Verve. June 2022. Issue 187.

An uplifting monthly eclection of life, style and happenings.

JUNE '22

We go wild this winter with weddings and the bad boy of fashion, the late Alexander McQueen. We also take some time to procrastinate, examine bravery, and put a doggy through his paces with a canine IQ test.

INTRODUCING OUR NEW ITALIAN INDOOR RANGE Traditionally founded in outdoor luxury furniture, Design Warehouse has sought to expand outside its current outdoor collections, broadening its expertise and sense of design artistry to introduce luxury furnishings for the interior spaces. Featuring world-class designs that bring innovative aesthetic elements along with colourful rich fabrics, textures, materials, and silhouettes which work in harmony to deliver excellence in craftsmanship and quality, expressing an artful interpretation of luxury indoor furniture that endures.

Milano 220cm Plush Sofa (cream)

Siena Sofa with Velvet Cushions (bronze/blue)

Petalo Lounge Chair (blue)

Bellagio Relaxing Swivel Chair (black)

Aspettami Sectional Sofa (black)

Bellagio Relaxing Swivel Chair (olive green)

Perfect Day Recliner Sofa (black)

137 - 147 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland | 0800.111.112 | Open Daily from 9:30 until 5:00 sales@designwarehouse.co.nz | commercial@designwarehouse.co.nz | www.designwarehouse.co.nz

HA N D CRA FTED BY ARTI SANS IN NEW ZEALAND

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

Guest Editor’s Note Jamie Christian Desplaces Midlife, New Life

Though I’ve always eaten healthily, earlier this year it dawned on me that I could probably do with upping the sweat sessions and cutting back on the booze. The booze part has been a roaring failure, and not being one for gyms, I treated myself to one of those fancy fitness watches instead. It has – excuse the hyperbole – changed my life.

Through running and cycling and a few home weights, in just a few months I've reduced my BMI, my resting heart rate, and, most thrillingly, my fitness age by seven years – that was until a recent long weekend in Waiheke booted it from 35 to 36-anda-half. An optimist might see that as still good going, but it felt like I’d been told I had 18 months less left to live! That watch screen serves as sobering reminder that with middle age comes the body’s inability to cheat, while also reminding me that the fix really is as simple as getting out there and putting one foot in front of the other, one step at a time.

Another life change is due this December with the arrival of our first child – which will no doubt shave another year or two off that fitness age, but what a motivation to keep at it. I guess 42 isn’t that old any longer to be a first-time father (plus, my darling Heather is a few years younger than me), and though I’ll no doubt be a little slower than the other dads across the football field, I’ll hopefully offset it with a little more wisdom instead.

There are features dedicated to men and middle age in this month’s issue, a time of life which can notoriously yield disorientation to the point of crisis. I now head into mine with an absolute sense of hope, gratitude, and adventure. I know there will be a lot less sleep, a little less money, and hurdles I can’t yet fathom, but like my fitness watch reminds me, I’ll just put one foot in front of the other, one step at a time.

Enjoy the read.

Jamie

Up Front

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kg

What’s Inside Design Precinct 10

Men’s Feature 78

Grosvenor Design Precinct

Bottled Up?

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86

Outside the Box

The Last Man to Walk on the Moon

Home & Design 24

Beauty & Health 98

Queen of Real Estate

Allaying Anxiety

10

36

Modern History

Food & Wine 116

Wedding Feature 50

Dining Innovation at its Core

Wild Love

Fur Friends 128

Fashion 61

Mutts for Mensa

Slice of the Past, Way of the Future 68

Wellness 136

The Bad Boy of Fashion

Time on Your Side?

Up Front

50

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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 Right time to sell?

You’re a homeowner thinking of selling, you’ve read all the headlines and commentary around the state of the residential market and concluded it’s a bad time to sell – you may not be correct. I say maybe, because it is becoming clearer by the day that there is a flight to quality across all price ranges. Buyers are becoming increasingly selective on the back of banks requirements for ‘clean title’, code compliance and sound builders reports. Our observation is that those properties that meet those criteria, are modernised and well presented, are more sought after and being competed for and achieving great sale prices. Those that are perceived to be deficient on the other hand are requiring to be sharply priced in order to meet the current market.

JUST LISTED

SOLD

Contributors Manish Kumar Arora, Alex Blackwood, Vicki Holder, Lucy Kennedy, Jenna Moore, Milly Nolan, Nick Ainge Roy, Bella Sampson and Dennis Knill.

Subscriptions online@vervemagazine.co.nz Published by Verve Magazine Ltd 13 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021 GST 90 378 074 ISSN 2253-1300 (print) ISSN 2253-1319 (online) Editorial Enquiries (+64) 9 520 5939 Fran Ninow: fran@vervemagazine.co.nz Jude Mitchell: jude@vervemagazine.co.nz Advertising Enquiries ashlee@vervemagazine.co.nz fran@vervemagazine.co.nz jude@vervemagazine.co.nz pambrown@xtra.co.nz Cover Photo Nathan Snoddon from Core by Clare Smyth

20 BELL RD REMUERA

No doubt you received a new Council Valuation recently, if you’re interested to know how that figure might relate to your home’s current market value I would be happy to appraise your home on a no obligation basis.

Jo Johnstone 021 411 107 jo@uprealestate.co.nz

20 DELL AVE REMUERA

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, Ellerslie, 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 Blue Star, 8 Collard Place, Henderson, Auckland. It is distributed by Verve, Admail and Mailchimp.

The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without prior permission in writing of the copyright owner. Any material submitted for publication is at the owner’s risk. Neither Verve Magazine Ltd nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every 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.

LICENSED AGENT REA 2008

CANDLE COLLECTION

BESPOKE SOFA DESIGN | FURNITURE | HOMEWARE THE FOUNDATION | 8 GEORGE ST, NEWMARKET | AUCKLAND | TEL 09 307 9166 | CORSO.CO.NZ

WORDS — MILLY NOLAN

Grosvenor Design Precinct Grey Lynn

Ligne Roset Designer Rugs Woodwrights Forté SR Interiors

Forté Moda Altro Collection

Design Precinct

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While Parnell has always been home to many a design store, across town, the suburb of Grey Lynn has in recent years come alive with renowned designer brands moving into the area.

Discovering the landscape is evolving, Verve ventured across Khyber Pass to get a better perspective. What better place to start than Grey Lynn’s latest addition, the Grosvenor Design Precinct – a mecca for homeowners, designers, and the likes.

Nearly five years ago, the well-established Designer Rugs moved into Grosvenor Street to found the precinct. It was a risky move after more than a decade in Parnell, but luckily the gamble paid off with their existing customers proving they were happy to make the journey across town – especially given the now ample carparking – and with every second house undergoing renovations in the area, they promptly picked up new devotees along the way.

Designer Rugs created a spectacular showroom within a newly built facade designed by the revered RTA Studios in conjunction with the owners Samson Corporation, who have a vested interest in designing modern and innovative buildings, propelled by the Grey Lynn skyline. No surprise then, that when the neighbouring building vacated, Samson Corporation were keen to purchase it, setting the scene for the precinct to be born.

The desire for a cohesive synergy of aligned partners to call the precinct home swiftly and easily came to fruition with highend, design-led brands moving into the building once it had finished undergoing renovations last year.

Zealand furniture designers, Woodwrights, the precinct also houses French furniture brand Ligne Roset, premium flooring company Forte Flooring, and luxury store SR Interiors. All these high-end businesses have realised the value in working together under the title of Grosvenor Design Precinct, with the promise of collaborating and supporting each other where possible.

“What I most love about the precinct,” says Matt Dickson, managing director of Ligne Roset, “is that we all complement each other and all share a similar clientele. We bring various entities from all corners of the market, but it’s all showcased under one convenient location in a nice tidy package without anyone competing against each other.”

Looking towards the future, the collaboration between brands within the precinct is proving to be a pioneering approach to how products can be showcased, while also making it desirable and easy for anyone wishing to peruse and select perfect pieces for their home.

Enticed by the seamless modern architecture of the building, and the idea of working alongside Designer Rugs and New 11

June 2022

Ligne Roset Ploum

Ligne Roset For more than five decades, French furniture brand Ligne Roset has amassed worldwide domination, appearing in homes of the discerning design devotee in all corners of the globe.

Yet despite New Zealand’s love of the product, never before had it made a foray into our market as a standalone brand until the Grey Lynn showroom opened in the Grosvenor Design Precinct in August 2021.

“Ligne Roset has made its mark across the world with more than 200 exclusive stores and 600 retail distributors,” says managing director, Matt Dickson.

“So, to bring a dedicated presence to Auckland is a significant step not just for the growth of the brand, but the calibre of furniture that New Zealanders now have access to.”

