smoke and eat a healthy diet.” Clinicians Rejuvenate (with hyaluronic acid) in the distinctive gold and white box is available from pharmacies and health food shops. RRP is $54.90 for a pack of 60 soft gel capsules. The product is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as there is insufficient safety data for this recommendation. Also not recommended for those with seafood allergies. People taking blood thinning medication should seek the advice of a health professional before taking this supplement. Dosage: take two capsules daily for eight weeks, thereafter reduce to one capsule daily. For more info visit www.clinicians.co.nz

In terms of my training, I completed my Doctorate at the University of Auckland and specialised in neuropsychology, looking at the long-term effects of radiotherapy following childhood brain tumour. I continue to work with brain-related issues including traumatic brain injury (mild to moderate), resulting from motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries and other incidents (e.g. falls, assaults). The majority of my clients however, present with anxiety, stress, depression and/or unresolved grief. I like to work with adults aged between 18 and 80 years and I believe I have an ability to build a strong rapport on which to base my therapy. I tailor the therapy I offer to fit the needs of my clients and it is based on treatments shown to be effective through extensive research. These include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to assist with recognition of unhelpful thought and behaviour patterns, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to identify values and encourage committed action to live a rich and meaningful life. Overall, my therapy enables clients to acquire skills to manage painful feelings and thoughts that inevitably turn up in life (e.g. loss, worry, anger, sadness, fear). A further special area of interest of mine is Schema Therapy. This has been shown to be most effective when working with relationship issues (e.g. with partners, family, colleagues and/or friends). Clients often describe patterns within their relationships that are unhelpful and repetitive, which they wish to change. The length of time my clients remain in therapy varies from short-term (i.e. 6-10 sessions) to longer-term work depending on the clients needs. A referral is not required so feel free to email (drsal@xtra.co.nz) or phone me (021 662284) for an appointment. I look forward to sharing my columns with you over the following few months. Meanwhile, enjoy your days!

Dr Sally Davis Registered Clinical Psychologist 92 Owens Road, Mt Eden www.drsal.co.nz | drsal@xtra.co.nz 021 662 284 See Dr Sally Davis’ ad in Verve’s Market Place on page 94

APRIL 2014

01 — Dr Bronia Tindall of Chiropractic Boutique

Such is the gentle effectiveness of NSA that it is even suitable for newborns. “Often if babies are cranky or unsettled, it can really help,” says Bronia. “Or if they’ve had a rough birth. Sometimes mothers notice that their baby can’t turn their head to one side very well, which is a sign that they’re locked up in the neck.” Bronia shows me an enlightening video of her at work on a young tot and you can see their body slowly react to her gentle touch. Then, right on cue at the entrainment’s end, said baby fully turns their head to the left. Bronia says that it’s especially important to keep track of babies’ spinal development in their first years as it is prone to such stress and change in such a relatively short space of time as the child learns to sit, crawl and walk.

Silent Therapy Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

Mother’s know best, so the saying went, and it turns out they may have known even more than they realised. Not sitting up straight not only creates a bad impression, it’s also bad for our health. “How long do people maintain a good posture?” asks Dr Bronia Tindall, and I find myself subconsciously straightening my back. “Exactly, usually as long as you think about it, then you revert back to a slouch. That’s where I come in. You can have good posture effortlessly.” During her fourteen years as a Doctor of Chiropractic, Bronia has soothed the spines of superstar soccer players such as world cup-winning Brazilian Rai and straightened the odd All Blacks’ back too. She has worked across Europe, Australia and New Zealand, opening up the Chiropractic Boutique in Parnell three years ago. On top of her chiropractic degree, Bronia also has one in psychology. I ask her why she made the switch from the brain to the back. “It’s actually very closely linked,” she tells me. “What I do relieves emotional, as well as physical stress. It lightens the load of my clients’

01 troubles without them having to actually talk. Think of the spine as the back of your mind, and then think of all the things you shove back there. During a entrainment, suppressed emotions can resurface. Sometimes there are tears, sometimes there’s laughter too.” Bronia specialises in Network Spinal Analysis (NSA), a non-manipulative approach to suit all ages and all body types. Not only does she find the results are better, faster and more long-lasting, it also promises less of those terrifying cracking noises associated with traditional techniques. “This method worked best for me when I suffered headaches and migraines,” she says. “You can do an awful lot yourself too, such as breathing exercises and teaching your body to unwind its own tension. It’s an empowering process.”

“Our central nervous system runs straight through our spine and people just don’t realise the effect that it has on the body as a whole,” says Bronia. “It also concerns your internal organs. Some people find after treatment their eyesight is clearer, palpitations sometimes disappear entirely and asthmatic symptoms are relieved.” Stress, she says, collects in our backs and those who remain in a stressful state will often adopt a hunched-over position. This can affect everything from breathing to digestion, blood pressure and moods. If left unaddressed, anxiety and even depression can follow. “Once the spine unwinds, the body repositions itself,” says Bronia, “and by keeping that nervous system functions better, it really does ensure that everything else functions better too.”

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Think of the spine as the back of your mind, and then think of all the things you shove back there. During a entrainment, suppressed emotions can resurface. Sometimes there are tears, sometimes there’s laughter too. For more info visit www.yourback.co.nz or call (09) 354 3274

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FOOD 4 THOUGHT

01 — Sophie Gray. Photo by Aaron McLean

VERVE INTERVIEWS

02 — Fill the Tins by Sophie Gray

Destitute Gourmet, Sophie Gray Sophie Gray’s latest cookbook, Fill the Tins, incorporates her intriguing thoughts and ideas on cuisine and the sense that almost every culture comforts itself with food. The notion of being able prepare something that makes eyes light up and adds good cheer, simply proves that home-baking is therapeutic. Sophie says that Fill the Tins is her ‘medi-cake’ book, and that a little bit of indulgence never goes astray. It’s a “one-stop baking book,” says Sophie, “the ideal gift for people starting out, and of course a wonderful Mother’s Day present.” Fill the Tins showcases a host of Kiwi favourites, each with a modern twist, plus it includes fresh new dishes (both sweet and savoury). In keeping with an Easter theme, Verve is proud to bring you a fail-proof recipe for hot cross buns, and must-try churros, with spiced chocolate fudge dipping sauce. We also share a little of conversation we had with the queen of home cooking, Sophie Gray. Verve: Tell us a little about yourself and how you became known as the Destitute Gourmet. Sophie Gray:I was born in Auckland, of an immigrant family. As a teenager I was packed off to cookery school at the Auckland Technical Institute (AUT nowadays). Post college I veered away from the food path, and was employed in sales and marketing, working in this arena for many years. Eventually though, serendipity saw me return to my cookery roots as the Destitute Gourmet. When my husband and I started a marketing business, we were determined not to let the cost of a start-up company bury us in debt, so we cut costs where we could. I started looking at the way we cooked, shopped

and ate, to see where there was excess and where there was waste, and came up with a way of cooking that reflected ‘peasant culture’; namely, using a small proportion of a luxury ingredient and making it go a lot further. Amongst our friends it was no secret that we were going through a lean patch, the changes we had made to the way we shopped and the favourable impact it was having on our budget. One day I had a phone call from a friend of a friend asking me to teach a group of twenty-five women in the community about my food philosophy. Someone who attended that evening asked me to do a presentation for another group, and at the second evening, the same thing happened. Well, it just snowballed! Soon I was doing classes around the country. My big break came when, in 1999, I was approached by Next Magazine to do a Joy of Food feature. Within the first few weeks after the article was published I had received 3500 letters asking me for more information on how to make nutritious yummy food on a tight budget. So I wrote a book, Stunning Food From Small Change, a handy series of tasty, fashionable and healthy recipes plus tips on how to spend less on groceries. It sold out in four months, and has been reprinted 10 times since. It was the start of something wonderful, and since then I have written nine cook books in total, Fill the Tins, being the most recent. V: What is your philosophy towards food and everything to do with it? S: The three critical ingredients that

02 allow peasant cooking to work in today’s world are shop smart, eat healthily and in season — and make a little of something luxurious go a long way. V: Do you have any mentors? S: Believe it or not, my biggest culinary influence was probably Laura Ingalls Wilder and the Little House series of books, which she authored. The books encompassed so much, but for me they were food journals, filled with descriptions on how to make things. Laura wrote of how her mother made everything her family ate from scratch. I remember reading about how sausages were made, how to churn butter, make yeast and even candy. I too, grew up in a household where mum cooked for the joy of it — and for a husband and children who liked to eat what she prepared. V: Which ingredients and kitchen equipment should we never be without? S:The staples like flour, eggs, rice, milk (powdered is fine) and a selection of fresh in season produce.

As far as kitchen equipment goes, some form of food processor is really helpful, (it does not have to be flash — a simple stick blender and hand beater will do the trick), plus a really good sharp knife. V: What do you think of food movements like the paleolithic diet for instance, which advocates eating less or no grains and flour? S: I think everything should be in moderation, and everyone to their own works best. If it works for you — do it, but don’t tell everyone else that they should do it too. Personally, I can’t imagine Easter without a perfectly toasted hot cross bun with butter melted into it! Check out Sophie’s app: Shop Cook Save www.destitutegourmet.com

RECIPE BY SOPHIE GRAY

Hot Cross Buns

Better than bought ones! I like to arrange the buns in a circle on the baking sheet – in the Christian tradition the circle symbolises God’s unending love. Photo Credit: Melanie Jenkins

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

1 ½ cups warm water

Blend the water and condensed milk together and stir or sprinkle in the yeast if using granulated yeast. Set aside for about 10 minutes; the warm sweet liquid will gently bring the yeast to life – when it is frothy-looking, it is ready to use. Sift the dry ingredients into a large bowl (adding instant yeast to the dry ingredients). Mix in the dried fruit and peel, then make a hole in the centre.

¼ cup sweetened condensed milk 2 tbsp dried yeast granules or 1½ sachets instant yeast 5 cups plain flour 3 tsp mixed spice 3 tsp cinnamon ½ tsp salt 1 cup currants or raisins or a mixture ½ cup mixed peel 50 g butter, softened 2 eggs Crosses 1 cup plain flour 1 tsp baking powder 2 tbsp butter ½ cup approx. water Sugar Glaze 3 tbsp sugar dissolved in ¹/³ cup warm water MAKES 24

Pour in the milk mixture along with the softened butter and eggs. Stir until combined, then turn out onto a floured bench and knead lightly. The dough can be quite wet, so add extra flour as you knead until the dough is smooth and springy. Put the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a greased plastic bag. Leave in a warm place till doubled in size – this should take around 40 minutes. Punch the dough down, then give it a quick knead. Divide into 24 portions and roll into balls. Place on a greased baking tray and cover with the greased bag from before. Leave the buns for around half an hour or until doubled in size. Preheat the oven to 200˚C. To make the crosses, in a small bowl blend the ingredients, adding enough water to make a mixture soft enough to be piped. If you haven’t got a piping bag, put the mixture into a plastic bag, squeeze it down to one corner, then snip a tiny bit off the corner of the bag so you can squeeze the mix through the hole. Pipe crosses on the top of each bun. Bake for 15 minutes, then brush with the sugar glaze and return to the oven for a further 5 minutes or until brown.

RECIPE BY SOPHIE GRAY

Churros With Spiced Chocolate Fudge Dipping Sauce

Golden and light, fresh churros, with a rich fragrant chocolate dipping sauce are irresistible and inexpensive. If you have mastered choux pastry, then you can make churros; it’s a similar batter, only fried — fried makes everything better!

Photo Credit: Melanie Jenkins

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Spiced Chocolate Dipping Sauce

For the sauce, place the cream in a small saucepan with the vanilla essence and cinnamon quill. Heat gently until almost simmering, then stir in the chocolate, stirring continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. If you prefer a more liquid sauce you can add the milk. Serve the sauce in individual bowls or dishes to avoid ‘double dipping’.

120ml cream 1 tsp vanilla essence 1 cinnamon quill 120g dark chocolate – I use a 62% cacao chocolate 75ml milk (optional) Churros 1 cup boiling water 100g butter 2 tbsp brown sugar a pinch of salt 1 cup plain flour 3 eggs 1 litre salad and cooking oil for deep frying Icing sugar or ½ cup granulated sugar mixed with ¼ tsp cinnamon

In a medium saucepan, place the boiling water, butter, brown sugar and salt. Bring to the boil over a medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low, and sift in the flour, stirring for 1 minute, then remove from the heat. Beat until the mixture forms a ball that pulls away from the sides of the pan. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Do this in a processor if you have one; if not, break the last egg into a bowl and whisk it lightly with a fork before stirring it into the dough – this will

make it easier to incorporate. Beat the mixture for another minute until glossy. Heat the oil in a deep saucepan to 180˚C or until a 2cm cube of bread will brown evenly in around 2 minutes. Line a baking sheet with paper towels. Place a piping bag with a large starshaped nozzle in a jug or jar to keep it upright. Spoon the mixture into the bag. Hold the piping bag over the hot oil and squeeze the dough out, snipping off approximately 10cm lengths with a knife or scissors. Fry, flipping once, until deep golden brown all over, about 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the churros to the lined baking sheet to drain. Repeat with remaining dough. Roll the churros in the icing sugar or cinnamon sugar, and serve immediately with the chocolate dipping sauce.

