Verve. December 2021. Issue 182. by Verve Magazine

An uplifting monthly eclection of life, style and happenings.

DECEMBER '21 / JANUARY '22

This month’s mag brims with gift ideas and celebrates summer with a look at some of the nation’s best getaways. Plus, there’s inspiration from Dermalogica founder, Jane Wurwand. A magical issue for the most magical time of year!

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105 30

What’s Inside Home & Design 16

Fashion 100

Art 142

105

150

Food 120

Journeys 167

White City, Tel Aviv Top of the Pops

LIE

The Art of December

The Look of Lace

Wicked

Surf and Turf Gifts 46

Christmas Wishlist

Tonics Make Gut Health Easy

Weekend Getaways

137

Invivo Innovates

Simply Christmas Beauty & Health 70

The Men-opause 88

Jane’s Game Business & Society 96

Cool Korea

158 Up Front

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Fran Ninow

As I write this note it is Thanksgiving week in the USA. I have always loved the idea of having a day in the year on which one takes stock of how far we have come. Of giving thanks for the wild, crazy, beautiful ride that is life while appreciating that it’s impossible to cherish the good bits without acknowledging the lows; that one gives meaning, depth, and clarity to the other. So here goes. I feel so incredibly lucky to have been a part of this extraordinary brand that is Verve for well over a decade-and-ahalf. To continue to have the opportunity to tell amazing stories, to shine a light on so many remarkable people, is a privilege in the truest sense. To say that the experience has taught me a lot would be an understatement. It would be impossible to create each new issue without a talented team alongside us, and we are deeply grateful to work with some truly gifted individuals. The passion and attention to detail that goes into each edition is a labour of love, and the utter joy when it comes together, is always such a relief. So, thankyou to our brilliant team of creatives, and advertisers. To my business partner and friend, Jude, thank-you for your loyalty, the never-ending flow of wild ideas, and ongoing support.

Jude Mitchell

It seemed insurmountable, but, here we are nearing the end of this crazy year! We’ve all been through what at times felt like hell, but somehow I discovered a second wind, and surge of resilience. Soon I’ll be on the road to the coast with my family and it will be even more special for having our beautiful Moss, my granddaughter, at the beach with us for Christmas. She’ll bring a wonderful dimension to our off-grid bach holiday, having her nightly bath in a bucket just like her aunties and uncles before her used to! Reading this issue’s fantastic interview with Jane Wurwand was inspirational to me. Statements about taking risks, trusting your gut, thinking big, and getting up after falling really resonated – it very much sounded like much of my own journey through life, and I wouldn’t have it any other way! So, enjoy your break – laugh lots and savour the company of friends and family. A massive thanks to everyone who works with us at Verve – we couldn’t publish this beautiful magazine each month without you. Love Jude xx

But most importantly – it is you, the readers I want to thank for continuing on this journey with us, and for engaging with us from time to time, saying what you love, and occasionally what you don’t. We hope that we have inspired, engaged and entertained you, and that this stunning December / January issue is no exception. Enjoy, Fran x

Up Front

Pam Brown

Ashlee Lala

Jamie Christian Desplaces

I am so looking forward to having a summer holiday away now that we can travel (post-15 Dec!), and I’m sure you all feel the same. We all deserve a jolly good break, spending time with family and friends, enjoying great food, and sharing loads of laughter.

After a challenging year I’m looking forward to taking the time to reflect on what we’ve achieved this year in spite of the perceived setbacks; as a country, as a Verve team and in my own personal life too. I believe it’s true that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, and I’m excited to start 2022 having learnt and grown a lot in 2021. Here’s to a fresh start, fresh goals and moving forward.

With all our friends hailing from three different continents, my partner, Heather and I are grateful for the opportunity to spend Christmas with them while visiting family is off the cards. This time last year I wrote something about things only being able to get better in 2021, so I dare not jinx us again!

I feel truly grateful to be part of the Verve team, it’s such a beautiful and inspiring magazine, and to top it off, I get to work with such a fabulous team. I also wish to thank all clients and readers for their ongoing support. Stay safe and have a wonderful Christmas and New Year.

And of course, a heartfelt thank you to our wonderful Verve advertisers and readers. We all love what we do here at Verve and we couldn’t do it without you.

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas, and all the best for 2022.

Best wishes for an amazing Christmas and New Year, we all deserve it xx

Christine Cormack

Yamin Cook

Arna Martin

Wishing Verve readers and advertisers a warm, happy, and safe Christmas season.

I’m feeling really grateful for the many new opportunities that have come my way even in the midst of this hectic year. Learning and growing with the Verve team has been a great experience that I’m looking forward to continuing into 2022. Very much keen to spend summer with my friends and family, wishing everyone a nice holiday.

Hooray, summer is finally here! Long hot days on the beach with book in hand is how I intend to spend this summer break. I hope you love reading this issue of Verve as much as I have loved designing it, it’s so fabulous to be part of the team.

It has been a trying time, particularly for Aucklanders, and it’s my hope that we will experience the joy of great food, conversation and fun as we gather together with family and friends. Let’s look forward to a more hopeful 2022.

December / January

Editors-in-Chief Fran Ninow and Jude Mitchell Sub-editor/Senior Writer Jamie Christian Desplaces Head Graphic Designer Arna Martin Junior Graphic Designer Yamin Cook Social Media Yamin Cook Contributors Manish Kumar Arora, Kelly Carmichael, Vicki Holder, Melanie Dower, Nick Ainge Roy, Bella Sampson, Ophelia Mason and Dennis Knill.

Subscriptions online@vervemagazine.co.nz Published by Verve Magazine Ltd 13 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021

Advertising Enquiries Ashlee Lala: ashlee@vervemagazine.co.nz Fran Ninow: fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Jude Mitchell: jude@vervemagazine.co.nz Pam Brown: pambrown@xtra.co.nz Cover Photo Warren Heath/Bureaux Verve is published monthly (except in January) and has an estimated readership of 60,000. It is a free lifestyle magazine delivered to selected homes, cafés and businesses in Devonport, Epsom, Herne Bay, Kohimarama, Meadowbank, Mission Bay, Newmarket, Parnell, Remuera, St Mary’s Bay and Takapuna.

Verve is placed in magazine stands for free collection from locations in Auckland City, Devonport, Epsom, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay, Mairangi Bay, Milford, Mission Bay, Newmarket, Parnell, Ponsonby, Remuera, St. Heliers, Stonefields and Takapuna. Visit vervemagazine. co.nz for exact locations these magazine stands. Verve is also available from all popular cafés in its main distribution areas as well as in ebook format. Visit vervemagazine.co.nz to sign up for your free monthly ebook. Verve is printed by Ovato. It is distributed by Ovato, Admail and Mailchimp.

GST 90 378 074 ISSN 2253-1300 (print) ISSN 2253-1319 (online) Editorial Enquiries (+64) 9 520 5939 Fran Ninow: fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Jude Mitchell: jude@vervemagazine.co.nz 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 e ort 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.

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Ralph Lauren Accessories provides every requirement of pieces to dress a fine space—photo frames, candles, vases, barware, dinnerware and more. There is something special about receiving a gift packaged in the trademark navy blue and gold Ralph Lauren Home gift box. We have a lovely selection of gift ideas in store.

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Unique glass creations. Designed in Germany and taking inspiration from nature and cultural artefacts, Guaxs creates sculptural objects in glass that are blown into moulds and then hand carved to ensure every piece they create is a unique piece.

The famed design house of Lalique was founded in France in 1888 by renowned glassmaker and jeweller Rene Lalique. Originally pieces were created from glass, now works are exclusively made of crystal, the collection is still strongly influenced by Rene Lalique’s passion for the feminine form and nature. CORBIN BRONZE The love of the figure as a muse. Inspired by the impact sculpture can have on an environment, artist Tom Corbin of Corbin Bronze has been creating sculptures, small furniture pieces and fireside accessories since 1986.

OBJET LUXE Objet Luxe create beautiful unique objects for the home using combinations of natural materials – shells, shagreen, bone, porcelain, glass and exotic hardwoods – with hand crafted precious and semi -precious metals.

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YUVA is a Specialist importer of Kilim and other vintage rugs, runners, saddle-bags, cushions, bags and more. YUVA makes gifting easy with their huge range of quality goods that are rich in history, hand crafted and will stand the test of time.

Kilim Cushion Covers - 60 x 40cm, $125 each Turkish Overdyed Rug - Nalan, 122 x 174cm, $1350

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Pile of kilim rugs - various prices

YUVA showroom is located at 53 Wood St in Freemans Bay, Auckland. Call 0221635300 to make an appointment or browse online at www.yuva.co.nz

Small Kilim Pouf - $295

CURATE YOUR WORLD Baobab Black Pearls Totem diffuser 2 litre | 28cm high $790

Henry Dean Jerzy vase $249

Côté Table yellow reed glass jug $112

Côté Table Timeless whiskey decanter $179.90 glass $22.90

Pols Potten decor money boxes apple $149.90 pear $155

Baobab luxe candles Rainforest collection 10cm $239.90 16cm $349

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Mr Voss scented soy candle $84.90 Pols Potten jug with hole (various colours) 22cmh $89.90 each

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White City, Tel Aviv

WORDS — NICK AINGE-ROY

Birthplace of two of the world’s major religions, Israel is a land of antiquity and truly ancient roots. It's home to some of the earliest evidence of human inhabitation outside of Africa, alongside thousands of years of history, positioned at the crossroads of the world. Home & Design

Amongst the refugees that landed in Tel Aviv were many German trained architects, and it was with them that Bauhaus began its life in the city.

It may come as a surprise then, to learn that it’s second biggest city and economic hub, Tel Aviv, is remarkably modern, having only been founded in 1909. While it may lack the old world identity of Jerusalem and other cities in the Middle East, Tel Aviv’s nascency has blessed it with a wealth of contemporary heritage equally worthy of recognition, the standout of which is the White City. Listed as a Unesco World Heritage site in 2003, the White City earned its place as a modern marvel as a result of the more than 4,000 Bauhaus style buildings erected there since the 1930s, a number unmatched anywhere in the world. The site of Tel Aviv was originally a barren expanse of sand dunes north of Jaffa (I wish to clarify that this is not a joke at the expense of our readership, as the city is actually pronounced ‘yafa’), an ancient port city, that began to be settled in the late 1800s and early 1900s following the two aliyahs – waves of Jewish immigration from Eastern Europe. As Jaffa swelled, the immigrants established neighbourhoods in the dunes, eventually leading to the formation of the Ahuzat Bayit, or homestead society,

in 1906, with the intention of developing a “Hebrew urban centre in a healthy environment, planned according to the rules of aesthetics and modern hygiene”. On 11 April 1909, 66 Jewish families gathered to divide Tel Aviv’s original 60 plots of land, drawing them from a lottery made of two batches of coloured seashells: the family’s name on white shells, and their assigned plot on grey shells. The city’s population grew steadily over the next 20 years, before exploding in the 1930s as a wave of anti-Semitism swept through Central and Eastern Europe, resulting in the expulsion or self-enforced exile of thousands of Jews fleeing persecution. Amongst the refugees that landed in Tel Aviv were many German trained architects, and it was with them that Bauhaus began its life in the city. Emerging at the end of World War I, Bauhaus was a German art school and design discipline that flourished in the interwar years and came to define much of the modernist approach to architecture over the subsequent decades. Despite its success, the school

December / January

came to be viewed by the Nazi regime as a front for communists and social liberals and was shut down, its students dispersing across the world, taking Bauhaus with them. As their arrival en masse sparked the need for more residential and civic facilities in Tel Aviv, the new architects turned to the principles of Bauhaus to build a modern, European style city true to the ambitions of its original founders.

of modernity, was selected not for its austerity but because it reflected the fierce sun. By the same merit, the large expanses of glass found in European or American incarnations of the style were abandoned in order to manage heat, with windows reduced to narrow openings in the facade or shaded underneath deep balconies, which offered essential refuge for the city’s residents and common spaces for them to congregate.

But the Levant coast is a vastly different place to the avenues of Europe, and just as some features of Bauhaus architecture proved indispensable, others were drastically altered to reflect the challenging desert environment. The pilotis, or pillars, seen in Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe’s Farnsworth House or Seagram Building, were frequently employed throughout Tel Aviv as a means of enhancing natural ventilation and providing shade to pedestrians, while also offering access to shared gardens. White, the quintessential colour

As the 20th century progressed and Tel Aviv swelled, its chic core was surrounded by drab, hastily erected apartments, and the White City began to deteriorate, with some of its buildings sadly being demolished during the 1970s. Thankfully, the Israeli government recognised the significance of its architectural heritage, and following the White City’s listing with the World Monument Fund in 1996 and Unesco World Heritage in 2003, began a process of restoration and preservation – to date, more than 1,500 buildings have been

Home & Design

brought back to life, with at least another 1,000 scheduled for restoration. Where the White City’s towers and apartments once squatted, flaked and faded like an old scar, they now stand bright, brilliant and gleaming, reminders of Tel Aviv’s utopian dream, and beacons of its modern future. If you’re ever in Tel Aviv, be sure to visit the Bauhaus Center Tel Aviv. Their knowledgeable guides lead daily walking architectural tours of the city, while their gift shop offers Bauhaus books and souvenirs to take home with you. For more information visit bauhaus-center.com

DEDON COLLECTION SEAX Design by Jean-Marie Massaud www.dedon.de

www.dawsonandco.nz

Westmere Wonder

Peeling Back the Layers Fired up with a desire to build a new home, and having an appreciation for mid-century modernist architecture, the owners selected a site on the Westmere–Grey Lynn cusp for its proximity to the CBD and sea views.

It’s a joy to wake up every morning to expansive views over to Cox’s Bay, Meola Reef, Upper Harbour, and Birkenhead Point.

The neighbourhood vibe – cafés, cool bars, iconic local shops, a supermarket, and many parks just a walk away – were also a drawcard. Architect Chris Scott, now a principal at Jasmax, and builder Wayne Poole of Wayol Construction, were the owners' first choice. Both impressed on a previous very successful renovation, so were perfect for the new build. The architect’s brief was to design a simple, elegant modernist New Zealand home. The design needed to relate to its external setting – outdoor spaces to be integral to the overall design, with links between enclosed and open spaces. It needed to maximise the view and provide privacy between public and private spaces. Consideration was to be given to the penetration of natural light in winter and sufficient shade in summer. The build was completed at the beginning of 2000 and surpassed all expectations. Chris’ creative, timeless design coupled with Wayne’s building expertise were a testament to their skill and attention to detail. This lovely home is still much admired 21 years later. The house steps down over three levels across the site. The exterior is clad in concrete block and red brick. The exposed concrete block interior feature walls are complemented by the warmth of plywood shelving and cabinetry. Sleek polished

concrete floors and underfloor heating provide both comfort and modernity. Sliding doors and louvres open out from most rooms to landscaped grounds. The open-plan kitchen-dininglounge flows to a large terrace, making the house perfect for entertaining and for a relaxed, comfortable lifestyle. In the afternoons when the sun is low in the sky, the plywood interior joinery reflects a golden glow, bright enough to light up a room. The open fireplace, an added luxury in winter, is a central feature in the lounge. The sunsets are amazing when viewed from the lounge and the terrace. In summer, at both ends of the lounge the large sliders open. This is truly a light-filled and airy home. It’s a joy to wake up every morning to expansive views over to Cox’s Bay, Meola Reef, Upper Harbour, and Birkenhead Point. Luke Crockford, the agent marketing the property, says: “This home will inspire, refresh you from a long day, and give you peace.” It is a very special Westmere property coming to market mid-January. Contact Luke to arrange a viewing or get more information Luke Crockford luke.crockford@raywhite.com (09) 376 2186 or 021 277 8565 rwponsonby.co.nz

December / January

Rigby & Co Selling your family home can be one of life’s most stressful and emotionally draining periods.

It can look a bit worn and tired from everyday living, with marks on walls, worn carpets, and fading furniture making it harder to sell.

When working with Rigby & Co Home Staging, you will work directly with me, Vanessa, the owner of the company.

But with Rigby & Co Home Staging it doesn’t have to be.

I’m a qualified interior designer, so you can be assured of a professional, personalised one-to-one service as I ensure we:

Well-executed home staging draws the eye away from these ‘sale inhibitors’ and allows buyers to focus on the positives.

• maximise the sale potential of your

We ensure that it stands out from other properties on the market by making it look warm, inviting, modern, and contemporary. We have a range of home staging styles to best suit your property and help it sell more quickly and for a higher price.

home • sell your home faster • sell your home for greater value • make your home more appealing to

more people • attract better buyers

In this way we ensure we don’t miss ‘the little hidden things’ that can mean the difference between success and failure, a great sale and no sale at all. “Thank you Vanessa. Your amazing vision and wonderful sense of style most certainly helped us achieve a fantastic sale price for our property. Potential purchasers all made comments about how well the property was presented. Your easy manner and great communication made it so easy for us. We applaud you and could not recommend your services highly enough. Well done!” - ANNIE

We do all of this by treating it as if it were our own property we were selling.

Whether you are a homeowner looking to sell, a real estate agent working with a vendor or a property developer looking to sell off plan, Rigby & Co Home Staging have the perfect look to show off your property to its full potential, making the sale of your property easier and more profitable.

Home & Design

Ray White Damerell Group Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)

Luke Crockford Real Estate Connecting people with property since 2013

Grey Lynn & Surrounds Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a safe New Year!

021 277 8565 luke.crockford@raywhite.com

@LukeCrockfordRealEstate @lukecrockfordraywhite

Beyond the Eye of the Curator WORDS — FRAN NINOW

Get the look with Resene Resene Black White

Ever since I was a child, I have enjoyed visiting museums and art galleries, and have found it fascinating to observe how much and how vastly curatorial practices have changed in that time, with a seismic shift away from dusty dioramas to intelligent and creative displays.

These days a visit to an art gallery comes not only with the chance to view stimulating, witty, and carefully selected artworks and installations, but the opportunity to be wowed by the clever way in which these expositions are displayed. Something else that has changed over the years is the frequency with which exhibitions are turned around, with some galleries putting up fresh displays every second week – not an easy task when each new show demands fresh and meaningful conceptualisation.

Apart from the planning, the building of various structures, the lighting and finally the installation of the works, the starting point of nearly every single curation is almost always the painting of the space. No wonder as the colour of the walls, and how they are used affect the mood, the shape and lighting, and how well the artwork involves the viewer. Resene paint is favoured by so many local curators, which knowing this range inside and out, is hardly surprising, as Resene boasts a classic range of timeless paint products that transcend trends, and will enhance any gallery space. A long-term favourite is of course Resene Black White.

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Home & Design

Experience the timeless and unique

creations of LyZadie Design Studio.

Each element is inspired by the nature and culture of New Zealand, with the designs exquisitely and sustainably handcrafted by local New Zealand makers. Embodying the luxury of natural materials and created with timeless sophistication in mind, LyZadie Design Studio is a welcome addition to the carefully curated home. Shop online at w w w.lyzadiedesignstudio.com Stay up to date on Instagram @lyzadie 01/ EARTH & SKY Dining Table: rammed earth and glass,

inspired by the love story of Ranginui, sky father, and Papatuanuku, earth mother

black steel

02 / FERN Mirror: handmade in

03/ SOULWINDOW Dining Table: a rich, opulent

mix of various native timbers, brass and glass & WHITE CLOUD Pendants: hand blown glass 04/ DANCE OF GEOMETRY Book Ends:

Andesite rock (or any other rocks available to the maker) and polished brass

05/ FLOW Trivet: in polished brass & Side Table: rescued river Rimu and polished brass, inspired by our braided rivers. 03

Top of the Tops The choice of benchtop can make or break your new kitchen, both in terms of looks and functionality. Jane Fergusson of Kitchens By Design take us through the options. High-pressure porcelains are very popular because of their thin profiles and antibacterial properties. They’re also very hard-wearing and available in various finishes that accurately replicate the look of natural stone. However, they come at a higher price than other engineered products and are as costly as some granites and marbles. There is still a big desire for natural granites and marble as they are unique natural stones that are both beautiful and eye-catching. But if the durability of porcelain appeals, then teaming them up with a natural stone feature can add that additional wow factor. The veining in natural stone can make a significant impact on the look of a kitchen. “A beautiful, veined stone can be very striking and work well with modern or traditional kitchens,” says Jane. Solid surfaces are still popular, but Jane says she has not used them as much as engineered stone. The acrylics work well when a kitchen design has complex or varying shapes, or an extra-long benchtop, as the acrylic material can be joined seamlessly onsite. If scratched, they can be resurfaced. It is also an excellent material to use as bathroom vanity tops.

“Looking to the future, the addition of under-bench and in-bench technology, such as contactless phone charging, is already available in Europe, but, as yet, this has not really taken off in New Zealand,” says Jane, “mainly because of issues around warranty and appliance servicing.” Built-in induction cooking surfaces are also available in Europe and are slowly taking off here, but could be a while off, again mainly due to warranties and reliability guarantees. “It’s always a good idea to get the right advice on the pros and cons of a benchtop material you may be looking to use,” Jane adds. “So always ask the advice of your kitchen designer with regards to the right choice for you.” So, there you have it – some top advice from one of the country’s best kitchen designers. If you're looking to put in a new kitchen, pop into Kitchens By Design's showroom at 3 Byron Ave in Takapuna, or call on (09) 379 3084. For inspiration, take a look at some fabulous projects at kitchensbydesign.co.nz

Stainless steel, too, has a place, and its reputation for longevity over the years has been well established. Thinner stainless tops are more on-trend, and the various finishes now available can make an incredible impact. Home & Design

Benchtop Options High-Pressure Laminate

This is probably the most cost-effective benchtop option. Consumers also have the bonus of many brands, qualities, colourways, and patterns to choose from. Top-end examples are very durable and low maintenance and can look quite like engineered stone. Stainless Steel

The preferred choice in commercial kitchens due to its durability, excellent antibacterial properties, heat resistance, and ease of cleaning. Reasonably priced, stainless steel benchtops are available in a range of finishes like smooth, textured, patterned, and is an excellent choice for hard-wearing family kitchens. Often stainless steel is used in the hardworking parts of the kitchen, such as sculleries and on cooktop surfaces. Engineered Stone

For those looking for the feel of natural stone but wanting lower maintenance and a uniform appearance, engineered stone is a good option. A composite material, it’s a mix of quartz and a resin compound formed under high pressure, making it strong, durable, and impact resistant.

Engineered stone comes in myriad colours and patterns to suit traditional and contemporary looks and is often more cost-effective option than natural stone. Acrylic

This type of benchtop is comparably priced to engineered stone. The advantage with acrylic is that there are no visible joins, which is excellent for long benchtops, curves and creative designs. Plain white acrylics are generally at the cheaper end of the scale, while those with graining or textures are more costly. They can also be repaired and re-polished when necessary. Beware, these surfaces are vulnerable to direct, intense heat, such as a hot pan straight off the hob.

Natural Stone

Granite and marble are still the most common types of stone for benchtops. Granite is superior for strength and durability, while ‘softer’ marble is typically the more expensive of the two. Because both are natural, they have variations in colour and texture. Each slab is unique, which adds a strong sense of authenticity to a kitchen, with different stones bringing their own aesthetic and physical properties. Limestone, marble, granite and quartzite get progressively more robust in that order. Most natural stone also requires regular resealing to maintain appearance. Timber

High-Pressure Porcelain

The new kid on the block – and a very impressive benchtop material. Made from all-natural compressed porcelain and available in large-format slabs, it’s practically impervious to damage, doesn’t stain, doesn’t scratch, and is UV stable, so can even be used outdoors. Because it’s so strong, it can be produced in thinner profiles than other materials, making it ideal for modern designs.

Mainly used in conjunction with more traditional kitchen designs and chosen by those who love its warm aesthetic and soft touch, timber is still a popular choice. Timber benchtops require regular resealing and are less resistant to scratches, dents, and staining; therefore, they need more care to keep them looking their best.