The Ligne Roset brand harks way back to the 1860s where it grew from humble beginnings making wooden parasols, and since paved a solid reputation for its contemporary and sleek designs that don’t compromise on comfort or functionality.

In keeping with the family tradition is Matt and his partner, marketing director Monica Tischler, and their 11-month-old son, Jude.

It was the launch of the now-famous design of Michel Ducaroy's Togo sofa in the early 1970s that catapulted Ligne Roset to global success, and it remains among the brand’s most popular sellers. Togo is the most sought-after product

by New Zealand clientele, too, contributing to the more than 25,000 pieces sold globally each year.

Other firm favourites on display in the Auckland showroom are the Prado sofa by Christian Werner, Ploum sofa by R. & E. Bouroullec, Pumpkin armchair by Pierre Paulin, and Pukka sofa by Yabu Pushelberg, as well as an extensive range of lighting and accessories, living, dining and outdoor furniture.

Ligne Roset Auckland 299 Great North Road, Grey Lynn Client parking available off Grosvenor Street ligne.nz 09 393 5636

For more than 160 years, Ligne Roset has remained a family owned and operated business, with the fifth generation – the original founders’ great-great-grandsons – now at the helm.

Design Precinct

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

Designer Rugs Walter Rug by Community

Designer Rugs Los Angeles by Greg Natale Mineral by Bleux Coral Cut + Waffle from our Inhouse collection

Designer Rugs For over 30 years Designer Rugs have complemented aesthetics in residential homes and commercial spaces throughout the world with rugs of exceptional quality and unique design. Managing director Laura Furey reveals more.

We don’t see ourselves as just a rug company; we see ourselves as a design company that produces rugs.

By collaborating with leading artists and designers, and using the highest quality NZ wool, we strive to innovate and place design at the forefront of what we do. As a result, we have earned an outstanding reputation for producing unique and custom-made rugs and carpet.

What sets us apart is our in-house rug design service that’s open to anyone – from homeowners to top design professionals worldwide – for a unique product that’s handmade with a deep concern for professionalism and quality.

Our showroom carries a vast array of designs, including collections we stock to ensure there’s always solutions available in any situation. Our team is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the rugs we create and the legacy we carry.

The continued industry support we share shows in our showroom’s juxtaposition exhibiting and showcasing other products from likeminded businesses like Nightworks Lighting, Maytime Furniture, and DBJ Kitchens.

I've always believed that when you forge strategic alliances within a creative industry it will, in turn, benefit everyone on an individual level as well.

1 Grosvenor Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland designerrugs.nz 09 300 6116 info@designerrugs.nz

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June 2022

FOUNDED AND CRAFTED IN NEW ZEALAND.

0800 530 035 www.woodwrights.co.nz

1 GROSVENOR STREET GREY LYNN

Woodwrights Ratio Bar Stool

Woodwrights Founded in 1997, Woodwrights is a family of makers. Each piece of furniture is meticulously crafted in New Zealand, inspired by our unique lifestyle and extraordinary environment. We blend the best of traditional techniques and materials with exceptional craftmanship, enhanced by today’s design and manufacturing technology.

All about keeping it local, our range is designed by New Zealander designers, and crafted by talented artisans in our Motueka factory. We personally deliver each piece to ensure it arrives with you just as it left our factory.

Our furniture is durable, hardwearing, and easy on the Earth, with our solid timber pieces made from sustainably sourced American ash and American oak. All offcuts are upcycled into small components to further ensure minimal waste.

Auckland Studio Designed for you, we’ve thoughtfully crafted our Auckland studio to feel welcoming and inspiring. Realised as a space to immerse yourself in the Woodwrights’ experience, our studio features our locally designed and crafted pieces, and new collections where you can discover our custom finishes. From upholstery and timber to handles and sofa feet, you’ll find our diverse range of options on display at the studio.

We’re not always located on site at the studio as our head office is located in Motueka. However, we can meet with you virtually to discuss your furniture requirements and address any questions you may have.

1 Grosvenor Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland woodwrights.co.nz

We embrace individuality through style and product diversity through offering personalisation and customisation within our range. With each Woodwrights piece a story is made, reflecting you and your way of living, not only today, but for generations to come.

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June 2022

Refined timber flooring.

Designed in New Zealand for the Kiwi lifestyle.

Book your free consultation today.

Scan QR code or visit forte.co.nz/locations

Auckland 299 Great North Road Grey Lynn, Auckland NZ 0800 35 66 77

Wellington 262 Thorndon Quay Pipitea, Wellington NZ 0800 35 66 77

Queenstown 33 Brookes Road Frankton, Queenstown NZ 0800 35 66 77

forte.co.nz info@forte.co.nz 0508 35 66 77

Forté Muuro Collection

Forté Spanning three generations and over 35 years, Forté is a New Zealand owned and operated, family-run business built on passion, knowledge, and countless years of industry experience. We design and source an exceptional range of specialist timber products for flooring, walls, ceilings, and decking – all refined to suit New Zealand’s diverse climates and lifestyles.

Our collections evolve constantly with global and national trends, enabling us to provide exciting, unique timber solutions that New Zealanders can enjoy for years to come.

Our commitment to care for our products, our clients, and the environment, stems from a deeply ingrained love for timber and a family-centric culture. We aim to make it easy for clients and partners to create sustainable, captivating, and enduring spaces to live and work.

The Showroom and Experience Centre encompasses and embodies the essence of the Forté brand: who we are and what we do. Careful thought and consideration have been put into every aspect of the showroom and how we can best serve both homeowners and specifiers to provide an experience they won’t forget.

We’ve created an environment where clients and industry partners can connect, network, hear directly from the experts, and discover something new; where they can feel both informed and inspired when planning their build or next home renovation.

Unit 2, 299 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland forte.co.nz 0508 35 66 77 info@forte.co.nz

Flagship Auckland Showroom and Experience Centre More than just a showroom, our Flagship Auckland Showroom and Experience Centre is designed to provide clients with an inspiring space where they can immerse themselves in the beauty of timber and all it has to offer.

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June 2022

SR Interiors Dixon Armchair

SR Interiors Hathaway Tall & Low Bunching Cocktail Tables

Design Precinct

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Bringing a mix of timeless and contemporary designs to NZ from international origins.

SR Interiors New Zealand owned and operated SR Interiors exclusively represents some of the USA's most loved and trusted brands.

If you haven’t already discovered us, we’d love to see you! With free allocated parking off Grosvenor Street, it’s even easier.

Purveyors of high-end furniture with a difference, SR Interiors has recently opened the doors to their new showroom in the Grosvenor Design Precinct.

What do you look for when buying furniture?

Quality, design, and detailing.

Bringing a fresh look to the New Zealand market, their predominantly American aesthetic covers a wide range of styles, from transitional or classic to contemporary or casual, offering timeless and sophisticated additions to any home.

Verve recently spoke to them about this exciting new chapter.

What can visitors to your new showroom expect to see?

Our new Grey Lynn showroom has enabled us to showcase more collections than ever – from our bestsellers to stunning new releases. We’re excited to share the precinct with our like-minded design neighbours, offering a one-stop shopping experience for all our clients.

Unique designs that you won’t find on every corner, whilst not forgetting bang for your buck!

What’s next for SR Interiors?

We’re always on the hunt for new products and are looking forward to introducing our new line of accessories coming soon! We’re also working on opening our first brick-andmortar showroom in Sydney, after launching online in Australia last year.

Unit 3, 299 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland srinteriors.co.nz 09 553 6094 info@srinteriors.co.nz

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June 2022

WORDS — FRANCES HARRISON

Switch off and relax with Lego Botanical Collection

ABOVE: NO MATTER WHERE YOU PLACE YOUR LEGO BOTANICAL PIECE THERE IS A RESENE COLOUR THAT WILL MAKE IT POP

About 18 months ago I came across the Lego Botanical Collection, construction kits that allow grownups to build flower bouquets and bonsai trees from bio plastic components.

been increased, and one can now choose from five truly wonderful plant sets.

In addition to the original bouquet and bonsai, there’s a potted orchid, a bird of paradise, and a most delightful set of succulents.

or family member, head on over to the Lego website, and be inspired by their Botanical Collection.

At that stage there were only two sets in the collection: the most delicate and convincing of flower bouquets, and a must-have bonsai tree – both novel, and utterly collectible.

All sets are customisable, and just plain fun to build, either on your own, or with the family all lending a hand. Think rainy Sunday afternoons filled with hours of focus and joy.

Resene Colour Me Pink

So popular were the first two in the Lego Botanical series that the range has

So, next time you’re struggling to find the perfect gift for a hard-to-buy-for friend

Get the look with Resene

Resene Guggenheim Resene Karry

REFINED LIVING

V I S I T O U R N E W S H O W R O O M AT T H E S T R A N D, PA R N E L L ! refinedliving.nz

09 930 6268

59 - 61 The Strand, Parnell

resene.co.nz

Outside the Box

box.co.nz

A few words with three leading women from architect builders, Box.