APRIL 2014

W WIN WITH VERVE! Up for grabs: Your very own copy of Fill the Tins by Sophie Gray* Interested? To enter is easy. Simply visit www.vervemagazine.co.nz, and click on the competitions tab. *CONDITIONS APPLY

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Daring Drinking & Dining Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

A look at some of the world’s most wonderful, wacky and downright weird eateries. KAYABUKIYA TAVERN, JAPAN If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys. That’s certainly the case at the Kayabukiya Tavern in the Japanese city of Utsunomiya. Well, apparently these macaques prefer boiled soy beans to peanuts. Visitors to this otherwise traditional sake-house are welcomed with hot towels and served drinks by the pair of kimono and maid outfit-wearing cheeky monkeys. The owners claim the animals weren’t even trained, but simply learnt to mimic the actions of the staff. TANG DU ZOOLOGY RESTAURANT, CHINA Situated in the city of Taiyuan, around 400km west of Beijing, is Tang Du. One of the world’s largest restaurants, it covers nearly 17,000 square-metres in a replicated natural habitat with diners surrounded by waterfalls, seals, live edible seafood and crocodiles. The menu is even more interesting, boasting such exotic delights as scorpion, sea snails and silkworm larvae. For the less adventurous, there are plenty of dishes for the more traditional western tastebuds, too. PISA’S PRISON RESTAURANT, ITALY What is probably the world’s safest eatery is hosted by some of the world’s most dangerous men. Pisa’s Prison Restaurant is overseen by a posse of armed guards as murderers and mafia gangsters prepare your meal and pour your wine. The building is five centuries old and tables are booked-up well in advance. Unless, perhaps, you make them an offer they can’t refuse. REDEMPTION BAR, UK The dry bar concept is steadily gaining ground across the United Kingdom. Redemption, a 100% alcohol-free boozer, is based in London’s East End. Along with stunning ‘mocktails’, it offers stunning views of the British capital courtesy of its five-storey rooftop setting. Owner Catherine Salway came upon the idea

after a meet-up with a friend with a drinking problem. They couldn’t think of anywhere to go. “There are coffee shops and juice bars, but there wasn’t anywhere you could have a proper night out,” she told the Guardian. STIFTSKELLER ST. PETER, AUSTRIA Europe’s oldest restaurant, the breathtaking Stiftskeller has been serving since the ninth century. Situated within monastery walls, the adjacent St. Peter’s Church saw Mozart premiere his C-minor Mass in 1789. Feasts are now held in honour of the great composer, with candlelit meals served as a period costume-dressed ensemble perform his works. The food is prepared according to recipes from the period. EL DIABLO, LANZAROTE Named after Beelzebub himself, meals, it is said, are grilled by the flames of hell. Well, the bowels of the Earth. A barbecue experience like no other, cooking takes place on a massive cast iron grille above a volcanic hole. Set in the Canary Islands’ Timanfaya National Park, the backdrop also offers some of the greatest views of any restaurant in the world.

CONFLICT KITCHEN, USA With a menu subject to change at any given moment, Conflict Kitchen only serves the food of countries that America is currently in conflict with. Past dishes have come courtesy of Cuba, North Korea, Iran and Venezuela. At the time of writing, they are concentrating on the food of Afghanistan. Organisers seek to engage with the public, offering discussions and performances to highlight political issues, whilst also offering the chance to taste dishes, which in some cases are not available anywhere else in the States. NALAGA’AT CENTRE, ISRAEL A great concept, and an even better cause. Be escorted by blind waiters before dining in total darkness. It is said to sharpen ones taste and smell, as well as being heaps of fun. There’s an important message too, the promotion of interactions with blind and deaf people, and discouraging prejudice. The centre offers workshops and performances, with bases in London and New York. Similar dining-in-the-dark restaurants, some also charitable, have since been established in many of the world’s major cities.

FOOD FOCUS

Beetroot Words: Ryan Fenwick

They say ‘you can’t beat a root’, and they are more right than you know. This purple globe is a wealth of nutritional benefits for just about everyone. While being high in many minerals including magnesium, iron, copper, potassium and calcium to name a few of the most important, it is a fantastic source of folic acid, or folate as it is more commonly known. Folate is the naturally occurring water based vitamin form of folic acid and its importance in the human body, I feel, is massively underappreciated. One of its main roles is to synthesise and repair DNA and ribonucleic acid as well as aid in rapid cell division and growth, which is a main process in pregnancy and infant development. Before this can even take place, folate plays a key role in fertility in both men and women. Following on from this, from an athlete’s perspective or even someone who just goes to the gym twice a week to tone up or loose a few kilos, folate is an amazing tool. The way your muscles work when under pressure is to breakdown and build themselves up again to be stronger for the next time and what folate will do here is to make that process faster and more efficient, meaning you’ll reduce the risk of injury and also lower fatigue. Although this extends into an extremely complex combination of natural substances for performance enhancement, that covers the basic principal.

As a daily part of my diet when I’m training, I will have a juice made from beetroot, apple, orange and ginger, or perhaps roasted beetroot in a salad or raw in a burger! One 170g serving of beetroot contains 35% of your standard recommended daily intake (RDI) for folate which is 0.4 milligrams for an adult. A pregnant woman’s RDI is 0.6mg.

Ryan is a chef in a nutritionally founded restaurant focusing on the wellbeing of their clients, situated on Australia’s Gold Coast. He is also involved in his own catering company and a nutritional consulting company start-up. When he is not working, Ryan likes to compete in triathlons and made his first international debut at the Auckland half Ironman in January.

Ancient Greeks defined people from India as “Indoi”. However, our team at Indoi is defining the authentic Indian cuisine. From preparation of our food to its presentation, all the elements are considered patiently to ensure that our customers leave with mouth-watering memories and look forward to returning. Like us on Facebook facebook.com/IndoiRestaurant

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ART & ABOUT

01 — Buzz Aldrin piece

02 — Willard Wigan

Massively Minute

Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

If the best things really do come in small packages, imagine the riches one could fit into the eye of a needle. Willard Wigan has done just that. You may not know his name, but you will have definitely caught his work, most noticeably in the latest ANZ bank ads. “Willard is an extraordinary person and his work really has to be seen to be believed,” says managing director of retail and business banking at ANZ, Fred Ohlsson. “He takes what seems the monumental and reduces it to something simple and easy to understand, which is what our experts throughout New Zealand help our customers with every day.” “It began when I was five years old,” says Willard. “I started making houses for ants because I thought they needed somewhere to live. Then I made them shoes and hats. It was a fantasy world I escaped to. That’s how my career as a micro-sculptor began.” Such is the minute intricacy of the British artist’s work, his sculptures can only

be viewed via a microscope. To craft them, he has trained his body to enter a meditative state, reducing tremors and sculpting between the beats of his heart. While crafting a piece from a grain of sand, Wigan used the vibration of his heartbeat as an organic hammer-like method of chiselling the particle. His work sells for over $100,000 and graces collections owned by the likes of Queen Elizabeth II (who in 2007 honoured him with an MBE for services to art), Elton John and Mike Tyson. Willard’s taken up Jesus’ challenge by fitting camels though the eye of the needle, re-created Henry VIII and all his wives and re-imagined the Olympic torch. Perhaps his most impressive work can be found in a hollowed out hair. “Creating the smallest sculptures in the world wasn’t enough for me,” he tells the Daily Mail. “I wanted to push myself to another level and go even smaller. I wanted to go beyond human expectations.” Over a five-week period, Wigan worked 16-hour shifts to drill through a single strand of stubble and inside build a motorbike from

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His work sells for over $100,000 and graces collections owned by the likes of Queen Elizabeth II (who in 2007 honoured him with an MBE for services to art), Elton John and Mike Tyson.

12 specks of gold. The Harley Davidsonlike design measures in at three microns — smaller than a human blood cell. It is so delicate the pulse of his finger could have destroyed it. With mankind’s ever increasing obsession with building gravity-defying skyscrapers, Willard’s philosophy, though at the other extreme of the scale, is in many ways far grander and just as impressive: “I’ve dedicated my life to this microscopic world because I wanted to show people how big small things really are. It’s a message, that’s what my work is.”

APRIL 2014

ANZ has the expertise to help make the complicated simple. Willard Wigan takes objects that are large and complex, and reduces them down to something so minute, they fit into the eye of a needle. At ANZ, our experts can help you turn complicated money matters into something

simpler, making even the biggest challenges seem smaller. Talk to an ANZ expert today. And if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to see some more of Willard Wiganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tiny masterpieces, go to anz.co.nz/tinyart

anz.co.nz/tinyart ANZ Bank New Zealand Limited

ANZ1743VM/TBWA

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Book Reviews 1. THE A-Z OF EATING OUT Joseph Connolly This is just the book for those who love eating out, know their way around any menu and swot up on restaurant ‘reviewspeak’. Quirky and entertaining, as well as being crammed with information, this is a foodie’s book. From soft openings to solo dining, from gastro-pubs to instructions on how to complain, Connolly gives you the rundown on modern restaurant etiquette, including the sad demise of the long liquid lunch. So, whether your preferred dining is the local Italian, the latest reviewed or super silver service, this is the book to dip into time and time again and digest at leisure.

2. THE GARDEN AT STONEFIELDS Paul Bangay Paul Bangay is a renowned garden designer, but more than designing super gardens for others he craves his own piece of paradise and over the years has revitalised the garden at St. Ambrose, which resulted in The Enchanted Garden. The Garden at Stonefields is his latest in this ongoing project — his is a slow process of design and growth — and the new book is quite breathtaking. Full of beautiful landscapes and plans of the 40 acres of emerging garden, his description of discovering the land so close to the original Bangay settlement is a very personal insight into the very heart and soul of gardening. An absolute must for the bookshelf.

read for fans of intriguing biographies and worthy of the top spot on the New York Times bestseller list.

Words: Doris Mousdale

4. THE GENTLE ART OF PRESERVING Katie and Giancarlo Caldesi You browse the farmers markets on Saturdays and Sundays and load the basket with fruit and vegetables, visit friends and they send you home laden with bags of lemons and green tomatoes, or you look out at your garden and realise it’s time to collect the quince and plums, figs and fejoas or the birds will have the lot, but you need inspiration to get out the jars and preserving pan to get warmed up for another marathon bottling session. Look no further: this new book covers everything you have ever wanted to keep in your cupboard. Pickling, smoking, freezing, curing, fermenting, bottling, canning as well as making jams, jellies and cordials. Therapeutic to make, old school preserving is the new kitchen porn and a shelf full of preserves to show off or share is the reward. Loved this book — it is full of fresh ideas, very inspiring.

3. EMPTY MANSIONS Bill Dedman and Paul Clark Newell Jr. The Clark family was immensely wealthy following three generations of the family earning millions from the copper trade and the founding of Las Vegas. When Bill Dedman discovers the 121 roomed Clark Mansion had been left empty for more than 60 years he was hooked on the strange story of Huguette Clark, who lived in a room at the Beth Israel hospital. She was a woman who gifted her maid more than 30 million dollars, but a woman who didn’t go outside for years, cutting herself off from all of her relations close and distant, yet gave a fortune to strangers and charity and indulged herself. A must Arcadia Bookshop 26 Osborne Street, Newmarket 09 522 5211 www.arcadiabookshop.co.nz

APRIL 2014

ATAMIRA DANCE COMPANY PRESENTS MOKO New Zealand’s leading Maori contemporary dance theatre creator, Atamira Dance Company, is proud to announce its new full-length conceptual show MOKO. Inspired by the traditional Maori art of body tattooing, MOKO is a conceptual dance performance spurred by the enticement of mana (spiritual power) where the patterns of Ta Moko explode — emotionally and literally — onto the stage in riveting three-dimensional forms. Atamira has collaborated with industryleading companies including WORLD on costuming. Custom-designed by WORLD designers Francis Hooper and Benny Castles, and using their signature dramatic long sleeves in campaign imagery, the costumes offer a striking point of difference, unique to anything seen on a New Zealand stage before.

BLACKMORES XTERRA AUCKLAND TRAIL RUN/WALK SERIES The Blackmores XTERRA Auckland Trail Run/Walk Series is a great excuse to get fit and have fun in some of Auckland’s most stunning surrounds. Entering competitive events can be an intimidating thought for many, which is why Blackmores and Total Sport have joined forces to encourage people of all ages and fitness levels to get out into the open air and onto the best trails in the best off-road locations to complete the Blackmores XTERRA events. In its 11th year, and bigger and better than ever, the Blackmores XTERRA Auckland Trail Run/Walk Series consists of seven events taking place from May 18 to September 21 in seven locations. All within one hours’ drive of Auckland City, these spectacular locations provide

MOKO’s choreographer Moss Patterson is world-renowned for his innovative, expressive and emotional choreography. Patterson also co-choreographed the widely lauded New Zealand Rugby World Cup 2011 opening ceremony and largescale works Sacre, Poutama, Takarangi and Te Manu Ahi in association with Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra. Moss Patterson says: “MOKO explores the embodiment of ancestral designs, motifs and metaphors in our culture. It is about the transformation within a person before the process of tattoo. In this performance, I wanted to explore the unfolding of self, the emotional journey that brings someone to the point in their life where they are ready to accept their moko. It’s about realising your potential,

opportunities to explore towering forests, beautiful regional parks and native forests, including Waharau Regional Park, Woodhill Forest, DOME Valley and the Hunua Ranges. Offering course lengths from short (57km), mid (12-14km), long (17-20km) to super long (21km+), and the option to walk some courses, there is something to suit all levels of fitness. An event series the whole family can enjoy, the Blackmores XTERRA Series makes it easy for parents to participate by providing onsite childcare to keep kids entertained while they compete. Total Sport is one of New Zealand’s leading sports event management and production companies and with the help and support of Blackmores, is the driving force behind the Blackmores XTERRA Auckland Trail Run/Walk Series.

All event info, registration and contact details can be found on the website: www.trailrun.co.nz

acknowledging your inner voice and following that voice to a place of calm where you can rediscover your sense of self. We all take personal journeys, MOKO represents this collective journey through an expressive performance piece on stage.” MOKO premieres Thursday April 10 at SkyCity Theatre, Auckland. Tickets on sale now via iticket.co.nz

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Coming up at the Movies 1. DIVERGENT IN CINEMAS APRIL 10 Based on Veronica Roth’s best-selling novel, Divergent is a gripping action-thriller set in a futuristic world where society has been divided into five factions. As each person approaches adulthood, he or she must choose a faction and commit to it for the rest of their life. Tris Prior (Shailene Woodley) chooses Dauntless. During the Dauntless initiation, Tris discovers she is ‘divergent’, someone who will never be able to fit into just one faction, she is warned that she must conceal this secret or risk her life. Rated M Violence.