December / January

THE BAILEY TABLE

w w w. r o s e a n d h e a t h e r. c o. n z 3 6 6 G r e a t N o r t h R o a d. G r e y l y n n t: (0 9)3 7 6 2 8 9 5

BOX™ MULTI AWARD WINNING We don’t build Box houses We build homes for Phil & Pippa, Sophie and Sebastian...

Photography: Andy Chui - drawphoto

Give us a call or drop in and see us to have a chat about your design-build project

09 520 5030 | info@box.co.nz | box.co.nz

WORDS — ROBYN ALEXANDER

Surf and Turf

PHOTOGRAPHS — WARREN HEATH

For the ultimate beachside take on the simple life, this young family’s holiday home on the Cape West Coast combines an atmosphere of fun and pure relaxation with laid-back yet sophisticated interiors.

In the main living area, the fireplace is topped with a beautiful old wooden lintel, bought years ago by homeowner Möller Bester – with no particular purpose in mind at the time – after he spotted an online classified ad for “a yellowwood beam” at a good price. “I remembered this piece when we started to build the house and, amazingly enough, it was exactly the right length to cut for a lintel above each of the inside and outside fireplaces.”

December / January

Views of the sea and fynbos vegetation surrounding the house abound from the lounge and kitchen areas.

Get the look with Resene Resene Designer White Resene Dark Slate Resene Dusted Grey

“Where everyone gathers to chat, cook, eat – it’s just a happy space, with uninterrupted views of the ocean.”

In the kitchen (right), the flamingos artwork is a framed piece of wallpaper by Cara Saven. Ronelle says: "I wanted to celebrate the thousands of flamingos that are endemic to the Berg River estuary in Velddrif. The floodplains there are rich in a wide variety of birdlife.” The wooden kitchen table was discovered years ago in a hidden warehouse of antiques by Ronelle’s sister, while the family was on holiday in Keurboomstand. The large stacking window in the kitchen opens onto an outside bar counter, within the interior courtyard space. “It’s ideal for serving the kids food and drinks so that they don’t run dripping wet through the house,” says Ronelle.

December / January

Get the look with Resene Resene Nomad Resene Calico Resene Midwinter Mist

Activity is an essential element of a holiday here, but when anyone wants quiet time, the house allows for that, too.

The main bedroom (above) on the ground floor opens up to the views of indigenous fynbos vegetation and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. It includes an en suite bathroom and freestanding bath in one corner from which the spectacular views can be enjoyed. Ronelle says that the ocean is usually dotted with cargo ships day and night. Josua, the Besters’ younger son, heads off for a session on his boogie board, from the bedroom he shares with Julian. In the boys’ pyjama lounge-playroom upstairs (right), the day bed-style seating can also be used for extra sleeping space, if needed.

December / January

As Ronelle puts it, she and all other visitors to Villa Kersbos “love to throw open all the doors and live free”. This atmosphere of simple, effortless liberty is what time spent at this house is all about.

The views (below left) from the front stoep (veranda), which faces west towards the sunset and St Helena Bay, are second to none. Julian and Josuaneed only walk a few steps down the wooden boardwalk (below) that connects the house to the beach to enjoy a session of boogie boarding at the beach.

Home & Design

Considered Gifting During her time overseas, Rachel Moylan realised how fascinated friends were with the pared-back beauty of New Zealand. It inspired her to start all things considered, a business curating selfcare gift sets. What was it about New Zealand artisans and their products that inspired you?

On returning home, I discovered some amazing NZ brands at the forefront of natural beauty, determined to create quality products that synergised perfectly with our epic scenery. The stories behind the brands themselves inspired me to start all things considered and my experiences overseas fuelled my ambition to illuminate these products on a global stage.

Explain the choices you made around the packaging of your gift boxes?

All our packaging sourcing decisions are made with sustainability in mind. Kraft boxes are made in NZ using sustainably sourced paper. Stickers are printed using soy-based inks, and our mailers and shipping labels are both compostable. The first batch of our reusable gift bags are made with organic cotton by our friends at Waste Free Celebrations and sewn by Afghan refugee women in Auckland. Tell us about why giving back is important to you?

My inspirational mum was diagnosed with cancer several years ago so supporting Look Good Feel Better is meaningful to me. Mum has now made an amazing recovery. Thanks to the support of our brand partners, we’ll donate one gift box to Look Good Feel

NEWMARKET STORE OPENING SOON

NEWMARKET (OPENING SOON) 34 Morrow Street, Newmarket, Auckland PONSONBY 6 Jervois Road, Ponsonby, Auckland WWW.FRENCHCOUNTRY.CO.NZ

Home & Design

PHOTOGRAPH — LUISA APANUI

Better for every 20 sold. The Rarakau Rainforest Conversation Project helps ensure that this indigenous rainforest is protected. Once you’ve experienced the unique beauty of New Zealand’s rainforests, you can’t help but want to protect them! We’ll make annual donations to this project until we can offset our carbon emissions. allthingsconsidered.co.nz Instagram: @considered_things

Summer 2021 Outdoor Collection

From Ligne Roset Auckland

1. Lettino sun lounger by Claudio Dondoli & Marco Pocci 2. Ottoman outdoor by Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance 3. Elizabeth low table by Nathan Yong. Also available as a dining table and bench seat, made from natural-finish (non-oiled) solid teak 4. Saparella outdoor by Michel Ducaroy 5. Serpentine outdoor seating by Eléonore Nalet, Ezou occasional table by Tous Les Trois, Rope outdoor rug 5

Ligne Roset Auckland, 299 Great North Road, Grey Lynn +64 9 393 5636 sales@ligne.nz

December / January

Verve's Christmas Picks

HIGHWIC CHRISTMAS SHOP The Highwic Christmas Shop, set in a charming historic house, is ideal for Christmas shopping. Brimming with a beautiful selection of handpicked decorations, unique gifts, and a variety of stocking fillers, there’s something for everyone. December to January the Flower Fairy Trail snakes through the flower-filled gardens; entry is by gold coin donation, with a prize for one lucky participant. Check the Facebook page @Highwic1862 for opening days and hours.

ALL THINGS CONSIDERED Curated Gift Sets These curated gift sets represent the best in New Zealand self-care. Natural products are at the forefront of this offering, chosen for their sustainability and clean, authentic ingredients. New Zealand and its green ethos are beautifully woven into each piece, bringing only nature’s finest and leaving the rest. allthingsconsidered.co.nz

STELLA BY TORY & KO Swinging Star Earrings in Gold or Silver

Add some sparkle to your world with Stella by TORY & KO. Swinging Star Earrings in Gold or Silver. Created by internationally recognised NZ fine jewellers Victoria and Kirstin of TORY & KO, the Stella Collection is a contemporary collection of jewellery inspired by Kirstin’s daughter, Stella, and the jewellers' love of all things sparkly. stellabytoryandko.com

Gifts

LINDEN LEAVES Limited Edition Diffusers

MANUKARX Pro-Aging Skincare

Freshen any space with Linden Leaves fragrance diffusers, made with love in NZ. Whether it be the poolside, summer cocktail mix of BASIL LIME, the sweet sticky pleasure of CANDY APPLE, or the festive aroma of CARAMEL SPICE, they’re sure to tempt and coddle the senses. From leading retailers and online Limited Edition Diffusers (100ml) RRP $39.99 or Limited Edition Midi Diffusers (50ml) RRP $24.99

All of ManukaRx’s collagen boosting skincare products are made with East Cape mānuka oil and rosehip oil. These key ingredients work effortlessly to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, naturally. Made in New Zealand by a Kiwi owned company, the ManukaRx Pro-Aging collection includes a Day Cream, Night Cream, Skin Oil, Cream Cleanser and Eye Cream. manukarx.co.nz

lindenleaves.com

PLANT POTIONS Botanical Scent Diffuser

ORGANIC RIOT Dazzle

With premium plant-based ingredients combined with affirmations, crystals and a stylish aesthetic, Plant Potions aims to promote an awareness of breath, self-care and stress management.

An anti-pigmentation serum for dewy, even skin. This powerful, potent formula brightens and targets pigmentation, dark spots, acne scars, and other forms of unevenness in skin tone. It’s called Dazzle, so you can expect it to boost your skin's radiance – its powerful plant extracts are generous glow-givers.

Waiheke-based yoga teacher and founder Louise Mills devised five Signature Scents that are presented in five expressions for the body and home. Each product comes in keepsake packaging, plus eco-refills are offered to maximise a positive impact on our planet and pocket.

nz.theorganicriot.com

plantpotions.co.nz

December / January

Christmas Wishlist

1. PLANT POTIONS Pulse Point Oil Set no3 2. LOVE IN A JEWEL The Full Love Drop Keepsake Pendant 3. STELLA BY TORY & KO Swinging Star Earrings in Gold 4. LYZADIE DANCEOFGEOMETRY Candelabra 1 5. LOVE IN A JEWEL The Circle of Love Keepsake Pendant (Yellow Gold) with diamonds 6. LOVE IN A JEWEL The Love Drop Keepsake Pendant (Yellow Gold) with diamond 7. BEAUTY ENGINE Shower Oil 8. RETREAT CANDLES Herringbone Flower, Blush & White Roses

5+6

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9. YUVA Turkish Rugs 10. HIGHWIC Paddywax Apothecary Vetiver & Cardamom 11. HIGHWIC Wanderflower Eucaluptus & Verbena Hand Cream 12. YUVA Kilim Pouf 13. YUVA Kilim Cushion 15. BLACK PINEAPPLE Christmas Pohutukawa Cooler 16. GLENGARRY Smores And Pinot Around The BBQ

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Gifts

14. THE TEA CURATOR Monthly tea subscription Join The Tea Curator and every month, you’ll receive a curated selection of beautiful quality, loose leaf teas that that aren’t readily available anywhere else. All you need to create a delightful experience that supports your wellbeing, every day. 17. THE TEA CURATOR Wind Down Tea Box · This gift box contains a tea glass infuser and a long-handled teaspoon as well as two carefully selected specialty teas that are ultra-low in caffeine and beautifully mellow in flavour. The perfect way to calm yourself before bed and create a tranquil end to your day.

December / January

$109.90

LIGHT UP YOUR

GIFT GIVING $95.00

FROM

$39.90 Candle and gift specialists at the Rialto Centre in Newmarket for over 20 years. Candle refills available in various fragrances. Free gift wrapping included with every purchase. Delivery available. retreatnz.co.nz · (09) 524 5890

Gifts

$42.90

REMUERA + ST HELIERS

CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS IN STORE AND ONLINE! 62a Benson Rd, Remuera, Auckland 1050, P. 09 5222 991 The Bay Tree of St Heliers, 15 St Heliers Bay Rd, St Heliers, Auckland 1071, P. 021 372 991 Open 7 days · thebaytree.co.nz

Simply Christmas

WORDS — MANDY ALLEN STYLING — SHELLEY STREET PHOTOGRAPHS — WARREN HEATH

Return to the simple things this festive season: a table decorated to evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia, a humble colour palette, and homespun decorations that weave in the wild spirit of nature.

A large, twiggy branch found on a forest walk has been appropriated as an eco-friendly, sculptural Christmas tree. Strung with twinkling rice lights and hand-carved bird figurines used as ornaments, the tree has an enigmatic, fairytale quality to it. • Place a similar branch into a wooden basket (left) and

secure in place using kindling or firewood to emphasise the natural woodland theme. • An abundance of battery-operated rice or fairy lights (above)

is always a good idea to emphasise the spirit of Christmas cheer and serve as whimsical, ambient lighting at night. • A tray (above) is a classic way to display a moody decorative

vignette, here containing a selection of gifts found in nature: various bird nests, twigs, a collection of beautiful egg shells and, for atmosphere, tea light candles. In keeping with the humble simplicity of the greater decorative scheme, gifts have been wrapped in white butcher’s paper and tissue paper. Haberdashery ribbon in shades of cocoa and vanilla, as well as string, add the finishing touches. 53

December / January

Gifts

For some, a wreath is purely decorative, for others, it's infused with rich meaning and symbolism. Either way, the wreath is synonymous with Christmas and is an essential element of seasonal decorating. This wreath was made by hand using found twigs and fynbos (wild heath). • Craft your own rustic wreath from

bendy twigs such as willow or weeping/silver birch using secateurs to cut lengths, scissors for trimming, and natural twine for binding into shape.

The colour palette has been kept warm and neutral – inspired by old-school tradition, winter woodlands, and a rustic farmhouse aesthetic.

A sense of the super (natural) things to come begins in the hallway. An often overlooked area in the home, it takes only a few basic elements to create a welcoming landing zone. Think pieces such as a secondhand hallway table or butler’s tray, a mirror, baskets, a few framed prints, and a personalised display of objects, books, figurines and found treasures. • Carved bird figurines that have been

painted white are a whimsical addition to a rustic wreath, and in keeping with the avian theme. • Draw the eye inside with lights. Here,

fairy lights – the archetypal symbol of Christmas are wound around the balustrade of the staircase. 55

December / January

The bird theme has beaten its way into this tranquil bedroom. Although stripped of high definition colour, the palette is still rich and inviting, a balanced composition of neutrals like whites and greys anchored by deep, delicious browns and accents of black. • Several nests (above left), found on

walks in the forest, add a sense of natural curiosity and organic texture to a bedroom setting.

Gifts

• A scientific reference book (above left),

framed illustrations of birds, as well as lino cut printed cards reinforce the themes of nature and objects that have been crafted by hand. • The well-worn patina of the bedside

table (above left) is a reminder that there is much beauty and character to be found in aged, imperfect objects.

• Though aesthetically pared-down,

flourishes of luxury can be found in the form of French linen bedding, scented candles, and a hot glass of herbal tea (above left). Cosy and atmospheric, this inviting area of the living room (pictured right) illustrates that a largely monochromatic interior can be warm, engaging and characterful thanks to the inclusion of vintage, organic and rustic elements.

Gifts

• Try your hand at handicrafts: knitting,

crochet, embroidery and more. The online world is filled with tutorials and inspiration. • Visit your local haberdashery and

craft shops for supplies and seek out a neighbourhood craft group.

A fireplace mantlepiece offers myriad styling opportunities and can be easily transformed for seasonal decorating.

• The vintage tablecloth, though pretty, is in keeping with the

timeless aesthetic and wholesome, muted colours. • Layering crockery is a tried-and-tested stylist’s trick and

results in a visually interesting table setting. • There is an appealing aesthetic tension between the matt

finish of the handmade crockery and the polished silver flatware. • Christmas, even when it’s pared-down, demands a touch

of sparkle. Tea light candles, votives, fairy lights and the glint coming off vintage drinking glasses take over from traditional baubles and tinsel. • Treat each guest to a small take-home gift. Mark them with

each person’s name to serve as place holders. • The table is anchored by a loosely composed centrepiece

consisting of wild bird eggshells, nests, and a tangle of foraged twigs and branches. 59

December / January

RECIPE — STEPHANIE WOLHUTER-INGGS PHOTOGRAPHY — WARREN HEATH

Spiced Pear and Apricot Cake

No frou-frou cake stand is required at this unpretentious Christmas celebration. Instead, a wooden chopping board serves as a perfectly practical platter.

Ingredients

Method

Fruit Filling

Set the oven at 170°C (Gas Mark 3).

6 pears with pips removed (use a melon ball scoop) 12 dried apricots softened in boiling water Tip

We used Beurré Bosc (also known as Kaiser) pears which are particularly suited to baking. Cake Base

4 large eggs 1 cup plain yoghurt 160ml vegetable oil 80g melted butter 1/3 cup milk 2½ cups self-raising flour 1 cup muscovado sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt Spicy Ginger Topping

3 large eggs 100g melted butter 3/4 cup muscovado sugar 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 3 tablespoons chopped glacé ginger

Gifts

Lightly butter a 26cm springform tin and line the bottom and then sides with a high collar of baking paper. Wash and dry but don’t peel the pears. Remove the pips with a melon ball scoop. Slice the bottom of each pear so that it will sit flat and not fall over. Stuff the hollow of each pear with two soft apricots. For the cake base:

Whisk the eggs in a bowl and then add the yoghurt, vegetable oil, melted butter and milk. In another bowl, sieve together the flour, sugar and salt. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until combined. Whisk together all the ingredients for the spicy ginger topping. Pour the cake base into the baking tin and arrange the pears to sit upright in a circle. Pour on the topping beginning at the outer edges of the cake and working towards the middle. Bake at 170°C for approximately 11/4 hours or until a skewer comes out clean.

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Men’s Luxury Gifts

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13 Gifts

1. PARTS OF FOUR Disk diamond & sterling-silver pendant necklace $1,388 2. OLIVER PEOPLES Weslie round titanium sunglasses $561 3. GUCCI GucciGhost logo-engraved sterling-silver ring $340 4. SOPHIE BUHAI Rectangle Pendant 5. BODE Logo-embroidered velvet bucket hat $333 6. JACQUES MARIE MAGE Kobo square acetate sunglasses $895 7. ÉLIOU Mimi millefiori glass & gold-filled bracelet $173 8. GUCCI GG-jacquard cashmere scarf $935 9. COMPLETEDWORKS Sodalite & 14kt gold-plated beaded necklace $293 10. COMPLETEDWORKS Tiger’s eye & 14kt gold-plated beaded bracelet $213 11. NICK FOUQUET Aqua plant-print linen bucket hat $403 12. COMPLETEDWORKS Tiger’s eye & 14kt gold-plated beaded necklace $323 13. PAUL SMITH Artist-stripe socks $47

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Women’s Luxury Gifts 7

11 12 15

1. LA DOUBLEJ Set of four Murano shot glasses $607 2. ALISON LOU Lips-charm 14kt gold necklace $912 3. TIMELESS PEARLY Love jasper, agate & gold-plated beaded necklace $654 4. LAURA LOMBARDI Calle 14kt gold-plated chain bracelet $251 5. THEODORA WARRE Crystal & gold-plated sterling-silver hoops $351 6. ALISON LOU Diamond, sapphire & 14kt gold single stud earring $1,047 7. COMPLETEDWORKS Pearl, resin & 14kt-gold plated earrings $406 8. BY ALONA Celeste gold-plated bracelet $199 9. LOEWE Anagram-debossed leather wallet $680 10. GUCCI G-Timeless stainless-steel watch $1,986 11. STELLA MCCARTNEY X Ed Curtis graffiti-print faux-leather cardholder $606 12. SHAY Rainbow Eternity sapphire & 18kt rose-gold choker $20,217 13. ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Chain and cabochon-drop necklace $2,063 14. ALIGHIERI The Trail Blazer 24kt gold-plated earrings $447 15. FRANCESCA VILLA Vintage stamp and citrine 18kt gold ring $5,693 16. ASHISH Sequinned scrunchie $76

16 December / January

Design of December STYLING — BELLA SAMPSON

Munna Designs Cutie Armchair

Taschen Peter Lindbergh Dior / New York / Archives

Jennifer Behr Suzette Headband in Gold

RJLiving Palette Cushion 3 - Dusk

FWRD Lucie Vase

The Sleeper Manon Mules with Detachable Feathers in Champagne Studio Henry Wilson Scoop Wall Light

Moda Operandi Malibu Shoreline by Davide Micciulla

Eichholtz Palm Dessert Candle Holder Grado Designs Swell Sofa in Maya Cream

Camilla Camilla Silk Wide Leg Trousers

December / January

Your December Checklist PLANT NOW Vegetables

Flowers and Perennials

Fruit

MAINTENANCE Vegetables

For instant colour, fill pots, hanging baskets or garden beds with alyssum, marigold, dianthus, bedding dahlias, salvia, and zinnias. Check out our longlasting flowering perennials, including nemesia, lavender, petunias, geraniums, verbena, and bacopa.

Plant large-grade tomatoes, capsicums, chillies, and eggplant in pots and the garden now for a productive harvest. Plant parsley, lettuce, and coriander in part-shade to stop them ‘bolting’ (or going to seed) too quickly over summer.

Plan out where you’re going to plant tropical and subtropical fruit trees like bananas, mountain pawpaw, passionfruit, feijoas, and cherimoya. Add any citrus to a sunny position in the yard, or dwarf citrus to large pots over 40L.

Water, liquid feed, and mulch your veggies with straw throughout summer. Water veggies every morning – avoid the foliage as this can otherwise cause fungal diseases. Regularly harvest veggies as they mature.

citrus whether they are in the ground or in pots. Harvest

December is berry month! Harvest strawberries, red- and blackcurrants, raspberries, and blackberries for Christmas desserts. Yum!

Trees and Shrubs

Roses are in bloom and looking stunning. Water around the roots in the morning and mulch well to lock in the soil’s moisture, as well as feed them rose fertiliser this month.

Fruit Trees

Protect developing fruit from pesky birds with bird netting over small trees, or tie bird tape or old CDs on string on the tree to scare them off. Add mulch around

Looking for more help or expert garden advice? Come in-store to talk to our friendly staff, or give us a call on 0800 PLANTS for general inquiries.

Greener Gift Give a

From indoor plants, to potted herbs and lemon trees, we have a huge range of sustainable living gifts that will keep giving long after the holiday season.

kings.co.nz

0800 PLANTS

PROUDLY KIWI OWNED SINCE 1992

Garden

Lovely by skin institute Feeling your very best self, especially after three months of being inside, is essential.

With the influx of fast-approaching festive celebrations, Christmas getaways, and ultimately making up for lost time, the season of party prep has arrived. Feeling your very best self, especially after three months of being inside, is essential! Lovely by skin institute has made it easier with an array of treatment options, guaranteeing head turns in the best way possible. Microdermabrasion

The perfect skin pick-me-up. Microdermabrasion is the ultimate in exfoliating treatments, using a diamond tipped treatment head which can be adjusted to suit individual skin types to buff away dry, rough, dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, promoting a more vibrant, glowing complexion and leaving your skin smoother and more refined, supple, and hydrated. Microdermabrasion is a very fast and non-invasive treatment, making it suitable for people for all ages and stages of life. This exfoliation treatment is also great for improving surface texture, uneven pigmentation, fine lines, post-acne scars, excessive oil, and more. Skin Peels

Lovely by skin institute offer some of the best in skin peels, with their NEW skin changing O Cosmedics Silver, Gold and Platinum skin peels. These transformational skin peels cater to all skin concerns, targeting skin conditions and providing skin rejuvenation, overall improvement of tone and texture for all skin types. Although you will see results after just one session, Lovely recommends three sessions for optimal results.

fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, melasma, acne, scarring, sun damage and stretch marks, Dermapen™ 4 GOLD treatment is guaranteed to provide confidence and comfort in your own skin. Lovely uses the latest Dermapen™ 4 device which is smoothly moved over the face, creating microscopic punctures to the skin’s surface using very small needles. This boosts collagen and elastin production, and in turn improves the appearance of fine lines, scarring, and minor imperfections. Being one of Lovely’s top treatments, you do not want to miss out! Anti-wrinkle Treatment

Ageing gracefully is something we all want, but there’s no shame in getting a little helping hand. Softening and relaxing forehead lines and crow’s feet with anti-wrinkle injections known as wrinkle relaxers will ensure you look refreshed and lovely. Dermal Filler

Dermal filler is another great option when it comes to antiageing treatments. Using hyaluronic acid dermal fillers, this treatment defines your features and gives a touch of volume and definition that typically lasts between 6-24 months. The hyaluronic acid used in these fillers is naturally occurring and the reason why it’s so popular amongst practitioners is because of how similar it is to the HA found in the dermal layer of our skin. Human HA is what keeps our skin firm and plump, and this is what we notice losing as we start to age. This treatment is also great when it comes to reshaping facial contours and enhancing facial features, including your lips and chin.

Dermapen™ 4 GOLD Micro-needling treatment

Dermapen™ 4 GOLD represents the luxury standard in microneedling. Treating a plethora of skin concerns, from ageing to

To find out more and to book your treatment, head to

Beauty & Health

lovelybyskin.co.nz

Summer Holiday Ready So many months looking forward to summer, and yet it has still managed to creep up on us. If you want to feel summer-ready pronto, try these treatments that do all the work for you.