LAURA

I am an architectural designer from Scotland who fell in love with the long Kiwi summers, the surf, and my job designing ‘wee hooses’ at Box. What kind of projects do you most enjoy working on?

I love the challenge of constraints!

Particularly, compact design, which I’ve been working a lot with in Box’s sibling company, Artis.

What are the three most important questions you ask clients?

· Tell me about your lifestyle.

· What are the most important moments for you in your home - any must haves/no-gos? · And of course, it’s a biggie - how much do you want to spend?

What’s the best thing about your job?

The clients! I love meeting new people and exploring ideas with them. Being on site watching visions come alive is very special too.

SOPHIE

AMELIA

I joined Box a year ago as a project manager. Having originally studied architecture, I love working in an environment that’s full of talented creatives, but also has a focus on high-quality construction.

I am an architect and have been at Box for just over a year. Before Box I worked mainly in commercial architecture so have been enjoying working closely with families to help create their dream homes.

How important is sustainable design?

What motivates you?

Building a home is often a huge emotional and financial investment for clients, so my main source of motivation is the satisfaction of completing a building – seeing it turn from a ‘house’ into a ‘home’ as it’s handed over. It’s truly rewarding and worth any challenges that may arise during the process.

Your typical day?

It starts with catching up with our builders on site in the morning to check things are going as planned, then heading into our office to catch up with the design and quantity surveying teams to help with project planning and risk management.

Very. Throughout the design there are plenty of opportunities to consider sustainability such as in the selection of materials and considering passive design principles.

Design can influence sustainability on a much larger scale too. People are naturally drawn to the path of least resistance. For example, if a public building has a grand, central staircase and the elevator is tucked away then people will choose to take the stairs rather than the elevator. Therefore, all that designers need to do is make sustainable choices effortless, and people will take them.

Describe the Box design process

What qualities do you believe a project manager most needs?

They should be a strong communicator, confident at making decisions, and able to provide pragmatic solutions. They should be able to motivate and bring together the whole team, ensuring the project is delivered in accordance with design intent, schedule and budget, and that the client is left with a smile on their face!

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The first step in the process is always to understand the various constraints of the site, and to establish a brief and a rough budget.

Then comes the design! We work closely with the client to develop a concept design which generally starts as a rough sketch and ends with a 3D computer model and a set of drawings which is passed to our quantity surveying team for pricing.

June 2022

WORDS — MILLY NOLAN

Queen of Real Estate With a career spanning more than twodecades (and still ongoing), award-winning Barfoot & Thompson premium real estate agent, Leila MacDonald, certainly knows a thing or two about the residential property market.

With a reputation for integrity and honesty, Leila remains completely humble also. These qualities have seen her achieve outstanding sale records while delivering the very best service to her clients. A proud mother of three, and a hands-on grandmother of six, nurturing good relationships is clearly embedded in her DNA. Verve spoke to Leila about what life is like at the top of her game.

How long have you been in real estate and what first inspired you to become an agent?

I've been an agent with Barfoot & Thompson for 32 years, and previously another eight years in the industry.

Being a real estate agent suits me because I love people and I love being active. I don’t like being stuck in an office.

Being an agent really is the second best thing to owning your own business.

Home & Design

You have been coined the 'Queen of Real Estate', what would you say are your attributes that have led this title?

I look after people, stay true to what I say, and remain honest in everything I do. I always aim to do the very best for who we’re working for. I believe in dealing with all clients and prospective customers with absolute respect.

What makes you stand out from other real estate agents?

What you see is what you get with me. I never pretend to be anything other than myself. I also don’t pay any attention to what is going on in the real estate market. My only concern is that I do the best job possible and that everyone involved in the property transaction achieves what they are seeking and are happy with the outcome.

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David MacDonald 021 650 901

Leila MacDonald 021 928 926

20 Arney Road, Remuera - sale by negotiation barfoot.co.nz/827123

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I am not a housekeeper. I love being out and about meeting with people and selling their houses. The thing I enjoy most is putting people together – when I can see that the vendor and the buyer are the right fit.

What is the most challenging thing about the industry?

What the newspapers have to say about the market. One day they’re saying one thing, the next they’re saying another. My son and real estate partner David and I never listen to the media, we just get on with the job. Another challenge is helping people realise that it makes no difference what the market is doing if you’re selling and buying in the same market.

How has working in real estate shaped you?

I have met and worked for a lot of people along the way – celebrities, as well as people from all walks of life, but that hasn’t changed me in any way. It doesn’t matter to me whether I’m working with a seller or buyer of a $500,000 or $20 million property, they’re all treated the same by us.

You and David must work well together?

Yes, we work very well as a team, both bringing our own skills to the relationship. We have been working together for about 18 years and for us, it’s all about getting the best results for our clients.

How have you juggled motherhood with working life over the years?

My children were all grown up when I started in real estate, so it wasn’t too much of a juggle, however family has always come first. I always make sure that we have time for each other and especially for my grandchildren.

Do you have a motto that you live by?

I never give up until the job is done.

Thoughts on the New Zealand house market at present?

In my 40 years of real estate the market in central Auckland has gone up but never really does it come crashing down – it just levels out. It doesn’t hit rock bottom. I think at the moment the market is levelling off, but it will only be a matter of time before it goes up again. The buyers out there waiting for it to hit rock bottom will be disappointed because it’s never going to.

With your wealth of experience, what one tip would give to a buyer in today's market? And to a seller?

If you love a property, don’t miss out on it. Go with your gut instinct, don’t rely on other people’s opinions. You are the ones that will be living in the house, so only your opinion matters.

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June 2022

Quality Turkish Rugs, Runners and homewares.

53 Wood St in Freemans Bay, Auckland | www.yuva.co.nz

169 Maunganui Road, Mount Maunganui www.bohzali.co.nz

SHIMMER BAR CABINET, BAY SWIVEL CHAIR, BARK 7 RING ROUND PENDANT

www.dawsonandco.nz www.dawsonandco.nz

Four Legs

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Featuring Jardin Dawson & Co Atelier Jones Rene Jansen Trenzseater Corso De Fiori Elsie Wolfe Decorative Antiques

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5

4

Home & Design

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9

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1. Jardin Fermob Calvi Dining Table And Surprising Chairs 2. Elsie Wolfe Decorative Antiques Country House Dining Table 3. Rene Jansen Moeraki Table In Oak And Laminate 4. Elsie Wolfe Decorative Antiques Primitive Antique Work Table 5. Corso De Fiori Aeron Coffee Table 6. Dawson & Co Asterias Dining Table 6. 7+9. Atelier Jones Perret Arm Chair 8. Dawson & Co Half A Square Dining Table 10. Trenzseater Dino Dining Table

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June 2022

Bathroom Happiness Reece can help create a bathroom better than you imagined.

Reece opened their new flagship showroom, Reece Bathroom Life, in March 2022. The large showroom boasts more than 70 inspirational bathroom displays to make it easier to design and visualise the perfect bathroom for your home and lifestyle.

“It’s like Pinterest – except you can actually touch, feel and experience the bathroom spaces” says Paul Robbins, operations leader at Reece New Zealand.

Planning a bathroom can be challenging, but Reece Bathroom Life has been designed to bridge the gap between inspiration and reality. It’s more than just a showroom, combining design expertise with a world-class range of products.

Get inspired and create Bathroom Happiness in your home with Reece Bathroom Life. reece.co.nz/bathrooms

Reece Bathroom Life is located at 77 Broadway Newmarket, Auckland or find your nearest showroom online at reece.co.nz/storefinder

Home & Design

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LOCAL STOCKISTS OF A RANGE OF

100% PURE KIWI BEESWAX CANDLES

VISIT US AT TH E RIALTO C E NTRE , 163 B ROADWAY, NEWMAR KET O RDER O NL I N E RETRE ATN Z .C O. N Z O R CAL L ( 0 9 ) 5 2 4 5 8 9 0

String Shelving - available exclusively to Bob and Friends plus Accessories, Furniture, Lighting and the best of Modern European Design.

253 Ponsonby Road Auckland, New Zealand

bobandfriends.co.nz ron@bobandfriends.co.nz

09 378 7350 022 021 0455

Design of June Resene Komar Heritage Wallpaper Collection HX3-010

STYLING — BELLA SAMPSON

Maison Dada Major Tom Armchair Matisse Frame-Shift bookcase by Gabriele and Oscar Buratti

Design Republic Servomuto Side Table

BuzziSpace BuzziJet Standing

Stacks Santa Barbara 3 Seater in Elton Peach

Cool Republic Woodendot Coffee Table

Amara Baby Alpaca Throw in Powder & Vintage Pink

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Maison Dada Dali Divina Table Lamp

June 2022

Modern History WORDS — GRAHAM WOOD PHOTOGRAPHS — GREG COX

Artist Sally Arnold’s house in South Africa’s Great Karoo is a pioneering instance of how local vernacular influences and materials can be harnessed to create something new and modern.