2. INVISIBLE WOMAN IN CINEMAS APRIL 17 Nelly, a happily-married mother and schoolteacher, is haunted by her past. Her memories, provoked by remorse and guilt, take us back in time to follow the story of her relationship with Charles Dickens with whom she discovered an exciting but fragile complicity. Dickens – famous, controlling and emotionally isolated within his success — falls for Nelly, who comes from a family of actors. The theatre is a vital arena for Dickens — a brilliant amateur actor, and a man more emotionally coherent on the page or on stage, than in life. As Nelly becomes the focus of Dickens’ passion and his muse, for both of them secrecy is the price, and for Nelly, a life of invisibility. Rated M Sex scenes.

3. ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE IN CINEMAS MAY 1 Set against the romantic desolation of Detroit and Tangiers, an underground musician, Adam (Tom Hiddleston), deeply depressed by the direction of human activities, reunites with his resilient and enigmatic lover, Eve (Tilda Swinton). Their love story has already endured several centuries at least, but their debauched idyll is soon disrupted by her wild and uncontrollable younger sister, Ava (Mia Wasikowska). Can these wise but fragile outsiders continue to survive as the modern world collapses around them? Rated M Offensive language.

4. SUNSHINE ON LEITH IN CINEMAS MAY 1 Dexter Fletcher directs Sunshine on Leith — a jubilant, heartfelt musical about the power of home, the hearth, family and love. It is the feel good tale of one tight-knit family, and the three couples bound to it, as they experience the joys and heartache that punctuate all relationships. Home is where the heart is for best pals Davy and Ally. Returning from duty in Afghanistan to their lifelong residence in Leith just outside Edinburgh, the lads kindle romances old and new: Ally with Davy’s sister Liz, and Davy with Yvonne, his little sister’s best friend from work. Meanwhile, their parents Rab and Jean are busy planning their 25th wedding anniversary. Everything’s going swimmingly, until a revelation from Rab’s past threatens to tear the family and all three couples apart. Rated PG Violence, coarse language and sexual references.

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TWO’S COMPANY

VERVE IN THE KNOW

MAKING A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION

THE 2014 NZ INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL!

Did you know that we make assumptions about people three seconds after meeting them? And, 55% of that time, we make those assumptions based on the person’s clothing and appearance.

We here at Verve have picked a few highlights from the 2014 NZ International Comedy Festival programme to make it easy for you!

What can I say? We’re a shallow bunch. Or are we? Scientists have shown that this normal human process stems from our most primitive ancestors, who were forced to instantly judge whether someone approaching them was friend or foe. Nowadays, we use visual clues to immediately assess whether the person we’re meeting with is worth the time and effort to get to know. It’s just as important to make a good first impression when you’re on a first date with someone. You want to lead them to make a positive judgement of you, even if it is based on superficial factors, such as your clothes and shoes, so that they’ll be interested in finding out more about you. So, how do you make a good first impression on a date? In my experience, the two key areas of focus are clothing and grooming. Or in other words: what you wear and how you put yourself together. In this day and age we are what we wear. Now, I’m not saying that we need to spend a fortune on the latest designer gear. But, believe it or not, clothing affects your self-image. Feeling good about how you look can make you feel good about yourself, increasing your personal presence and physical attractiveness. Aside from clothes, what do you notice when meeting someone for the first time? Often, it’s their hair and for women, it’s makeup. Pay attention to the little things: make sure your hair looks good, shirt is ironed, no lipstick on your teeth. The aim here is to make sure that your date is not distracted by minor details in your appearance. Got your clothes and grooming sorted? Well, now it’s time to start dating and that’s where we come in. My name is Sasha Madarasz and I run Two’s Company — an introduction agency giving busy singles the opportunity to meet other singles since 2003. Clients chose us because they would rather die than have their photo on the internet or hate the thought of a group event where they might bump into a colleague, client or neighbour. We meet, we talk, we let you know if we have the right people to introduce you to and then you can walk away and make your own decision in your own time. So if you would like the opportunity to meet good single people — check out our website or give me a call. Sasha Madarasz 0800-021-522 sasha@twoscompany.co.nz www.twoscompany.co.nz

On April 24 the 2014 NZ International Comedy Festival kicks off with the Old Mout Cider Comedy Gala at The Civic, bringing together some of the highlights of this year’s catalogue of comedians. Irishman Jason Byrne, the biggest selling comedian at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, plays host to the likes of Reginald D. Hunter (Q.I, Would I Lie To You), Above — Reginald D. Hunter Photo by Idil Sukan for Draw HQ Brits James Acaster (sell-out season 2013 NZICF), Ian D. Montfort (2013 NZICF Best International Show), Sara Pascoe (Live at The Apollo and Q.I.) and Carl Donnelly (2013 Edinburgh Comedy Awards Best Show nominee) and local favourites Paul Ego and Urzila Carlson – with more to be announced. This lineup show gives you a taster of the smorgasbord of comedians on offer over the three-week-LOLfest. Verve says; “This is the opening ceremony not to be missed! We’ll see you there!” Live comedy is all about being part of a one-off special experience, and Le Comique at SKYCITY Theatre on Mother’s Day (Sunday 11 May – put it in your diaries) will blow your mind with its mix of comedy styles that’ll have you in stitches. Hosted by the brilliant Marcel Lucont (2012 NZICF Best International Show), his irreverent French style and off-the-cuff banter will take you on an epic comedic journey while ensuring your evening is fameux! Accompanied by Hairy Soul Man and Band (AUS) and featuring local and international talent; Hospital DJ Ivan Brackenbury (UK), Sara Pascoe (UK), James Nokise (NZ), Jackie Van Beek and Jonny Brugh (NZ) with more to be announced. Verve says; “Perfect treat for mum on her special day!” Don’t feel you have to leave the kids and teens at home – they’re sorted too! For your little monsters — every Saturday during festival time the show STAND-UP FOR KIDS, hosted by South Australia’s best known FREHD THE CLOWN, who is set to bring her unique brand of clowning to Auckland. For the bigger monsters the festival has the generational gap-filler STAND-UP FOR KIDS, as well as the more adult-orientated shows, such as the THE 5PM PROJECT hosted by Rose Matafeo (May 17). Almost like watching an M rated movie – something that verges on adult, but kept restrained… well, with regard to the adult humour that is. The laughs, on the other hand, are completely unrestricted! Parents – this means you don’t have to chaperone your teenage son or daughter – let the comedians do the chaperoning for you instead! Verve says: “Treat the tykes to a rib tickle this school holidays!” For more info on the 2014 NZ International Comedy Festival in cahoots with Old Mout Cider (24 April – 18 May) visit www.comedyfestival.co.nz

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BUSINESS & SOCIETY

Beaming About Beemers Working with such an esteemed brand as BMW is a dream for any salesperson, but it’s especially rewarding for Natalie MacGregor, whose love affair with automobiles stretches back to her childhood. “I grew up with three brothers and dad was a car dealer who also owned a couple of gas stations,” she says. “We all pumped gas in the school holidays and I loved it. Though, back then some of the older motorists weren’t too receptive to a young female filling up their car and checking their tyre pressure!” Natalie was often taken to classic car races, which she later marshalled, and whiled away her teenage years building model Lamborghinis. Her dream car is the 1960s Porsche 356 and her current favourite BMW is the 135: “With the sun-roof open and sport mode on as you flick through those paddle shifts, my God, it’s so exhilarating.” Just as in her youth, sales consultant Natalie’s working environment at Team McMillan is a male-dominated one. “It’s great working with guys,” she says. “They’re so pragmatic. They call a spade a spade. There’s an incredible camaraderie here. We spend 10 hours a day together, so we have to get on.” Natalie feels she bestows an unintimidating presence in the showroom, especially for lady customers who don’t wish to be overloaded with reams of technical jargon. Though she stresses she can reel off the facts and stats as well as anybody. There’s a certain psychological aspect to her job, and Natalie believes that a good salesperson should balance tenacity with politeness, (“we should never harass our customers, but a call every now and then is beneficial”) and also have the ability to relate to various personality types, of which she says there are four. The slow rational customer will take their time and

gather as much information as possible, the slow emotional ones, though raring to go, will still take their time, and the fast-paced rational will want all of the details, but will hold off on the decision. The fourth group, fast-paced emotional, are her favourite customers: “They tend to turn up on their lunch break with a bag of money and just want to leave with a new car. Unfortunately, it doesn’t happen as often as I’d like!” It is not uncommon for people to take up to a year to make a decision. “It’s our livelihood,” says Natalie. “While we eat, sleep and breathe cars, we must remember it’s not the same for our customers who have other things happening in their lives.” One of many perks is having use of some of the world’s finest motors, however the staff are never allowed to get too attached to one particular model. “We rotate the fleet so we are familiar with them all,” says Natalie. “The more accustomed we are to a bigger range, the easier it is to extol their virtues.” Team McMillan is the country’s largest and wholly New Zealand owned BMW dealership. It strives to maintain a friendly and inviting atmosphere for visitors. So friendly in fact, that quite often clients pop in with cakes for staff as a thank you for great service or just to have a coffee and look at the latest models on offer. Team McMillan has also been named the number one dealer for New Zealand for the second year in a row over all facets of its business. The BMW and Team McMillan brand is renowned and you don’t have to educate people about it. The reputation as number one is well deserved.

01 — Natalie MacGregor

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Team McMillan has also been named the number one dealer for New Zealand for the second year in a row over all facets of its business. The BMW and Team McMillan brand is renowned and you don’t have to educate people about it. The reputation as number one is well deserved.

APRIL 2014

The Listers LJ HOOKER AUCKLAND CENTRAL: Glen Baker, Cherry Killgour, Dianne Nichol And Rex Wong p70-71 ONE2ONE REALTY: Tina Gray p72 THE LOCALS: Ruth Hawes and Team p73 BARFOOT & THOMPSON PONSONBY: Chris Batchelor p74 BARFOOT & THOMPSON GREENLANE: Kevin Lowe and Team p75 HARCOURTS JK REALTY AT ST LUKES: Keith Ward and Jill Findlay p76 JUST RENTALS LTD: Sylvia Lund and Team p77 SOTHEBY’S: Ross Hawkins p78

This month Verve takes a look at the Auckland property market. We profile some of the movers and shakers in the industry and find out who the market leaders are in residential sales as well as property management. The housing market is one of the engines of growth and indicators of health for the whole New Zealand economy, not just the building and real estate sectors. So it’s important to understand the state of the market, to know who the various players are and understand what some of the trends are in order to make the best decisions possible for your future. Between 2000 and 2007 house prices in New Zealand more than doubled according to the Reserve Bank. When the GFC

began to cast its dark pall over international markets, New Zealand house prices quickly fell 10% — of course, this was a far gentler drop than was felt in the United States and Europe. In New Zealand, particularly in Auckland and Christchurch, house prices are now rapidly on the rise again. However, in Auckland, the issue of rising prices is compounded by a distinct sluggishness in the home building industry. A huge number of new homes were constructed between 2002 and 2005 when immigration rates were soaring. But, as immigration slowed, so did the home building industry and it has not nearly caught up with the continued demand for properties in the Auckland region. Prices for rental properties have fortunately remained relatively unchanged, which suggests a trend of existing renters striving to buy their first home. Anyway, enough from us. See what the experts have to say.

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BUSINESS & SOCIETY : THE LISTERS

LJ Hooker Auckland Central

Words: Jamie Christian Desplace

Introducing some of the listers that work out of Upland Road Village

Glenn Baker The main man he may be, but Glenn Baker certainly doesn’t mind mucking in with his troops. “Some CEOs would rather be playing golf at the weekends,” he says, “but I’m hands-on. My colleagues can contact me 24/7, which is great for them and for our clients. I’m at the coal face. I know what’s going on daily.” It’s an attitude that’s reaped loyalty from both customers and staff. Last month Glenn re-sold a house he’d first dealt with 23 years ago and over a dozen of his workforce has been with him for the best part of two decades. “LJ Hooker retains a strong sense of family,” says the CEO, who was also Auckland’s first and is now its longest-serving industry franchisee. “I’ve managed this business through three property recessions – some people don’t get through their first – and my core team has remained constant throughout. That’s something we’re very proud of.” As is the fact that his team implemented the use of databases in the early 90s, long before the term was used in the commercial sense. It gave Glenn and his team an organisational and practical edge over their rivals.

Still heavily involved with sales, Glenn believes the focus should always remain on the quality of service. “Everyone is different, there should never be a one-size-fits-all approach,” he says. “Communication is the key. We must listen and respond, put together a programme to suit the individual. We’re dealing with their most valuable asset after all and they must trust us. There’s so much at stake with buying and selling a house.” His thousand-plus sales tally bears testament to his philosophy of “making people happy,” something he endeavours to achieve outside the office too. Glenn is heavily involved in charity events. Team LJH as they called themselves with their classic Mini, were involved in the 2013 Pork Pie Rally that raised in excess of $177,000 for Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand. They have also fundraised for Cystic Fibrosis research along with the regular sponsorship of local primary schools’ events and community sports clubs. “It’s important,” says Glenn, “to be involved in their community.” And as for sleeping? “I manage to squeeze it in sometimes,” he laughs.

GLENN BAKER — M 021 923 506 DDI 09 523 7710 E glenn@clearrealty.com

Cherry Killgour Cherry Killgour is a born winner and a born agent. In nearly 20 years in the industry she’s been honoured with a host of gongs, including New Zealand’s Salesperson of the Year and Top Auction Lister. “I love auctions,” she says. “Obviously there’s the excitement, but there’s also a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes leading up to auction day.” Every property, says Cherry, is an auction property, whereas she believes not every vendor is an auction vendor, in which case she is happy to adapt to alternative marketing methods to cater for individual preferences. Cherry has noticed, over the years, a clear change in the vendor psyche. Early on in her career she had to persuade vendors to sell by auction, whereas now there is an absolute shift in the school of thought as owners are nervous about under-selling their homes. Cherry is a firm believer that selling by means of auction will result in a premium price being paid and has witnessed this time and time again.