OFF & ON Brow shaping – never just a tidy OFF & ON believe there is no cookie cutter approach to how your best brow is created, which is why they have explored and mastered a raft of techniques to address your brow frustrations, your level of commitment, and the best way to give you your best brow, whether that be a brow shape, a lift, or a tint.

Call 0800 633 066 or visit offandon.co.nz

LOVELY BY SKIN INSTITUTE Your world of beautiful skin

SKIN INSTITUTE Dermal Fillers

Lovely by skin institute has recently launched their new O Cosmedics Peels, offering intense skin changing results, using one or two peels in the same treatment to target multiple skin conditions and achieve skin youth, health and radiance. Suitable for all skin conditions such as pigmentation, problematic skin, sensitivity and pigmentation. Special intro offer, Silver Peel $127, Gold Peel $143 and Platinum Peel $159, valid while availability lasts until 24 December 2021.

If coming out of lockdown and back to our always-on lifestyle has you considering a cosmetic enhancement to restore volume loss and add volume, the experienced team at Skin Institute favour the understated, natural look. This is achieved through a holistic facial assessment and gradual treatments to restore the natural contours of the face leaving a beautifully rejuvenated, refreshed looking you. skininstitute.co.nz

lovelybyskin.co.nz

December / January

WORDS

— JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

The Men-opause

Mood swings and weight gain may be common symptoms of an ageing bloke, but they may also be a sign of something more serious: male menopause. Even grumpiness and irritability perhaps the traits most associated with certain older men – is more likely to be the result of a lack of testosterone rather than too much of it.

Though usually referred to as the ‘male menopause’, the scientific name is andropause, from the Greek for ‘human male’, andras, and pause, meaning ‘to end’ (menopause translates as the less fatal sounding ‘monthly end’). Though menopause is a natural period of woman’s life cycle, such a life change for men is rarer, less severe, and less swift. “While the term ‘male menopause’ is used for the condition, this phrase is bit misleading,” writes Dr Nish Manek in BBC Science Focus Magazine, “there isn’t usually a sudden drop in testosterone in middle age like there is for oestrogen in women. From around age 30, most men will experience an annual testosterone decline of around 2%, rising to 3% after age 40. A paper published in the Journal of Ageing by the Centre for Men’s Health in London estimated that about 20% men over 50 had a testosterone deficiency, while other studies have shown an 80-year-old guy will have around half the amount of testosterone as he did in his prime. It’s unusual for male hormonal drop-offs – known as hypogonadism – to be significant enough to cause too many issues. 71

December / January

According to Age Concern New Zealand, many of the symptoms “are considered a normal part of ageing and can be managed”.

Hypogonadism may be present from birth (resulting in symptoms such as underdeveloped testes and delayed puberty), but can also occur further down the line, known as late-onset hypogonadism, causing indications of andropause such as weight gain, decreased libido, muscle loss, insomnia, erectile dysfunction, and hot flushes. According to Age Concern New Zealand, many of the symptoms “are considered a normal part of ageing and can be managed”. Such symptoms, though rare, are also more likely to affect overweight men, or those with other conditions such as type 2 diabetes. However, even then, lifestyle factors like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, or mental health issues such as depression, are still statistically far more likely to be the root cause of any problems.

Beauty & Health

For those with concerns, the first port of call should be your GP who can conduct blood, saliva, or urine tests to check on testosterone levels as well as discuss possible issues with lifestyle and mental health. Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), as well as a better diet, more exercise and relaxation techniques like meditation may help alleviate the symptoms of andropause, but if testosterone levels are abnormally low for your age range, hormone replacement therapy might be required.

Luminskin, Premium Skin for the Premium Man Luminskin will have all your gifting dilemmas sorted. Their phenomenal products are specifically designed to suit men’s skin types. With natural, high-quality ingredients each product works to target specific skin issues. This includes sun protection! Over the past month we have all felt the bright rays of sunshine and for sure they will only get stronger this summer. SPF is a necessity to your skincare routine to protect your skin and enjoy all sorts of summer fun stress free and burn free. Luminskin offers a UV-defence Moisture Balm that doubles as a light-weight sunblock and daily moisturiser.

Here are some Luminskin gift ideas to build up a premium man’s skincare routine: The Fundamental Duo Set - $58 The perfect starter set to add cleansing and moisture to a morning and night routine. Clear clogged pores with charcoal infused cleanser and boost the dewy, healthy glow of your skin with the smooth, hydrating moisture balm. The Classic Maintenance Set - $83

Typically thought of as a feminine activity, Luminskin has reshaped the skincare world for men offering formulated regimes to suit men’s skin specifically as it is structured differently to women’s. Luminskin is a diamond in the rough and the perfect option for Christmas pressies. Skincare is self-care, it creates time in your daily routine to refocus, appreciate yourself and feel fresh and ready to take on the world, enjoy summer holidays, festivals and celebrations. Gift your boyfriend, husband, brother, father or son a chance to change up his once-a-day bar of soap and water-wash routine.

This trio includes the moisture balm and the charcoal cleanser and adds an exfoliating rub to help battle acne, and even skin tone. It is a low maintenance routine that will stick with you forever. Correction trio - $90 The Correction Trio works to repair damaged skin, this includes sun damage. Repair your skin from those long days on the boat or beach, you will most definitely be thankful for it down the line!

luminskin.com

December / January

There is still time to make a change for that New Year’s Eve party

Save $550

You Go Girl! So proud of my client! 3x sessions of the midliff, tummy and hip area. A great kick start! We also finetuned her eating habits to a different lifestyle. She looks amazing and is 20kg lighter plus her confidence is through the roof.

BEFORE TREATMENT

AFTER SECOND TREATMENT

AFTER THIRD TREATMENT

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Don’t Worry, Be Happy

WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

‘Ignorance is bliss’ so goes the famous saying, while Ernest Hemingway once remarked happiness in intelligent people to be “the rarest thing I know”. With so much to be disappointed, frustrated, and even furious about in the modern world, can we really be informed, smart, and happy?

Well, science says ‘yes’! And, just like Jane Wurwand tells Verve this month (page 88), the key is to finding your ‘why’. According to a 27-year study by the University of Michigan, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, happiness is intrinsically intertwined with our sense of purpose, and that those who feel their lives have greater meaning are even more likely to live for longer. PASSION FOR HAPPINESS

Sonja Lyubomirsky describes happiness as “the experience of joy, contentment, or positive well-being, combined with a sense that one’s life is good, meaningful, and worthwhile” in her book The How of Happiness. According to her research, our happiness is 50% genetic, 10% down to life circumstance, and a reassuring 40% dependent on what we do from day to day. “The truth is, happiness is hard work, no matter what your IQ, age, weight or marital status,” writes Lisa Earle McLeod, author of Selling with Noble Purpose, for HuffPost. “Happiness doesn’t come to you, you have to create it.” “Life just feels better when you have things in your hours that you want to do,” productivity expert Laura Vanderkam, tell the New York Times. “There’s moments where time almost has no meaning because we’re so happy about what we’re doing.” She goes as far as to recommend turning a passion into an obligation by way of class: “If you’ve paid for it, you’re more likely to show up.”

December / January

“There’s moments where time almost has no meaning because we’re so happy about what we’re doing.”

A 2015 paper published in The Anals of Behavioural Medicine found that the pursuit of passion lowers stress by 34% and sadness by 18%, with the positive energy continuing well beyond the time spent engaging in any given hobby or activity. Other studies have shown happy folk to have more friends and better marriages (obviously), to be less likely to get sick, to be able to better cope with stress, to make more money, and be more generous too.

Happiness is a marathon, not a sprint. Here are a few more things to consider doing en route: · Be thankful. Gratitude for life and all the wonderful things it brings is worth celebrating, and maybe even noting in a gratitude journal. · Concentrate on your strengths. It’s natural to focus on ourimperfections and things we fail at, but it becomes a selffulfilling circle of frustration. Accept that you won’t excel at everything.

THINKING YOUR WAY TO HAPPINESS

Emotional intelligence (EQ) and happiness also go hand in hand. In his book, Improving Emotional Intelligence, Bill Murphy Jr describes emotional intelligence as “the practiced awareness of how emotions affect your communications and efforts, coupled with the use of strategies designed to leverage emotions to help you achieve goals”. It makes absolute sense that understanding and reacting to our own—and others’— feelings more skilfully creates a greater capacity to not only experience happiness, but to spread the joy. While not everyone is born with a high EQ, just like regular intelligence, with practice, it can be improved. “One of the hallmarks of high emotional intelligence is self-awareness,” notes Mark Murphy, author of Hiring For Attitude and founder of Leadership IQ, for Forbes. “Self-awareness is a deep understanding of what makes us tick; what angers us, makes us happy, bores and interests us.” It also means that we can appraise ourselves “with greater honesty and clarity”. And so emotional intelligence can be especially strengthened by being a better listener rather than simply waiting for your turn to speak. By ‘actively listening’ we take the time to really hear what is being said before formulating our responses. Try to maintain a positive attitude to life (though not at inappropriate times), don’t be so easily offended, and motivate others to follow their passions as you embark upon your own.

Beauty & Health

· Be kind to yourself, and others. Everyone’s fighting their own battles so empathise. · Raise the heart rate. Exercise won’t just get you fit but reduce depression and work those endorphins. · Get enough sleep. This ensures your body—and your brain— recovers from the day’s stresses. · Nurture positive relationships. Socialisation makes us happier and healthier. · Spend time in nature. Being outside for just 20 minutes boosts mood, creative thinking and memory. · Meditate. Lower your stress levels as you take the time to focus on nothing but your breath. It literally rewires your brain for happiness.

EST.

1951

Celebrating distinction for more than 70 years.

Verve's Sun Protection Picks New Zealand sunlight has high levels of UV radiation. Protect yourself and your family while still enjoying the summer.

ASPECT™ SKINCARE Physical Sun Protection You asked, Aspect™ Skincare delivered. Aspect™ Sun Physical Sun Protection SPF 50+ Sunscreen Cream is here! With a barely-there feel and invisible zinc formula, this SPF gamechanger is working overtime to give the full UV spectrum protection that you want and need. Your daily SPF application made easy. aspectskincare.com

AVÈNE SUNCARE RANGE Face Emulsion, Face & Body Lotion, Face & Body Spray and Face & Body Spray for Children The sensitive skincare specialists at Avène Dermatological Laboratories have dedicated themselves to researching and producing high quality sun protection that offers efficacy and skin tolerance for even the most sensitive skin, protection from NZ's harsh UV rays. All are alcohol-and paraben-free, offering SPF 50+ protection against UVB and UVA damage. eau-thermale-avene.co.nz

EARTH’S KITCHEN SPF50+ Sun Protection

SOL SPF 40 Mineral Sunscreen

Earth’s Kitchen SPF50 sun protection is a NATRUE certified and multiple Global-Award winning all-natural alternative to harsh chemical sunscreens to nourish ourselves and our planet. Transparent, water-resistant, cruelty-free, reef-safe, and lush smelling! Designed by Jules Bright, naturopath, registered nurse, medical herbalist and concerned mum. It's been a 20-year journey that put NZ on the map in providing the world’s healthiest sunscreen.

Steph and Luke started Sol after wanting to naturally protect their faces while chasing waves along the Central American coast five years ago. Sol SPF 40 Mineral Sunscreen is New Zealand made, and good for you and our Earth. Two hours water resistant, reef safe, non-whitening, and with plastic-free packaging. sol.co.nz

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Beauty & Health

Holidays 2021

Summer Skincare Sets

our carefully curated collection www.springstore.co.nz

Elstree Pharmacy Professional pharmacists serving the Glen Innes community. Come and see us for fantastic gifts for all ages, all of your family’s health needs and excellent advice. Ample free parking. Stockists of Innoxa Cosmetics and Skincare, Stella + Gemma and Antler ranges, NZ brand Moana Road sunglasses and readers, and a fabulous and ever-changing range of homewares. 145 WEST TAMAKI RD, GLEN INNES 09 528 3636 ELSTREEPHARMACY@XTRA.CO.NZ

December / January

Clinic 42 The team at Clinic 42 are thrilled to welcome their newest addition, registered cosmetic nurse Clare Gallie.

Clare is among the most experienced cosmetic medicine nurses in New Zealand, having worked at some of Auckland’s leading cosmetic medicine clinics over the last 19 years. Her skills include: · Anti-wrinkle treatments and dermal fillers · IPL and lasers · Medical grade skincare treatment and advice · Dermapen · Microsclerotherapy to leg veins From her extensive knowledge and many years of experience, Clare is able to assess, recommend and treat patients with a wide range of needs.

textural improvement and rejuvenation, and pigmentation conditions. She has over 22 years’ experience of microsclerotherapy injection treatment for spider veins to the legs, having originally worked for a vascular surgeon at The Lister Hospital, London for six years before moving to New Zealand in 2002 to continue with her work. Microsclerotherapy is a common and unsightly concern for many, especially over the summer months when wearing shorts, dresses, and togs. Such veins occur most commonly on the outer and inner areas of the legs, often in little superficial clusters of fine red and blue veins.

Clare is renowned for her gentle and caring manner and is able to help her patients achieve beautiful, natural looking results. “I want my patients to look good for their age, relevant for their age, and never overdone,” she says.

The treatment is a gentle, tiny injection technique into these small leg veins. The injected solution, known as a scleroscent, gently irritates and closes down the veins, which fade gradually over a few weeks. Results may vary, but it is usual to achieve a significant reduction in the appearance of these veins.

Clare has a wealth of experience since beginning her cosmetic career back in 1996. She is expert with a wide range of IPLs and lasers – for treating multiple vascular and pigmented lesions – including facial veins, rosacea, skin

Treatments are a little stingy, but easily tolerated. Clare’s patients report how her delicate technique is so very much easier than expected, and they are pleased with how many veins can be treated in each session. After treatment, our

Beauty & Health

recommended lightweight compression socks or stockings should be worn for a few days. The number of appointments depends on the amount and size of spider veins needing treatment. Clare is passionate about ongoing professional development and education through training both in-clinic, and with New Zealand’s internationally renowned expert doctors. Clare keeps up to date with all the latest skills and techniques by regularly attending leading national and international AMI and NZSCM conferences, along with specialty workshops. When she’s not working, Clare and her family enjoy the outdoors where Clare and her husband of 29 years like to spend their time golfing, cycling, sailing and skiing. We are delighted to welcome another highly experienced, skilled and passionate nurse to the Clinic 42 team, and look forward to you meeting her in clinic. If you would like to make an appointment with Clare or any of the team at Clinic 42, you can book via our website clinic42.co.nz or call us on 09 638 424.

Avène:

Dermatological Care for Sensitive Skin With summer around the corner, those with sensitive skin need to be prepared with solutions to safely protect themselves from New Zealand’s harmful UV rays.

Sensitive skincare specialists at Avène Dermatological Laboratories have poured their knowledge and expertise into producing high quality sun protection that offers efficacy and skin tolerance for even the most sensitive skin. Their range of sun care consists of five products: Avène Face Emulsion, Avène Face and Body Lotion, Avène Face and Body Spray, and Avène Face and Body Spray for Children. Their newest product is the Aqua Fluid SPF50+ for the face, suitable for children 2 years onwards. Each of these products is SPF50+ with UVA and UVB protection, and Avène has taken extreme care to design a paraben-free, alcohol-free formula that offers maximum protection with a minimum quantity of filters. Each product in this range also contains their signature Avène thermal spring water, with soothing and anti-irritating properties.

Francesca, 26

“The Clicquot of sunscreen.” Alice, 28

“Feels like a primer and wears beautifully under makeup.” Shari, 34

“The Avène products left my skin feeling moisturised. This will definitely be a staple in my personal and professional makeup kit.” Christine, 69

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

To achieve the right balance between effectiveness, safety, and tolerance for those with sensitive skin, all of Avène’s sun care products are evaluated under dermatological, ophthalmological, and paediatric control to guarantee optimal skin tolerance for all ages. As a result, their sun care range is trusted by dermatologists around the world. eau-thermale-avene.co.nz

December / January

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The Power of Positivity angeliquehealing.co.nz bliss-balance.com

“If you think you can or you think you can’t – you’re right.” Verve sits down with New Zealand's advanced PaRama BodyTalk Practitioner and Wellbeing Coach, Angelika Klotz, of Angelique Healing, to discuss moving forward from a challenging year with an attitude of positivity and resilience.

By accepting responsibility, we can take control and implement the healthy actions shown above to start releasing unwanted emotions. Physical exercise in particular has been proven to release stuck and undesired emotions.

How can we ensure we don’t allow the setbacks of 2021 to define us?

Complementary healing modalities like Emotion Code, PSYCH-K, BodyTalk, chakra healing, Theta Healing, Pranic Healing, to name a few, can assist and encourage further release of emotions when needed.

The biggest player is our mind. Henry Ford once said: “If you think you can or you think you can’t – you’re right.” If our endless mind chatter is constantly telling us that life is hard and things are difficult, this will have a profound impact on how we experience the world. There are so many simple things we can do everyday to harvest a supportive lifestyle, such as focussing on a good posture and movement, enjoying nutrient-rich food and nature, and nurturing supportive friendships. Try reflecting on what makes your heart sing. Maybe now is the right time to revisit a hobby or activity you’ve always enjoyed but never had time to do. Additional stress management can be achieved through calming practices like meditation or mindfulness. If further support is needed, energy healing techniques like Reiki or Sekhem, Access Bars or EFT tapping, to name a few, help with the relaxing parasympathetic nerve response. How can we begin to process the emotions that have come with the pandemic?

The best approach is to become aware of them. Identifying and acknowledging how depleting these emotions can be is the first step to slowing down or even stopping the energy draining effects.

While Christmas and the holiday period is generally a joyful occasion, it can also become stressful. How can we support ourselves and our loved ones during this time?

Making sure that we are not projecting all high demands on family life can actually be quite supportive of a relaxing and fun time together. Enough personal space and respecting wishes of all family members is a considerable approach to an enjoyable festive season. Instead of lashing out, taking a deep breath and removing ourselves from controversial situations can save the day. What advice would you give to those considering setting goals for the new year and/or making a big life change?

There is something exhilarating about setting new goals for the new year. It feels like a special power that we can change and influence our lives. What sets true goals apart is our intention and reason WHY. If we have a good enough WHY, the set target is no longer just a wish outside of us. Once we get emotionally involved with the goal, the goal becomes a part of us and no longer feels unobtainable. For bigger lifestyle changes it can pay to engage a coach, a cheerleader that keeps us on track in reaching our goals effectively and efficiently. 85

December / January

Aftermask Imagine the surprise when I got up one morning midOctober, looked at myself in the mirror and saw what appeared like a mask on my face – but, I was not wearing a mask!

When I looked closer it seemed as if a mask shape had been lightly toasted on, a shape that was also itchy and flaking round the edges, and tight, dry and sore. It took a while for me to link this strange irritation to mask wearing. I had read about maskne but was unaware that masks could also cause dry and angry skin; I quickly realised though, that the itchy tight feeling definitely had something to do with the wearing of a disposable mask during my daily hour-long walks. It has taken me around a month to fix and this is what I did: I swopped my disposable facemask for a silk version. For a fortnight or so, I refused any invitations to Zoom meetings, whilst drowning my skin in a mix of lanolin and calamine. With shops and salons shut, I searched online for a better solution, and was thrilled when I came across a magic formula newly released by Atopis - their affordable Aftermask Dry Skin Formulation. I received my funky looking glass jar of goodness

New limited edition:

AFTERMASK Created by Dr Iona Weir to help your skin after regular mask usage. Available in Anti-Acne and Dry Skin formulations. Part of the Pandemic Skin Support Project. Find out more at atopis.co.nz

WORDS — FRAN NINOW

a few days later and have been using as directed ever since. I am happy to report that my complexion is no longer tight, itchy, flaky and dry, but feels calmed and better-hydrated than ever. With masks having become the new normal, Atopis Aftermask Dry Skin Formulation has without a doubt found a permanent spot in my skincare routine. And what's more, I am loving using it.

Pandemic Skin Support Project #3

THE RESET

A new, natural skin microbiome restoration by Dr Iona Weir. Special limited edition. Find out more at atopis.co.nz

Jane’s Game WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

Skin in the Game: Everything You Need is Already Inside You is the new book from Jane Wurwand who, from the early ‘80s, began building a skincare empire from scratch. Beauty & Health

Jane moved to California from the UK with $20,000 of savings and founded what was to become Dermalogica, one of the planet’s leading personal care brands, renowned not only for its premium products but for training tens of thousands of skin therapists around the world through its International Dermal Institute. Verve caught up with Jane to learn more.

“I believe we’re currently in a ‘Great Reset’,” she says. “Even before Covid, people, and especially women, were unhappy with the lack of flexibility of their careers. We want more time with our families, with ourselves, and with our communities. This book is for any person that may be at a stage in their life where they are thinking they are ready for a reset. To find their purpose and bigger ‘why’.”

global industry and changed their own lives through their skills. It’s a story about never shrinking yourself or allowing others to shrink you. It’s a love letter, in a sense, to the industry that gave me my career. But I also wanted to write this for anyone who may not feel as self-determined as I know they can be. Maybe they are not an entrepreneur in business, but they can be an entrepreneur of their own life.”

Jane – famously described by London’s Sunday Times as ‘The Woman Who Started a Cult’ – it seems, is one to be forever searching for her ‘why’ having been involved with a raft of philanthropic and entrepreneurial projects such as membership of the Clinton Global Initiative and serving as a special advisor to the UN Foundation’s Global Entrepreneurs Council. Her business awards are numerous, and in 2016, she was appointed as a Global Ambassador for Entrepreneurship by President Obama.

Why did you decide not to approach the book as a traditional memoir?

In 2018, via her Wurwand Foundation, Jane launched FOUND/ LA to fund, mentor and offer incubator programmes and educational resources for local entrepreneurs “to build their business, purpose, and community”. One hundred percent of profits from Skin in the Game will be donated to FOUND/LA which has so far helped around 10,000 start-ups. I ask why she decided to pen the book at this particular time in her life. “It might be easier to begin with what the book isn’t! It isn’t quite a memoir. Nor is it exactly a business book. It’s a book about building an incredible community of entrepreneurs who built a

“I knew from the start it wouldn’t be a traditional memoir. Life is big and messy and I have never separated any of it from each other. Career, children, love, death, business or family, it all adds up to the patchwork quilt of how we live, and why. The book is like a journey, not written in a chronological thread, but laid out with each of the parts of my life intertwined, all leading to certain lessons and outcomes. They may seem disconnected at first, but they all fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. I think each of our lives are much like that.” As well as sharing lessons learnt, Skin in the Game includes exercises to help folk “identify their true purpose and harness resilience and creativity”, things Jane believes to be crucial for success. “We can’t be afraid to dare, risk and grow in life or business or we will never live our biggest life. We have to trust that we will figure out how to get to the next goal even when our attempt 89

December / January

“Courage isn’t the absence of fear – it’s being able to function even when you are scared to death.”

wasn’t successful. No one knows how to do anything until the first time they try and we get there through determination and focus. Courage isn’t the absence of fear – it’s being able to function even when you are scared to death.” Do you believe that it’s easier for entrepreneurs starting out today with so many resources available?

“I think it is as hard today, and as easy as it was. The core values and ‘bigger why’ of business can be the same as ever, but the methods to get there have changed. We had to spread the story of Dermalogica through word of mouth and zero advertising – which we couldn’t afford. Now, we can spread the story virtually and instantly through the internet and social media platforms, but our bigger values and our ‘why’ remain the same.” Jane emphasises that’s it’s still more difficult for women, who receive less that 4% of all funding, dropping down to less than 1% for women of colour. “That’s an unacceptable number and clear proof that current methods of funding for entrepreneurs are broken. We need to think more creatively about how to start and fund our businesses and that is now my clear focus.” What more would you like to see done?