Home & Design

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A protected central courtyard tucked into the L-shaped arrangement of the main building has a bright blue swimming pool running its length. The blue of the swimming pool reflects the intense blue of the sky, as well as catching the colour of the shutters and doors.

The rounded niche at the end of the swimming pool not only creates a comfortable poolside love seat, but also forms part of a series of curved and rounded shapes that run throughout the otherwise straight-lined architecture. Like the rooftop terrace, they are partly inspired by Moroccan architecture, but also reference some of the historic corbelled Karoo houses dating back to the 1800s.

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From the front door, you can see how the level changes in the main living space of the house follow the slope of the ground outside to include three separate levels for kitchen, dining and living space. The interiors spaces telescope towards the high back windows, which are raised in response to the scale of the view of the

Home & Design

Swartberg mountains and the vast sky beyond. Sally has kept the interior white for its calming, visually cleansing effect.

Simple, local finishes have been selected throughout, including screed floors and the exposed pole beams and reed, or ‘latte’, ceiling.

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The white and natural cement palette of the kitchen, with its screed tops, is both simple and sleek, and almost disappears into the background in the open-plan living space.

Home & Design

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“I really do love the mix of modern with vintage.

I think it's really stimulating.”

The main living room is positioned right at the back of the house in the largest volume, raised to maximise mountain and sky views. It is not quite double volume – about eight metres high, says Sally. She envisioned the sitting area as a cosy cluster of chairs and sofas – a little pocket of comfort within the internal volume – which allows it a sense of space while not being dwarfed or attempting to fill it. Sally’s favourite colour, green, is one of the only colours she’s expressed in the living room. She calls her furniture “a mishmash of everything" but admits she "particularly loves the '50s". Her sofa was one she had in her studio in Luxembourg, bought from a secondhand

store there. “I really do love the mix of modern with vintage,” she says. “I think it's really stimulating.”

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The circular bath (pictured right), which protrudes into the courtyard, has a skylight. “You can lie in the bathtub and see the stars at night,” she says. “And the afternoon light there is spectacular in summer, just beautiful.” Its circular shape was inspired by Moroccan architecture. “I just thought it was so nurturing,” says Sally.

Home & Design

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Get the look with Resene Resene Bubble White Resene Bone

The bedroom, in the single-storey wing of the house, plays around with the possibilities of combining traditional and contemporary design. There’s an unpretentious local texture about it, and an easy-going sense of comfort.

Resene Rusty Nail

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The roof terrace, which was originally inspired by Moroccan architecture, makes a perfect outdoor living space in the hot, dry and sometimes windy climate. Sally notes that it’s a feature that has been imitated throughout the small town, testimony to its success.

Wild Love WORDS — MILLY NOLAN

PHOTOS — CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Born out of a love for the land, Little Wilderness is Auckland’s newest wedding and events venue, with a unique twist. Run by mother and son team, Charmaine Barnett and George Vodanovich, the idea behind Little Wilderness was that it must work hand-in-hand with their passion for rewilding, rejuvenation and replanting of the land.

An off-grid slice of paradise, Little Wilderness springs from 30 acres of land in Kumeū bought by Charmaine 12 years ago. Her vision, to regenerate the native bush while creating a space that serves both as a legacy for her own family to continue, and as green lungs for the local community. Part of the land has been left to regenerate on its own, while also planting hundreds of native trees each year. There’s a stream, orchards, dense bush, and a glasshouse where Charmaine propagates plants under the guidance of her horticulturist daughter. “It’s pretty wild,” says Charmaine. “It’s not manicured for so that we may honour the land by working with, rather than against, it. It’s a regenerative project and an ongoing labour of love.”

Seeing the potential for an eco-friendly events venue, three years ago the dynamic duo launched Little Wilderness, focussing on intimate family and corporate events and weddings for up to 80 people. Only 30 minutes from the CBD, yet feeling like you're a whole world away upon arrival, Little Wilderness is about unwinding in nature while reconnecting with each other over good food and good music. “We’re all about hosting premium events that offer an authentic experience while also being low-impact to the ecological environment,” says George. It’s achieved by mindful selection and the use of resources while producing minimal waste. While guests are welcome to organise their own vendors, Little Wilderness has a list of recommended suppliers who are simpatico and conscious of reducing the carbon footprint of the events. “We encourage people to be mindful of their inputs and outputs,” says George.

PHOTO —PIA PHOTO & FILM

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“We don’t allow anything on site that can’t be recycled or isn’t biodegradable – so no balloons, Sellotape, or plastic confetti.”

Currently, events are powered by solar panels, while large rain tanks provide the water.

The purpose-built shed which houses most events is contemporary rather than rustic but neutral enough to be personalised. As for the outdoor entertainment areas – from the rocky outcrops to the ‘Gypsy Orchard’ or the long-grass meadow where the sun sets – the land is a photographer’s paradise. The venue has recommended catering partners, but mobile caterers are welcome. Food trucks have been popular for a mini festival vibe, while BYO makes it easy to offer guests their favourite tipple. Soon, wildflower gardens will be able to be picked from to create personalised floral decorations or even bridal bouquets.

“What we’ve found is that people don’t want to hand over moonbeams for one day of celebrations, but they still want to create something beautiful,” says George. “We have proven that you can still have a low-impact event with eco-friendly principals. Your event can be minimalist or can be luxurious and opulent. Whatever you choose, we can help make it original and memorable.” littlewilderness.co.nz

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June 2022

Light Up! The Fairy Light Shop arrives in Uptown.

Now conveniently located at 20 Mt Eden Road, New Zealand’s premier fairy light supplier, The Fairy Light Shop, has all your decorative lighting needs. Using an exclusive collection of fairy lights, festoons, and lanterns, their experts will turn uninspired spaces into enchanting places.

With a range of power, battery, solar and rechargeable lighting choices, it’s easier than ever to bring the feel-good factor to your home, garden, or business. The Fairy Light Shop’s experienced staff offers inspired design advice and comprehensive installation tips.

From indoor lights to complement your decor, to outdoor commercial-grade lights that will withstand the elements, The Fairy Light Shop's range carries a one-year warranty as testament to their quality and commitment to sustainability.

Open Monday - Friday 9:30am - 4:30pm 20 Mt Eden Road Phone: 09 218 5342 Facebook & Instagram: @thefairylightshop Email: sales@thefairylightshop.com www.thefairylightshop.com

In addition, the hire department provides a flexible and affordable option for weddings, parties, and other events.

Looking for something to light up your garden on these dark winter evenings? Hang festoon or string lights across courtyards and wrap solar seed lights around tree trunks.

Drape net lights over hedges or float some glowing globes in the pool. Icicle or fringe lights come in a range of colours and look fabulous on shop front verandas.

The Fairy Light Shop’s lights can be viewed all over Auckland – wound around trees in Newmarket and Takapuna, and at venues such as Circus Circus, and The Blue Breeze Inn. The showroom’s a stone’s throw from the CBD, with on-site parking.

A most unique retail experience — visit to check out their extensive range.

Made In New Zealand We Offer Made To Measure 1 Seymour Road, Mellons Bay, Howick Auckland | 09 534 8614 Wed-Sat | 10am-5pm kevin@kevinmooredesign.co.nz kevinmooredesign.co.nz

JOIN US ON ONE OF OUR UPCOMING ISLAND RETREATS QUEENS BIRTHDAY | 3 NIGHTS | JUNE 3 MATARIKI | 3 NIGHTS | JUNE 23 RELAX RETREAT | 2 NIGHTS | 2 SEPTEMBER

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Made in NZ, Roxburgh Central Otago, with 100% natural fibre · Wool outer fabric, natural fibre lining, cotton, rayon, linen. · Metal covered buttons, raw wool felted shoulder pads, exclusive to TFB. · Sustainable, labels, cotton and soy ink. · Bespoke, one only of colour per style, customers get to choose their colour and lining if desired. · Tailoring techiques used, can be altered for extra lenght or shortened coat lenght or sleeve.

133 Scotland Street, Roxburgh, Central Otago 0272466809 | thefashionbooth.co.nz STYLE THE RISING DAWN | COLOUR RUBY ROSE

MEMORABLE WEDDINGS. MAGNIFICENT VENUES.

Celebrate your special day at Auckland’s most iconic venue.

Enquire with our Events team on 09 302 9765 or email us at myevent@aucklandmuseum.com.