Overseas investors are adding to the evercompetitive nature of Auckland’s property market, adds Cherry, and she’s confident “there’s no sign of the market slowing down.” Such is her success, much of her clientele is repeat business or courtesy of referrals, and she is well-known and well-respected in corporate circles. Recent sales include a luxury $1.725 million home on a lifestyle block in Karaka and a $1.510 million family home in Glendowie. Cherry is a ‘people person’ and believes it’s important for agents to remain grounded and, above all, to listen – to both vendors and buyers. “I liken the process to a jigsaw puzzle,” she says. “You have people and you have property, and you have to fit them both together to make it all work. If you’re good at what you do, then this should be a relatively easy and straightforward process. Ultimately, my greatest delight is helping people realise their dreams.”

CHERRY KILLGOUR — M 021 780 335 DDI 09 309 0094 E cherry@clearrealty.com

APRIL 2014

Dianne Nichol Already a life member of LJ Hooker’s elite Captains Club — a collection of the nation’s very best real estate agents, Dianne Nichol cemented her status further with inclusion in the MultiMillion Dollar Chapter, placing her in the top 2% of salespeople on the international stage. Her phenomenal career is one that came about almost by accident. “I was working as a secretary in the industry and thought I’d give it a try for a couple of months,” she says. “29 years later, I’m still going strong.” Her success, she states, is built upon a foundation of trust, integrity and professionalism — traits for which she is well-known in the business: “People must feel their agent is honest, that they are there to help them, their clients, not there to simply serve themselves.” Dianne loves, “dealing with people,” and says she gets a real kick from exceeding her vendors’ expectations. “It gives you a real buzz when they do well,” she says. “In general, real estate is a win-win situation for the

buyer and the seller. That’s what you’re aiming for, that’s what gives me a lot of satisfaction.” Over her three decades in the business, there has been a shift towards auction, a trend, and a challenge she has relished. “That’s certainly been the biggest change and it’s a great way of establishing the market. Before, you’d put a price and buyers would try and negotiate down, now, it’s the opposite. Nearly all of the auctions I’ve had sold under the hammer or within a day after and usually higher than the expected price. Our LJ Hooker Auckland Central’s success rate averages at over 90%.” It’s a company Dianne is proud to be a part of. “Obviously we get paid commission which is an individual aspect,” she says, “but there’s still a real team atmosphere. We pool our buyers in to a combined company database which increases success for everyone. Nothing better exemplifies this than our number of repeat customers.”

DIANNE NICHOL — M 021 272 0975 DDI 09 523 7712 E dianne@clearrealty.com

Rex Wong A relative rookie to the realm of New Zealand real estate, Rex Wong has great instincts. He believes he has a fine sense for the property market, having helmed and sold family businesses in his hometown of Hong Kong. He’s always had a keen interest and his wife, too, is heavily involved in the industry. They moved to New Zealand a couple of years ago. “Auckland is certainly quieter than Hong Kong,” says Rex. “It’s a great place to raise kids. My family loves it here.” Rex has thrived since arriving at LJ Hooker. His proudest moment to date, the sale of a Hillsborough property for well over a million bucks when most thought he’d do well to scrape past the $900,000 mark. “It was a record for the area!” He compares the feeling of a sale to that of graduation: elation mixed with a certain sense of loss. Though, the overriding emotion for Rex is that of excitement. Such is his work ethic, Rex can sometimes be found back at the office desk

come midnight when his three kids are tucked up in bed. “That’s one of the many great things about the company, you can come and go as you please,” he says. “There’s no pressure, you have freedom, but they’re also always on hand to offer guidance.” Rex believes the most important traits for a real estate agent are those of self-discipline and organisation. They should love their properties and know them as if they’re their own. As the market becomes ever stronger and more competitive for first-time buyers, he says patience is the key. “Of course have dreams, but be realistic and grab what you can afford, when you can,” says Rex. “Don’t miss opportunities. Once you’re on that property ladder, it’s so much easier to move up. Everyone is always looking for something better. No-one wants to be in the same place for 50 years. As with everything in life, work hard and you’ll get there.”

REX WONG — M 021 249 9968 DDI 09 624 2748 E rex@clearrealty.com

For more info call 09 520 8585

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Tina Gray One2One Realty Words: Angus Brown Photos: Glenn Stirling

As Tina welcomes me into her office, I can see immediately that she’s a woman of action. She’s bubbling with enthusiasm as she tells me her story. A devoted mother of Julian, 21 and Holly, nearly 16, her background is in dentistry and she was also a PADI qualified scuba diving instructor for a number of years. As if that wasn’t enough, she completed a Diploma in Speech and Drama, but didn’t end up catching the acting bug! She eventually wanted a bigger challenge than either scuba instructing or dentistry could offer. Her energy, interest in people and sales skills combined with her natural confidence and competitive yet personable nature were traits that naturally lent themselves to a career in real estate that now spans 24 years. Tina has been successfully selling residential property in Auckland’s eastern suburbs since 1989. Tina was admitted Associate of the Real Estate Institute in 1996 in recognition of her educational achievement and commitment to the real estate industry. One other string to her bow is that she was a tutor of the Real Estate Salespersons’ Course at the Open Polytechnic. In everything she does, Tina likes to share her passion, enthusiasm and knowledge with other people who are coming up through the ranks. Tina founded One2One Realty in 2001 after she identified a need for a service driven real estate consultancy in Auckland’s eastern suburbs. And because she owns the agency, One2One’s fees are highly competitive. As the name suggests, clients receive one to one service from her from start to finish. Rather than dealing with different agents, Tina will be with you every step of the way, even in the post-sale phase. After the sale, there are invariably a number of odds and ends

“

Tina founded One2One Realty in 2001 after she identified a need for a service driven real estate consultancy in Auckland’s eastern suburbs. And because she owns the agency, One2One’s fees are highly competitive. As the name suggests, clients receive one to one service from her from start to finish. ... Her goal is always to maximise buyer interest in her client’s property and she dedicates herself to every home she lists as if it were her own.

to sort out, such as notifying utilities suppliers of a change of ownership, and Tina will provide you with a checklist to make sure there are no loose ends. She has aligned herself with like-minded professionals such as her excellent photographer, John Callaghan, whose photos are pivotal in her campaigns; her home stager, Simon Gill, who intuitively knows how to transform a house into a home; and her trusted list of builders and home handymen, as from time to time small things require fixing or repairing prior to going to market. She also offers constructive advice to her vendors on decluttering and making their home look its best. Every effort is expended to ensure a successful outcome for her clients. Her goal is always to maximise buyer interest in her client’s property and she dedicates herself to every home she lists as if it were her own.

The property market can sometimes be a complex beast, so Tina works collaboratively with her clients to make sure they have all the information and knowledge they need to make the best decisions they can for themselves. Over a long and successful career she has earned the respect and admiration of her clients. Her maxim “for our clients... nothing ordinary” is testimony she must be following through on that promise as the bulk of her business comes by way of referrals from happy customers. She works tirelessly for her clients and loves her job. So if you’re thinking of selling your home you should definitely give Tina a call.

For more info call Tina on 021800076 or 09 520 2102

APRIL 2014

Ray White Kingsland: Putting Your Trust in a Local

Words: Brittany Jordt Photos: Glenn Stirling

Few can rival the passion and zeal of this family real estate team. Having been in the business for over 20 years, they are truly dedicated to delivering the highest standard of service to each of their customers and their track record shows how seriously they take this, with 70% of their business coming from repeats or referrals. Ruth Hawes changed career paths from nursing to real estate in 2004, when she joined her mother Lesley, at the Ray White branch in Mt Albert. “People should expect to have an experience that leaves them feeling that they matter. Our expertise, commitment and passion for what we do is a great thing for our customers to have on their side,” Ruth says. “We pride ourselves on putting people before property. That may sound like it’s ‘going against the grain’ for a real estate specialist, but what it really means is that we know we are dealing with people, not numbers.” The opening of their first office in Kingsland in 2006 was a natural extension of what had become a family passion. Ruth’s father Chris and sister Rachel came on board immediately, while brother Tim Hawes joined the sales team a year later. Since then they’ve opened a second office in Sandringham and are enjoying the challenge of making their mark on the wider city fringe. “We all came from different careers and ended up having the chance to build this together,” Ruth says. “We’ve been fortunate. You’ve got this implicit sort of trust when it’s family. We’re all different personalities, so it’s a really great blend of talents and skills, which has been fabulous and helped with the success of the business.”

“

People don’t list with a company — they list it with the person they meet and trust — in this case me — Ruth. The experience we have has cemented our reputation as a business who delivers on its promises. We value our reputation and as such take our accountability and our customers trust very seriously.

02 01 — The team at The Locals, Ray White Kingsland 02 — Ruth Hawes

Known as ‘The Locals’ at Ray White the team can often be seen at community events such as the Kingsland Karnival, where they are always active in doing their part to promote businesses and support their friends and neighbours. Ruth says, “you’ve got to prove yourself. A lot of our success comes from being genuine and loving what we do. People don’t list with a company, they list it with the person they meet and trust, in this case me — Ruth. The experience we have has cemented our reputation as a business that delivers on its promises. We value our reputation and as such take our accountability and our customers trust very seriously.”

Their drive for excellence and talent for real estate has lead both Lesley and Ruth Hawes to be recognised on multiple occasions as outstanding in their field on a national and international level. Not the sort of thing they like to go on about, but having two salespeople in one business who’ve been awarded the International Number One Salesperson status out of 5000 agents across the entire Ray White network in 10 countries is pretty special. “The main thing [though], is to do something you’re passionate about, and that you genuinely enjoy doing!” Ruth says, “if you do something you love you’ll do it well!” That’s certainly true of The Locals, and as Ruth remarked, there’s no better time to buy or sell than today! For more info visit www.thelocals.co.nz Call 09 815 9008 or Ruth on 021 482 797

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In the last four years, Chris has sold upwards of $125 million worth of real estate in Auckland’s western suburbs with one of those properties exceeding the $10 million price tag. He says the qualities that make him an excellent salesman are strong communication skills, reliability, in depth market knowledge and a proven track record that his clients can depend upon.

Chris Batchelor Barfoot & Thompson, Ponsonby Words: Angus Brown Photos: Glenn Stirling

If I were selling my house (and I lived in the western suburbs), Chris Batchelor would probably be my go-to guy. He’s young (well, younger than me anyway), relaxed, a straight shooter and more importantly, he’s one of the top salespeople at Barfoot’s Ponsonby branch and is consistently in the top 10% of salespeople in the whole Barfoot & Thompson group. It’s not difficult to see why that is. My first impression is of a bloke who has invariably fallen into favourable circumstances throughout his life by virtue of a very cruisy and affable disposition (he’s also

clearly a very hard worker mind you). Batch is instantly likeable, very sharp when it comes to the property market and easy to chat to as we enjoy our beers in the sun at Mea Culpa. He’s too humble to be a self-promoter so I have to drag the information out of him. He’s always worked in the service industry. After leaving King’s College, he spent a number of terrific years chasing the snow between Switzerland and Queenstown, snowboarding, cheffing and generally having a ball. He then ‘fell into’ a job selling art for the estates of John Lennon, Ronnie Wood, Marilyn Monroe and Miles Davis. Knowing absolutely nothing about art was no obstacle to the young gogetter, people just liked dealing with him and he was able to get the job done by sheer force of personality. He then worked for a time as an estate manager in the Cotswolds, which taught him a great deal about managing renovations, landscaping and event coordination. Coming home to Auckland he knew the real estate industry would be his next step. His skill-set was uniquely suited to sales and the market was beginning to come out of the global slump. He went straight to Barfoots in Ponsonby in 2010 and hit the ground running. His business has doubled every year since then and his success continues to thrive. As a result he has had to create a support team to meet the demands of his business — Divena, his talented personal assistant, and Louise Stringer, who is working as a Sales Associate to help better service their clients. This has allowed him to focus

his energies on vendors and to chasing up new business, leaving many of the administrative matters in Divena’s capable hands. In the last four years, Chris has sold upwards of $125 million worth of real estate in Auckland’s western suburbs with one of those properties exceeding the $10 million price tag. He says the qualities that make him an excellent salesman are strong communication skills, reliability, in depth market knowledge and a proven track record that his clients can depend upon. “I love how this job offers something different every day. But the most rewarding aspect for me is helping people with such huge decisions at a critical point in their lives. It’s a privilege and an honour that I take very seriously”. Chris is currently halfway through his real estate manager’s papers at the Open Polytechnic and hopes to move into a management role in the next few years, a position he will no doubt flourish in. Go get ‘em Batch! Conact Chris Batchelor today. www.barfoot.co.nz/c.batchelor c.batchelor@barfoot.co.nz 09 376 3039 -or- 0800 1 AGENT

APRIL 2014

Barfoot & Thompson Greenlane ‘The Hub of Auckland’, Where East Meets West

01 — The team at Barfoot and Thompson’s Greenlane 02 — Greenlane manager, Kevin Lowe

02 Words: Angus Brown Photos: Glenn Stirling

Barfoot and Thompson’s Greenlane branch is one of the leading offices in what is arguably Auckland’s top real estate agency. Moreover, in 2011-12, Kevin Lowe was the manager of the number one team in the Barfoots group. I’m no statistician but that’s almost as many hits as Lorde folks. In some areas of Auckland, Barfoots sells significantly more than one in every three houses on the market. In the last two financial years, the Greenlane branch has sold just shy of 400 properties per year, representing a total value of $310 million worth of residential property in the year to February 2014 alone. Kevin has been at the helm of the Greenlane branch for the last 15 years, and rightly describes that area as being, “the hub of Auckland.” It’s smack bang in the centre of the isthmus, with motorway access, main arterial routes and many of the city’s upmarket suburbs all stretching out from that central point. Kevin was born in Hong Kong, but having lived in Auckland for most of his life, his accent is now a decidedly Kiwi one. His parents saw the writing on the wall and immigrated to New Zealand via Hong Kong soon after Mao came to power. Since his grandfather had come to Wellington in the 1920s to start afresh, it was a logical choice for the rest of the family to follow suit. With the £300 their patriarch left them, the family has gone from strength to strength and Kevin’s kids are now making their own way

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Kevin has been at the helm of the Greenlane branch for the last fifteen years, and rightly describes that area as being “the hub of Auckland.” It’s smack bang in the centre of the isthmus, with motorway access, main arterial routes and many of the city’s upmarket suburbs all stretching out from that central point. in the world — his daughter has one of the most popular fashion blogs in the country, katherineisawesome.com. Much like Kevin (who describes himself as half Kiwi half Chinese), the Greenlane branch is a sort of 50/50 cultural hybrid of Asian and European descended staff. It’s a truly multilingual office, with staff fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese and Hokkein amongst other languages. This is an important point of difference for the branch because having access to the large market of Asian investors in Auckland is absolutely crucial for many vendors. The site on the corner of Great South Road and Matai Road in Greenlane is one of the oldest offices in the group, owing to its pivotal location. About 10 years ago, Barfoots purchased the building next door, the site of the old ASB offices. The team of 50 staff is now effectively divided in two, with the property management team working on the ground floor and the sales team filling the recently refurbished offices upstairs. Many people are unaware that Barfoots is possibly the largest property management company

in Auckland. The Greenlane branch alone manages 425 properties. Because Barfoot & Thompson is a family owned business, all of its 65 branches around Auckland work together and listings are shared throughout the group. That said, the Greenlane branch is without doubt one of the key locations, especially with regard to the CBD, central and eastern suburbs. The existence of the grammar zone has always resulted in a strong market in the central and eastern suburbs and this looks set to continue well into the future with immigrants and locals alike always eager to get their kids into the best Auckland schools. With interest from Asian immigrants continuing to grow in Auckland, there’s never been a better time to contact Barfoot & Thompson Greenlane.