“I’m using all the knowledge that I’ve gained through my career for FOUND, because I know that by supporting our local entrepreneurs, we build thriving communities. Our goal is to build a blueprint of how to do this work that can be replicated in cities across the globe.” How has the pandemic changed things?

“It has sharpened our awareness of what’s important and what is extraneous. We are all now assessing what we are truly here for – our sense of purpose and direction. Am I living my biggest life? Am I spending time on things that make a difference to me and others in a positive way? Do I need more flexibility and freedom in my life? Or less? These are deeply personal questions and our global communities are addressing them all. We are in the midst of a cultural and social revolution, a political and industrial revolution, and a climate and global revolution. We are not going into any kind of ‘new normal’ – we are in the ‘new next’. The success and heart of every one of these changes will be linked to our capacity for humanity, empathy, kindness, and connection.”

mattered, what didn’t” while “rediscovering many of my lifetime values that had been my north star”. She’s always kept a dairy (“an old fashioned moleskin – there’s something about the connection between by hand and the page that clarifies a great deal to me”), but the process threw up some surprises. “The first photograph on the book is of two-year-old me. I knew that the photo was taken outside of our first home and what I didn’t know was who had taken it. When they received the book, my older sisters told me that it was our dad. He passed away only months after he took that photo and so it now has even more importance to me.” Jane’s mother, a nurse, was left to raise four daughters alone, setting “an incredible example of work ethic” while “fulfilling a huge life purpose” in the pursuit of her career. “Mum made us realise work can support a family and also fuel our purpose in a very deep way. She taught us the most important lesson of my life – ‘learn how to do something’ – which instilled my fierce determination to support myself, no matter what the circumstance.” With a life already so well-lived, I ask Jane what still compels her and if she ever considers just putting her feet up, but of course comes the reply: “Putting my feet up has never been one of my goals!” Inspired by the younger generation’s drive to hold everyone accountable for their actions, Jane still feels driven by “our capacity to improve lives and outcomes for others” to ensure “every person has a place at the table”. “Entrepreneurship and self-determination are what speaks to my heart” she says. “It’s emotional, dynamic, risky, and messy – everything I love about life. I got here by taking risks, trusting my gut, thinking big, and stumbling, and falling.” And of course a rising always comes after a fall.

Skin in the Game: Everything You Need is Already Inside You, published by HarperCollins, is out now.

Jane admits that it was an emotional process revisiting her past while penning the book, “sifting through through what Beauty & Health

The Avo Tree Most of us, millennial or otherwise, are already aware of the nutritional benefits of avocados. WORDS — ASHLEE LALA

For those that need a refresher: high fibre, low sugar, and boasting nutrients such as folate, niacin, potassium, vitamins B6, C, and E, and monounsaturated (healthy) fat. These monounsaturated fats (or essential fatty acids) include omega-3, omega-6, and a high level of omega-9. Attuned to the fact that our skin is our largest organ, the wonderful folk at The Avo Tree have given us a way not just to satisfy our cravings for creamy deliciousness, but also to experience the benefits of avocado oil when applied topically. It makes a lot of sense when you consider the fact that essential fatty acids such as omegas 3 and 6 make up the basic elements of our skin’s surface layer and help to produce a natural oil barrier, while omega-9 promotes collagen production, which helps generate new skin cells. The Avo Tree’s range of daily skincare products use avocado oil as the building block, combined with a selection of natural ingredients. Given that the last few months in lockdown have put a halt to my avocado on toast at a local cafe, I decided now would be a good time to trial these skincare products in place of eating (and ‘gramming) this wonder-fruit. When it comes to skincare, I’m typically one to opt for creams over oils, but as dermatologists everywhere are touting the benefits of both, I was interested in trialling how the The Avo Tree’s Day Cream and Face Oil might work together. Beauty & Health

The first thing I noticed about The Avo Tree’s Day Cream is just how light the texture is. Stress and anxiety can trigger eczema for me, and I’m often tempted to lather on the thickest cream I can find to try and lock in the moisture – which is usually also filled with pore-clogging ingredients, eventually leading to breakouts. In contrast to this, The Avo Tree’s Day Cream is made with cucumber and aloe vera which feels soothing and hydrating once applied. The combination of avocado, cucumber, and aloe vera also makes for an energising, uplifting, and refreshing start to my day. The Avo Tree’s Face Oil is the last product I use in the morning before applying SPF. Since using this product daily, I’ve noticed a reduction in the appearance of acne scarring thanks to the combination of avocado oil, pear, and blackcurrant which join forces to repair the skin and prevent cell damage. An extra benefit of applying this facial oil in the morning is that it is packed with naturally occurring antioxidants, which work as a barrier to external aggressors such as UV rays, blue light pollution, and fluctuating temperatures. Thanks to The Avo Tree, I’m coming out of this lockdown with a brighter and more radiant complexion ready for the start of summer and socialising with friends and family. Check out their skincare range for yourself at theavotree.co.nz , your skin will thank you for the superfood upgrade.

Smoother & more confident you! Finesse Face and Body Clinic is proud to be the first truSculpt iD provider in New Zealand, as part of an exclusive partnership with Cutera. TruSculpt iD is the latest technology available to permanently and non-invasively remove body fat. “We have been leaders in non-invasive cellulite and body contouring treatments in Auckland for 20 years,” says Sue Crake, owner of the Remuera Salon. How does truSculpt iD work? truSculpt iD uses a unique form of monopolar radio frequency energy that penetrates evenly and deeply and is able to treat deep into the entire fat pad - from skin to muscle. Once the applicators have been placed on target fatty areas, heat is dispersed evenly, causing irreparable damage to the fat cell walls which the body metabolises and removes permanently over the next 12 weeks. Real-time temperature control and monitoring sensors ensure a constant the therapeutic temperature is maintained for 10 minutes ensuring maximum fat disruption, resulting in 24% fat reduction with every treatment. Patient comfort is ensured through the highly engineered skin adhesives and temperature control which keeps the skin cooler than the underlying fat. How is truSculpt iD treatment performed? The initial consultation is performed to assess and discuss your concerns and desired aesthetic goals, then a tailored and customised treatment plan will be created. A total of six handpieces can be used per 15-minute treatment, and multiple areas can be treated on the same day. Once medical consent is completed skin adhesives are attached to the skin overlying the fat pocket followed by the handsfree applicators. The treatment area is wrapped in a cummerbund to minimise movement of handpieces during treatment. After 15 minutes of warmth is distributed into the tissue, the adhesives, handpieces and cummerbund are removed and the patient can return to normal activities. How do I know if I am a candidate? truSculpt iD is the latest in non-invasive fat removal procedures in minimising treatment time, maximising results and comfort whilst reducing downtime (there is none!). truSculpt iD is a great treatment for targeting stubborn fat pockets that are resistant to diet and exercise, or for a more global debulking option. truSculpt iD is not restricted by BMI or skin laxity concerns, making it a great alternative to cryotherapies. To learn more about if you’re a suitable candidate, book a free consultation with Sue at Finesse. How many treatments will I need? Your initial assessment and personal goals will determine the best course of treatment tailored to you, however patients will only require one treatment. Whether one or two treatments are required, all patients will see an effect at 12 weeks.

TruSculpt ID Benefits

NZ MedSafe approved for permanent reduction of up to 24% fat (*shown through ultrasound clinical trials) 15-minute treatment (half the time, and twice the treatment area vs cryotherapies largest applicator) No discomfort & No Downtime – resume normal activities immediately after Customisable and flexible treatment opportunities depending your body and goals No BMI restrictions Male & Female suited Skin tightening – post partum suitability Treatment areas: abdomen (upper, mid and lower), flanks (love handles), upper back fat, lower back fat, inner thighs, outer thighs, arms and under the chin.

Before

12 weeks after one treatment

Is the treatment painful? No! Patients report the treatment feels like getting into a hot bath. The heat at first can be a little intense, but just like a bath you become accustomed to the feeling and adjust to the treatment. There is no pain, no downtime and no massage required. Patients can return to normal activities immediately after with most patients only experiences some mild redness on the treatment zone which subsides in a couple of hours.

Before

How long before I see my results? Clients will begin to see a change in their silhouette from 6 – 8 weeks post treatment, but maximum results are achieved at week 12. Changes in skin quality, tone and texture are usually seen earlier. Each area can be treated once per 12-weeks but other areas can be treated before then.

12 weeks after one treatment

CALL TO BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

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

Photography Heals

To find out more about upcoming events and/or book a photography session, visit Facebook @rewildfromwithin and @kassandralynnephotography

Beauty & Health

Verve chats with Kassandra Lynne about her road from Californiabased masseuse to Otago boudoir photographer and retreat founder. 94

“I never expected photography could be so healing and transformational.” Massage therapist, wellness centre owner, photographer, and now running women’s retreats! Can you speak about the intersection between these disciplines?

We all have different lived experiences but so many of us lack self-confidence, self-worth, self-love, and rarely extend the kindness to ourselves that we openly share with others. I started recognising that as I was sort of a ‘therapist’ often for my massage clients, I also started to share and hear the stories and beliefs from the women I worked closely with leading up to and during our photo sessions. It was at this stage I saw a clear intersection between my background in health and wellness, my own personal self-healing journey, and my now thriving photography career. I never expected that photography could be so healing and transformational, yet I’m so grateful for this aspect as it really makes my work so much more rewarding and meaningful. You mentioned photography and women’s retreats offer a space for self-discovery. How has your journey of selfdiscovery evolved?

Since moving back to Aotearoa, I've felt a deep sense of coming home to myself and have been able to strengthen my connection to nature. When you truly feel at peace somewhere, you have the ability to facilitate true healing from within, a chance to rewild your soul. These days my journey is focused on peeling back the layers of trauma, pain, and conditioning that have led me to a negative spiral of shaming, hating my body, burning myself out constantly, and a very real fear of true intimacy and connection. I’ve gone to workshops, treatments, one on one coaching, online courses and have developed a healthy daily practice to really get into dissecting what it is to be me and why I’ve created these unhealthy stories and beliefs about myself. It’s been tough! But I’ve made heaps of progress in the last few years and through this time I’ve been able to share my experience and help others along the way.

and the entire experience itself will begin to help you peel back those layers and realise your own potential to shine. Boudoir photography goes deeper than a typical portrait. Can you talk about how this is an empowering experience of body positivity and self-love?

It’s more than a portrait session, it’s a moment in time where we connect and discuss our backgrounds, past and current traumas, our desires, our fears, and so on. It is a level of intimacy and vulnerability that when held in a safe space, can be so incredibly healing for my clients and myself as well. Part of that safe space is creating an environment that is not only lush, luxurious and full of character, but also incorporates an element of secluded or private access to wild nature. Connection to nature is so powerful and something that we are so disconnected from in our society these days. I find that being able to facilitate this connection for myself and for my clients really allows us to ground these elements of transformation and self discovery deep within. Tell us about Rewild Retreats. Who are they for and what can they expect?

The formation of Rewild Women’s Retreats was inspired by the idea that I wanted to help women continue to nurture this journey of self development. Any woman can have an incredibly transformational and powerful perspective shift during a portrait experience with me, but there will inevitably be a time after this session where she will come up to a barrier, something that sets her back on her path to self-love and self confidence.

I want to be able to share the tools I've learned, the awesome workshops I've been on, and the knowledge I continue to accumulate over the course of my own education and personal experience, so that a woman can continue this journey even when she comes across obstacles in life. These tools and experiences are for any woman, all women that want to see positive change in their lives.

What inspired your move to boudoir photography?

At the end of the day, we are perceived by others in entirely different ways and our view of ourselves is totally unique to our own internal process. Having the chance to be an observer of yourself through the lens of a photographer is a really powerful way to build confidence and flip the script on your own internal dialogue. This is why I wanted to jump into this niche of photography, because not only can I see that beauty in others but I have experience in front of the lens as well, making it very natural for me to be able to guide women through the process. What would you say to women interested in doing a boudoir photography session but are too nervous to reach out?

We create a world of stress for ourselves, we all do, but the courage to step outside of the comfort zone and say, let’s do this, is how we transform. There is no magic weight, shape or size that will make you feel confident, it’s all the mindset and that’s where my one on one coaching prior to the session will come into play

What tools do you teach your clients to empower them to continue to work through challenges?

A cornerstone across many workshops that we provide incorporates the concept of mind, body and spirit connection. We teach how to drop into the body, really feel where your emotions are within your body and to really start talking and understanding your body’s language. Connection to nature and water is also a beautiful tool to ground ourselves and work through our fight/flight responses. Through elements of yoga, meditation, intuitive medicine, exploring values, somatic therapies, vulnerable connection and creative expression we can work through our layers to find a better understanding of our patterns, beliefs and stories. Once we begin to understand these patterns, then we can start rewriting or rewilding. Finding that essence of who we truly are and what it is to be authentically expressing our self.

December / January

WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

Cool Korea It began with ‘Gangnam’, and certainly won’t end with Squid Game, South Korean culture has captured the hearts, souls, and imaginations of folk the world over – a phenomenon known as the Korean Wave, K-wave, or hallyu. Verve takes a look at the surprise K-rise.

Delicious barbecues and electronics aside, just a decade ago most in the West knew little about K-pop, K-movies, K-beauty, or K-fashion. Then, in 2012, pony-dancing pop star PSY unleashed his ‘Gangnam Style’ and the web and all who surf it went crazy for Korea. The annoying(ly catchy) song topped the South Korean music charts and very nearly made it the top of pops in the US too. But, more significantly, its video became the first to garner one billion views on YouTube and broke the site’s view counter on its way to becoming the first to reach a billion more. (Kids’ song, ‘Baby Shark Dance’ is the current mostwatched YouTube video with 9.7 billion views, produced by educational entertainment company Pinkfong, also from, you guessed it, South Korea.) Now, such is PSY’s legend there’s a giant bronze sculpture of his hands frozen in the famous crossed arm riding pose in Seoul. Bernie Cho, president of Korean digital music export agency DFSB Kollective, says that PSY proved that it wasn’t necessary to be “young, pretty, and skinny” to be an international star, but to simply be authentic. “He wasn’t Korea’s Usher, Britney Spears, or Justin Timberlake,” Cho tells Pitchfork. “He was just Korea's PSY.” SOCIAL CURRENCY

Well before the West’s capitulation to South Korea’s charms, the country’s cultural exports were already being embraced abroad, with TV dramas and pop music especially popular in China and Japan.

"Korea has always played the role of a cultural mediator between China and Japan for centuries,” Inkyu Kang, an associate professor of journalism at Penn State Behrend, tells USA Today, “and after the Korean War, between the East and the West – with a strong influence of Korean American culture.” Into the noughties, the K-wave continued its roll, reaching Latin America and the Middle East thanks to the popularity of groups like Kara and Girls Generation. A year after PSY became a global sensation, boyband BTS (or Bangtan Boys) made their debut and, earlier this year, were inducted into the Guinness World Records Hall of Fame. Along with their slew of musical awards, a further 23 record-breaking achievements include the fastest time to reach one million followers on TikTok; most tickets sold for a livestreamed concert; most streamed group on Spotify; most followed group on Instagram; and most viewed YouTube music video in a 24-hour period. Last year, Parasite made history by becoming the first nonEnglish-language film to win the Best Picture Oscar, and this year, Squid Game became Netflix’s most popular show of all time. Even the Oxford Dictionary has got in the act, adding numerous Korean words to its illustrious pages, including, fittingly, hallyu. But, catchy tunes, compelling plots, and well-produced spectacles are only part of the story. A major driver in South Korea’s global cultural takeover is the intelligent social 97

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While American culture still dominates the international market, challenges have come by way of the likes of Japanese animation and J-pop and Bollywood films from India. However, nothing has quite had the reach of hallyu.

commentary that accompanies its art. Parasite and Squid Game are the most obvious examples of this, shining a light on society’s unrelenting inequality, while BTS have touched on important themes such as mental health in their songs too. Even ‘Gangnam Style’ offered a satirical send-up of a self-obsessed, materialistic society that ironically – and luckily – coincided with the explosion of social media. SENSORING K-CULTURE

Little surprise that the government of North Korea is no fan of K-culture. Kim Jong-un has branded the music of his southern counterparts a “viscous cancer”, while describing the “struggle in the field of ideology and culture” as a “war without gunfire”. In July, state-run newspaper, Rodong Sinmun instructed North Korea’s youth to reject foreign influence and sing and dance only to the “melodies and rhythms that fit the times and the national sentiment of our people”. North Korea was once among East Asia’s most industrially advanced areas, but decades of isolation and dictatorship has relegated it to one of the most poverty-stricken nations on earth, while South Korea’s economy – and soft power – skyrocketed. “It absolutely does pose a threat if young North Koreans are watching South Korean dramas and seeing what life is like for Koreans outside their country,” Jean Lee, senior fellow at the US-based Wilson Center and the former Pyongyang bureau chief for the Associated Press, tells CNN. “Because they're seeing images of Seoul, of how well they're living, how freely they're living."

more than 100 while academia.edu has north of 1,600. While American culture still dominates the international market, challenges have come by way of the likes of Japanese animation and J-pop and Bollywood films from India. However, nothing has quite had the reach of hallyu. “The Korean Wave has been unique as it is the only local cultural industry to penetrate both regional and global spheres with a variety of cultural content, not only film and dramas, but also popular music and digital games, which is unprecedented,” Dal Yong Jin, author and professor of School of Communication, Simon Fraser University tells Forbes. “This certainly teaches people to rethink their perception of cultural flows, and therefore, the role of local culture.” Across the continent in India, K-culture has had among the most significant impacts with singer and social media star Chinmayi Sripada launching K-beauty brand Isle of Skin, as well as there being a massive spike in people studying the Korean language. “Earlier when people used to take language courses it was linked with employability,” Rathi Jafer of the Indo-Korean Cultural and Information Centre tells Al Jazeera. “Now we have people learning the language because they want to understand what their icons are saying; what the singers are singing. They want to have a direct connect with Korea through the language.”

STUDYING THE WAVE

Hallyu has even seeped into academia, with the K-wave written about in an ever-growing number of papers: Sage Journal has

Business & Society

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LIE

WORDS — NICK AINGE-ROY IMAGE — LIE

Following a 12-month pandemic-induced hiatus, Seoul Fashion Week returned last April in an all-digital format we’ve come to know well.

Some may bemoan the loss of live-action fashion, but it has also undeniably given brands an opportunity to present in ways we may never have seen – and one that took full advantage of this was LIE. Aided by drones and remote camera rigs, the models stood atop wooden platforms and steps erected outside the National Museum of Korea, the crisp cut of their jackets mirroring the imposing building, while the rich patterns of their dresses and leggings resisted the cold, concrete setting around them. Seoul is not a city generally associated with fashion, and many of its designers have yet to penetrate Western consumer consciousness in a way that can be considered truly meaningful, but brands like LIE are proof that Korea has been ready for a long time, and is simply waiting for the rest of us to take notice. LIE itself is the product of a brother-sister pair, Chung Chung and Nana Lee, themselves the progeny of Korean fashion royalty: Lie Sang Bong. Active since the early 1980s, Lie Sang Bong has won acclaim throughout his career for his architectural silhouettes, inventive use of pattern and colour, and melting pot mix of Eastern and Western influences, as well as creme de la creme celebrity custom from the likes of Rihanna, Beyonce and Lady Gaga. With such a background, and a childhood spent in ateliers, at fashion shows and accompanying their father on his search for inspiration across the world, it is little surprise that Chung Chung and Nana would prove to be natural fits for the industry. Both graduating from Central Saint Martins, the siblings initially forged independent, yet equally successful, paths; Chung headed to Saville Row and fell under the tutelage of British tailoring mastermind Ozwald Boateng, while Nana moved to New York and into the management side of the fashion business. While working for their father, the siblings kept fielding requests from buyers wanting a more affordable line, and decided to launch LIE in 2011 to meet this demand.

minimalism and an aggressive, almost avant-garde portmanteau of materials and construction. The result is wholly modern: perfectly balanced, and capable of catering to almost every crowd, with refined, business-appropriate offerings for the restrained professional, and head turning, what-is-she-wearing outfits for the front row fashion show regular. The fact that this output can emerge from the same label without feeling totally contradictory is impressive on its own, but that it can do so at a relatively modest price point deserves to be commended. It has to be acknowledged that these prices are largely enabled by the extensive use of synthetic fabrics like nylon, spandex and polyester, a move that warrants criticism and plainly diminishes the ‘luxury’ of such designs. Nonetheless, these are intriguing, highly complex designs that are usually kept within the luxury sector by its high prices, inaccessible to all but the very wealthy – to bring them within reach of the average consumer then, is a worthy accomplishment insofar as it broadens the appeal and accessibility of high fashion. Despite my gripes about LIE’s not-so-environmentally friendly methods, I cannot deny the immense talent of Chung Chung Lee in creating clothes that are unique, desirable and affordable, a trifecta that is almost impossible to achieve with equal measure. There has been much said in recent years about the so-called ‘democratisation of fashion’ but by and large I have not seen it, at least in the West. Luxury brands have increased their foothold yes, but this speaks more to a successful ensnarement of a younger, aspirational demographic than any dissemination of luxury design. On the other hand, while LIE may cut material corners with their product, what they present is without a doubt interesting, experimental and unique, and thoroughly deserving of our attention, both now and into the future.

‘Perfectly Imperfect’ is LIE’s tagline for their Spring Summer 2022 collection, and one that broadly encapsulates the brand’s approach, oscillating between clean, serene,

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The Look of Lace

WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES PHOTOS — HELEN CATHCART

The art of lacemaking may have declined dramatically since its 16th century inception, but the intricately detailed material still retains its allure. Verve examines its history. 105

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King Charles I, who ruled Britain from 1625 to 1649, was so enamoured by it that he ordered 1,600 yards (1.5km) to decorate his shirts.

Though decorative net-like materials have existed for millennia, lace as we recognise it today is widely believed to originate around the time of the Renaissance in northern Italy (in present-day Milan and Venice), and Flanders in modern-day Belgium, using silk imported from China, and even sometimes gold and silver threads. It would be another 200 years until the widespread use of cotton. “For those not familiar with lacemaking, it’s difficult to grasp just how much time it takes to make just a small piece of lace,” says Rosemary Cathcart, founder of online store Sheelin Lace, who has spent decades amassing a renowned collection of high-quality antique and vintage Irish lace. “It’s especially true of needle laces which are made one tiny stitch at a time using a very, very fine thread.” Needle lace is one of two main disciplines of the artform, created using a single needle and thread on top of a pattern, while bobbin lace, the other predominant category, comprises the plaiting of several threads wound on bobbins, and is

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usually faster to work. Both needle and bobbin laces may be combined in a single piece. Historically, lacemaking would require the work of three specialists: artists to draw the designs on paper; pattern-makers to put those designs onto parchment; and lacemakers who then stitched the design. Laces were often named after the area they were made. “In Ireland, one of the most popular laces was Irish crochet lace as it was made into all types of garments from full lace wedding gowns, capes and parasols, to smaller items like collars and cuffs,” says Rosemary. “I think Irish lace is interesting as there are several different types which are all beautiful, but particularly the needle laces which are difficult and slow to produce.” Throughout Europe, as the artform developed, handmade lace came to play a prominent economic – and even political – role in many countries, so popular it became among the aristocracy, royalty, and Catholic Church. Sometimes skilled lacemakers even arrived in regions in the form of refugees. Rosemary says that lacemaking was a route to financial

independence for many women. According to The Lace Guild, “Travelling noblemen and intermarriage between royal families ensured that new fashion ideas were disseminated widely: lace was traded (and smuggled) across borders.” Ruffs, most famously worn by Elizabeth I and arguably the most famous fashion item of the 16th century, were made from lace, and worn by both women and men. King Charles I, who ruled Britain from 1625 to 1649, was so enamoured by it that he ordered 1,600 yards (1.5km) to decorate his shirts. By now, lace was used to make dresses and headwear and shawls and even as decoration for doorknobs! Two seismic events in Europe altered the trajectory of lacemaking’s history. On one side of the English Channel, the French Revolution put paid to the luxury industries favoured by the royals and aristocrats, while on the other side of the Channel, the Industrial Revolution put many lacemakers out of work.