Bridal Beauty

BRIDAL BRILLIANCE

ROSE AND IVORY

Bridal Brilliance’s collections have been created to capture the beauty of every bride. With different styles, sizings and price ranges in mind the team pride themelves on being able to provide exactly what their brides envision. Their belief is that 'finding the one' should be fun, stress-free, and an experience shared with loved ones. An appointment with Bridal Brilliance is easy, not only do they have amazing gowns for every body but their friendly and easy-going staff create a comfortable environment. They also offer an exclusive VIP experience which is ideal for families coming together to enjoy their loved one’s bridal journey.

Rose and Ivory has created a unique blend of floristry and bridal.

The team is committed to seeing that their customers receive the freshest of flowers and up-to-date fashion in bridal gowns.

Boasting a wealth of experience from more than 10 years in the bridal industry, they’ve collaborated with labels from New Zealand and around the world to offer a range of elegant silhouettes to suit any personality and style.

404 Lake Road Takapuna roseandivory.co.nz

5/15 Trugood Drive, East Tamaki 09 274 8324 bridalbrilliance.co.nz

THE WILD ROSE Wedding flowers made easy – simply let The Wild Rose know your colour palette and they’ll design a one-of-a-kind wedding package for you. The Wild Rose also has great value wedding flowers and bridal party gift boxes with a wide variety of premium options for bridesmaids and grooms, with your personalised message included for free inside. Save 5% on wedding packages over $500 with code WEDDING5.

254 Great South Road, Takanini, Manukau 2112 09-262 2509 thewildrose.co.nz

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June 2022

FOR EVERY WEDDING

Unforgettable wedding and honeymoon experiences expertly designed and executed.

From the big idea to the little things that make them special. · Te Koinga Cottage · Turehu Cottage · Wairua Apartment · Wedding & Events Pavilion Bethells Beach, Waitākere, Auckland, New Zealand

26 MCCOLL STREET, NEW MARKET, AUCKLAND

bethellsbeach.com

09 520 6070

26mccoll@gmail.com www.modes.co.nz

superette.co.nz

Knowing Rickie Verve sat down with Rickie Dee, co-founder of Superette, to chat about the brand’s 20-year anniversary and what’s on her radar this winter.

Congratulations on 20 years of Superette! What’s the biggest highlight from the last two decades?

Thank you! Growing the business across two decades is a really proud moment, with various highlights along the way. Opening each store location, to this day, is very much a highlight, as is building our in-house brand, Superette, to where it is today. It’s a newer portion of our business but now a very strong part of it, one that can be catered to gaps within our current buys, but also into what our customers want. I think also just working with a large team – 148 people – and seeing everyone excel in their roles, from the retail stores through to the people in the office through to the studio and warehouse.

What trend are you most excited for this winter?

There are so many! The trench is hugely popular this winter and is one that many of our suppliers do so well. In saying that, I think the trench is kind of like a core staple in everybody's wardrobe, so it is something that won’t go out of style. There’s a lot of wide leg pants at the moment – easy to wear, super comfortable and again another one that is relatively timeless.

The chunky boots are everywhere this season, often worn with a slim-fitting pant or leggings.

What are your favourite wardrobe essentials?

A blazer and jeans are my wardrobe go-to. I feel like it’s one of those outfits that you can really dress up with a pair of heels or dress down with sneakers and a tee.

Your best piece of style advice?

The big thing is making sure you feel comfortable in what you’ve got on. You know, never dress for someone else’s style.

That’s when it can go horribly wrong. Don’t follow a trend just because – make sure that you’re comfortable in it.

What’s your go-to Auckland coffee spot?

Our office is based in Takapuna, so our go-to spot in Takapuna is Holy Shot. But I live in Ponsonby, so it’s Dizengoff on Ponsonby Road.

Favourite spot for drinks and dinner?

Quite a few. I think Prego is an old institution, you always know what you’re going to get, for both drinks and dinner. I also love Lilian and then Onslow for a special occasion.

Any new foodie places on your radar?

Milenta is one that I’m really enjoying at the moment. You can have a really yummy dinner and then go next door and have a dance and have some drinks.

Favourite NZ getaway?

Queenstown. I think with Covid and travel restrictions, it has been a spot that’s been a family holiday location. We do like to ski and snowboard, and it’s an activity that the entire family can do. Not to mention the amazing food and drink that's down there.

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3 0 0 6 S u m m i t J a c ket 3073 Spice Shirt 2 7 6 0 N B oy f r i e n d J e a n

WORDS — ALEX BLACKWOOD

Nu to U

PHOTO — VICORIA BIRKINSHAW

Slice of the Past, Way of the Future

Way back in 1987, before recycling and secondhand shops were cool, two intrepid Auckland sisters set up a pre-loved designer clothing and accessories store on Parnell Road.

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Thirty-five years later, Nu to U is still there selling high-end goods with owner, Emily-Jane Dasent, behind the desk most days.

Emily-Jane bought the shop from one of the original sisters in 2017. Just as it’s always been at Nu to U, she knows the names of her regular customers, and is glad to direct patrons to the alterations business next door so clients can take potential purchases that aren't quite the perfect fit for advice before they buy. It’s a glimpse of how clothing boutiques used to be – right down to the price point which is often substantially less than the original RRP. “We all love to feel that we’re getting value for our money,” Emily-Jane notes, “and never more so than at this point in time.”

But it isn’t just value that makes the shop so popular, it’s the impeccable calibre of designer threads that come through the store.

“We only accept high-end national and international labels, in tip-top condition,” says Emily-Jane. “International brands include Chanel, Givenchy, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, IRO, Zadig & Voltaire, and national brands include World, Juliette Hogan, Zambesi, Kate Sylvester, Gregory, and Trelise Cooper.”

The gorgeous pieces are all intricately made items that deserve a new, loving home. And the recycled fashion movement, of which Nu to U was an early pioneer, is an intersection of high fashion and sustainability that just makes sense.

drastically contributing to climate change. We have to change our mindset and I think as a society we’re starting to make some inroads there.”

And the people of Parnell and beyond seem to agree for EmilyJane has never had to actively seek stock. “The wonderful women of Parnell and beyond just come in every season with the most amazing items and entrust us to sell them. It's a privilege to do this on their behalf. It just comes rolling in, and every year the stock seems to be more amazing.”

She estimates that a whopping 70% of her suppliers are repeat clients, with most of the sellers having chosen Nu to U as their reseller since 2017 and before. Little wonder, when the clothes are taken care of with reverence, then when the sales cycle ends, they touch base with the consignor to allow them to collect their items. Nothing is ever donated to charity without ample opportunity for the consignor to take back their pieces.

“I had a client today who told me that her mum shopped with Nu to U 20 years ago which was very special for me,” she says. “It shows that shopping at Nu to U is intergenerational! How cool is that?”

Not only with sellers, but with buyers, too. The racks of Nu to U have seen some heart-melting interactions over the years between people brought together by beautiful things.

Emily-Jane is passionate about the premise: “The movement takes fashion that is no longer loved by its previous owner and passes it on to be loved again. That fashion piece re-enters a new phase of its life and as a recycler we extend the life of that piece.

“There was one young schoolgirl who came into the shop with her mother looking for a ball dress,” says Emily-Jane. “We found her a labelled dress and she went into the changing room in her school uniform as a young girl and came out as a stunning young woman. The dress looked amazing on her and we all stood there, jaws dropping.”

“I think most of us are aware that fast fashion is just not sustainable. Fashion industry waste fills our landfills,

As the NZ exclusive distributor of an upcycled brand called Heartspeak Worldwide (from which proceeds go towards

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“I think most of us are aware that fast fashion is just not sustainable.

Fashion industry waste fills our landfills and is drastically contributing to climate change.”

helping ex-incarcerated women), Emily-Jane sold a piece with COURAGE written on the back to a client who had recently lost someone special to her: “We talked and cried about what it meant to her. It was such a deeply touching moment that I will cherish.”

With all the special and unique pieces coming through the shop, she tries to find the story behind the pieces: where was it bought, what was the owner doing when she purchased it, and where it was worn – one lucky Rag + Bone fedora had even been to Coachella!

So, what’s next for Nu to U? “We will keep doing what we do best: providing women with fabulous designer clothes at a fraction of the original price,” says Emily-Jane. “We plan to grow our online business and amp things up on our socials. I’d love to expand on the recycling ethos, and include other items – more bags, jewellery and maybe even furniture.

“The options are limitless and recycling really is the way of the future.”