For more info visit www.barfoot.co.nz or call 09 523 1189

www.vervemagazine.co.nz

Keith Ward & Jill Findlay Harcourts JK Realty at St Lukes Words: Angus Brown Photos: Glenn Stirling

Keith Ward and Jill Findlay are the principals of JK Realty and they specialise in Auckland’s central Auckland suburbs from Mt Albert to Orakei and Point Chevalier to Mt Roskill. Of all the real estate agents I’ve interviewed this month, their story is certainly the cutest. Not only are they extremely honest, humble, likeable people, more importantly, theirs is a love story — and one doesn’t usually expect to find love stories when talking about real estate. Both from the Hamilton/Cambridge region originally, Keith, Jill and their first spouses had actually all been friends in earlier days. But they lost touch when Jill and her husband moved to Auckland in the 1980s and they didn’t see each other for the next 20 years. As well as owning his own businesses, Keith had been Chairman of Waikato FC Soccer and was one of the three founders behind the formation of the New Zealand Breakers basketball team which led him to move to Auckland in 2004. In 2010, through the grapevine, Keith heard that his friend, Jill’s first husband Russell, had passed away. He was shocked to hear the news and having lost his own wife to cancer a number of years prior, Keith knew what Jill must be going through and immediately got in touch with her. It wouldn’t be long before they fell very much in love and moved into the next phase of their lives. Being gregarious and entrepreneurial by nature, real estate seemed like a good fit for both of them, especially since Jill had a lot of experience buying, renovating

and reselling properties. She has been able to impart a lot of her knowledge and experience to Keith who has taken to the industry like a duck to water in just four years. They recently established their own agency, JK (Jill and Keith) Realty, opposite Westfield St Lukes. Their office manager and right hand woman, who happens to be very aptly nicknamed JK, keeps the ship running smoothly at all times and the two principals are backed up by a team of able sales people who definitely know

It’s no surprise that they both have a strong philanthropic streak. Keith’s community spirit came through in the early days in his commitment to soccer and basketball and one of their shared dreams is to develop a ‘retreat’ centre where people who would otherwise not be able to afford it can go for respite, whether it be from work, illness or other challenging life situations. The testimonials on their website indicate a high level of commitment, competence

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It gives them a huge kick to see a family’s needs perfectly met and to know that they are helping to create wealth and a secure future for people.

their way around the central suburbs. Keith and Jill love working in real estate because they really enjoy being around people and they are passionate about matching people with the right properties. It gives them a huge kick to see a family’s needs perfectly met and to know that they are helping to create wealth and a secure future for people.

and professionalism, which buyers and sellers alike are very grateful for. they are a delightful couple, so if you want a team who can add real value to your property when selling, you must definitely give them a call at JK Realty.

For more info visit www.harcourtsjkrealty.co.nz or call 09 815 8899

APRIL 2014

Sylvia Lund Just Rentals Ltd MREINZ Words: Angus Brown Photos: Glenn Stirling

“Old fashioned service with a smile.” That sums up Just Rentals rather nicely. Last week I went along to find out what makes them so darned good at managing properties in Auckland’s eastern suburbs. For one thing, the delightful husband and wife team of Sylvia and Graham Lund — who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary a fortnight ago — have been doing it for 16 years, so they know the industry inside out. Another element of their success is that it’s a tight-knit family company run from their lovely home in Meadowbank. There are in fact three Lund’s involved in Just Rentals (or four if you count Sylvia’s twin sister Gloria Gould). Daughter Courtenay runs the accounting side of the business with her father, while close friend, Christine Muller, shares the office job with Gloria. They refer to themselves collectively as ‘The A-Team’, which I suppose makes Sylvia the ‘Hannibal’ Smith of the operation and Graham therefore, B.A. Baracus. They’re a happy bunch and seem to be laughing and smiling all of the time, so one imagines that their clients find them very easy and enjoyable to deal with. The irrepressible Sylvia is the face of the business. She deals with the clients, the tenants, the tradies, and well, everything apart from the accounts really. When they started the business, things were pretty basic. It was just Graham and Sylvia in those days (the rest of the family came later). To begin with, “Graham did all the odd jobs, including painting, changing washers and goodness knows what else,” says Sylvia with a laugh. In fact, to prove the point, his personalised plate is

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They’re a happy bunch and seem to be laughing and smiling all of the time so one imagines their clients find them very easy and enjoyable to deal with. The irrepressible Sylvia is the face of the business.

‘do uppa’. They had no computer skills at all in those days so they had to hire someone to teach them how to use their emails. They soon got up to speed however and appear to be positively tech-savvy nowadays. They gradually built the business together and developed a reputation for being solid and reliable in the industry. They were one of the first licensed agencies that dealt only in rentals and property management. Because the property management sector is relatively unregulated, there are a number of ‘less established’ players coming into the industry and owners will often contact Just Rentals after being let down by other companies. As Sylvia says, “we’re the best. Why would you go anywhere else?” Sylvia and Graham purchased their Meadowbank home because of its central location and easy access to the many eastern suburbs properties

on their books. Currently they are responsible for over 300 properties, which means that the phones are on 24/7 and Sylvia often has to rush out at 2:00 in the morning to deal with a flood, control some rowdy youngsters making too much noise or help a tenant who’s managed to lock himself out after a big night on the town. But she doesn’t seem to mind any of this at all. In fact, she loves it. When it comes to taking care of your rental properties you need a steady pair of hands. So get in touch with the A Team at Just Rentals today.

For more info visit www.justrentals.co.nz or call 09 528 4818

www.vervemagazine.co.nz

Ross Hawkins: An Agent With Heritage On His Side There’s an assured air of sophistication about Ross Hawkins and his New Zealand Sothebys International Realty (NZSIR) office, an office he helped establish. The name is lent from the legendary London auction house, and though the real estate company is no longer owned by them, they are still heavily affiliated. Each month the glossy Sotheby’s magazine is sent to the world’s elite. In its back pages a real estate section boasts some of the finest properties on earth, including the houses of Hawkins and his team. “It’s a brand instantly recognisable around the globe,” says Hawkins. “No other New Zealand real estate company carries such clout. The queen gets a copy of the magazine, along with the world’s wealthiest art and jewellery buyers.” Ross has had buildings listed by the New York Times and Wall Street Journal too. He’s especially excited about a David Ponting designed property in Remuera’s Kenny Road (image 03), which features moveable electric louvres across its façade: “Not only is it a great place for displaying art, but it’s a work of art in itself. It’s special.” His love of architecture attracts Ross to interesting properties. “It’s one of our points of difference,” he says. “We deal with places that have that X-factor.” Property design and development is another interesting addition to Sotheby’s portfolio. They’ve taken on the old model T-Ford assembly plant in Parnell, a $20million project that has seen the building re-designed to replicate features of the classic car while still retaining the brick-built building’s original character. “Auckland is growing up, not just aesthetically,” says Hawkins. “There’s a real trend with the baby boomers looking to sell-up, maybe get a beach or Queenstown property, and look for a lock-up-and-leave here in the city. I’ve been working with local architects and developers looking for ways to accommodate that need. The industry is evolving, it’s no longer a case of selling and listing, we must help create too. Customers are definitely looking for a new approach, and ours is a breath of fresh air.” Sotheby’s 660-plus offices worldwide mean real international opportunities, but

Words: Jamie Christain Desplaces

01 — Ross Hawkins of Sotheby’s 02 — Ford Residences, Augustus and York, Parnell

01 Hawkins stresses that though the brand is global, his office is very much boutique. “It’s the best of both worlds,” he says. “We have a great referral system and regular international conferences, sharing ideas and contacts with foreign agents. It’s a massive network. As soon as something goes online with us, it’s global.” The team also use premium video presentations to tempt potential offshore buyers. “Photos can only do so much,” says Ross. “A professionally shot video with a voice-over can really encapsulate what the property is all about.” Hawkins believes the key to success is to specialise, to not take on too much: “Every single viewing of a property, I’m there. I know what’s happening at any given time, I can gauge the reactions at viewings, see what needs improving. If you don’t take that approach, I feel you’re doing the vendor a disservice.” Auckland is the new kid on the property block, and Ross reckons they’re thrilling times for the industry. “For years, the city was lacking,” he says. “People are better-travelled and have seen how they do things in places like Europe, inspiring

03 — 24 Kenny Road, Remuera

great ideas here. It’s a whole new type of user-friendly living. It’s interesting. I think we’re also seen as this beautiful safe haven in a troubled world. More and more people are discovering what a desirable location it is and it’s great to be a part of that.”

For more info visit www.nzsothebysrealty.com or phone Ross Hawkins on 09 352 2502 or 0274 720 577 Ross.Hawkins@sothebysrealty.com

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JOHN KEHOE’S

MIND POWER FREE INTRODUCTION SEMINARS

Please arrive early to ensure admission

Wednesday & Thursday, 28 & 29 May (evenings) 6:30-10pm Venue: Auckland Conference Centre, 12 – 16 Nicholls Lane, Parnell Do yourself an everlasting favour! Attend the Mind Power introduction seminar with Robin Banks. Learn more about: - The power of mind sets - Dealing and coping with change - Internal versus external control - Maintaining a positive attitude - Creating empowering beliefs - Generating a vibrant energy field - Other powerful Mind Power techniques

OVER 2 MILLION COPIES SOLD www.robinbanks.co.nz facebook.com/robinbankslive For more infomation contact (09) 889 8876 or email info@robinbanks.co.nz Mind Power Course: Tuesday 3 June, Monday 9, 16 & 23 June (evenings) Venue: Auckland Conference Centre, 12 – 16 Nicholls Lane, Parnell For the early bird price, book early.

Robin Banks International Speaker

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MATTERS OF INTEREST: WHAT MOTIVATED ME TO GET INTO POLITICS

A SYMBOL OF NATIONHOOD

Community service ran deep in my family and set me on the path that led to the Mayoralty of Auckland.

I’ve always been proud that New Zealand is a progressive country with an independent voice.

My father was a school principal and he and Mum were always very active in the local community.

As the first country in the world in give women the right to vote, and take a strong stance on nuclear free issues, we have demonstrated our progressive and independent nature throughout history.

From an early age, learning from their example, I was the neighbourhood organiser amongst the local kids. Bike events, rugby or cricket games – I was the go-to guy to organise them.

A flag can be an important symbol of who we are as a country. Recently, the Prime Minister outlined a plan to potentially change our flag.

Then in my teen years, I was involved in leading church youth groups, local sports organisations and in school leadership. A year-long youth exchange to Holland sparked off my interest in politics.

This debate isn’t a new one, but we believe it’s time to have a serious and inclusive discussion about our flag, and how it should represent New Zealand. 2015 marks 100 years since the Gallipoli campaign, and we feel this is a good time to consider how we present ourselves to the world.

From there I became involved in significant community governance through the Otara Fleamarket, the Greater East Tamaki Business Association and on school and local health boards. I have always thrived on being intensely involved in the community and all of these experiences gave me a real sense and understanding of the importance of activism and participation. In turn, that led me to wanting to become involved in the decision-making relating to building our community, our towns and our city. Throughout it all there are elements which continue to motivate me — this personal sense of passion for people and our communities, a commitment to fairness and equity, and a desire to see real progress and positive change in our neighbourhoods and towns. These sparked an early dream in me to enter local government and which ultimately have led me here, to being the Mayor of Auckland. Auckland is full of people who are passionate about their neighbourhoods and their city. They come in many guises and different political stripes, from the person who organises a street party, to community group volunteers, ward councillors and local board members, and electorate MPs. We may have different approaches and the occasional robust debate, but we are agreed on one thing – we want the best for our communities and our people – for our Auckland.