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Historically, lacemaking would require the work of three specialists.

made laces which were much cheaper to produce,” says Rosemary. “This meant that lace was available to people who could not afford the much more expensive handmade lace which was always a luxury item and only ever worn by the wealthy.” Rosemary became interested in needlework during childhood, watching her seamstress mother making her clothes. From there, she developed her passion for lace. Now, through Sheelin

Business & Society

Lace (which translates as ‘fairy pool’, named after the Northern Irish village building where it was first founded) she sells delicate items such as gowns, veils, and bodices. Her clientele comes from around the world and includes other collectors and especially brides – even those with modern dresses often want something old and loved. She’s even had buyers from the likes of Jean-Paul Gaultier.

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“More people are showing an interest in antique lace. Especially when the top designers use it in their collections which they often do,” she says. Others just want something historic and beautiful to frame and hang on their walls because handmade lace is a “work of art”.

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A joyful new season of style

Michaela Longstaff is the founder of Mikko Shoes, a New Zealand, family-owned business, known for curating high quality, European-made footwear. She talks with Verve about the new season ahead.

As fashion reflects on the rocky world events of the past year or two, Mikko Shoes has taken it in their stride for the launch of their latest summer collection. “We’re happy to report that we can look forward to a bold celebration of colour,” says Michaela. “At Mikko this summer, there is a highly saturated palette of bright fruity tones, Mediterranean inspired azure blues and teals along with chic natural linen and cotton fibres that have a lovely earthy feel”. If you favour a more subdued look for their footwear, try Mikko’s offering of low-key, elegant metallic finishes which add a sense of polish - in new season shades of amber and bronze alongside classic silver and soft gold. “Toe shapes offer variety this season, with tapered, chiselled, or oblique silhouettes. Perforations are also big, with clever cut-outs that create gorgeous looks and cool breathability in the perfect summer shoe – a balance of form and function, for which Mikko is well-known.” There’s also a strong focus on sports luxe looks. Chic and wearable, think sneakers and sandals on platforms, wedges and flatforms, providing height, support and a stylish edge.

“However, even though comfort is fundamental, it’s never at the expense of style. We’re passionate about the overall experience and making sure our customers feel at ease. “We take a unique approach to customer service where every customer is looked after at a high level, matching the customer to the shoe for the perfect fit every time. Our stylists have a strong visual understanding of what will flatter any foot. They’re also trained to understand common podiatry issues, so we also have the knowledge to let you walk many miles in style.” The team is excited about the new range at Mikko. “This season is really joyful,” says Michaela. “Moving into the summer months, it’s a much brighter season with more variety.” She’s sure her customers will be excited too, and encourages people to get in early to avoid the disappointment of missing out on their favourite styles. Shop online now at mikkoshoes.nz or pop into Remuera, Milford or Pukekohe stores.

“Mikko has always been about offering sophisticated European style, and comfort above all, reigns supreme,” Michaela says.

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An Urban Seaside Shopping Experience On your doorstep Takapuna Beach is fast becoming one of Auckland’s most popular places to indulge in much needed retail therapy. This comes as no surprise to those familiar with the stunning beaches and views – literally a step away from the street style shopping area. This cool, urban seaside town offers all lovers of fashion a serene, blissful mooching experience, plus inbetween the stunning clothing stores are an array of trendy and delicious coffee shops, perfect for fuelling your shopping stamina. So, next time you feel the need for a retail wander that’s just a little special, head on down to Takapuna Beach for a fabulously energetic vibe, and a unique retail experience.

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Incredible Edible Petals

WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

Recommend by everyone from celebrity chefs to food influencers, edible flowers have been all the rage in recent years, tempting from the pages of Instagram atop of smoothies, salads, and sweet treats. But nature’s most aesthetic of nectar dispensers have long been recognised for both their taste and nutritional value, rich in minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins A, C, and E.

Today, there are an estimated 400,000 species of plants in the world. Astonishingly, around 300,000 of them are edible, yet we humans only regularly consume around 200 of them (of those we mostly get our plant-sourced protein and calories from just three crops: maize, wheat, and rice). But it’s estimated that only around 100 flower types are edible. While floriculture (cultivating flowers for the purpose of decoration) and horticulture (the growing of crops for consumption) have historically been considered separate, some experts are now labelling flowers the ‘new vegetable’ (but don’t go arbitrarily grabbing from your garden, as some species are toxic). The EU has even been supporting a project overseen by Antea Group to promote the horticultural industry by developing new sustainable products and systems using edible flowers. And a recent study by the University of Pisa concluded edible flowers to be “one of the most promising resources for gastronomic innovation”, whose “nutraceutical potential benefits human health”. Blooming Old

Persians were among the first to recognise the potential of the petal, using flowers such as the geranium, hibiscus, and rose to scent water and oils. Their steaming method spread to India and Europe and today Bulgaria remains one of the world’s largest producers of rose oil, where it is known as ‘liquid gold’. Also in Europe, there has historically been an abundance of dandelions, used by the Ancient Greeks in stews and salads, and, in the Middle Ages, to make wine (they’re also even mentioned in the Old Testament). In Ancient China, the chrysanthemum was highly revered, first used to make rice cakes served in Imperial palaces – and continues to be used to this day. The flower found its way to the Netherlands in the 1600s to be used as decoration before eventually reaching the UK, where Society of Herbalists founder, Hilda Leyel, used them in her book The Gentle Art of Cookery. Blooming Healthy… and Delicious

You probably already have two of the most commonly eaten flowers in your fridge by way of cauliflower and broccoli, but here’s a run-down of the less-well known edible petals. Calendula: Sometimes referred to as a garden marigold, and part of the family that includes daisies, and chamomile, Calendula was named so by the Romans owing to its ability to bloom monthly, and recognised for its ability to aid digestive

issues, wounds, and skin conditions. Aztecs used marigold to flavour cacao. Lavender: Said to help with digestive issues, anxiety, and sleep

(though the science is inconclusive), lavender is famed for its scented flavour and most commonly consumed sprinkled in drinks, cakes, or bread.

Honeysuckle: A stalwart of Eastern medicine whose

practitioners believe it to have anti-inflammatory properties, honeysuckle is usually drunk as a tea (though the petals are safe, its berries can be poisonous).

Hibiscus: Known for its almost sharp, lemony taste, hibiscus

tea has been proven to reduce blood pressure, while its pretty petals are also used as a garnish or crushed and sprinkled over yoghurt.

Rose: The strong flavour (and hefty price tag) means roses aren’t for everyone, but try them finely chopped in a fruit salad or simply steeped in water (which studies show might also help soothe a sore throat). Dandelion: Antioxidant-rich dandelion is a good one for diabetics as it can help with blood sugar levels. While the flower is usually enjoyed as a tea, it can also be chopped up and stirred through pasta or leafy greens. Chamomile: Mostly associated as a sleep aid, chamomile is

most often taken in tea. But try its bitter, earthy petals in a smoothy – just don’t go overboard!

Carnation: The colourful, peppery carnation is commonly

sprinkled on salads or cake for a deliciously contrasting – and every so slightly spicy – kick.

Borage: Sometimes called ‘starflower’, borage is often compared to cucumber for its texture, while its brilliant blue hue makes it a firm favourite for decorating dishes or frozen in ice cubes for teas of cocktails. Bees love this flower, too.

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December / January

cloverferments.co.nz

Tonics Make Gut Health Easy Promoting good bacteria in your gut by including fermented foods in your diet has proven highly beneficial for thousands of years, improving gut health, digestion, and immunity.

Incorporating the goodness of fresh, healthgiving fermented foods in your lifestyle has never been easier – nor tasted so good.

Unfortunately, these days, not many people make these age-old recipes and finding high quality fermented foods on supermarket shelves is not so easy. Thanks to two holistic-minded Kiwi women, now you can get the fresh, gutloving goodness of artisan, batch-brewed fermented tonics delivered straight to your door. Clover Ferments is a new business set up by Stephanie Campbell and MaryAnne Parker that breathes new life and convenience into traditional recipes with a trio of tasty tonics that are earthy, salty, sour, and savoury. Designed to be taken together, daily and in small doses, the tonics are simple but powerful, lovingly handmade using certified-organic produce wherever possible. Stephanie and Mary-Anne found their inspiration for the business in a little girl with debilitating gut issues.

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From just a few weeks old, Stephanie’s daughter Clover was always screaming in pain. She suffered with rashes and hives all over her body. Her full nappies were stained with blood and she found it difficult to sleep. “The only safe foods both Stephanie and Clover could eat were lamb, leek and beans, or else there would be carnage.” As a vegan, that was particularly tough for Stephanie. She had taken Clover to doctors, paediatricians and naturopaths, and tried many remedies. Nothing helped. At her wit’s end, she turned to an online community of mums all around the world and discovered they had experienced similar challenges. “It was a relief to find out I wasn’t the only one,” says Stephanie. “They told me about lacto-fermentation and I got onto it over the lockdown last year.”

December / January

Lacto-fermentation, she explains, is the process by which you submerge vegetables in a water brine to break down sugars, kill bad bacteria and allow the good bacteria to flourish. It converts the lactose and other sugars into lactic acid. Lactic acid-producing bacteria are the most commonly used probiotics in food. “With processes like pasteurisation designed to kill bacteria, most of the food we eat is dead,” explains Stephanie. “But your gut is only as good as the food you eat.” After waiting patiently for products to arrive from Australia, Stephanie finally started feeding Clover the fermented tonics she had made using beetroot, cabbage and carrot. “Within a month of supplementing her food, Clover had miraculously advanced to being able to eat more than 50 different foods including many fruits and vegetables and she was symptom-free.”

especially the amazing improvement made by Clover in such a short time. She was so impressed with the results she suggested turning the project into a business to support other Kiwis with gut and digestive issues. They undertook a trial in Wānaka with a small group of people, then found a site in Auckland where they began making the tonics commercially. Available through the website, the tonics can be enjoyed as a shot or mixed into smoothies, soups, sparkling water, or salad dressings. Soon Stephanie and Mary-Anne will release a recipe e-book to accompany the tonics to make them even more versatile. Taken regularly, the combination of natural tonics support the body to reduce bloating, increase food tolerances, boost energy, and aid in digestion.

While on a family holiday on Stewart Island together in January, her accountant friend and mother of two boys, MaryAnne tried the tonics and loved them.

As zero-waste warriors, the women also prioritise sustainability. Not only do they drop off and pick up the bottles to recycle them just like we did with the old milk bottles, but wherever possible, they compost all food scraps and re-use the packaging.

“I have a strong interest in natural ways of keeping healthy,” says Mary-Anne, who was inspired by Stephanie’s story,

Incorporating the goodness of fresh, health-giving fermented foods in your lifestyle has never been easier – nor tasted so good.

Food

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The Wine Rack

WORDS — DENNIS KNILL

Wine columnist DENNIS KNILL gives his views on Church Road’s new single vineyard vintages.

Hawke's Bay is one of our much-loved coastlines renowned for its agriculture and fruit bowls — least of all grapes that drive a large part of our wine industry. With more than 80 wineries many with cellar doors and restaurants the region is as diverse as its hills and flat plains broken by rivers and multi-faceted terrain. Best known for its merlot, syrah, cabernet blends and chardonnay, Hawke's Bay is our second-largest wine producing region. Amongst all the glamour estates is Church Road, one of the oldest wineries in the country and made famous by Tom

McDonald who blazed a trail with his Bordeaux style wines in the mid-'50s. Since joining Church Road in late '90s Chris Scott, chief winemaker, has taken over the mantle producing fine wines and many awards across a range of varietals. Here are three of Church Road's newest wines making their mark on New Zealand’s growing wine scene: ’19 Church Road Single Vineyard Redstone Syrah

A promising debut that is seriously good. Layers of ripe fruit and a concentrated freshness on the palate combined with soft silky tannins make for enjoyable drinking. An age-worthy wine. RRP $90

’20 Church Road Single Vineyard Gimblett Vineyard Malbec

Great texture and structure showcasing premium fruit with a mix of bold flavours and a clear head makes this wine really sing. Given more time to unwind it will be even more expressive. RRP $90 ’19 Church Road Single Vineyard Chardonnay

A standout new release styled to capture the regional essence of Hawke's Bay. A well-integrated and appealing wine that is aromatic and seamlessly textured with a soft and fresh acidity on the palate. RRP $70

Located in the heart of Mission Bay. Simple, great tasting cooking at its best. Celebrate your Christmas functions with us Weekly 3 course meal kits available on request at info@lupino.co.nz Christmas & Summer Opening Hours Evenings: Tue—Sun | Lunches: Thu—Sun

GIFTING GURUS P R E - PA C K A G E D G I F T S | T H E E X P R E S S WAY T O I M P R E S S WWW.GLENGARRY.CO.NZ | P: 0800 733 505 | E: SALES@GLENGARRY.CO.NZ

Go to: www.glengarrywines.co.nz/gifts

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December / January

PHOTOGRAPHY — HAARALA HAMILTON

Chocolate Truffle Cake with Raspberry Glaze Preparation time: 45 minutes

Difficulty: Advanced

Cooking time on stove: 10 minutes

Serves: 8

Resting time: 5 hours

Ingredients

Method

For the base 250g graham crackers or digestive biscuits 7 tablespoons/100g butter, melted

Line the cake pan (tin) with parchment paper.

For the ganache 300g bittersweet (dark) chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa solids) 1½ cups/370ml heavy (whipping) cream For the raspberry mirror glaze 20g platinum gelatin sheets 3¼ cups/400g raspberries 3 tablespoons/60g glucose syrup (liquid glucose) 1¾ cups/350g superfine (caster) sugar scant 1 cup/200ml heavy (whipping) cream 3 tablespoons/50ml lemon juice To decorate ¾ cup/100g raspberries pinch of freeze-dried raspberries

Recipe extracted from The Italian Bakery by The Silver Spoon Kitchen RRP $70, Phaidon Food

To make the base, place the graham crackers or digestive biscuits in a strong, clean plastic bag. Using a rolling pin, crush the crackers or biscuits into fine crumbs. Place the crumbs in a bowl, pour on the melted butter, and mix until fully combined. Spoon the crumb mixture into the lined cake pan and press down with the back of the spoon or base of a glass to achieve an even layer. Place in the refrigerator for 1 hour, or until firm. Prepare the chocolate ganache. Place in the refrigerator for 1 hour, or until cool and starting to thicken. Place in the refrigerator for 1 hour, or until cool and starting to thicken. Using an electric whisk, whip the ganache until it is lighter and thicker. Pour into the cake pan over the base, then place in the refrigerator for 4 hours or until set. To make the raspberry mirror glaze, soak the gelatin in cold water for 5 minutes. Puree the raspberries using an immersion (stick) blender, then push through a fine-mesh strainer (sieve) using the back of a spoon to remove the seeds. Place the puree in a saucepan, add the glucose syrup (liquid glucose), sugar, and cream. Warm over low heat until it just starts to boil, then remove from the heat. Squeeze the water from the gelatin and add to the pan with the lemon juice, then stir until the gelatin has dissolved. Pass the glaze through a fine-mesh strainer then leave to cool to 32°C. Remove the cake from the pan, place it on an upturned plate or bowl that is slightly smaller than the cake and then onto a cooling rack. Completely cover the cake with the glaze and leave to set. Transfer to a serving plate and refrigerate until ready to serve. Decorate with both fresh and freeze-dried raspberries just before serving.

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PHOTOGRAPHY — HAARALA HAMILTON

Crème Caramel

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Cooking time: 40 minutes-1 hour

Serves: 8

Resting time: 6 hours

Ingredients

Method

For the Crème Caramel 1/3 cup/80g superfine (caster) sugar Scant ¼ cup/25g cornstarch (cornflour) 11/3 cups/400ml whole (full-fat) milk 397-g can of sweetened condensed milk grated zest of 1 unwaxed lemon 4 eggs edible flowers for decoration

Preheat the oven to 160°C/140°C Fan/Gas 3. Place the sugar in a small saucepan with 3 tablespoons of water and heat until you obtain an amber-colored caramel. Pour enough into the baking dish or individual moulds to cover the base.

Equipment needed small saucepan 20-cm shallow baking dish or 8-cm pudding moulds bowl hand whisk measuring cup or jug zester immersion (stick) blender deep-sided roasting pan (tin)

Arrange the baking dish or moulds in a deep-sided roasting pan (tin), and fill with the creme. Carefully pour boiling water into the roasting pan so that the water comes two-thirds up the side of the dish or moulds. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour for a large dish and 40 minutes for individual dishes, or until just set.

Place the cornstarch (cornflour) in a bowl and mix with the milk using a hand whisk. Add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, and eggs, then blitz with an immersion (stick) blender.

Remove the dish or moulds and leave to cool, then put in the refrigerator for 6 hours. If cooking in a single baking dish, serve slices on individual serving plates with some caramel from the base of the dish spooned over the top. If cooked in individual moulds, turn out the creme caramels onto individual serving plates, pouring over any caramel in the base of the moulds. Decorate with edible flowers before serving.

Recipe extracted from The Italian Bakery by The Silver Spoon Kitchen RRP $70, Phaidon Food

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PHOTOGRAPHY — HAARALA HAMILTON

Angel Cake with Cherries

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Difficulty: Average

Cooking time on stove: 10 minutes

Serves: 8

Cooking time in oven: 35 minutes

Ingredients

Method

For the base 5 egg whites at room temperature 1 heaping teaspoon /4g cream of tartar 1 vanilla bean (pod) 1 teaspoon lemon juice 2/3 cup/140g superfine (caster) sugar scant 2/3 cup/75g type “00” flour or all-purpose (plain) flour pinch of salt

Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas 4.

For the cherry syrup 2¼ cups/500g cherries scant ½ cup/100g sugar 1½ tablespoons/20ml water 3-cm cinnamon stick 1 unwaxed lemon To decorate scant 1 cup/200ml heavy (whipping) cream 4 tablespoons/30g confectioners’ (icing) sugar

Recipe extracted from The Italian Bakery by The Silver Spoon Kitchen RRP $70, Phaidon Food

Place the egg whites in the bowl of the stand mixer, add the cream of tartar, seeds from the vanilla bean (pod), and the lemon juice, poured through a strainer (sieve). Start to whisk on a medium speed until the whisk starts to form a trace on the surface. Increase the speed and add the sugar, a teaspoonful at a time, whisking continuously as you do so. Continue to whisk for about 10 minutes at maximum speed, until you obtain a very firm, glossy meringue. Sift the flour with a pinch of salt into the bowl and gently fold it into the meringue with a silicone spatula, taking care not to deflate the mixture. Pour into the cake pan (tin), level the surface, and bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until golden, risen, and firm to the touch. Do not insert a skewer into the cake to test it, as it can deflate the cake. Remove the cake from the oven, immediately invert it onto a cooling rack, and leave to cool without removing the pan. To make the cherry syrup, wash and pit (stone) the cherries using the pitting tool, remove the stalks, and place in a saucepan with the sugar, water, cinnamon stick, pared zest from the lemon, and strained juice of half the lemon. Put over low heat until the sugar has dissolved, then increase the heat to medium and cook for 6–7 minutes. Pour into a fine-mesh strainer (sieve) set over a bowl to collect the juice. Return the juice to the saucepan and cook for a further 2–3 minutes until it becomes syrupy. Leave to cool. Remove the cake by running the blade of a small knife between the edges of the cake and the pan. Whip the cream to soft peaks with the confectioners’ (icing) sugar and spoon or pipe it over the top of the cake. Decorate with half of the cherries and drizzle over some of the syrup. Serve with the remaining cherries and syrup.

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PHOTOGRAPHY — ELENA HEATHERWICK

Grilled Courgettes with Warm Yoghurt and Saffron Butter

Preparation time: 10 minutes

This recipe is inspired by kousa b’laban, a Levantine dish of stuffed baby marrow cooked in yoghurt. In this simplified version the yoghurt sauce and grilled courgettes are cooked separately, then served with a quick saffron butter to spoon on top. There’s a bit of an art to cooking yoghurt without having it curdle; stabilisers such as cornflour and egg yolk tend to do the trick, as does cooking the yoghurt on a moderate heat, stirring continuously and gently warming through without boiling. The result: a silky-smooth and tangy sauce, great for these courgettes but also with other grilled veggies, fatty meats or even as a sauce to pasta.

Serves: 2–4

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Method

30g unsalted butter ¼ tsp saffron threads, roughly crushed 4 small, pale green or regular courgettes, tops trimmed slightly and courgettes halved lengthways (600g) 2½ tbsp olive oil 1 tsp cornflour 300g Greek-style yoghurt 2 garlic cloves, crushed ½ tsp dried mint ¾ tsp coriander seeds, toasted and roughly crushed with a pestle and mortar 1½ tbsp picked mint leaves ½ lemon salt and black pepper

Preheat the oven to a high grill setting. Put the butter and saffron into a small saucepan on a medium heat. When the butter has melted, set aside to infuse. Place the courgettes on a parchment-lined baking tray and toss with 2 tablespoons of oil, 1/3 teaspoon of salt and a good grind of pepper. Arrange them cut side up and grill for 15–20 minutes, until nicely charred and softened. Towards the last 10 minutes of grilling time, make the sauce. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornflour and 3 tablespoons of water until smooth, then add the yoghurt, garlic, dried mint, the remaining ½ tablespoon of oil and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk to combine, then transfer to a large, non-stick sauté pan on a medium heat. Cook, stirring continuously, for about 10 minutes, or until thickened slightly and warmed through. Do not let the sauce boil, or it will split. Transfer the warm yoghurt sauce to a plate with a lip and top with the courgettes, grilled side up. Spoon over the saffron butter, then sprinkle with the coriander seeds and mint leaves. Squeeze over the lemon half and serve right away. Make it your own: No saffron? Use a pinch of turmeric instead.

Recipe extracted from Ottolenghi Test Kitchen: Shelf Love by Noor Murad and Yotam Ottolenghi $55, Ebury Press Food

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PHOTOGRAPHY — SUSAN BELL

Green Olive, Walnut and Pomegranate Salad This little salad, a thrilling mix of flavours, textures and colours that is almost too glorious to look at, is a speciality of Gaziantep, a Turkish city on the border with Syria, famous for its gastronomy. If you don’t have pomegranate seeds, never mind. Ingredients

Method

100g good-quality pitted green olives in brine, drained 50g walnuts 3 spring onions, chopped bunch (25g) of flat-leaf parsley, leaves chopped 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp lemon juice 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses salt, to taste chilli flakes, to taste 3 tbsp pomegranate seeds

Coarsely chop the olives and walnuts, place in a serving dish and mix with the spring onions and parsley. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice and pomegranate molasses with a little salt and chilli flakes to taste. Pour over the olives and walnuts and sprinkle with pomegranate seeds. Serves: 4

Recipe extracted from Med A Cookbook by Claudia Roden RRP $65, Ebury Press Food

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PHOTOGRAPHY — JENNA BAYDEE RECIPE — THE CAKER

Lemon Apricot Amaretti Cake

This cake is in honour of all of those endless, bright, summery golden days. It is packed with ground almonds, fresh lemon, amaretti biscuit pieces, and apricots, and covered in dreamy vanilla bean cream cheese icing. Ingredients

Method

Cake 200g butter, softened 200g caster sugar zest of 2 lemons 4 free range eggs ½ tsp almond extract 150g ground almonds 100g plain flour pinch sea salt 65g lemon juice (about 2 lemons) 5-6 fresh or tinned apricots, sliced around 1.5cm thick ½ cup roughly crushed amaretti biscuits

Cake Preheat the oven to 170ºC fan bake. Line 2 x 22cm cake tins with baking paper circles. To make the cake, in the bowl of an electric mixer, cream the butter, sugar and zest until pale, light and fluffy.