383 Parnell Road, Phone 09 377 9235

The shop has certainly played its part in plenty of fascinating stories too, and in a way, that’s part of its purpose. “We jokingly call the shop ‘retail plus therapy’,” says Emily-Jane. “So many clients pop in for a chat to let us know what’s going on in their lives, the good and bad, the joyous and sad. It's taught me the value of community, especially after Covid and the wonderful support we’ve received from the women of Parnell. I like to think of Nu to U as people empowering other people, offering a kind word or encouragement when needed. The shop is an extension of my own home where friends pop in for a chat. We like to believe that we make a difference in people's lives, both to their wardrobe and their welfare.

nutou.co.nz

Nu to U $500 in-store gift voucher giveaway

“I love the little things. For example, a client came in the other day to ask what length her new trousers should be hemmed to – she wanted to look on point. So, we had a chat and a laugh and sorted that out. I love the banter and the laughs. People bring their dogs in, their babies, and occasionally, even a husband!”

Follow, like and tag us on Instagram @ nutou_designer_recycle to go into the draw.

1 tag = 1 entry.

Or signup at nutou.co.nz to receive our newsletter to gain 1 entry.

The shop is a pillar of the community in a way not many stores are anymore. It’s a place for fabulous, deliciously affordable fashion, but also a place to chat and bond. It has evolved over the years, with an online consignor portal, an e-commerce site offering Afterpay and PayPal, and of course Instagram and Facebook pages too.

Draw is 1 July.

Please note giveaway cannot be transferred for cash.

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@__IDAE WWW.IDAEONLINE.COM

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1. Rag & Bone Hesper Faux Shearling Jacket 2. Herno Raso Coat Taupe 3. Totême Quilted Recycled Shell Coat 4. Joseph Jelia Wool And Silk Shirt 5. Alexandre Vauthier Cargo Jacket 6. Paris Georgia Blue Josephine Shirt 7. Burberry Belted Double-Breasted Cotton-Gabardine Trench Coat 8. Lauren Manoogian Capote Hooded Alpaca-Blend Coat

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1. Mihara Yasuhiro Distressed Cotton Cardigan 2. Y/PROJECT Triple-collar Cotton-blend Sweater 3. Acne Studios Cable-knit Sweater 4. Ermenegildo Zegna Wool and Cashmere-Blend Sweater 5. Rag & Bone Piece Ribbed Cashmere Sweater 6. Acne Studios Checked Jacquardknit Wool Sweater 7. Gabriela Hearst Casa Space-dyed Cashmere Cardigan 8. Gabriela Hearst Francesco Spacedyed Cashmere Sweater 9. N.PEAL Thames Cable-knit Cashmere Sweater 10. Gabriela Hearst Lawrence Crewneck Cashmere Sweater

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Cosy Up

June 2022

The Bad Boy of Fashion

ABOVE: ALEXANDER MCQUEEN SPRING-SUMMER '98, UNTITLED (THE GOLDEN SHOWER)

Fashion

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WORDS — NICK AINGE ROY

In the early 1990s, a new and unlikely face from east London burst onto the global scene. Sporting a buzz-cut and cockney accent, and following in the footsteps of fellow Brits, Vivienne Westwood and John Galliano, Alexander McQueen was a designer whose ability to shock was matched only by his supreme talent and craft mastery.

Born Lee Alexander McQueen, in Lewisham, London, in 1969, McQueen’s upbringing was solidly working class: his father, Ronald, was a taxi driver, his mother, Joyce, a teacher. Growing up as the youngest of six children, McQueen turned to fashion at an early age, drawing designs on the wallpaper of their family flat and making dresses and skirts for his mother and sisters. Hampered by dyslexia, McQueen left school aged 16 to study tailoring at Newham College, his only formal qualification at the time being a single O Level in art.

leading fashion school, but was rejected on account of his youth. Bobby Hilson, head of the school’s MA fashion course, encouraged McQueen to enrol as a student instead. In 1992, McQueen graduated, launching his label with a collection titled Jack the Ripper Stalks His Victims.

After completing his studies, McQueen secured an internship at Anderson & Sheppard, one of the most esteemed tailors on Saville Row, before moving on to another house, Gieves & Hawkes, where he worked as a pattern-cutter. McQueen’s time on Saville Row did more than equip him with the talent for impeccable tailoring that would become his hallmark. It set a blueprint, establishing an identity for McQueen that would follow him for the rest of his career: an East End boy (“hooligan yob”, in his own words) carving out his place within the most elite and prestigious circles of fashion.

That McQueen was destined for greatness seems almost a foregone conclusion in hindsight. Still only 20 years old, he left Saville Row to work for a time at theatrical costumiers Angels and Bermans, before becoming an assistant to London-based, Japanese designer, Koji Tatsuno, and the rising Milanese superstar, Romeo Gigli. All three experiences would have a profound influence on McQueen’s eventual aesthetic. Returning to England, McQueen applied for a job as a patternmaking tutor at Central Saint Martins, the world’s

ABOVE: ALEXANDER MCQUEEN SHOT BY DAVID BAILLEY

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ABOVE: ALEXANDER MCQUEEN SAVAGE BEAUTY SHOW AT THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART

The show’s macabre, historical focus set a precedent that McQueen would follow throughout the ‘90s and established a design language that would become his signature: pronounced shoulders, snatched waistlines, and unconventional cuts and tailoring that seemed to have been imagined through the lens of Victorian costume. In attendance that night was Isabella Blow, an influential stylist and fashion insider, who purchased the entirety of the collection and became McQueen’s benefactor and mentor, allowing him to work out of the basement of her Belgravia apartment while it was undergoing renovations, and championing his talents.

With each new season, McQueen’s aptitude for showmanship appalled and delighted critics in equal measure. They found themselves unable to look away as models stormed defiantly down runways baring breasts and buttocks in increasingly controversial shows such as Banshee, The Birds, and Highland Rape. The latter would prove to be one of McQueen’s most misunderstood and maligned ‘90s

Fashion

collections, providing additional ammunition to critics who misinterpreted the historical reference to England’s rape of Scotland during the Highland Clearances as glamorising rape and violence, strengthening claims of misogyny that many had already levelled against the designer. Despite this, McQueen’s immense theatricality and undeniable talent had caught the eye of executives at the luxury conglomerate LVMH, who were searching for someone to take the reins at Givenchy. They decided the 28-year-old Englishman was the man for the job.

Although the appointment represented a huge milestone in McQueen’s career, the relationship with Givenchy was fractious from the outset. The irreverent designer was unaccustomed to the conservative landscape of Parisian couture and felt creatively constrained by the traditions of the house, describing his first collection in Spring Summer 1997 as “crap”. When his contract ended in 2001, neither party opted to renew it.

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With each new season, McQueen’s aptitude for showmanship appalled and delighted critics in equal measure.

ABOVE: ALEXANDER MCQUEEN SPRING-SUMMER '99, UNTITLED (NO. 13)

Nevertheless, the Givenchy years coincided with, and may even have contributed to, the creation of some of McQueen’s most haunting and beautiful collections at his own label, as he was awarded British Designer of the Year four times between 1996 and 2003. By the new millennium, Alexander McQueen was the biggest name in British fashion, and when the Gucci Group acquired a 51% stake in the label in 2000, the stage was set for McQueen to step away from his grimy east London roots and become a commercial label and household name on par with any in France or Italy.

did not elaborate further. Finally, on 11 February, 2010, just one week after the passing of his mother, Joyce, Lee Alexander McQueen was found dead by his housekeeper. He was aged just 40. A note written on the back of a copy of Charles Darwin’s The Descent of Man, read simply: “Look after my dogs, sorry, I love you, Lee.”

In spite of his success, McQueen’s is a tale of tragedy. As his clothes were worn by celebrities, and boutiques bearing his name opened around the world, McQueen battled substance abuse and mental health issues that had plagued him throughout his adult life. In 2007, he was devastated by the suicide of his friend and greatest fan, Isabella Blow, and, prior to presenting his Spring Summer 2010 show, Plato’s Atlantis, McQueen made repeated mention to friends and confidantes that the collection would be his last, though he

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ubxtraining.com/gym/greylynn

A New Face in Grey Lynn's Fitness

Finding time to stay on top of your fitness is an endless challenge. Beyond the day-to-day demands of life and the difficulty of finding the right gym, most clubs will often penalise customers for missing a class or force them to compete for space with other members at some ungodly hour of the day.

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WORDS — NICK AINGE ROY

The boxing-based programme makes flexibility its number one priority and invites its members to rethink the impossible.

Little wonder fitness falls off the priority list for many people.

Luckily, there’s a new option for getting fit without having to deal with all the other problems that get in the way. Open since February, UBX Grey Lynn offers its members boutique fitness in a group environment without the additional headaches. The boxing-based programme makes flexibility its number one priority and invites its members to rethink the impossible: with no set class times and no fixed contracts, members can fit in a workout whenever their schedule allows, putting fitness on their terms.

For club owner Sam Day, the experience of running a business in the fitness industry is one that is unfamiliar but rewarding.