Len Brown Mayor of Auckland

In my view the current focus on the Union Jack does not accurately reflect our relationship with the United Kingdom. Most of us would consider New Zealand to be a successful and sovereign nation that proudly takes its place among other developed economies of the 21st century. As an Aucklander I can see the growing diversity of our city and our country. I want us to have a flag that better represents all of us. I agree that for many people the main issues that are important are health, education and the economy. However, I don’t think that this should prevent us from a discussion about nationhood — the direction of our country, and what symbols represent us. That’s why it is really important that consideration of a new flag includes genuine input from all New Zealanders. All voices need an opportunity to be heard and it’s important these discussions and debates happen outside party politics. If National has the privilege of remaining in Government after the general election in September, the Prime Minister will write to leaders of all political parties represented in Parliament asking them to nominate an MP to join a cross-party group to oversee the flag consideration process. At the outset of any process, we want to give clear assurance and commitment that retaining the current flag is a very possible outcome, and there will be no presumption in favour of change. I really hope our local community gets involved with the process, and takes some time to think, and consider what a modern New Zealand flag should look like. I hope that the debate is wider than the flag and focuses our minds on who we are as a modern young country and the values that we believe in. If you would like any further information, please contact my office on mp.aucklandcentral@parliament.govt.nz

Hon Nikki Kaye MP for Auckland Central

APRIL 2014

The ideas and opinions in Matters of Interest do not reflect those of Verve Magazine

AN EPSOM WEEK

MOTIVATED TO KEEP THEM HONEST

On Tuesday, I met with the German ambassador as chairman of the NZ-EU Parliamentary Friendship Group. While our trade relationship with China has exploded to $18 billion, we don’t forget that trade with the European Union (EU) is worth $16 billion, and has great potential. John Key followed his talks with President Xi Jinping with a visit to The Hague, where he made excellent progress getting a NZ-EU Free Trade Agreement on the agenda.

It’s an interesting question what motivates one to get into politics. For some it’s a specific community cause that they got involved in, have some success and get some credit, and then are encouraged to put their hand up for elected office.

On Wednesday my task was to lead the Parliamentary debate on the Budget Policy Statement. After talking about the Government’s successful economic approach, I tried to make sense of the Labour Party’s stated policy goal of ‘equal outcomes’. Most people agree on ‘equal opportunity’, but natural diversity and choices inevitably lead to very different outcomes. Can this really be what they mean? I hope not. Thursday brought the Reserve Bank Governor Graeme Wheeler to the Finance & Expenditure Select Committee, which I chair. He came to answer questions about the first increase in the Official Cash Rate since the recession. Householders and business owners with debt worry when rates go up, but his message was overwhelmingly positive. GDP growth has strengthened over the past 18 months, leading to very strong consumer confidence and increases in business investment. The Bank is forecasting strong growth in jobs over the next 4 years. Back home on Friday to make some opening remarks at an international conference on Art, History and Plastic Surgery, organised by three Parnell plastic surgeons. Kiwis have had a huge impact on plastic surgery. Archibald McIndoe’s treatment of burns victims during the Battle of Britain is well known; Harold Gillies’ pioneering of facial reconstruction during the First World War less so. It’s a proud legacy. Gillies Ave, by the way, is named after Harold’s uncle, Thomas Gillies. On Sunday I headed to Newmarket, to swim in a race celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Olympic Pool. I thought I had it sewn up, against a Labour MP who didn’t seem very fast, but at the last minute a group of former swimming champs appeared and I was thrashed. Monday brought a visit to Mt Eden Prison to hear from staff and prisoners first-hand about the Government’s investment in drug and alcohol treatment programmes. Since 2008 there has been a rise of 1,500 per cent in places on treatment programmes. If we can help prisoners kick their addictions, we reduce the risk of re-offending on release.

Paul Goldsmith MP National List MP based in Epsom www.paulgoldsmith.co.nz (09) 524 4930

For me it was much more of a slow burner and arguably a natural progression. Twenty years ago I was writing for a university magazine. But I suppose my real first interest in politics was when I campaigned to become a student president, and among other things led a march, and officiated over a mock marriage against the National government of the day’s funding cuts to tertiary education. Ironically, three years later I got a job in the National Party Research Unit in Parliament. In between, I had set up my own community newspaper where I was a sole trader, paying GST and pasting together a monthly publication from above a fish and chip shop. It was about then that I became a little more Tory and a bit more interested in where my taxes were going. From the research unit in Parliament, I moved into former PM Jenny Shipley’s office. Later I worked for former Mayor John Banks and Rodney Hide, before five years as CEO of the Newmarket Business Association. In 2010 I shocked a few people when I announced I would be standing to be councillor for the ward of Orakei. To tell you the truth I thought I would be walking into a centre-right council but the opposite resulted. What motivates me every morning is keeping this council and this Mayor accountable. My life would be a lot easier, and I’d have a few more friends at council, if I just went along with it all. However this council doesn’t need any more promoters. It’s got over 10,000 staff and plenty of elected representatives who do that pretty well. As an elected representative, I believe my role is to represent my constituents as best I can. I’m not here to defend the status quo but to raise issues around the likes of expenditure, service, rates, debt and better transport for Aucklanders. That’s what motivates me. Please contact me with your own ideas as we begin work on the council’s revised 10-year budget for 2015-2025. Also feel free to email me on constituency matters at anytime on cameron. brewer@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Cameron Brewer Councillor for Orakei www.cameronbrewer.co.nz

www.vervemagazine.co.nz

MATTERS OF INTEREST CONT: MESSIAH

UNITARY PLAN’S PARALLEL IWI PLANNING AUTHORITY WILL CAUSE DIS-UNITY As we know the Unitary Plan was rushed through the Council last year with extraordinary speed. Little or no time was given to consider the huge amount of public feedback – nor did the Council officers allow discussion on the serious criticism of the draft plan by legal reviewers. In fact they went to some lengths to conceal its existence, absurdly claiming it to be “confidential to management.” But there are always consequences to such haste, and one of the more serious is now starting to emerge. The revelation that the Council, in adding 3600 sites of “cultural and heritage value to Maori” to the 60 or so previously accepted sites, without first confirming their precise location or even their archaeological merits, is starting to cause concern. As Brian Rudman pointed out in his recent Herald column, this will impact on potentially thousands of Auckland properties located with 300 metres of such sites. I’m all for heritage protection, but this seems a bit extreme, especially when you contrast it to the Council’s cavalier attitude to the demolition of 19th century villas. What is even more concerning, is that rather than going to the Council for a consent, the householder living within proximity of these sites now has to first seek permission from an iwi authority to obtain a Cultural Impact Assessment before the Council will do anything. Given there are 19 iwi now claiming manawhenua over Auckland, you can get an idea of the potential cost and inconvenience to residents. The Council is now trying to head off the growing public backlash by hiring ‘facilitators’ to act as go-betweens between the public and iwi. While the issue is getting coverage in the media, the full story has yet to come out. What most people don’t realise is that also affected are properties within or near Auckland’s many and extensive Significant Ecological Areas (SEA’s). These residents too have to first obtain Cultural Impact Assessments from iwi before they can get resource consents for work around their properties. One of the many criteria iwi will be assessing is whether your driveway job, vegetation clearance or earthworks is consistent with the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi. What the Council has done is to sneak through what is in effect a parallel RMA authority in Auckland based on race. This creates a precedent that could have important future consequences. Resource management law experts like Professor Ken Palmer are already challenging the legality of Cultural Impact Assessments, but the fact is these new provisions are now in force. Unless the Auckland Council reverses them, these provisions of the Unitary Plan are likely to become a source of major social dis-unity in Auckland.

Mike Lee Councillor for Waitemata and Gulf

APPLES & ORANGES

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT WEB PARTNER

Choosing a web designer by looking at their website is a bit like dating someone after viewing their online profile. You can never be sure just how much they’re making-up to appear more attractive. Yet people do it every day, trusting in a handful of words and images before investing thousands of dollars, and their business’ brand, in someone they hardly know. Most people tasked with looking for a web design company will take the traditional path of requesting quotes from three different companies and choosing the cheapest, but I can assure you that this is a very poor way of selecting quality. What you’ll end up with is three quotes for completely different levels of service, from people with completely different sets of skills. What’s more, this quote will be a very short-sighted perspective of your needs, without reference to a clear business goal, e.g. “I need a four page site for my law firm,” rather than, “I want to increase the number of qualified referrals I receive from small business clients in the CBD by at least 30% over the next 12 months.” The way these two statements are framed would result in dramatically different proposals from your web design suitors.

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Most people tasked with looking for a web design company will take the traditional path of requesting quotes from three different companies and choosing the cheapest, but I can assure you that this is a very poor way of selecting quality.

So how do you choose the right partner for a meaningful, long-term relationship? As with our personal relationships the answer is to look further than just skin deep, and get to know your potential web designer’s strengths and weaknesses through a qualitative assessment. The things to look for is their ability to communicate (both promptly and clearly), along with their ability to listen, and examples of their work are important too. When looking at past work, think about how easy the sites are to use, and how well they address the needs of their clients (not just whether they use the flashiest techniques, although sometimes that helps.) Finally, are they up-front about the money, or are they leaving a lot of wiggle room? True romance is possible in a digital world, just take the time to check that your designer lives up to their online profile before you fall head-over-heels James McGoram is an author, designer and the director of Messiah Studio, a web design company based in Parnell, Auckland. Visit www.messiah.co.nz for your free online business guide.

APRIL 2014

RUDY’S PC SERVICES

MERCY HOSPICE

WELCOME TO RUDY’S TIPS ‘N TRICKS

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS Mercy Hospice is looking for volunteers to assist with their street collection appeal for Awareness Week, 11-18 May.

Windows XP will still continue to work! I have had many calls from people worried that Windows XP will stop working on 9 April. This is not true. The only change is Microsoft is no longer supporting it, or writing software updates for it. This happened with Windows 98 as well, and it continued to function for some time. The main issue will be in the future when no one writes antivirus software to cover XP anymore, but that’s probably a couple of years away. There are so many businesses using XP that antivirus software should be available for some time yet.

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I still build PCs to order. This is quite a popular service. I can build a computer specifically to your needs and budget. Simple PCs just for light work or more powerful gaming computers. I have built some high end PCs for media work and graphic design.

Mercy Hospice provides a range of specialist community palliative care and services for people facing life-limiting illnesses within the Auckland community. All hospice services are offered free to patients and their families regardless of age, ethnicity, means or religion, all of which can only continue through the communities’ generous and continued support. If you can help, please call Rebecca Williams on (09) 376 7574. MERCY HOSPICE KEY FACTS: • In the last quarter of 2013 the number of patients receiving Mercy Hospice services during any one week reached over 300 • Community nurse visits in 2013 totaled 9,212 • Overall cost to operate Mercy Hospice in 2013 was over $9 million • The cost to operate the Inpatient Unit exceeded $150,000 in 2013 • There are 57 nurses on staff at Mercy Hospice Auckland

Mercy Hospice Auckland www.mercyhospice.org.nz

There is a lot of misinformation about the end of life for XP, and unscrupulous people are forcing new PCs or upgrades on to the uninformed. You have at the very least a couple of years yet to make that kind of decision, and if your PC does not connect to the internet, or get new software installed, it will continue to work for the life of the hardware. Remember, your bank or Microsoft will never call you and ask for banking or personal details. 99.9% of these calls will be scammers trying to get money. If in doubt, hang up and call us. I still build PCs to order. This is quite a popular service. I can build a computer specifically to your needs and budget. Simple PCs just for light work or more powerful gaming computers. I have built some high end PCs for media work and graphic design. Call me to discuss your needs and we can tailor a system to suit your requirements.

NEED STORAGE?

At Rudy’s PC Services we can help you set up the best solution for your needs. Call us about anything regarding your computer and we will be glad to advise you and fulfil your requirements. We are all about making long term relationships with our customers. We give ongoing advice and support. Often for free! Like us on Facebook and share with your friends and family. Phone 09 579 7809 or email rudy@rudys.co.nz Rudy’s PC Services 09 579 78 09 rudy@rudys.co.nz See Rudy’s PC Service’s ad on page 95 Rudy's Verve Mag advert.pdf

27/09/13

SEARCH 'STORAGE KING PARNELL'

10:13 AM

STORAGE KING PARNELL

377 4430 parnellstorage.co.nz

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YOUNG AT HEART

01 — Natalie Cutler-Welsh and Jacqueline Lockington, authors of If Only They’d Told Me

If Only They’d Told Me… THE WORDS EVERY MOTHER UTTERS AT ONE TIME OR ANOTHER When Jacqueline Lockington met Natalie Cutler-Welsh she was already piecing together some thoughts on her own parenting book. Jacqui, who had had her world turned upside down when becoming a mum, wished friends had been more honest with her about all that parenting entails. She wanted to write something real, honest and funny too, and to provide an outlet for anecdotes and stories which mums could draw on to make them realise that they are not alone. Nat too was in the planning stages of her own book, on relationships and how they change when you have children. Her book was inspired by the marriage of a friend that broke down when they had young ones. She recognised the strains children put on relationships and was keen to address it with a book on how to have a thriving (and not just surviving) relationship in the early years.

freely admit that they are not the experts), they recognised that by being honest and sharing real stories, laughter and tips, they could help other mothers cope and laugh at those hurdles children throw at us every day. They were also keen to shed some light on things from the dad perspective and their book covers everything from what dad thinks, to tips to help your marriage, sex life and even friendships thrive and also how they change. The book isn’t just full of funny stories, but includes some raw moments and personal issues as well as interviews and insights with other parents around world plus some top tips from the experts – Nigel Latta, Diane Levy and Dorothy Wade.

The two women met after the Christchurch earthquake in February, 2011. Nat, whose third child was born the day after the earthquake, relocated her family to Auckland to start life afresh. When the mums met they were amazed to discover that they were each writing books and for the next few months would share tips and ideas before recognising that, by combining their writing, they would have something unique that really did share every aspect of parenting and relationships. So, they decided to put the two books together and If Only They’d Told Me was born.

If Only They’d Told Me, the book, is just the tip of the iceberg. Three years ago Jacqui and Nat started their own blog www.ifonlytheydtoldme.com in order to share stories along the way and to test their material with other parents. The blog quickly became a huge hit and they average around 200 hits a day. The women also run a free podcasting service, publishing a podcast every week on iTunes and Stitcher Radio on a range of topics from how to be a happy stayat-home mum and top tips for getting ready for baby to postnatal depression, parenting twins and thriving after separation. The podcasts are extremely popular (Jacqui and Nat have been on the iTunes What’s Hot list since they launched) – right next to Ellen, Jacqui and Nat have almost 55,000 downloads to-date.