Icing 150g butter, softened 2 cups icing sugar 100g cream cheese 1 tsp vanilla extract Decorations lemon curd rose petals crushed amaretti cookies freeze-dried lemon segments (optional) flowers (optional)

Food

Crack eggs into a clear container and check for shell before beating the eggs one by one into the butter mixture along with the vanilla. Gradually fold in the ground almonds, flour and salt and mix until just combined. Fold in lemon juice. Finally fold through crushed amaretti cookies. Evenly divide the batter between the 2 cake tins and spread out to the sides. Dot in the apricot slices and press them down lightly into the batter. Bake for approximately 30 minutes. The cake is ready when golden in colour, springy to the touch, and a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for around 10 minutes in its tin before turning out onto a cooling rack. Icing In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the butter by itself until smooth. Add the icing sugar and beat on high until seriously light and fluffy. Leave the mixer going for as long as possible! Add the vanilla, then gradually add the cream cheese. Do not overdo this step.

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22/11/2021 4:17:48 pm

Invivo Innovates While travelling around Europe in the early noughties, Tim Lightbourne secured a gig at a Burgundy vineyard as “that guy carrying the grapes in a big basket on his back!”

WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

“Last year we celebrated selling 10 million bottles of his wine – so, to that, from that first meeting, wow, it’s been some journey.”

The Auckland entrepreneur (pictured above, right) readily admits to knowing nothing about wineries at the time, but, a few years later, then armed with a “grass roots understanding of the industry”, co-founded what would become not just one of Aotearoa’s leading labels, but one of its most innovative brands. “After France, I was working in marketing and advertising for L’Oréal, Heinz and HP Sauce in the UK,” Tim tells Verve. “But I had this desire to do something different. I was visiting mainland Europe a lot and would see how popular New Zealand wine is, our unique flavours, and it made me feel quite proud. It also got me thinking.” As luck would have it, an old school friend and winemaker, Rob Cameron, was also working in Europe at the time, and the two arranged to meet in a London pub. Both shared a vision of winery that was modern and progressive and “cut through the fluff” favoured by many a traditional vineyard. “I started talking about implementing things I’d learned from the likes of L’Oréal into launching a wine business and Rob was really keen.” Food

Three years after founding Invivo Wines in 2008, Tim and Rob learnt that Graham Norton was a fan of their sav, so chanced their luck by suggesting a collaboration. Their Graham Norton range – which includes sauvignon blanc, rosé, prosecco and gin – has since secured more than 200 awards, including gold medals. Dozens of other accolades – including more gold medals – have also come by way of their collaboration with Sex and the City superstar, Sarah Jessica Parker, who signed up with Invivo in March 2019. “We wanted to replicate a similar model in the States to the one we had with Graham,” says Tim. The Invivo team decided SJP would be the perfect fit and approached her agent only to discover that she was already a fan of their wines. “That was just brilliant! Rob and I had a phone call with her, then jumped on a plane to New York to sit down for a glass of wine and talk about what we wanted to do. She loved our approach. We had a big launch in Manhattan which was amazing, Sarah’s husband, Matthew Broderick, was there, and morning TV show, Good Day New York.”

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“I was visiting mainland Europe a lot and would see how popular New Zealand wine is, our unique flavours, and it made me feel quite proud.”

How involved are Graham and Sarah in the process?

“They’re very much involved from start to finish. They definitely each like different styles, which is great for us. We approach Graham quite regularly with different types of wine and he’ll reject ones he doesn’t like. His range has really expanded, soon to include a vodka, and the He-Devil red from Argentina, and he’s just doing the blending for his eighth vintage. “Sarah had never done a blending or tasting before, but once Rob started talking her through it, within minutes she was picking up on acidity levels and really quite subtle things within each sample.” Renowned for doing things differently, last month the winemakers launched their first batch of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) to coincide with the release of Graham Norton’s HeDevil. The limited-edition tokens – available through Opensea – unlock ‘first release’ bottles of new wines along with physical static prints of their artworks signed by Tim and Rob, and membership to the Invivo Federation of Friends (IFF) which enables future discounts, exclusive virtual tastings, and even invitations to exclusive experiences such as a virtual winetasting with Norton. Invivo were also the first and only southern hemisphere winery to crowdfund, breaking a national record along the way to raising the maximum amount allowed by law of $2 million. I ask Tim why he believes the crowdfunding was such a success. “We did a lot of work behind the scenes in the six months prior, travelling the country, and discussing our numbers and strategies with the public. Lots of people also like the idea of owning a piece of a winery! And when you crowdfund, there’s true equity. We had a lot of female investment – one of the highest ever at the time – which was awesome, and having just got Graham Norton onboard really helped raise awareness. People just seemed to really connect with the way were trying to do things.”

Was it always your intention to collaborate with big names?

“Not in the early days, we were just open to all opportunities. Other wineries in New Zealand or around the world could talk about their soils or multi-generational winemaking histories, but we didn’t have that, so we needed to find a space to do our own thing. We started working with graffiti artists, and one year, we were the official wine of the Eurovision song contest. Then, obviously with Graham, we got tremendously lucky about the kind of person he is and how he wanted to come onboard long-term.” Are New World labels more open to embracing the likes of NFTs, and do you see it as the future of the wine industry?

“I think it does help to not be weighed down by history in some ways. But some of French wineries are looking into that kind of thing, so I certainly wouldn’t rule out the old guard having a go into it because you do have to change and evolve in this industry now.” What’s next for Invivo?

“As well as our big Argentinian red, He-Devil, we’ll also be releasing a marmalade gin in the new year, also in collaboration with Graham, which we’re really looking forward to. We’re also really excited about the return of Sex and the City and are planning projects around it with our SJP brand. So yeah, lots of fun stuff.” I finish up by asking Tim about his favourite wine and festive recollections. He has fond memories of travels and barbecues with loved ones in New Zealand, he says, as well as with friends in snowy far-flung destinations sharing a bottle or two of champagne. But one that especially stands out is the first time he and Rob shared a glass of vino with Graham Norton, backstage at his show. “That was pretty special,” he recalls. “Last year we celebrated selling 10 million bottles of his wine – so, to that, from that first meeting, wow, it’s been some journey.” 139

December / January

Season’s Readings! From the Bookshelf We’ve pulled together some current favourites from Auckland’s best loved booksellers, just in time for gifting season.

A LIFE IN PATTERN Anna Spiro

Anna Spiro’s unique design intuition is dialled right up in her newest book. From mood boards to swatches, furniture design, and room layouts spanning over 20 projects, her inimitable swagger is on display. With 250 glossy photographs, more is more – proof we can all become maximalists.

LOOP TRACKS Sue Orr

Melanie - Lamplight Books lamplightbooks.co.nz

New Zealander Sue Orr has produced a stunning novel that moves from the 1970s, when women had to fly to Australia to obtain an abortion, to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Mixing a moving personal story and the complexities of family relationships with the politics of the time, it’s contemporary, beautifully written, and absolutely absorbing. Carole - The Women's Bookshop womensbookshop.co.nz

THE LINCOLN HIGHWAY Amor Towles

Amor Towles brings us The Lincoln Highway - a road trip story through 1950's America. Following a journeying group of young people, Towles builds a rich world of memorable characters. It was a difficult choice but The Lincoln Highway is our owner Wendy's favourite novel of the year. Towles is the author of word-of-mouth phenomenon, A Gentleman in Moscow.

OH WILLIAM! Elizabeth Strout

Amongst the 700-page lockdown tomes weighing down our shelves this summer, this slender gem of a book punches well above its weight. Pulitzer nominee Elizabeth Strout just goes from strength to strength, and Oh William!, her sequel to My Name is Lucy Barton, may be her best work yet. Recently bereaved Lucy takes a road-trip with ex-husband William, and they reflect upon their past. Fresh and emotionally compulsive.

Jenna – Time Out Book Store Hera – Unity Books

timeout.co.nz

unitybooksauckland.co.nz

Art

140

Marshall Gallery: Ōrewa’s Contemporary Art Destination Where bicycles and cycling paraphernalia once hung from the walls in this space on Ōrewa’s Florence Avenue, now sits a carefully curated collection of art and furniture courtesy of some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most creative minds.

Hibiscus Coast art lovers Sally and Grant Marshall have founded the Marshall Gallery, a space for fellow art lovers to marvel at – and maybe purchase – works by the likes of James Ballantyne, Dick Frizzell, Mark Cross, Tony Ogle, Matt Payne, and Jane Puckey. The couple themselves boast impressive creative backgrounds, with nearly 40 years of experience in film, publishing, advertising, and design. Their combined skills and passion make them adept at spotting others’ talent.

“I’m very picky when it comes to choosing works for the gallery,” says Grant. “It normally involves visiting the artist’s studio and identifying work that has integrity and creativity. It’s intuitive rather than prescriptive.” As well as paintings and photography, visitors can find ceramics and sculptures – including by Kerikeri sculptor Grant Gallagher – among the 150-piece-strong collection, and Grant and Sally insist visitors stop by often as the displays will constantly evolve. “It’s a welcoming gallery set out to be inviting to folk whether they’re buying or coming in for a browse,” says Grant, a photographer and former creative director. “We think the combination

141

of artworks and furniture really complement each other nicely.” Some may recognise the couple from their store Matakana Home, or previous exhibition space, Matakana Gallery (which has become the Marshall Gallery). Sally, also a painter, says that they’re excited about welcoming their loyal following of customers from the Hibiscus Coast, and nationwide, to their new Ōrewa base. Their often sizeable pieces range from $500 to $50,000. “People just seem to love big images,” says Sally. “What with all the downsizing going on, we thought it would be the reverse!”

December / January

The Art of December

WORDS — KELLY CARMICHAEL

And just like that, our art spaces are open again! Now is a great time to get out there, see some fantastic work, and show your support for the creative sector. Many exhibitions delayed by lockdown are now in galleries – some covered in these pages over the last few months.

Anna Miles Vita Cochran – An Anthology of Bags Until 18 December annamilesgallery .com

Textile artist Vita Cochran’s richly coloured embroideries draw upon modernism and the practice of early 20th-century women artists to create a distinctive visual language. She says, “I’ve been making bags, I’m surprised to realise, for 20 years.” This exhibition brings together 40 of them: the distinctive and geometrical, the elegantly quirky, and other designs inspired by a range of sources and historic examples. Each is handmade and cleverly nags the art–craft divide while being a work of beauty.

RIGHT: VITA COCHRAN, BARGELLO BAG, 2021

Tim Melville Gallery Johl Dwyer – The YinMn Print Until 23 December timmelville.com

Johl Dwyer’s practice investigates the ways in which pigment-based colour and light-based colour meet and intersect, but this new body of work explores new territory altogether. Comprising a series of framed wall-based works in cast resin alongside a suite of steel and resin cubes, the exhibition explores YinMn Blue, the first inorganic blue pigment to be invented in 200 years. Containing the rare earth elements yttrium, indium, manganese, and oxygen, the vivid blue was accidentally created by chemists researching electronics applications. ABOVE: NZ SCULPTURE ONSHORE FIONA GARLICK, OFF BALANCE, 2020

Christchurch Art Gallery Joanna Margaret Paul Imagined in the context of a room Until 13 March christchurch artgallery.org.nz

City Gallery Wellington Hilma af Klint: The Secret Paintings From 4 December citygallery.org.nz

This major retrospective celebrates the career and legacy of Joanna Margaret Paul whose multi-disciplinary practice spanned drawing, painting, poetry, photography, and filmmaking. Paul’s subject matter reflected a deep interest in the everyday, the ephemeral, and the overlooked. Moving across the different phases of her artistic life, the exhibition traces key journeys that shaped her career: from Ōtepoti Dunedin to Te Pataka o Rakaihautū Banks Peninsula, Whanganui, and beyond; between the landscape and the interior; between presence and absence; between the mind, the body, and the spirit.

Auckland Museum Mandy Barker – SHELF-LIFE

For Aucklanders planning some longawaited travel this summer, the Hilma af Klint exhibition is unmissable. The recent rediscovery of af Klint's abstract paintings has proved a game changer and this exhibition explores the Swedish artist-mystic who saw herself as a receiver of messages from spirit powers guiding the creation of her work. Monumental and exuberantly colourful, the works were made in secret between 1906 and 1915 and form part of af Klint’s Paintings for the Temple cycle – ‘the great commission’ she received from her ‘High Masters’.

ONLINE:

Until February 2022 auckland museum.com

NZ Sculpture OnShore nzsculptureon shore.co.nz

British photographer Mandy Barker’s beautiful but chaotic images are evocative portraits of our maritime environment. Composed from plastic washed up on the Unesco World Heritage-listed Henderson Island in the Pitcairn Islands, the series speaks of the sinister reality of our reliance on plastic and the damage it causes to the natural world. With plastic waste at alarming proportions – 8 million tons end up in the ocean each year – Barker’s maritime landscapes are devoid of human life but full of their consequences.

Forced to move one of Auckland’s largest outdoor art events online this year, NZ Sculpture OnShore brings together threedimensional practice from a diverse group of established and emerging artists. Large scale sculptures and small works alike are part of this year’s exhibition, all can be seen online and are available to purchase. Proceeds go to Women's Refuge.

Check websites for how to plan your visit under current alert levels. 143

December / January

The Art of Graham Young 2022 Calendar

Graham Young

Detail of painting © Graham Young 2022

2022

Detail of painting © Graham Young 2022

art of

Introducing the Art of Graham Young 2022 Calendar. Featuring 12 images of Graham’s popular paintings. An ideal calendar of the kiwi lifestyle for yourself, a gift or sending overseas.

On sale at leading booksellers and stationers or direct from grahamyoungartist.com Art

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Artwork of the Month

Tony Lane Summer Nocturne 1080 x 1235mm, $17,500

Orex Art

221 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby

145

021 213 4449 orexart.co.nz

December / January

ArtSelect Gallery ArtSelect Gallery is excited to have people visiting the gallery in person, adhering to all restrictions. Our artists have been creating magnificent paintings and sculptures during the last few months and are eager to have some recognition of their efforts. Our Christmas exhibition over December and extending into January will showcase a wide variety of styles by some of the 20 artists that we represent. Art is a perfect gift for the hardto-buy-for-person in our lives and we also have gift vouchers so they can choose personally. The gallery will be closed 25 December until 14 January, reopening Saturday 15 January. As we cannot travel overseas, people are looking to upgrade their homes and art can instantly make a significant impact, lifting the mood of a room and increasing the value of the home.

To help find the right painting, ArtSelect Gallery will bring art to your home at a convenient time so you can feel confident about your choice. ArtSelect Gallery has been operating at 19A Osborne Street, Newmarket, for eight years because it is a unique street and we find its central to surrounding suburbs and easily accessed by people from all over Auckland. For clients from all over New Zealand, we offer courier free delivery of any items purchased. For overseas clients we can arrange worldwide pack and send service. We look forward to seeing you all in the gallery and wish you a Merry Christmas. artselect.gallery

presents The Art of Giving ArtSelect Gallery is the perfect destination for a gift for the person in your life who has everything. A painting, drawing or limited edition reproduction, sculpture or even a gift voucher can be purchased for a wide range works of art from the quirky, affordable and highly collectible Dr Seuss™ limited edition fine art prints to original oil on canvas or acrylic paintings, pencil drawings and sculptures. Contact me, Ngaire, for personal assistance with your gift purchase:

19A Osborne Street, Newmarket, Auckland 1023 +64 21 415 449 Tue - Fri 10:30 - 4:30 Sat - Sun 10:30 - 3:30 Email: info@artselect.gallery

Art

Web:www.artselect.gallery

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The Walker & Hall Waiheke Art Award Selector & Judge Fiona Blanchard

19 NOV – 12 DEC 2021

$5,000 PRIZE

2020 Award Winner Judy Woods, Jettyland

2019 Award Winner Struan Hamilton, Te Toki Study

2018 Award Winner Stefan Roberts, Harper River–Waterlog–92mls

The Walker & Hall Waiheke Art Award is a key award in the New Zealand arts scene. Sponsored by Walker & Hall for the past 17 years, the exhibition has seen many award winners go on to win other major art prizes in New Zealand.

JUDY WOODS, JETTYLAND

The two-dimensional criteria means that works submitted range from paintings to works on paper, to photography, lightboxes, and drawings. This year all exhibition works are viewable in an online catalogue available through the gallery website. The catalogue also provides details of each artist’s work. The selector for the 2021 exhibition is Fiona Blanchard, Head of Visitor Services at Auckland Museum. From over 100 works submitted, Fiona has selected 30 for this finalists’ exhibition, grouping the works into the themes of environment/ natural world, isolation/human condition, and memory/ imagination. The award announcement will take place on the weekend of 11-12 December.

waihekeartgallery.org.nz

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December / January

WORDS— OPHELIA MASON

RIGHT: THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA

Feel-good Films for this Joyful Time of Year

As Christmas draws nearer, we start to see the annual rollover into happy season. Trees slowly start to pop up in malls and the odd tinsel decoration creeps into everyday interior, leaving us with feelings of warmth and comfort. What better way to savour this joyful warmth then watching some feel-good movies?

THE INTERN (2015)

The Intern sure hits the feel-good film nail on the head. The quirky, sweetness of protagonist Ben (Robert Di Nero), battling with the modernised work environment he finds himself in makes it impossible for you not to say “aww”. His kind and caring persona brings a warm light to the screen to create an instant crowd favourite. The innocently sweet storyline makes this film a must-watch these holidays.

HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE (2016)

Who doesn’t love a good NZ film?! Classic NZ humour will have you constantly in giggles. This movie captivated the hearts of audiences thanks to the wholesome bond formed between protagonists Ricky Baker (Julian Dennison) and his foster father Hec (Sam Neill). The movie is a crazy, sweet, heart-warming adventure the whole family can enjoy.

THE DEVIL WEARS PRAVDA (2006)

A Vogue-esque film that introduces the fabulous world of fashion that’s tough but beautiful. The plot follows a young inspiring journalist’s journey of ‘finding herself’ while gaining respect for the fashion world. Each magnificently stylish outfit will have you pining over the gorgeous designer shoes, bags, dresses, and coats. Plus, the down-toearth persona of protagonist Andy (Anne Hathaway) will give you the warm, fuzzy, feel-good feeling.

BRIDGET JONES’S DAIRY (2001)

Bridget Jones (Renée Zellweger) is the queen of relatability whose struggle with love is one we can all recognise. She’s undeniably funny as she charms us with her desperate desire – but sometimes failure – to improve herself and her life. Bridget Jones will always be a feel-good favourite, as it’s a character we can see ourselves in – the nonperfect parts, the good-natured parts, and the Mark Darcy-swooning parts.

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A Few of our Favourite Things Celebrating the season with the unique and personal gift of art. Available at Parnell Gallery or online at parnellgallery.co.nz

Nejat Kavvas ‘Sacred Kingfisher’ - $4,990

Neil Driver ‘Iris in Enamel Jug’ - $680 (unframed)

Michelle Bellamy ‘Back of Beyond’ - $750

Vicky Savage ‘Striking a Balance’ - $1,400

Sara Langdon ‘Homecoming’ - $875 (unframed)

Give the gift of art for those upcoming special occasions

Choosing the perfect gift can be overwhelming. Let your gift recipients choose an artwork as unique as they are with a Parnell Gallery gift voucher. The gift of art is perfect for all occasions. A meaningful artwork piece can be a highly visual way to remember a moment in time for many years. Established in 1976, Parnell Gallery is your local gallery, representing and exhibiting a diverse range of established contemporary New Zealand painters, sculptors, and printmakers.

263 Parnell Road Parnell Auckland 1052

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09 377 3133 art@parnellgallery.co.nz parnellgallery.co.nz parnellgallery

December / January

Wicked Flamboyant, loud, manipulative, controlling, and cunning - Madam Morrible comes to town. ABOVE: TINA CROSS AS MADAM MORRIBLE, PHOTO BY LK CREATIVE

Pop star, family entertainer, and darling of the theatre, Tina Cross’s dazzling musical career spans an impressive four-and-ahalf decades. Soon her fans will be able to see her on stage once again, this time as Madam Morrible in Wicked, which comes to Auckland’s SkyCity Theatre in February. Verve caught up with Tina a few weeks ago. Tina, what most influenced your musical process and outlook on life?

The musical process has been all about learning, experiences, growth, and finding my own particular brand of individuality. I had no clue as I was stumbling through the decades, but I see now, the markers, and why one decade led naturally on to the next. My high school music teacher who formed our school band at One Tree Hill College influenced me, enabling me to realise I had enough talent to pursue a singing career. My manager, Lew Pryme, gave me the confidence to head to Australia in 1981.

My music partner in Koo De Tah showed me how unique my voice could be, when he wrote specifically for my sound. The family of cast members from the many musicals I performed in throughout the years helped keep me grounded and truly just one of the cast. My fellow LadyKillers, Jackie and Suzanne, have proven that respect and love of your peers is paramount to keeping the magic alive for so long. Three women in my life have influenced my personal and professional outlook, and my way forward in life: my mum, Phyllis Cross, who passed away at 88 in 2020; my best friend, Penny Maich, who passed away in 2017; and my great aunt, Dame Mira Szaszy. All of these wāhine, possessed great strength, determination, and courage. What do you hope this next decade brings?

I will turn 63 in January. I want to be well enough, open-

吀栀攀䈀愀爀昀漀漀琀 ☀ 吀栀漀洀瀀猀漀渀猀攀愀猀漀渀漀昀

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minded enough, and flexible enough to take on, or turn down, whatever presents. I’d love to continue singing and performing solo as well as with the LadyKillers, or in a musical theatre production such as Wicked. If none of the above, then simply as Nana T to my beautiful mokopuna Bobbie Lee. She’s a shining beacon! I’m the sort of person who needs a goal and a purpose, always confident that something new and exciting is just around the corner.

GIVE THE GIFT of B A L L E T

You look amazing, do you follow wellness practices and philosophies?

I’ve always been very focused on good health and wellbeing – nutrition and fitness habits are part of daily life. That doesn’t mean I don’t slip up occasionally, but I’m very good at getting back on track before too much weight gain, or bad habits, kick in. I’ve found that as I get older it’s harder to maintain my youthful weight – it just requires more determination! As for fitness, I walk an awful lot and I weight train or use my own body weight along with a few training props. Resistance training is very important at my age. I had a hip replacement earlier this year and put on a couple of kilos. For the first time, I followed a keto plan and it worked beautifully. I still loosely follow it, keep my carbs on the low side, eat very little sugar, and lots of vegetables and some nuts. I don’t mind the odd glass of wine, but fortunately don’t miss it if it’s not there. I’m big on supplements, liquid collagen being a big one, vitamins, plus bioidentical hormones. Good skincare is standard, as is dental hygiene. I must admit, I spend a fair bit of money keeping myself looking and feeling good. What drives and inspires you both on and off the stage?

I’m a perfectionist, which in the past has had a way of tripping me up. These days, I use it to my advantage to keep myself focused and motivated. I no longer chastise myself when I make mistakes, I learn from them. Being a performer means you learn something with every performance. Day-to-day life, the ups and downs, and even dramatic change, there is always a lesson and positive message to learn. I’m a well-seasoned performer, settled within myself, making decisions that feed my soul. I’m inspired and driven to do whatever makes me feel good as a human being. I’m blessed to have the gift of music and performance, allowing me emotional connection with others.

20 22 Venus Rising

Swan Lake

24 FEB - 12 MAR

5 M AY - 5 J U N

T H E R Y M A N H E A LT H C A R E S E A S O N O F

Cinderella 3 AUG - 3 SEP

Tutus on Tour 7 OCT - 12 NOV

S U B S C R I B E A N D S AV E SUPPORTED BY

N AT I O N A L T O U R I N G PA R T N E R

R N Z B .O RG . N Z /S U BSC R I B E

Christmas Twilight Market 9 & 16 December, 4pm–8pm Ponsonby Central, Ponsonby

General Collective will kick off their festive markets at Ponsonby Central with two Christmas Twilight Markets to coincide with late night shopping on Ponsonby Road. Head upstairs to the Sapphire Room from 4pm–8pm on Thursday 9 and 16 December. The perfect opportunity to meet friends for a drink or bite to eat in one of the many bars and restaurants who will also be opening their doors to customers.