A born and raised Auckland boy, Sam’s early career led him overseas for many years, first to Asia and then Australia, before returniing to New Zealand in 2016. Having always thrived in roles where “you get out what you put in” and wanting, like many of us, to finally be his own boss, Sam saw an opportunity in UBX. A natural people person and lifelong boxer with an immense passion for the sport, Sam’s service goes beyond just holding pads or calling out combinations during a training session. At UBX, a class comprises a mixture of bag-work, pad-work, and strength training across 12 three-minute rounds, during which time each member receives several sessions of one-on-one coaching. More than simply a great workout, UBX members build new skills and sharpen their technique with every session, and Sam says watching their progression is one of the most rewarding aspects of his job.

and the unintimidating atmosphere of the club that Sam credits the success thus far. Since opening, he’s enjoyed getting to know all the members, slowly becoming a part of their daily and weekly routines.

He's also proud that their modern facility is a far-cry from the sweat and gloom of a traditional boxing gym and feels that this, along with their no-contact, no-sparring approach to training, has been crucial in creating an environment appeals to women, who make up more than 75% of UBX’s membership.

Overcoming the fear of the unknown and the initial learning curve of the sport is always a challenge for new members, but once they get through the door and experience the UBX approach for themselves, they fall in love with the unique confidence and fitness that boxing helps build.

While the club has made great strides in the past four months, Sam is not content to sit back on his success, instead aiming to have five UBX franchises under his ownership within the next five years. He acknowledges that the fitness industry’s great challenge is to stand out in a crowded market but believes that he offers an experience and service unlike any other. One where members can train at their pace, to their fitness level, in a club that cares.

FREE TRIAL FOR NEW MEMBERS UBX Training Grey Lynn 10 Maidstone Street, Grey Lynn greylynn@ubxtraining.co.nz 021 571 885

Although only open a few months, UBX Grey Lynn already has over 100 members, more than half its capacity limit – and Sam’s one-year goal of 200. It’s the personalised nature of the training 73

June 2022

A Cut Above Since the day men’s hair stylists Barba opened its doors, founder Chetan Mongia’s mission has been to “make clients who trust us look a million dollars”.

Verve sat down with Chetan to find out how he and his team have gone about establishing one of the city’s coolest barber shops.

With so many barbers to choose from, what are Barba’s main points of difference?

We believe hair to be the biggest fashion accessory. As the owner and director of Barba, I work with my manager Matthew Griffin to ensure that the team is always equipped with the latest techniques and trends from around the world.

We’re dedicated to creating bespoke hairstyles tailored to our clients and their lifestyles.

How do you select which products to use at Barba?

Barba’s personality is fashionably metro, excitement mixed with competence and sophistication. The products we offer resonate with this aesthetic and style, mesh well with our personality and attitude, and value the same things you do.

Hence, we work with brands such as Triumph & Disaster, Seb Man, Reuzel, Slick gorilla and recently Two Dudes as well.

In what ways do men’s facials differ from women’s facials, and why are they just as important for men?

According to Matthew – whose mum is one of the top beauty therapists in Auckland – the most significant difference is that while both deep cleanse, they’re each done with different products. Women may use exfoliants or masks, but not scrubs. Men’s facials often include face scrubs to remove dead skin cells and dirt from pores. Environmental factors in NZ, coupled with the fields that most men occupy career wise, means it’s important that they take good care of their skin.

Whether it be via home routines or popping down the salon to be pampered, the benefits are there for all and should be reaped by not only women but men, too.

Why have some men begun to turn away from a traditional razor shave for a straight razor shave instead?

Men face a dilemma with grooming regarding clean shaving, including skin irritation, excessive exfoliation via the razor, and ingrown hairs. The more blades you have doesn't guarantee a cleaner shave and can cause more problems in the long run, especially regarding skin renewal. Opting for a cut-throat shave or single blade shave is not only an experience and artform but performed properly can have you feeling fresh while maintaining skin durability.

What advice would you give the modern metro man regarding his everyday beauty routine?

Wash your face daily and after exercise, using a mild facial cleanser and lukewarm – not hot – water.

Watch your shaving technique. For some men, multi-blade razors can work too well or shave too closely to your skin. If you often experience razor bumps, razor burns, or ingrown hairs, wet your skin and hair to soften it. Use a moisturising shaving cream and shave in the direction of hair growth. Rinse after each swipe of the razor and change your blade after 5-7 shaves to minimise irritation.

Apply moisturiser to your face and body immediately after bathing, showering, or shaving while the skin is still damp.

Wear sunscreen whenever outdoors.

464 New North Road Kingsland 09 216 5784 barba.co.nz

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WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

All About Bravery We all like to think we’d stand up to defend our loved ones from physical peril or speak up to take a certain moral stance even when it would be easier to stay silent or go with the flow. That we would have the courage of our convictions, no matter what the personal consequences.

That we would be brave.

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...bravery isn’t something we’re necessarily born with, rather something that can be managed like any habit – and it basically boils down to dealing with fear.

Thankfully, most of us will rarely, if ever, be truly tested in such fashion, but what, exactly, is bravery, and how is it measured?

‘Brave’ or ‘courageous’ are among those words that are thrown around far too casually (especially when it comes to millionaire celebrities and sports stars), but if ever there’s a group more deserving of such monikers it’s the stoic people of Ukraine, their inspirational leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and the thousands of anti-war protestors who’ve recently taken to the streets of Russia (more than 15,000 had been arrested as of March).

Of course, there are acts of everyday bravery far less dramatic than facing down the army of a murderous dictator, like plucking up the courage to finally get that business idea rolling, taking that solo trip to a far-flung corner of the world, enrolling as a mature student, or calling time on a toxic relationship for the very last time. Whether it be fighting fires, criminals, or disease, frontline workers put themselves in harm’s way as a matter of course.

The American Courage Index (ACI) measures how entrepreneurs’ various types of courage – think emotional, intellectual, business, or moral – compares with the rest of society. It has found that, overall, business owners tend to harbour more courageous characteristics than the rest of population, while emotional bravery increases for everyone with age.

And what of the role of gender? Throughout history, the traditional (and, some would argue misogynistic, others, noble) view has been that bravery is the duty of the male. A 2001 poll

by Gallop revealed 55% of men considered themselves more courageous than women, while only 16% of them believed women to be more bold. Women were a lot more generous to their own, but still considered men to be the braver sex by a margin of 4%. Such opinions seem almost comically outdated two decades later but go back to 1950 and the same poll found 35% of the US public believed boys to be more courageous, with 33% of respondents giving it to the girls and 22% saying the sexes were evenly matched.

Far more recently, an assessment of 75,000 leaders around the world, compiled by leadership consulting business Zenger/ Folkm, and published by the Harvard Business Review, concluded women just about edged out the blokes in terms of boldness, ranking in the 52nd percentile, “a few ticks higher than the average men” in the 49th. “While that doesn’t seem like a huge difference,” note the authors, “it stood out to us because ‘men take more risks’ is so ingrained in social science.”

Other research has found that heroic acts throughout history such as aiding Jews during the Holocaust, volunteering for the Peace Corps or overseas medical non-profits, and donating kidneys were all more likely to have been carried out by women.

(Research has also proved that women are the stronger sex under extreme conditions, more likely to survive famine, epidemics, and enslavement.)

Whatever the gender, Kate Swoboda, author of The Courage Habit, insists bravery isn’t something we’re necessarily born with, rather something that can be managed like any habit – and it basically boils down to dealing with fear. It’s vital we recognise how it feels to be afraid and learn to tame the resulting urges through mindfulness, says the author, allowing access to fear “without rejecting it or being pulled into an old fear routine”. Fear rarely results from physical peril, but rather that inner critic repeatedly informing us failure is the only way.

As with fear, Swoboda encourages that we should listen to that voice rather than ignore it, for listening “without attachment” places us in “a better position to learn from it”.

Expressive writing and creating courageous communities of likeminded souls are further methods of bolstering our boldness.

For it is through living with courage, says Swoboda, that we will live lives of greatest fulfilment, “whether that’s embarking on a new relationship or job, of helping to save the world”.

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Bottled Up? How do men communicate?

Badly, so goes the cliche, but is it really justified?

Men's Feature

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WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

“The idea that men and women differ fundamentally in the way they use language to communicate is a myth in the everyday sense: a widespread but false belief.”

The 2006 book The Female Brain by Louann Brizendine famously stated that women utter around 20,000 words a day while men only say around 7,000. Based on little more than anecdotal evidence, it’s a statistic that has been widely debunked (to the point where it’s been removed from newer editions of the book) yet remains ingrained – or at least the gist of it does – in the collective psyche.

Published more than a decade earlier, Gender and Conversational Interaction,

by Deborah Tannen, included more than 50 actual scientific studies, of which only two concluded that women speak more than men (34 of them found males to be more verbose, while the rest were inconclusive), and a 2007 study in the journal Science that spanned Mexico and the US found women to utter just over 16,000 words per day, men just a few hundred less.