The book is born out of a desire to help other parents and, whilst they didn’t want to provide a ‘How To’ (Jacqui and Nat

The wonderful thing about Jacqui and Nat is that they recognise that parenthood isn’t easy. Jacqui says: “It’s an art which you

learn as you go, making mistakes along the way. When you get it right it is an incredibly rewarding time, a time that you will never get back. There is no getting around the fact that you will have hiccups along the way. Sometimes knowing this before you start makes it an easier journey.”

WIN WITH VERVE! Up for grabs: Your very own copy of If Only They’d Told Me* Interested? To enter is easy. Simply visit www.vervemagazine.co.nz, and click on the competitions tab. *CONDITIONS APPLY

APRIL 2014

- Develop their self-confidence - Create a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;thirstâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for inquiry and knowledge - Acquire a clear sense of identity - Empower them to be expressive communicators - Foster a strong sense of empathy for others

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CHIROPRACTIC BOUTIQUE

IS YOUR BABY GETTING THE BEST POSSIBLE START IN LIFE?

BABY COACH

BABIES ARE MY PASSION! Trish Martin

As a mum of three, I found myself needing a little more out of life.

You may be wondering why so many babies and children are having their spines checked by chiropractors. The reason is that a large percentage of children need to as they have stress and tension in their nervous system and this in turn leads to tight muscles and misalignment. When the nerves get irritated, muscles, organs and glands fail to function optimally and they can become irritable and cranky. Parents may notice that their baby doesn’t like feeding or turning to one side, has a flat head, doesn’t like certain positions or is generally unsettled. Stress and pressure on a baby’s spine both prior to and during the birth process is common. From around eight weeks in utero, babies can be observed responding to stress, which produces changes in their heart rate and position. There is plenty of pressure on the head and neck during contractions and when passing through the birth canal. Assisted deliveries (forceps/ ventouse) are especially hard on their spines as are either prolonged or fast births. Once born, babies are also exposed to various chemical, physical and emotional stresses that impact on their delicate nervous systems. Network chiropractic care for babies is extremely gentle and safe — often babies remain asleep for the entire entrainment (adjustment). Following the entrainment their spines are generally more mobile, flexible and relaxed. Babies often sleep better and are more content. Care throughout pregnancy and during childhood helps with their neurological milestones, development and body awareness to live healthier happier lives. So give your children the best start in life by making as appointment to see Dr Bronia Tindall at Chiropractic Boutique today.

Dr Bronia Tindall Chiropractic Boutique 112 Gladstone Rd, Parnell www.yourback.co.nz 09 354 3274 See Dr Bronia Tindall’s article on page 53

I knew that I had the experience required to help others with their babies, so decided to combine my skills and passion as a mother, nurse, Plunket nurse and personal fitness trainer into a career that could assist new parents without compromising the needs of my own family. And so in 2013, I founded a business called Babycoach NZ.

My life since has been incredibly fulfilled. Using what I have learnt over the past twenty years. I now guide parents to create better outcomes that will fit the individual families needs. The philosophy behind Babycoach NZ, is that an empowered nurturing parent leads to a happy content baby. As a babycoach, I can help to make the transition into parenthood smoother and more rewarding as well as

assist new parents to find the energy, confidence and knowledge that they are going to need for the challenges ahead. I will improve breastfeeding and sleep routines, and ease problems associated with windy and colicky babies. I can provide useful insights for when your baby starts on solids, and will (if required) set up a programme for getting mum back into fabulous shape. So if you are a new parent in need of help, remember I am only a phone call away. There are several packages available to suit you and your family’s needs, e.g. home consults that last a couple of hours to pre-arranged overnight stays. Babycoach NZ works regularly alongside not-for-profit organisations and hosts

public talks and coffee chats* through parent centres, playgroups and networks. *Coffee chats are new to Babycoach NZ – just get a group of friends together to gain knowledge and guidance on anything to do with you and your baby.

“

There are several packages available to suit you and your family’s needs, e.g. home consults that last a couple of hours to pre-arranged overnight stays.

 

●Birthday Parties ●Hen Parties ●Baby Hand/  Footprints ●Coffee Groups ●Holiday Fun   ●Family Fun ●Personalised Gifts ●Workplace  ●Corporates ●Team Building ●Tile Murals  ●Schools ●Studio and Mobile Service



      

Pregnant? Adjusting to life with a newborn? Is your baby not sleeping? Not settling? Not winding? Not feeding? You and your baby deserve the best care. Call now and book your phone consult or home visit today. Mobile 021 874 749 Home 09 630 5501 Email babycoach@xtra.co.nz Website www.babycoach.co.nz Like us on Facebook Babycoach New Zealand

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THE EDGE

BARFOOT & THOMPSON

CALLING ALL ACTORS AND ACTRESSES!

BARFOOT & THOMPSON YOUNG AUTHORS CHALLENGE ENTRIES OPEN

One of the biggest and best-loved musicals of all time, The Sound of Music, is coming to Auckland in September and the producers are looking to cast six of the seven Von Trapp children locally. They will hold auditions in April for the lavish and critically acclaimed West End production, seeking to fill two male and four female roles. The roles the producers are looking to fill are: Friedrich: height 1.52m, playing a boy aged 14 Louisa: height 1.49m, playing a girl aged 13 Kurt: height 1.44m, playing a boy aged 11 Brigitta: height 1.4m, playing a girl aged 9/10 Marta: height 1.32m, playing a girl aged 7 Gretl: height 1.2m, played by a girl to be no younger than 6/7 Producer of The Sound of Music and Chief Executive of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions James Cundall said, “this is an exciting opportunity for local talent to star in an international and West End blockbuster. We are looking for 18 children in total to play six roles in this family musical and encourage aspiring young actors and actresses of the right height to come along and audition.” Registrations should be completed at www.soundofmusic.co.nz With its unforgettable score The Sound of Music touches the hearts of all ages and brims over with some of the most memorable songs ever performed on the musical theatre stage, including My Favorite Things, Do-Re-Mi, Climb Ev’ry Mountain, Edelweiss, The Lonely Goatherd, Sixteen Going on Seventeen, and of course the glorious title song The Sound of Music. The Sound of Music tells the uplifting true story of Maria, the fun-loving governess who changes the lives of the widowed Captain Von Trapp and his seven children by re-introducing them to music, culminating in the family’s escape across the mountains. It opens at Auckland’s The Civic on 3 October. Tickets on sale in June.

Now in its seventh year, the Barfoot & Thompson Young Authors Challenge is back and the call is out to primary and intermediate students across Auckland and Northland to let their imaginations run wild with stories about their heroes. The writing competition provides the chance for budding writers to become published authors in a book to raise much-needed funds for patients at Starship Children’s Hospital.

“

Every cent raised from the sale of the storybooks goes towards the Starship Foundation, and to date the Young Authors Challenge has raised more than $120,000 for Starship. We also provide 15,000 books to children who stay overnight in Starship Children’s Hospital

“Last year we received over 900 entries and an overwhelming level of enthusiasm for the competition,” says Peter Thompson, Managing Director of Barfoot & Thompson. “We can’t wait to see what amazing tales of heroism we will read about this year — the students consistently introduce us to some very interesting characters and we are thrilled to continue to encourage the celebration of imagination and storytelling.” Authors will be helped along the way by mentor and children’s author, John Parker, and their stories brought to life through illustrations by All Black legend, Keven Mealamu. “Every cent raised from the sale of the storybooks goes towards the Starship Foundation, and to date the Young Authors Challenge has raised more than $120,000 for Starship. We also provide 15,000 books to children who stay overnight in Starship Children’s Hospital” Peter Thompson says that this year the judges are after a developed, original idea, that tells a story about heroes — be they every-day heroes, aspirational, or the ones who exist only in the imagination. For more information, tips and help, visit www.youngauthorschallenge.co.nz

APRIL 2014

PHINEAS PHROG PRESENTS

The Emperors New Clothes by Hans Christian Andersen, adapted by Sarah Somerville From the team that brought you The Three Billy Goats Gruff, The Gingerbread Man and The Great Christmas Caper, Phineas Phrog invites you to join the fun and frivolity of The Emperor’s New Clothes, playing during the April school holidays from April 28 at the Bruce Mason Centre! Once upon a time there was a great Emperor who loved to dress up. Wonderful robes, sparkling trousers, ruffled shirts and shoes with bells on them – he loved them all! He would change three, four, five times a day and each outfit would be more elaborate and glorious than the last.

He would parade and dance about and his subjects would ‘oooh’ and ‘ahhh’ at his sartorial splendour. One day for his upcoming birthday the Emperor demands the most magnificent suit ever created. All his tailors and seamstresses set to work straight away but nothing pleased the picky ruler — until a strange weaver promised to make him the most extraordinary outfit ever seen… a magical outfit… an outfit so unique that only the worthy can see it! Will the wonderful new clothes be the most spectacular fashion ensemble ever put together? Or is the mysterious weaver playing a sneaky trick on the vain Emperor? Adapted by Sarah Somerville, this re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic is full of colourful characters and toe-tapping tunes — making this madcap tale a holiday treat that will entertain those 10 and under! Four actors, loaded with physical high jinks, play the entire cast of kooky characters involved in this much loved fairy tale; singing, dancing and bringing some theatrical madness, ably assisted by a band of school children! Audience participation is encouraged, imagination applauded and the opportunity is

offered to meet and high-five favourite characters in the foyer after the show. Phineas Phrog Productions continues its vibrant entertainment tradition with another energetic theatrical romp for the whole family. Aiming to provide quirky and uplifting entertainment, the team look to make trips to the theatre a regular family event, to make their productions accessible and affordable, and to keep the magic and the madness of childhood alive in us all! Enter the wonderful world of The Emperor’s New Clothes — full of fun, colour and music, this tale will entertain and engage.

W WIN WITH VERVE! Up for grabs: Two family passes (four tickets in total – two adults, two children or one adult, three children) to The Emperors New Clothes!* Interested? To enter is easy. Simply visit www.vervemagazine.co.nz, and click on the competitions tab. *CONDITIONS APPLY

PETS

ANIMAL EMERGENCY CENTRE

THE STRAND VET

MARTHA, THE DINOSAUR GOBBLER

SEE Words: Megan Alderson, The Strand Veterinarian

Sometimes guidance is necessary to help ‘look’ into your life and figure out just what’s going wrong. One helpful professional advised, “you need to stand still and take five minutes a day not to look, but to see.” I had no idea what she was getting at, but being an A-type personality I went about the task as if it was an assignment, and was astounded by the results. If you took the time to ‘look’ it was amazing where the feeling of ‘seeing’ could lead. What she meant was — open your eyes and you will see that life is beautiful. As primates we are highly visual creatures; beyond spoken language, vision is our next most preferred form of communication. Our retina has a concentrated central area of photoreceptors (called the foveae), which allows us to see fabulous close up visuals and fine image detail in focus, with distinct and dramatic colour. Our lives play out like a French arthouse film, so be mindful of this gift bestowed upon our species.

Ever the opportunist, Martha was quick to pounce on a toy dinosaur when it was exposed after a couch was moved. Her owner says, “you would think two adults and three kids all trying to catch her would have some success, but she clamped those little jaws shut and ran for the hills.” Martha has since successfully passed the dinosaur and is thankfully none the worse for wear, but has earned herself the new nickname... Martha, the Dinosaur Gobbler.” This is a common scenario in an emergency clinic, so what should you do when your dog eats something it shouldn’t? The advice would be to take them to the vet immediately and let the professional assess the situation instead of just waiting to see if the object passes or not and do not induce vomiting without a veterinarian’s okay, as there are foreign bodies that can cause just as much harm by coming back up! The other piece of advice would be never to cut or pull a line or thread coming out of the dog’s mouth or rectum, since is often attached to a needle or fishhook! The veterinarian may order radiographs to determine the appropriate method of treatment. Depending on the severity of the situation this might include inducing vomiting or waiting if it will pass or some objects need to be removed by surgical intervention or endoscopy. In this specific case, Martha was a lucky girl and she did not need surgery, but the owners were waiting in suspense to see if anything would appear out of her back end! Dr. Marieke Wijnen BVSc Animal Emergency Centre 97 Carrington Rd, Mt Albert 09 849 2121 www.animalemergency.co.nz NIGHTS • WEEKENDS • PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

See Aminal Emergency Centre’s ad on page 94

Open when your regular vet is not 97 CARRINGTON ROAD, MT ALBERT

TELEPHONE 849 2121

Dogs do see in colour, but with two different cones (the photoreceptors responsible) compared to the feline and primate who have three. They see blue and green more clearly than orange, red or yellow. A walk in the park is so much more interesting than watching a glorious sunset, although they‘ll sit companionably beside us while we do. Our pets have limited close up vision and have to study us carefully to see changes in face and body movement: that look of imagined adoration is actually an intent stare to work out our next move — walk or dinner? Extensive peripheral vision makes up for lack of focus. An abundance of rods that fire in low light situations and changes in light density (seen as motion) create a perfect home guardian in our canine pets. As a necessity to get through the day, our primate brain slips unnoticed into automatic pilot. Try spending a few minutes ‘looking’ with our wonderful 3-D technicolour vision outside of the tunnel created by our expedient minds. Play with your cat, get out with your dog and look up at the smile coming towards you, open your eyes and see that life is truly beautiful!