Glasshouse Christmas Market 12 December, 9am–2pm Glasshouse, Morningside

On Sunday 12 December the Glasshouse Christmas Market will take over the Morningside Precinct. The Glasshouse has become a favourite boutique market space with ‘the best of the best’ across homewares, fashion, toys, jewellery, artisan produce, and much more. If being amongst leafy trees and sparkly fairy lights as you pick out unique gifts for loved ones doesn’t get you in the Christmas spirit, then nothing will! Shop local and spread the Christmas cheer! Government guidelines under the traffic light system will be followed and valid vaccination passports are required upon entry. Capacity limits may apply; the General Collective team will manage this on the day for a safe and enjoyable shopping experience.

She always loved some glamour. We’ll help you say goodbye in style. There are certain people in life who shape who you are. Special people who were always there to give you advice, support, comfort and love. When the time comes to bid them farewell, make sure to farewell them properly. Talk to us we’ll help you do exactly that.

582 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland 09 520 3119 | staff@sibuns.co.nz | www.sibuns.co.nz

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We Can't Ask If Vaxxed Yes, landlords are asking us to find out if tenants are vaccinated, but we can’t – and there is new legislation coming to prevent us asking where they work and for how long, where they’ve lived before and how old they are. It’s just the normal sort of chatter as we show them around! Though the usual questions are out of the window, it is okay for them to offer us the information freely. So, application forms are to be withdrawn from our website and Trade Me. Instead, we must send applications to prospective tenants – Privacy and Human Rights Acts are saying we ask too much information. The changes are going to make choosing a suitable tenant more difficult. Also, we cannot keep personal information if tenants do not get the

JUST RENTALS LTD MREINZ

property – it must be binned, which of course we do. We are not able to take photos of furniture in the home during inspections, only the maintenance work that is required to be done. However, much of the legislation is still being worked on and will probably not be finalised until March. What a year it has been for everybody! For now, let’s put these changes aside and focus on Christmas – buying lots of presents, drinking lots of coffee, going to the bars, gyms, and cinemas, and getting our hair done! Whatever will make it a very merry Christmas. Let us finish this year with plenty of festive cheer.

Christmas wishes to all landlords. Sylvia Lund 40 St Johns Rd, Meadowbank Sylvia Lund Areinz: 09 528 4818 or 0274 870 550 justrentals@xtra.co.nz

THE BEST OUTCOMES HAPPEN WHEN YOUR NEEDS ARE PUT FIRST Together we work for you

We guide, listen and deliver results. REMUERA

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December / January

Strength in Community While Ranfurly Village residents enjoy luxury surroundings, superb hospitality, and a wide variety of activities to choose from, it is the strong sense of community that offers the most rewards.

“We have a beautiful village, and the residents enjoy living in these beautiful spaces,” says village manager, Graham Mitchell, “but it’s about people at the end of the day – that’s what matters most.” The village’s fully refurbished community facility, Ranfurly House, is a National War Monument originally opened as a veterans’ home in 1903. It was run by the Ranfurly Trust, with hospital wings added over time.

Ranfurly House includes Poppies Cafe, the Heritage Lounge, a billiards room, library, and movie theatre, as well as other multi-purpose rooms, and the Ranfurly Trust office. Graham says Ranfurly House is a wonderful central hub for the village community. “The building has been refurbished to an incredibly high standard and it is a real pleasure to watch residents enjoying what Ranfurly House has become. Personally, I love the connection our village has with the past and the deep heritage we are engaged with and reminded of daily. It is a fantastic blend of history, modernity and community.”

Beautiful new amenities have recently been completed in the Mt Victoria Apartment Complex, including an activities room, craft workshop studio and comprehensive gymnasium. An aqua centre featuring an indoor heated pool and spa is also in the works. Apartments, renowned for their spacious floor plans, are often commended for being in a league of their own. Residents enjoy privacy and convenience, including the provision of services to their home as required. A limited selection of apartments is now available to view.

WE LCOM E HOM E T O R A N F U R LY V I L L A G E Experience the relaxed elegance of our shared spaces; idyllic rooms where you can raise a glass or meet with friends, all while enjoying our attentive service and exquisite attention to detail.

Final apartments selling now To learn more, telephone Bev Dyson 09 625 3420, or visit ranfurlyvillage.co.nz

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A Day In The Life Of A Veterinary Professional 7 AM

The day starts with loading the pile of dirty laundry! Scrubs on, masks on, (and imaginary superhero capes), the team gets set up and checks what afterhours emergencies are soon to arrive.

8 AM

Our team meeting starts as the first phone call comes. A kitten hasn’t eaten for over three days, three clinics can’t see her within the week, we start the day’s juggle. The phones never stop— our customer care team are lockdown heroes. A 25% increase in pet ownership colliding with a critical veterinary professional shortage combined with close contact Covid restrictions has meant ‘time and team’ are always stretched to the max. Balls are in the air as we triage who’s more urgent, our poor stressed and anxious clients quick to feedback and complain.

thestrandvet.co.nz

8.20 AM

We ALL take 10 full minutes to just BREATHE. Phones off, lights off, feet up. Ten minutes of caring for our carers, a time to fuel up so we’re ready to give service to our special clients today. Chris Hemsworth’s soothing voice leads us through Meditation for Kids: Happiness Rainbow, and we send bolts of coloured light as gratitude to each other for empowerment and protection. We know we will need it. 8.30 AM

We are off to a racing start with four-plus teams of veterinary professionals working on any given day. The pace is fast, and constant. Octopus arms, a heart of gold, the patience of a saint, and a brain like a V8 are necessary to crack competently through cases and client enquiries. This is a physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding work environment.

10.30 AM

Whoop whoop! A client brings in cupcakes as a ‘thank-you girls’ and ‘job well done!’ (Although we are all trying to nourish our body with healthy food choices, cupcakes delivered with such heartfelt affirmation is a sugary morale booster, we love!) 2 PM Team check-in regarding who has

not had breaks. Reminders are needed all round to rest and restore. A 30-minute depart to nature for ‘air on face’ time to smell the coffee, mindfully taste some of the best food joints in Auckland, or put feet up the wall for restorative pose to help get us through marathon days. 156

5 PM

The day becomes evening, our consulting teams, hospital critical care team, and surgical team all juggle patients, fur parents, and communication, putting heart into each one. Then the deep clean. Impeccable hygiene is normal for our hospital; however, now every surface touched must be disinfected and cleaned. 6 PM

Time to leave. No hugs to support each other as we take a few precious moments of processing time on our commute home after another rollercoaster veterinary day. Affirmations pop-up on our team chat. We’ve gone above and beyond for yet another day. We head home to start caring for our family and get ready for another day.

Shelly Beach Luxury Inspired by the coast

A thoughtfully crafted new luxury development of eight penthouse-sized apartments is set to reveal itself in Auckland’s sought-after St Marys Bay.

“The design takes its cues from a coastal rock edge, carved out by wave action over time - sky meets sea and stone.”

The large site at 87 Shelly Beach Road is secluded from view down a driveway, close to local Herne Bay and Ponsonby stores and eateries, as well as Point Erin and Westhaven Marina. Elevated on the northern slopes of the Waitematā ridgeline, the four-level Shelly Beach complex will house eight penthousesized apartments, all with sea views toward the Harbour bridge, Westhaven Marina, Rangitoto Island, Auckland CBD, and the Waitākere Ranges. Architects Monk Mackenzie, creators of Auckland’s internationally recognised Lightpath Cycleway, have designed Shelly Beach for property developer Vanguard & Co. They say the location was inspired by the coast. “The design takes its cues from a coastal rock edge, carved out by wave action over time - sky meets sea and stone.”

The building is articulated by cuts and recesses that show themselves as loggia (outdoor terraces), with overhanging gardens and strongly defined vertical cores and walls. The architects’ artistic focus is evident in sculptural elements such as floating landscaped planters, curved concrete internal and external walls, and the use of rammed earth throughout the landscaping. Interior architect Ella Dallimore delivers the kind of quality and detail normally reserved for high-end custom homes and boutique luxury lodges, creating a sense of both home and holiday in each apartment. Interiors feature refined materials, highly crafted kitchens and bathrooms, and clever spaces for wine, art or classic car collections. Says Ella, “The interior solidity is balanced with softness from lush planting, curved surfaces and highquality tactile fabrics. Internal elements

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such as lighting and joinery are bespoke, crafted by leading artisans from solid timber, cast bronze, natural stone, and marble with sedimentary layers to evoke the coastal feel.” Open spaces interconnect with curves, and contoured walls create movement. The same natural stone flooring continues across interior and exterior spaces. Living areas look outwards. In contrast, the master suite’s bathroom is a study in gentle retreat, inspired by Japanese bathing traditions and luxury spa experiences. Biodiversity is carefully considered across the site, reintroducing heritage botanicals such as swamp kakaha, first described as a species from specimens collected near Ponsonby Road. Shelly Beach brings to life some of the world’s most forward-thinking liveability trends.

December / January

About Vanguard & Co:

Vanguard & Co brings a collaborative approach to designdriven property development. Architectural craftsmanship is at the forefront of every Vanguard & Co development. Working with design leaders, the focus is always to push the boundaries of what is possible to create enduring property of the highest quality. About the architect:

Monk Mackenzie is a highly creative, multi-disciplinary studio of architects and designers. Partners Hamish Monk and Dean Mackenzie have worked with recognised global firms. About the interior architect:

Developer Michael Dallimore of Vanguard & Co explains, “Liveability is changing, and New Zealanders are embracing the thoughtful design practices they see internationally. Coprimary residences, where people split their time among two or more homes, suits the Kiwi lifestyle. Our buyers want house-like proportions and spaces that are flexible and efficient, with the ability for people to work from home. Apartments need to be rightsized, not downsized, and accommodate people’s collections without space, privacy, storage, and garaging compromises.” The eight apartments over four floors have generous proportions of over 255sqm. All apartments offer three bedrooms plus flexible media rooms, 2.9m-high ceilings, butler’s kitchens, generous living, and master/en suites with walk-in wardrobe.

wrap around the ground floor. Winter gardens with hanging planters add versatility. Roof terraces are exclusive to top floor penthouses. Each apartment has its own lockable basement garage for up to four vehicles, all with an EV charger. Shelly Beach apartment sales particulars and pricing are by application. The on-site display suite is available with viewings by appointment through Pene Milne at NZ Sotheby's International Realty. Construction is scheduled to start in 2022 and the development will be completed in 2024. For more information, visit shellybeach.co.nz or contact Pene Milne on 021 919 940.

· Just eight apartments, all with sea views

· 236m2-255m2 with 2.9m-high ceilings · All are north facing, with either an east or west alignment · Podium level apartments have wraparound outdoor terraces · Large, versatile winter gardens · Top floor penthouses have roof gardens and wraparound views · Each apartment has a lock-up garage for at least four cars

Apartments are differentiated by the expansive sea views and varied outdoor spaces. North-facing podium terraces

Real Estate

Ella Dallimore is an Aucklandbased architect and interior designer with a wealth of experience in NZ and Australia, being based in Melbourne for 12 years. She has completed commissions for luxury lodges (Tara Iti), hospitality (Amisfield restaurant), and multiple residential projects throughout New Zealand. Ella’s design influences are drawn from the local context and environment. Her focus is on high quality natural materials and bespoke design touches.

· Completion in 2024

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Jake Law Verve sits down with mayoral candidate, Jake Law.

PHOTO — KATIE ATKINS @KATIEXATKINS

Let’s start with something light-hearted. Tell us about your Shanghai Disneyland vlogs?!

I taught at an amazing private school in Shanghai. It was such an eye-opening experience and China was a lot different than I had expected. The school was right next to Shanghai Disneyland so I had an annual pass and found making vlogs was something I could use to connect with friends and family in New Zealand when I missed home. I also built a big following on a Chinese app called Bilibili, so it kind of motivated me to keep putting videos out. I also have one on my MIQ stay on YouTube, check it out at 'Jake’s Journeys'.

who is passionate and wants to make positive change in this space to go for it. We need the council to be more future focused and plan for growth appropriately. What part of your mayoral campaign are you most excited about?

Meeting more of the locals, finding out about issues in communities, and discovering ways to encourage them to vote and become involved in local government, because it does make a difference in the shaping of our communities. What do you anticipate being the biggest challenge?

You’ve recently returned to Auckland after two years teaching English and drama in Shanghai, quite a different vocation to politics! Has a career in politics always been something that interested you, or was there something that particularly inspired you to run for Auckland mayor?

I am focused on creating fairness in communities, and building a future where all people can thrive, own their own homes, and have excellent public transport options like the muchneeded light rail network. I grew up in the Rodney District Council Chamber, as my grandfather was mayor for two terms. I remember he had nothing in his office apart from a pen and notepad – he wanted to be out in the community instead of behind a desk. I was definitely inspired by him as he is a people person, and can make a great speech.

Reaching as many people as possible, and how the media portray younger or lesser-known candidates. We’ve seen that certain candidates are excluded from media debates and interviews for not having a big enough name. As a mayoral candidate it must be pretty tough to find time for yourself, however we all need to find time to wind down and relax. What does your weekend or day off in Auckland look like?

There’s no day off in politics because some opportunities only come around once or twice. However, I find rest in the spaces between, I like to go for a run on the local beach, and research social issues – I see myself as a lifelong learner.

How does it feel to be the youngest candidate to run in the 2022 mayoral race?

I want people to focus on my skillset and effectiveness, not my age. That said I hope to inspire any young person, or person, 161

December / January

“This is a doorknock.”

Looking for a buyer for your home? Now you have a plan for Christmas you may not be thinking about anything else. However there’s no doubt the run up to Christmas has seen a deluge of property descend into the market. This annual event sees listings increase commensurate with the proximity to the end of the year. The same cannot always be said of the number of buyers, which tends to remain consistent regardless of the season. Consequently there is always a number of homes that remain unsold. If that’s you, I’d love to have a conversation. It may be I have the buyer!

Are you buying or selling your home or investment property? Our team of lawyers provide prompt, practical and cost-effective advice to guide you through the process of buying and selling property. As well as property law matters, we can also assist with estate administration and planning, trusts, wills, enduring powers of attorney and relationship property matters. What our clients have said about us:

SOLD

66 SPEIGHT ROAD ST HELIERS

SOLD

19 PATTESON AVENUE MISSION BAY

Two big off market sales in the Bays, in breaking record prices as well! Please call me now for a no obligation appraisal of your home. Be assured our approach to both buyer and seller is safety first in this Covid environment. This is necessitating staged viewings that are strictly controlled. Jo Johnstone 021 411 107 jo@uprealestate.co.nz LICENSED AGENT REA 2008

“My wife and I would like to acknowledge the huge support, guidance and peace of mind that we had during the process of the sale of our family home. Dawsons who have been our lawyers for over 20 years supported us through the different stages by giving us appropriate advice we need and made the legal process and monetary transactions very comfortable, seamless.” “Dawsons Lawyers provided an excellent service to our family by concluding our mother’s estate very efficiently. They were professional, good value and always responsive.”

Call us or book online if you’d like to find out more. 09 272 0002 3 Averill Ave, Kohimarama lawhelp@dawsonlawyers.co.nz www.dawsonslawyers.co.nz

MEADOWBANK

MOVE IN AND ENJOY HIGH TEA ON US.

Meadowbank Care Suites with all the comforts of home. Care Suites with Rest Home and Hospital care. You’ll feel right at home in our Care Suites at Meadowbank. Our spacious, well-appointed rooms are perfect for entertaining family or friends with your very own living area, kitchenette and ensuite. As a housewarming gift, you and your guests will enjoy a complimentary high tea paired with a lovely bottle of bubbles when you move in. To find out more about living in a Care Suite, book in a viewing today. No referral required.

Call 0800 333 688 today to find out more. 148 Meadowbank Road, Meadowbank, Auckland oceaniahealthcare.co.nz

Win

Christmas Memory Book

Bagstilles

A beautiful way to capture and cherish the essence of Christmas across 50 years, Christmas Memory Book, by Megan Hutchison,

Keeping your bread fresh for longer, Bagstilles are 100% linen bread bags inspired by France and made in NZ. An elegant addition to any kitchen’s décor, and a sustainable product reducing the need for single-use bags, co-founder Julie came up with the idea having grown up in France using similar bags for daily trips to the bakery. bagstille.nz

is the first of eight offerings to be launched by Forget Me Not Journals. The heirloom-quality tome includes festive illustrations and 200 pages to document family memories each year. Available online and from department and gift stores. forgetmenotjournals.com WIN

We have one copy to give away. RRP $75.

WIN One of three sets of two Bagstilles: Baguette & Multi. Choose colours online. RRP $39.99.

Dancing with Your Muse

BMW NZ Polo Open

Have you ever let go of a dream because you were too afraid of failure? Dancing with Your Muse: Inner magic to release fear and embrace creativity, by Gilda Joffe, is a heartfelt, motivational guide to understanding this fear, realising you’re not alone, and working past it to achieve your goals without inhibition.

What better way to celebrate summer than at the action-packed BMW NZ Polo Open? The season’s sport and social must-attend event takes place on 20 February at the Auckland Polo Club, Clevedon, featuring the nation’s best polo players, exquisite style, hospitality, and lots of fun. nzpoloopen.com WIN

We have three copies of Dancing with Your Muse, by Gilda Joffe, to give away. Exile Publishing, RRP $34.99. WIN

Win

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A double pass to the polo valued at $120.

Entering is simple. Visit VERVEMAGAZINE.CO.NZ and click WIN then follow the directions. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @vervemagazine. GOOD LUCK.

Sol Giveaway

Belkin SOUNDFORM Freedom True Wireless Earbuds

Sol SPF 40 Mineral Sunscreen is New Zealand-made and good for you and our Earth. Two hours water resistant, reef safe, and with plastic -free packaging. We have a 50ml Sunscreen, 15g Zinc and 80ml Rehydrate (recently launched) all packaged up in a nicely insulated bag so your sunscreen can stay in the car without overheating! sol.co.nz

· All day comfort and a solid seal for noise isolation. · Up to 8 hours battery life in each earbud with an additional 28 hours of battery life from the case. · Seamless one step pairing with intuitive touch controls.

WIN

WIN We have 1 pair of Belkin SOUNDFORM Freedom True Wireless Earbuds to give away valued at $229.95.

We have one to give away. RRP$89.

EXCELLENCE IN VETERINARY CARE FROM POOCH TO GIANT DOG CAT FRIENDLY CLINIC

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Erin Whiting Knowledgable. Dedicated. Local.

barfoot.co.nz/e.whiting

Thinking of selling your home or curious about its market value? Request a free market appraisal with Erin today. email e.whiting@barfoot.co.nz or call 021 644 483

Weekend Getaways Relax, retreat, and take a tour around New Zealand in style.

The Magic of Better Sleep maruia.co.nz WORDS—CRISTINA HOLOPAINEN YOGA TEACHER AT MARUIA RIVER RETREAT Sleep quality determines mood, energy levels, and the ability to function, but it can be a challenge to manage the recommended 7-9 hours. Here are some tips. 1. Create a simple bedtime ritual. Set aside 30 minutes before bedtime to arrange your sleeping space with pleasures like fresh sheets, essential oils, or lavender sprays. Dim the lights and consider silence or relaxing music. 2. Find your optimal sleeping position. Choose the right props such as pillows, blankets, and even ‘cuddle pillows’. Sleep on your back or side so that your neck is not cranked nor your lungs restricted by sleeping on your chest.

ABOVE: Rest well with Hyoumankind Go Pillows in Premium Silk pillowcases at the Maruia River Retreat villas

4. Set aside time for soothing breaks during your day. A 20-minute nap can restore energy levels and calm your temperament. 5. Develop a daily rhythm. Teach the body to know when to be awake and alert, and when it’s time to rest.

3. Know the effects of stimulants to your sleep schedule. Caffeine can cause 9-12 hours of stimulation. Observe your own alertness and wakefulness with alcohol and caffeine and adjustment accordingly.

The Magic of Better Sleep Workshop is included in the upcoming EAT. SLEEP. YOGA. Retreat on 28 April–1 May 2022 at Maruia River Retreat. Learn more at maruia.co.nz.

Only 7 private villas available in a 500-acre nature estate.

Take the time for a Personal Restoration Retreat at Maruia River Retreat top of the South Island.

Photo Credit: Bare Kiwi

"Thank you SO much – I was there for some major rest and relaxation after burning out quite badly with work and it was a transformative experience. I’d definitely recommend the Personal Restoration Retreat to others – the perfect balance of a full itinerary geared for rejuvenation but with plenty of downtime for reading, walking and rest." - Solo Guest, November 2021.

Journeys

Book now at www.maruia.co.nz

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Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat mtcookretreat.nz

Take the time to revive your body, mind, and spirit in the heart of the Mackenzie Region at one of New Zealand’s best luxury getaways – Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. Breathtaking scenery and delicious cuisine awaits beneath clear, starry skies and ancient glacial landscapes. Three luxury two-bedroom villas between Lake Pūkaki and Ben Ohau Range each accommodate four guests. The Ashley Mackenzie Villa offers views of Lake Pūkaki and Aoraki, with private access to the Fantail Spa, its outdoor hot tub, sauna, massage, and exercise facilities. Villas Matariki and Tautoru overlook Mackenzie Basin and Ben Ohau Range – both villas have private outdoor spa pools. Massage and yoga treatments, based on holistic therapies, connect guests to their wairua (spirit) and the natural environment, encouraging a sense of hauora (wellbeing). Stargazing from the retreat’s Wine Cellar Observatory is a uniquely spectacular experience, while our fine dining dishes

are crafted using seasonal produce from local producers and our Edenic on-site garden. Treat that special person in your life to something unique – Gift Vouchers are available and may be used for stargazing, a cooking demonstration, or supper club event.

Rotorua Koura Lodge kouralodge.co.nz

Get a taste for life by the water with a relaxing, romantic escape to Koura Lodge — a boutique bed and breakfast on the edge of Lake Rotorua. With only eight rooms – all with 180-degree lake views – an outdoor hot tub and kayaks available for guests, this intimate lodge transports you to the heart of a natural wonderland, yet it’s just a five-minute drive from the town centre. Unwind in the peaceful surrounds or ignite your sense of curiosity and explore this idyllic destination. Rotorua is a place where fascinating Māori culture, geothermal activity, adrenalinefuelled adventure, and wellness come together to create an experience to remember.

The Apartment is perfectly equipped for families and groups. Savour stunning views from your private balcony in this two-bedroom apartment with space for up to six. Enjoy the expansive lounge with pool table, full kitchen and dining area.

Lodge Rooms are the ideal couple's retreat, this intimate yet generous lodge-style space is the perfect spot to admire Lake Rotorua without needing to leave your room. Suite Rooms beautifully positioned and offer exceptional views of the lake, and features a separate lounge with a day bed, plush bedding and a private ensuite.

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Falcon Brae Villa falconbraevilla.co.nz

A luxury stay awaits you. There are few places in the world where you can enjoy opulent luxury and true wilderness at the same time. Falcon Brae Villa is one. Nestled in a secluded valley with panoramic views of soaring mountains and the mighty Motueka River, Falcon Brae Villa is a one-of-a-kind property. Book a stay here and you can expect the ultimate luxury experience, flawless service and even a private chef. The villa itself is a sight to behold with its architectural design and unique elliptical falcon wing roofs. “There’s not a single person who doesn’t walk through the front door and say, ‘Wow’. It has 360-degree views over the mountains of Kahurangi National Park, and a quiet, calming atmosphere,” says managing director John Kerr. Inside, there’s a central lounge with a 5m-high ceiling, sunken bar, grand piano, high-tech gym, media theatre, three dining areas, and a games room. The lush outdoor area boasts views of the mountains and Motueka River and includes an outdoor pool, heated spa, outdoor dining area, and even a helipad terrace.

best fly fishing in the Motueka River, known for its population of oversized wild brown trout. Guests also have access to a helicopter for scenic heli-tours over the stunning Abel Tasman, Nelson Lakes and Kahurangi national parks, or get amongst it with walking, hiking, and cruising on the lakes. Falcon Brae is less than an hour’s drive from 28 world-class wineries and has 24 boutique art and craft studios for guest to explore. The villa is usually only available for exclusive use. For a limited time, individual suites can be booked at a fraction of the usual price and exclusive use is also available at a discounted rate. Large groups of up to 16 can book the villa and the adjacent Stonefly Lodge (owned and operated by John and Kate Kerr). For bookings and more information visit falconbraevilla.co.nz or contact John Kerr on (03) 522 4479 or at info@falconbraevilla.co.nz.