APRIL 2014

THE DOG COAT COMPANY

DOGS DESERVE WOOL TOO! “For exclusive, designer dog-wear, this season, look no further than Christchurch’s boutique on-line business The Dog Coat Company. All garments are designed and proudly made in New Zealand and their 2014 range is inspired by the latest European styles, featuring opulent cashmere, traditional tweeds and trendy tartans with decadent genuine leather detailing. The company’s ethos is to hand select natural, quality fabrics to create coats that are not only beautiful in appearance, but feel beautiful against the dog’s skin. Wool is the gold standard when it comes to winter warmth, for its numerous, unique properties. At The Dog Coat Company, we believe your dog deserves the luxury of wool too. As well as the functional outer garments for all occasions, the Dog Coat Company also produces a therapeutic merino

compression garment – The Canine Calm Coat — which is a patented design proven to soothe and relax anxious dogs. This design was the foundation of the company, as the first garment to be created out of the needs for post — earthquake traumatic stress symptoms seen in many dogs around the city three years ago. Since these humble beginnings amongst the rubble, a successful boutique brand has now grown, producing a sought after range of limited edition outerwear for dogs. Now that autumn has arrived, we are confident you will find a coat for any weather amongst this season’s range, which includes the popular Dogs Pyjamas, the sought after Winter Wool and the essential Storm Jacket for those inevitable rainy days. Please visit www.thedogcoatcompany.co.nz

www.thedogcoatcompany.co.nz

A TESTIMONIAL

A Pawtect fan since 2011 – flea free “I love my Tibetan Terrier, Ragz, but with a breed that’s notorious for having flea allergies I wanted to avoid dealing with the aftermath of a flea bite; weeping eczema and expensive trips to the vet. I started searching ... “I found the Pawtect website and, while I’m an avid fan of alternative treatments, I wondered how it could possibly work. Testimonials from other pet owners convinced me to give it a go. “Fast forward 2 years. I’ve just bought Ragz’ second Pawtect. He’s never had a flea or tick in the whole time he’s worn the Pawtect pendant. In the photo he’s wearing 2 pendants; the old pendant providing overlapping protection until the new one is fully functional in a few weeks. “I’ve recommended Pawtect to every dog owner I know and in our small community of Raglan there are a growing number of Pawtect fans – and, more importantly, flea-free, happy dogs!” With warm regards Stephanie Philp (and Ragz)

www.pawtect.com facebook.com/Pawtect

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COMPETITIONS

Win with Verve This Month! 1

WAIHEKE INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

EASTER 2014 APRIL 18,19,20 This Easter the Waiheke Island International Jazz Festival serves up an all-star line-up of talent across four all-weather venues. Over 100 musicians will perform over the three days. A diverse range of musical genres and styles perform at this years’ event — the Phoenix Foundation headline the Good Friday Groove in a diverse line-up that also features Five Mile Town and Jan Hellreigel, but with the focus mainly on jazz, the island plays host to some of the top local and international touring acts. For more info visit www.waihekejazzfestival.co.nz

UP FOR GRABS: 5 x Double passes to the Waiheke International Jazz Festival!* *To enter simply follow the instructions on the next page. Conditions apply. 2

BUTTER UP FOR EASTER!

LEWIS ROAD CREAMERY

If you’re planning on treating yourself to some delicious hot cross buns this Easter, then make sure you slather them in only the best of butter. Premium dairy producer Lewis Road Creamery has just launched its new look Artisan Butter, which now comes in a convenient log shape allowing butter lovers to simply slice off a round and serve it on warm hot cross buns straight from the oven. Delicious! Made from 100% organic cream, Lewis Road’s Artisan Butter has a deliciously dense, rich and creamy taste and texture profile. It is also now more widely available in leading supermarkets. (RRP $5.99).

To find a stockist near you visit www.lewisroadcreamery.co.nz

GUBBO AUTOPOT

UP FOR GRABS: 7 x Lewis Road hampers to giveaway, including two Artisan Butter logs, two pats of Premium Butter (perfect to bake with!), two bottles of Organic Double Cream and a tea towel. *To enter simply follow the instructions on the next page. Conditions apply.

www.Gubba.co.nz is NZ’s online gardening store. With over 750 products available, you can shop from home and have your goods delivered to your door. Gubba has three AutoPot starter kits to giveaway. This clever new product has an ingenious “Aquavalve” that feeds and waters plants, without the need for pumps, timers and electricity.

UP FOR GRABS: 3x Gubbo AutoPot starter Kits!* *To enter simply follow the instructions on the next page. Conditions apply.

REMINGTON

Remington Stylis PRO Ceramic Straightener Welcome bright, loud and colourful into your everyday beauty régime thanks to Remington’s all new Stylis PRO Ceramic Hair Straightener. In 12 different colours, innovation meets edgy style with the latest technology in hair styling. The new Stylis PRO Hair Straighteners include the top features of high-end styling including ceramic floating plates, digital variable heat settings, automatic safety shut off and worldwide voltage. This new accessory from Remington is sure to be your best styling accessory – or perfect just in time for Mother’s Day!

UP FOR GRABS: One Remington Stylis PRO Ceramic Straightener worth $79.99!* *To enter simply follow the instructions on the next page. Conditions apply.

APRIL 2014

Entering Verve’s competitions is simple. Like our page on Facebook, facebook.com/VerveMagazine, then visit our website, www.vervemagazine.co.nz and click on the competitions tab at the top of the page. Good Luck! 5

SPECSAVERS

How would you like to win designer frames from fashion designer Collette Dinnigan’s latest collection, exclusive to Specsavers? The new sunglasses and eyewear collection is inspired by Collette’s world travels and features 18 frames.

UP FOR GRABS: One voucher for two pairs of glasses to give away! *To enter simply follow the instructions above. Conditions apply. 6

EENY, MEENY, MINY, MO Taking the guesswork out of gifting experiences, new Miny & Mo is a refreshingly simple way to buy experience gifts online. Catering for friends, family, clients or colleagues, Miny & Mo lets you select a range of premium experiences for your intended recipient and boxes them beautifully for you to gift. Miny & Mo then sends your recipient a stylish gift box with up to 10 experiences you’ve selected and they choose the one they love. UP FOR GRABS: We have two Miny & Mo experiences to give away to two very lucky readers, valued at $199 each*. *To enter simply follow the instructions above. Conditions apply. 7

AUCKLAND WRITERS FESTIVAL

NEW ZEALAND LISTENER GALA NIGHT: TRUTH AND LIES Eight amazing writers. Eight true stories told live. Thursday May 15, 7-8.30pm, ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre Back by popular demand, the Festival’s heart-stopping start to three days of action-packed public programming returns. Eight writers deliver a seven-minute true story — propless and scriptless, inspired by the theme Truth and Lies. Share the unpredictable ride with Nigerian poet and performer Inua Ellams, Egyptian writer Yasmine El Rashidi. New Zealand photographer Marti Friedlander, Canadian award-winner Lawrence Hill, Women’s Prize for Fiction winner a.m homes, best-selling novelist SarahKate Lynch, internationally loved lawyer and writer Alexander McCall Smith and Trainspotting’s Scot Irvine Welsh. Managing the mayhem in the compere seat, the unflappable Carol Hirschfeld. UP FOR GRABS: One double pass to the Listener Gala night event worth up to $80* *To enter simply follow the instructions above. Conditions apply.

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LAST WORD

Meat Your Goals Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

“I ran all of those marathons on a high-carbohydrate diet and wound up with type-2 diabetes,” says Noakes. “My body is carbohydrate intolerant, meaning I don’t metabolise carbohydrates well. Having adopted a new diet my running times have gone back 20 years. I eat no more than 25g of carbs a day and I feel fantastic.” That diet is a low-carb, high-fat, moderate protein affair — a concept that has actually been around since the late 19th century. Its roots, however, reach back even further. Known in one form as the paleolithic diet, it is based on the premise that our bodily design has remained constant since the end of the paleolithic era when we mainly consumed fish, eggs, greens and grass-fed meats. Noakes prefers the term low carbohydrate/high fat (LCHF) for the diet he promotes, since the LCHF allows dairy, which is avoided in the paleolithic diet. It has inspired him to co-author The Real Meal Revolution. “Whereas my previous books have taken about a decade to write, this one was wrapped up in six weeks,” says the professor. “David Grier and Jonno Proudfoot, adventure racing chefs, discovered they performed better on a high fat diet and decided to write a book of recipes. They asked me to pen a forward and I ended up composing 25,000 words.” It’s a recipe book with the science included, and although Noakes stresses it may not be a diet for everyone, it’s one that “saved my life.” I ask the professor how many of us are carbohydrate intolerant. He says it’s most certainly more than we realise, possibly even as high as 70% in some populations. “My parentage, like many New Zealanders’, is from a cold climate in northern England,” says Noakes. “Until a few thousand years ago there was no exposure to carbs. There was little fruit and veg and certainly no cereals or grains. I recently read a paper saying even the Chinese aren’t suited to a carbohydraterich diet and they’ve been exposed to them for ten thousand years.”

Zimbabwe-born Tim Noakes is a renowned sports scientist, professor and award-winning author. He’s run over 70 marathons/ultramarathons and his tome, Lore of Running, is widely considered an athletics bible. But four years ago the 65-year-old South African resident came to realise he’d been doing it all wrong. The book’s entire nutrition section, he says, should be torn out.

There’s a high proportion of lactose intolerance in Asia too, is there any link? “Lactose intolerance was actually the standard for all until around 6,000 years ago, but in northern Europe it changed with the agricultural revolution. One explanation is that food was initially of such poor quality that the gene for tolerance had to spread fast because if you didn’t drink milk, you didn’t receive enough nutrition and you died. So anyone who could digest dairy was suddenly at a huge advantage.”

APRIL 2014

There is, some might argue, a contradiction here. Humans have over thousands of years adapted to the ingestion of milk – allowed on the LCHF but not the paleo-diet – but are yet to master the metabolisation of most carbohydrates. The main offenders are such things as rice, grains and pasta. But, I ask, what of the much commended complex kind? “That’s a very interesting point,” replies Noakes. “Obviously, if you must, then always opt for the complex carbs as they have slightly less effect on your glucose and insulin levels. But, it is marginal. I believe the glycaemic index – which measures the complexity of the carbohydrate – has become a commercialised product, an idea driven well ahead of its biological value. In my opinion, anything that has a glycaemic index above 20% is a refined carb. That means just about everything except for green leafy vegetables. And certainly if you are insulin resistant or diabetic like myself, it is the absolute amount not the type of carbohydrate that will determine one’s health ” You believe corporations are exaggerating the health benefits of their products? “If I hadn’t written Waterlogged I wouldn’t have realised just how much industry manipulates what foods we eat [Waterlogged was a book challenging the theory that we must drink, ”as much as we can tolerate” during exercise in order to be healthy. This theory is now widely accepted to have been propelled by bottled water manufacturers]. Industry gets compliant scientists to design experiments and to publish results that favour the sale of the commercial product marketed by the companies funding the research. It’s shocking. You imagine all scientists are honourable in their attempts to make us healthier but some are conned and become dependent upon industry for the continuation of their research.” A recent study from the University of Southern California and the USC Longevity Institute made global headlines announcing certain meat-eaters of a certain age were four times as likely to develop cancer. Even more shocking was the comparison of the effects of a high-protein diet with the proven cancerproducing effects of smoking. “That study was appalling for a number of reasons,” says Noakes. “Also, those conducting it produce a plant-based protein, the sales of which must benefit from the publication of this study and the worldwide attention that it received. There was nothing controlled about it.

years, and have masses of data. In industrialised societies, cancer is second only to cardiovascular disease as a cause of death. But in ancient times, it was extremely rare. There is nothing in the natural environment that can cause cancer. So it has to be a man-made disease, down to pollution and changes to our diet and lifestyle.”

Above — Challenging Beliefs: Memoirs of a Career by Tim Noakes with Michael Vlismas

Subjects were not put on a set diet but simply observed for many years and the outcomes compared to what they reported they ate on one day many decades before. You can’t prove anything by this sort of association study. What the scientists should have done upon discovering that there’s the possibility of an increased cancer risk is to invest money in a controlled environment to see if it holds true. In other words, take tens of thousands of volunteers and place half on a high protein diet and half on the standard diet, follow them for 35 years and then report the outcome. Instead they come out with ‘factual’ headlines stating protein causes cancer. What we do know, as fact, is the biology of how cancer starts. And we now know that cancer is a carbohydrate-induced disease. So if you want to blame any foodstuff for causing cancer, it has to be first and foremost carbohydrate.” What is also interesting to note here is that while there’s a slew of encouraging statistics regarding the advancement of cancer treatment, a reduction in deaths and extension of life expectancies, rates of some cancers are actually on the rise. It was a disease that certainly did not concern our distant ancestors. A 2010 study conducted by Manchester University published in Nature concluded cancer to be a man-made disease. “The important thing about our study is that it gives a historical perspective,” wrote Professor Rosalie David. “We have looked at millennia, not one hundred

An obvious problem with a high-fat, moderate-protein, low-carb diet is that its base on meat and animal-heavy produce would most certainly leave vegans and vegetarians, well, hungry. “I fully understand the choices and principles of why some choose not to eat meat,” says Noakes. “I think it’s a disgrace the way we treat animals and I promote only pastureraised livestock. However, when you get down to the physiology of it, in my view, those dietary choices of avoiding animals fats and proteins are simply not healthy. Diets that do not include animal fats and proteins lack key nutrients, some of which we have yet to discover. The idea that vegans and vegetarians are perceived as healthier is because they often have healthier lifestyles in general. They certainly don’t have a lower cancer-risk than meat-eaters and there are even many studies to show that they are more prone to mental disorders such as depression and may be at increased risk of suicide. Certainly if they are carbohydrate intolerant, vegans and vegetarians will find it very difficult to be of a normal body weight since their diets are necessarily so full of carbohydrates”. As overwhelming, such information may be, Noakes assures that most of us, even if carbohydrate intolerant, can get away with it for most of our lives. But, he says, if you reach the wrong side of 40 and notice an increase in weight that is hard to shift, or you’re struggling with your running, ditching the carbs is probably the way to go. Give the diet at least six weeks, says the professor, and you may just surprise yourself: “We get brainwashed, and I was guilty of it too. I really didn’t understand. I wasn’t educated to know that a lot of us couldn’t metabolise carbohydrates and I’ve received a lot of criticism for my drastic change of mind.” Of course, we wouldn’t learn a thing if everybody refused to change their mind. I’m running my first marathon next month in Rotorua having trained on a traditional carbohydrate-rich diet. I had planned to run the Auckland one later in the year, for which I’ve now decided to take up the paleo challenge. I’ll let you know how it goes.

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