Thanks to its location, 50 minutes from Nelson and between three of New Zealand’s most scenic national parks, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do. A short walk from the property, you’ll find some of New Zealand’s – and the world’s –

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Cloud 9 cloud9.co.nz

A stunning villa with the ‘wow’ factor, you’ll be awed by the elegant, contemporary interior that creates a feeling of sophisticated simplicity and spacious luxury. Surrounded on three sides by decking and terracing, the spectacular sea views will captivate from sunrise to sunset. Relax in the gorgeous infinity pool and luxurious spa, and, as night falls, view the spectacular night skies and hear the iconic kiwi foraging through the surrounding bush. Cloud 9 is air-conditioned, features a gas fire for those cooler evenings and includes a fully integrated entertainment system with complimentary Wi-Fi. The master bedroom opens to a private, furnished deck with breathtaking sea views. Two additional ocean view bedrooms on the main level open to decks. Robes, slippers and L'Occitane toiletries add to the ambience of a luxury hotel experience.

Whether travelling with family, a group of friends, or simply seeking a romantic break in luxurious surroundings, Cloud 9 Luxury Villa offers space for up to six guests. Outdoor sofas, a barbecue, dining table and chairs entice guests to dine al fresco under the stars.

Make their summer stay your payday Cover the expenses of your holiday home by listing with Bachcare, the hands-free way to rent your happy place. Summer is just around the corner and listing your bach is a great way to help cover the overheads and upkeep. If your bach sits empty most of the time, we could be putting your property to good use and earning you some extra money. Bachcare is New Zealand’s leading specialist when it comes to short-term property management. With 17 years’ experience in the holiday rentals game, we make the process of renting your holiday home smooth and simple.

Maximum rental returns through data-driven pricing

Post-stay cleaning by locally-based managers

Guest enquiry and bookings management

Portal for tracking bookings and calendar blocking

Professional set of photographs and online listing

Property listing on our site plus partners such as Airbnb and Bookabach

If you’re looking for a hands-off way to rent your happy place and start earning a passive income, Bachcare is your one stop solution.

Get in touch to list your bach today. 0800 42 22 42

newowners.bachcare.co.nz

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Pen-y-bryn Lodge penybryn.co.nz

Experience Waitaki with its evocative 'Valley of the Whales', wineries, and historic and artsy town of Ōamaru.

excellence, and refined yet unfussy table service in our richly designed dining room.

New Zealand’s seaside town of Ōamaru is known for fascinating heritage and eccentric humour, raw natural beauty, vibrant arts and delectable cuisine.

Bordered by the stunning coastline of the Pacific, Ōamaru offers nature lovers the chance to explore nesting colonies of both little blue penguins and yellow-eyed penguins. The famed Ōamaru limestone architecture houses the cool and quirky world of steampunk and plenty of fashion, art and cuisine discoveries. This is New Zealand’s best-preserved example of a Victorian streetscape and it’s unique and captivating.

Lonely Planet guide has described Ōamaru as “New Zealand’s coolest town”. The architecture, wildlife, culture cuisine and natural landscape—there is nothing else like this incredible small Kiwi town. Pen-y-bryn Lodge was built as a private residence in 1889 and is one of Australasia’s largest single storey timber dwellings. We’re passionate about our property and ensuring that our guests leave with fond memories of their stay with us. We have made every effort to make this stunning estate as comfortable for modern guests as possible, while keeping true to our historical underpinnings.

At night, be awed by our clear dark skies with a private stargazing experience just outside our doorstep. Gift Vouchers are available to purchase a complete stay, or contribute to part of a stay at Pen-y-bryn Lodge, and can be issued in any value you like, such as to fund a room upgrade, a dinner, or a bottle of wine—the choice is yours!

Each lodge room offers sumptuous comfort to make your stay here as relaxing as it is inspiring and invigorating. It’s the small details that make a big difference, we think, and we relish the opportunity to delight our guests at every turn. Cuisine is a highlight of your stay at Pen-y-bryn. Dinner here is a celebration of the lost art of conversation, culinary

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The Boatshed Hotel

Give the gift of ‘me time’ this Christmas with Boatshed Vouchers – find out more at

boatshed.co.nz

The Boatshed Hotel has quietly been looking after guests for almost 20 years. It’s the sort of place that feels like you’ve discovered a little secret that no one knows about as you enter through its doors. Tucked away on a quiet hillside overlooking Little Oneroa, the hotel’s a short stroll to the island village and close to local vineyards, eateries, and relaxing beaches and coves.

modern yet effortlessly timeless, with little details highly considered.

Nostalgic seaside buildings from boatsheds to bungalows to cottages and viewing towers all offer something different. Like a good bach, it shows its slow evolution – feeling thoroughly

Boatshed really feels like somewhere it’s okay to just do nothing, to take in a slow holiday vibe as you wander the garden, dive into the library of books, quietly enjoy a meal, or just sit and be.

Waiheke has always provided a relaxed pace. Once you get away from the bustling ferries and busy vineyards, The

DISCOVER AUCKLANDS NEWEST LUXURY WELLNESS RETREAT

No other location feels so far away, yet so close to home. Savour relaxed, sophisticated sand-between-your-toes luxury in this sleepy little gem. The Boatshed Hotel, Waiheke Is., New Zealand 0064 9 372 3242 enquiries@boatshed.co.nz boatshed.co.nz

Book Now parohe.co.nz

SUMMER REPOSE 17TH DECEMBER | 2 NIGHTS

NEW YEAR ESCAPE 7TH JANUARY | 4 NIGHTS

REVIVE RETREAT 28TH JANUARY | 2 NIGHTS

WAITANGI RETREAT WITH ĀWHINA WELLNESS 4TH FEBRUARY | 3 NIGHTS

VALENTINES RETREAT 18TH FEBRUARY | 2 NIGHTS

WELLNESS REGENERATION ADVENTURE

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Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel blackswanhotel.co.nz

This chic, contemporary romantic hotel is situated in a serene lakeside setting on the edge of Lake Rotorua. Expansive grounds include rose gardens, sweeping lawns, a swimming pool, the grotto with its spa pools, and a sandy lakefront beach. Eight beautifully appointed guest rooms, together with the garden suite, offer views to the lake, or the manicured gardens and pool.

Relax in the conservatory, read a book by the pool, or unwind in the spa baths in the grotto. Head out to Rotorua city and dine at local restaurants and cafes. Return to the luxury of your room, snuggle into a robe with a coffee or wine and wake to a gourmet breakfast, taking in the beautiful lake views. You’re ready to get out and enjoy all that Rotorua has to offer.

Wake to the lake in the luxurious lakefront suites located at the edge of Lake Rotorua. Full glass sliders open to a beautiful intimate lake view.

Floatplanes depart from the hotel’s private jetty for scenic flights over Rotorua. Or consider a heli-tour from Rotorua airport for enjoy spectacular aerial views of stunning crater lakes, or land on Mt Tarawera.

Lakeview rooms open to an outdoor fireplace – the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine and take in the views of the lake.

Gift vouchers available for that special occasion – upgrade to a lake view room, dinner, or a bottle of champagne.

Pool view rooms open to outdoor terraces facing the swimming pool and offer glimpses of the lake across the sweeping lawns. Enjoy the luxury of your in-room fireplace, stone soaker bathtub or monsoon shower. Luxury toiletries, bath robes and slippers add a touch of luxe. Travelling with family or a group of friends? Look at the twobedroom Garden Suite.

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Koukoulee Retreats koukoulee.com

Of all the restful wonders on Waiheke Island, just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, Koukoulee stands out as one of the best. Fitting then, that the name comes from the Greek for ‘cocoon’ – for that’s exactly the aura that this charming wellness retreat projects. Each of Koukoulee’s wellness retreats, designed for private groups of six or more, can be tailored to suit all needs and intentions. Everything is planned to the last detail ensuring an experience that’s as luxurious as it is healthy, combining the best of the island’s accommodation, cuisine, yoga, and massage. The philosophy at Koukoulee is one of light-hearted wellness, an approach that enables the opportunity to unwind and relax while removing the pressure to achieve. It’s exactly what Kiwis – and Aucklanders especially – need after these torrid few months. The ‘cocoon’ awaits on Waiheke.

Summer

HAS ARRIVED!

Womens Wellness WEEKEND A 2 night surfing, yoga & wellness escape for women. SURF SISTAS Women’s Only 8-Week Progressive Surf Program. 2 HOUR SURF LESSONS Everyday group or private - all ages and stages. BOOK ONLINE OR CONTACT US aotearoasurf.co.nz | 09 431 5760 | surf@aotearoasurf.co.nz 175

December / January

What's On In December & January WORDS — BELLA SAMPSON

SECRETS OF STONEHENGE From 3 December Auckland Museum

MARY QUANT 10 December – 13 March Auckland Art Gallery

LITTLE EASY PONSONBY COMEDY QUIZ 8 December and 15 December

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE: THE BEST OF THE BEATLES, APO 17 December Auckland Town Hall

Discover the secrets to Stonehenge, what it meant to the people who built it, and what it means to the world today. This engaging exhibition delves into the science, history, and mythology of Stonehenge. Featuring over 300 tools and artefacts from the period, as well as cutting-edge research regarding the ancient site. aucklandmuseum.com

SHIPSHAPE NYE 31 December The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron

The exhibition explores the iconic fashion designer Dame Mary Quants story and work. Her fun and creative pieces in the ‘60s, challenged the traditional garments of previous generations. Mary created the wardrobe of the modern and working woman, and her work has retained a timeless status since. Think tailored trousers, the mini-skirt, dresses with pockets, waterproof mascara, ‘boyfriend fit’ clothing and colourful tights. aucklandartgallery.com

MICHELANGELO – A DIFFERENT VIEW

From 7:30pm-9:30pm, the hilarious host Alan McElroy will guide you through his chaotic and brilliant multimedia pub quiz. The fun-filled rounds are guaranteed to give everyone in your team a chance to shine. littleeasy.co.nz

GROOVE IN THE GRAPES

The Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, with the help of a fantastic rhythm section and talented vocalists, are coming together to play homage to the world’s most successful band. Covering the early international pop chart hits to the magical era of Sgt. Pepper, and the White Album.

3-30 January Aotea Centre

22 January Turanga Creek Organic Vineyard

LOU’ANA MIDNIGHT MADNESS TOUR 28 January Q Theatre

Suitable for fans young and old, book through Ticketmaster. ticketmaster.co.nz

This New Year’s party is a shipshape way to welcome in 2022. On the decks, you’ll find local soulful-house and funk legends like Nice n’ Urlich, Nyntee and Sweetpants, all promising to bring a mix of fresh and classic tunes to invigorate the crowd. Tickets come with a cocktail and platters are provided. iticket.co.nz

This exhibition is a perfect partnership of modern technology and accentuating art, with over 50 of Michelangelo’s ethereal ceiling frescoes from the Sistine Chapel authentically reproduced. The gallery display allows for audiences to see the works up close and personal. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster. ticketmaster.co.nz

The annual concert is back and bigger than ever. Featuring live music from artists like The Feelers and The Meteors. The spacious vineyard has plenty of room to relax in the sunshine or shade, to groove, or to graze. Suitable for all ages, book online. turangacreek.co.nz

Auckland-based artist Lou’Ana and her seven-piece band are serving up soulful grooves this summer. Lou’Ana’s debut album Midnight Madness showcases her unique and magical sound, blending jazz, soul, and funk with her Pacific roots. qtheatre.co.nz

Dates quoted on this page could change if there was a sudden change in alert levels. Check websites for latest details.

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Our Story

WORDS — MELANIE DOWER PHOTOGRAPH — TRELISE VON STURMER

Vicki and Zoe

Vicki Roycroft and Zoe Southwood met when

Zoe attended a workshop taught by Vicki on Waiheke Island. They now work alongside each other at Wildflower Waiheke, each specialising in their chosen field and bound by a love of flowers.

We work closely together but still have control over our separate domains and consult each other all the time.

Vicki

Zoe

Zoe and I met when I started the Wildflower School about five years ago. She rang up the day before the course started and joined knowing nothing about flowers.

The first time I met Vicki was when I did the Wildflower School. I had never touched flowers in my life and really came a long way in three weeks, so I told Vicki that I’d love to join the Wildflower team.

It was a wonderful group, but Zoe was outstanding – it was immediately clear she had a natural talent for flowers and she came to work for us during the next four wedding seasons. A couple of years ago, I mentioned I was approaching 20 years of doing wedding flowers on the island and that it was time to focus more on the school and pass the wedding side to somebody else. She didn’t say anything, but a few days later got in touch to ask: “Would you consider passing on your baby to me?” I said, “You’d be absolutely perfect.” I shared as much as I could, letting her become more and more in charge while I was still there in the background. Then, I totally stepped away to allow her to run it the way she wants. It’s amazing to see how she interacts with the brides, and the quality of her work is incredible. She’s doing so well. We work closely together but still have control over our separate domains and consult each other all the time. It’s so lovely because she’s helping me out in the school, and I still have some connection to the weddings as well. We are on the same wavelength when it comes to style elements and can talk about anything – just sparking ideas off each other. Zoe is really positive and enthusiastic, very bubbly, and stunningly gorgeous. She’s also a bit of a tomgirl, very real and can be a bit goofy, which I really like about her. We always have a good laugh together. She’s very good with marketing, bringing a whole new level of style to everything she does. She presents everything really beautifully, which I love. I’m so proud of Zoe. She’s only 25 but is doing amazing work and Wildflower’s going from strength to strength. I feel totally confident in her and love that Wildflower still feels like it should do. I’m excited to see how she pushes the business even further.

We were having a cup of tea one day when she mentioned she was thinking of selling the business. I mentioned it to my dad and he asked why I didn’t buy it. I was only 24 and thought there was no way I could, but he really encouraged me. So, I called Vicki and we had a chat. We decided the best way would be for me to take over the wedding side, which allows her to continue to run the school without having to give up flowers completely. We chat about everything – she’s kind of like a second mum, or a friend, and it’s been incredible to have a mentor at all stages. If I have a question, I always go to her as she has 20 years’ experience and knows what she’s doing. We have a lot of similar interests, and we bounce ideas off each other and balance each other out. When it comes to flowers and workshops and going overseas, Vicki is the eternal optimist. She has a great sense of humour and great style. She always knows a beautiful store somewhere in New Zealand, or a reference from art history – she has great taste and the ability to find beautiful things all the time. She’s also incredibly generous. She’s not in any way threatened by exposing her knowledge. For many, opening the behind the scenes of your business to others going into the same industry could be very threatening, but she’s so willing to teach people. She wants everyone to be involved and to enjoy themselves. It’s been such a pleasure to meet and work with Vicki. She has been such an instrumental figure in my life, and it’s been, frankly, life changing. The fact that she trusted me to take over the business she spent 20 years building is incredibly humbling. My life now revolves around flowers and my business and that wouldn’t have been possible without her. wildflowerwaiheke.com

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Horoscopes SAGITTARIUS 22 November – 21 December

CAPRICORN 22 December – 19 January

AQUARIUS 20 January – 18 February

Horoscopes

This month is strong for making important changes through your communications with others while broadening your experiences, knowledge, and larger goals. You will work diligently on reworking your individuality and personal identity. You are somewhat introspective at this time, and might isolate yourself from others in some manner – a process that tends to come naturally.

This is a good time to get a feel for new areas of finance and come up with a new plan for money. It can also be a good time to consider finding a stable position within a job. It may be a good month regarding stability in a relationship, showing that where you are now is where you need to be. The foundation of the relationship is formulated as it should be, and you are ready to continue building on that foundation.

PISCES

This can be especially strong period for practical matters, business, and financial improvement. You may be joining with people who further your career or personal interests, and through their support, faith in you, or wisdom, you are encouraged to reach your highest potential. This can bring an improved sense of wellbeing as opportunities open up for unusual but successful living arrangements and family set-ups, and for some, support for a home project.

ARIES

19 February – 20 March

21 March – 19 April

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Now is an excellent time to save up any extra money because you will be able to afford a little nest egg. You could find yourself in a position that truly suits you. Take great pride in your work. For some of you, more prestige or a higher social standing may be part of the picture now. You can be quite charismatic in a position of authority or responsibility. Advancement in achieving an important goal can occur now.

There would be ample scope to take risks in the financial and career field. You need to put in all your energy and act speculatively. Your diplomatic nature would work wonders in the areas which call for cooperation. You are learning about your inner motivations, and sometimes this can be an uncomfortable process because you are getting in touch with the darker elements of your psyche.

manish@manishastrologer.com

TAURUS 20 April – 20 May

GEMINI 21 May – 20 June

CANCER 21 June – 22 July

WORDS— MANISH KUMAR ARORA

You are taking important steps towards carving out an identity that better suits the ‘true you’. You are assured goodness and growth in your professional field. However, it calls for much effort and commitment on your side. There would be many opportunities to strengthen your bond of love in this period. Let your desires and wishes reach the other end as well. Be optimistic and let warmth engulf your relationship.

VIRGO

This is time for you to slough off the old parts of you that do not serve so that you can attract someone brand new by being sparkly, fresh and exciting. This period prompts you that the pursuit of love now through transformation of self is a productive step forward. You can experience a stronger desire to broaden your horizons, and this can conflict with dealings on the home front. Restlessness is likely.

LIBRA

This is certainly a time for reinventing yourself. You will need to resist the urge to control the events of your life, how you come across to others, and your manner during this important cycle. You could go in for socialisation and this might help you as far as the long-term prospects in life are concerned. You will be getting chances to reaffirm your

SCORPIO

23 August – 22 September

23 September – 22 October

23 October – 21 November

values and ideals in life.

LEO 23 July – 22 August

Much luck and fortune are on the cards for you for this time period. Everything will move in a positive direction. However, love and family issues might take the back seat for quite some time. Your professional life will be growing spontaneously without much effort or toil. Teamwork shall do well, and your skillset will improve. Those in services shall see that their patience pays good rewards.

You’ll learn important things, pick up new interests and possibly end others, and make important discoveries. This is a good time to wean out unwanted relationships in life and stick to the loyal ones. You can express your thoughts and love to your partner in a very transparent atmosphere for now. Get into the company of those who enjoy the good things in life.

It’s a great period for expansion and recognition on a professional level, and you should take advantage of it. Choose your projects carefully and don’t take on more than you can handle. This can also be a time when you give of yourself to others, as you are valuing charity more than usual. This is a fine time to really explore what holds you back from going after what you want and deserve in life.

There will be growth and development in your personal and professional life. You are tapping into your inner power, and how you handle it will make all the difference in the quality of your experiences now. Your love life will be pretty satisfying and thrilling, as much romance and passion will be involved. You will be able to express your feelings and inner desires more easily and comfortably.

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VERVE Remarkable breakfasts and brunches. Sunny deck or indoor dining. All food made on the premises. Amazing coffee. We also have a children’s menu.

W ALLA C E C O T T O N . C O M

311 Parnell Rd, Parnell 09 379 2860 Open 7 days till 5pm

STONEFIELDS MENTION THIS AD AND GET ONE WEEK FREE ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP* T & C ’ S A P P LY

0800 789 789 corporatecabs.co.nz

SHOP 11, 40 STONEFIELDS AVE,STONEFIELDS, AUCKLAND STONEFIELDS@FLEXFITNESSGYM.CO.NZ | 09 218 8197

170 Garnet Road | 376 2912 581 Remuera Road | 523 5545 madamejojo.co.nz

09 630 1500 | lido.co.nz 427 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland

The Point Chev Beach Café was launched in Jan 2017 and has gained a reputation in excellent cuisine, coffee and a welcoming service. Situated beside the beach, it’s the perfect location for a family outing, a romantic date or just an ice cream! For bookings or private functions please contact us.

METAL WINGS In store and online NOW OPEN The Bay Tree St Heliers 15 St Heliers Bay Rd 62a Benson Rd, Remuera Open 7 days · thebaytree.co.nz

— 506 P T CHE VA LI E R R D, AUCKL AND 09 8 1 5 6 6 36 | P TC HE V B E ACHCAF E.CO.NZ

Marketplace

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09 849 4036 URBANFLOWERS.CO.NZ 27 SANDRINGHAM RD, MOUNT EDEN

URBAN FLOWERS

YOUR LOCAL KINGSLAND FLORIST

New season has arrived!

Visit instore or online for our dynamic collections of footwear which will have you spellbound by the colour, texture and uniqueness available.

Stunning ladies fashion in Auckland. Find your new goto items at Simply Wonderful. ─ 569 Manukau Rd, Epsom 09 630 0084 simplywonderfulclothes.co.nz

tangosshoes.nz 164 Kitchener Rd, Milford

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Red Shed Palazzo will be having a Christmas break from the 23rd December & reopening Friday the 7th January.

Property management and rentals in the Bays with over 25 years' experience. Contact Sue for expert advice about your property or tenants.

Happy holidays

11A St Heliers Bay Rd, St Heliers 027 490 8264 or 09 575 9887 sue@baysiderentals.co.nz baysiderentals.co.nz

Red Shed

Palazzo

BOOK ONLINE

www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

Red Shed Palazzo large logo.indd 1

B R I D G E WAY

Sunday marketS

Breakfast/Lunch – licensed OPEN 7 days 8.30am - 4.00pm 16 Jesmond Rd, Karaka Ph (09) 294 6687 Email: eat@redshedpalazzo.co.nz

9/07/2015 10:26:36 a.m.

CINEMAS

Auckland’s best and most vibrant arthouse cinemas 122 Queen St, Northcote Point, Auckland www. b r i d g ewa y.co. n z

432 MT EDEN RD, MT EDEN VILLAGE | 09 630 3331 | TIMEOUT.CO.NZ

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Shop at

RE NE JANS EN FURNITU R E Locally made inspiring furniture design — renejansenfurniture.com 22 B Shaw Rd, Oratia 021 0258 2500

Home & Living | Clothing Beauty | Wellness | Subscriptions

vervemagazine.co.nz/shop

228 ORAKEI ROAD, ORAKEI

165 THE STRAND, PARNELL HOMEIDEAS.CO.NZ

@ORAKEIBAYVILL AGE

WWW.OBV.CO.NZ

JUSTRENTALS.CO.NZ The friendly team specialising in home rentals and property management.

Enjoy the ultimate cinema experience at Berkeley Mission Bay. See session times and book at HOYTS.CO.NZ

Marketplace

1 Barrys point Rd, Takapuna 09 488 0211 | ieproduce.com

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BIO GROW CERTIFIED since 2000. Your wellness store. Passionate about all things organic. Shop online or on site.

The home of fine film in Newmarket. See session times at rialto.co.nz.

40 ST JOHNS RD, MEADOWBANK / 09 528 4818 027 487 0550 / JUSTRENTALS@XTRA.CO.NZ

THE FIRST FULLY ELECTRIC BMW SAV #BORNELECTRIC

Choosing the new way of doing things doesn’t mean sacrificing the best parts of what went before. Meet the all-new iX3, the first fully electric BMW SAV. Blending sheer driving pleasure with the advantages of an SAV. With an electric range of up to 460km*, The iX3 delivers uncompromised emission-free electric excellence. The BMW iX3. Born Electric. Visit Continental Cars BMW to find out more. Continental Cars BMW 45 - 65 Wairau Road, Wairau Valley, North Shore. (09) 488 2000 continentalcarsbmw.co.nz

*Driving conditions apply.