Here in New Zealand, a Victoria University analysis of 100 public meetings discovered blokes asked 75% of the questions while accounting for around 65% of the audience, and even when there was 50-50 split, the men still asked way more. Similarly, studies of work and higher educational environments have found men more likely to dominate meetings and conversations.

Of course, more men speaking more in public or professional settings may very well, for obvious reasons of power imbalance through inequality, boil down to greater confidence (or arrogance or entitlement) rather than a natural predisposition to pipe up, but when it comes to relationships and social settings, men are generally considered more reticent. The reason traditionally given is that women and men are just wired differently, but even in those informal environments where there is an equal balance of power studies show both sexes contribute pretty much equally. (The Australian feminist scholar, teacher, and author Dale Spader quips we tend to overestimate how much women speak because in our patriarchal world we wished they wouldn’t speak at all.)

“If we examine the findings of more than 30 years of research on language, communication and the sexes, we will discover that they tell a different, and more complicated, story,” writes Deborah Cameron in The Myth of Mars and Venus. “The idea that men and women differ fundamentally in the way they use language to communicate is a myth in the everyday sense: a widespread but false belief.” contined on page 80

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“It is individual people, not categories of male and female, who share their perceptions, feelings, thoughts, hopes, and dreams – creating their own shared relationship reality.”

Cameron goes on to describe the accepted view of the cliched, sullen, uncommunicative male as “patronising”, and questions why a book called If Men Could Talk is allowed to exist when a book titled If Women Could Think “would be instantly denounced”. As a society, we’ve become programmed to search for gender differences and embrace and accept them to the point where a “study that finds no significant differences is less likely to be published”.

of socialisation. “Boys are socialized to be less emotional,” she writes for Lifetime Daily. “That doesn’t mean they don’t feel emotions deeply. Rather, they tend to learn early on not to be overly expressive.”

Cameron suggests men have maybe realised it’s sometimes advantageous to be considered conversationally incompetent to exempt them from doing something they don’t want to, “like the idea they are no good at housework”.

It’s not our brains that need rewiring, rather what is expected – and accepted – from men.

Men, she continues, are “reared to be less vulnerable” while for women, it’s not only acceptable for them to be more expressive and emotional, it’s expected.

“Adhering to gender stereotypes gets in the way of looking at one’s partner as an individual,” says clinical psychologist Dr Catherin Aponte, for Psychology Today. “It is individual people, not categories of male and female, who share their perceptions, feelings, thoughts, hopes, and dreams – creating their own shared relationship reality.”

In terms of the context of conversation, men certainly must improve in opening up about their emotions and mental health, but the widely held belief that males are fundamentally incapable of doing so is as dangerous as it is wrong. The US award-winning writer and clinical psychologist Dr Jacqueline Simon Gunn says that differences between genders is a result

Men's Feature

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Male Manicures Manicures and pedicures for men are here.

It’s estimated that 20% of men now undertake regular manicure and pedicure sessions – that’s a ten-fold increase over the past decade; and it’s a trend that’s continuing to grow. Here’s why treatments are becoming so popular: They improve your hygiene Ever thought about what lurks beneath your toenails? Or the last time you properly scrubbed the soles of your feet?

Manicurists are trained professionals who know how to painlessly get all the deep-rooted grime out from under your nails. They’ll also remove dead skin meaning there are fewer places for bacteria to thrive.

ones to step forward, keen to work salvation into hands and feet.

Ladies love well-groomed men If you want to make a good first impression when you shake someone’s hand, then a manicure is going to serve you well.

The perception that women don’t notice when a man has rough, calloused hands and dirty nails is a false one; and while a certain amount of ruggedness can certainly be attractive, the modern man is certainly more adept and in tune with presentation and perception.

They have health benefits If you suffer from ingrowing toenails, you’ll know that prevention is better than cure. Pedicurists know how to neatly cut nails so that they don’t become ingrown. Also, removing dead skin keeps calluses, bunions and corns at bay.

It can even be a bonding experience Talking of women, why do you think they head to salons en masse? It’s not because they get some kind of girl-gang discount, it’s because going offers a great opportunity to catch up on gossip and hang out with your besties.

It actually feels really good Your feet have it tough, and it stands to reason that a soothing treatment, invigorating massage and cooling gels are going to feel wonderful. But the happiness doesn’t end at your ankles, as stimulating your ‘plates of meat’ boosts your bodies circulation and is stressbusting too.

This opens up the option for couples to visit the nail salon together; or if really daring, male buddies can go for a pedicure. The rules have changed.

Men undertake tougher physical routines If anyone should be looking to repair and revive digits and toes, it is men. Generally speaking, the female of the species has the less physically demanding tasks, so men should be the

The market is ready There are bespoke products ready to go, which are conditioned and formulated for male skin and nails. This means it’s no longer a case that men feel as if they are gatecrashing something reserved solely for the ladies.

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More for the Men Increasingly, we’re enjoying the presence of male clients at Clinic 42. Gone are the days where cosmetic treatments are solely for the fairer sex!

Male interest in caring for their skin has prompted skincare lines exclusively for men, and an extension of that is their interest in looking as healthy and as youthful as they feel.

Whether it’s a surf-loving 55-year-old who’d like to soften his crows from years on the waves squinting into the horizon, or the project manager who didn’t worry about sunblock but did worry that he spent most of his time in the car travelling between sites.

Those lines, once dynamic and expressive, have now become static and etched on the face as a permanent expression – and perhaps not an expression that reflects how you feel on a daily basis It’s apparent that most men’s morning routine of shaving in front of the mirror is purely a task-driven activity, however, hours spent in front of Zoom has prompted some deeper contemplation of their appearance.

While the most common concerns that drive men to seek advice in our clinic

Men's Feature

are still about crow’s feet (the lines extending from the corners of the eyes), the forehead (horizontal) or glabella (vertical between the brows) and jawline, we find that men want to know more about what’s available. They often go on to have treatments such as IPL (intense pulse light) to not only address broken capillaries and pigment on the face, but on areas such as the backs of hands and forearms.

VENUS VERSA TREATMENTS Pigmentation & Redness

Face Spot Treatment - 15 mins Nose & Cheeks - 15 mins Face - 45 mins Face & Neck - 60 mins Face, Neck & Decolletage - 60 mins Neck & Decolletage - 60 mins Hands - 30 mins

$80 $180 $350 $500 $600 $500 $150

We also find that once patients have undertaken IPL treatment to address an issue, whether it be broken capillaries, pigment or full skin rejuvenation, they are more likely to follow up with caring for and protecting their skin and the investment they’ve made in it.

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It also seems to come as a pleasant surprise that wrinkle treatments are only 30-minute appointments and dermal filler, and pigment/redness treatments are completed within an hour, with most having minimal discomfort and little-tono downtime post treatment.

We encourage men to seek out practitioners skilled in treating men, as it's important they have a strong understanding of male facial anatomy and understand how to work with male features.

If you’re interested in finding out more about any of the treatments available at Clinic 42, you can visit our website at clinic42.co.nz . You can also book via our website or contact our reception on 09 638 4242 or reception@clinic42.co.nz

All About the Men

ESSANO MAN Facewash, Moisturiser, Shave Gel and Beard Oil A straight-up shave and skincare range, designed to reduce irritation whilst improving the skin's appearance. Packed full of powerful natural ingredients that condition and calm skin including green tea, aloe vera and Tasmanian pepperberry, essano Man is naturally great for sensitive skin. Available at all good supermarkets and pharmacies, and online at essano.co.nz

PRODUCTS DESIGNED FOR MEN One the face of it, OneMan has it all. After several years travelling and extensive ‘mesearch’, Max Dawson brings online to New Zealand a contemporary range of premium grooming products designed specifically for men, sourced from all over the world, that you will not find at your local supermarket. oneman.co.nz

SATOMI NAILS Satomi is a Japanese nail artist located in High Street in Auckland CBD. With 10-plus years’ experience in the industry, Satomi specialises in e-file manicure, gel and nail art. E-file manicure is performed on dry skin, pushing back and exfoliating dead skin to give a cleaner and more polished look – perfect for men who want a meticulous look without colour on the nails.

42 High Street 021 0283 9439 satominails.co.nz

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All About the Men

LADY PINK

SPRING SPA

"Perfectly sculpted nails that inspire confidence and compliments!" is Lady Pink’s trademark. After 18 years of providing New Zealand’s most dedicated nail care service, and building her loyal client base with treatments available for both men and women, Lisa is looking forward to welcoming you to her new boutique nail spa and salon opening in Takapuna’s Lake Road later this month.

Let's hear it for the boys! Gents, good grooming is a must so keep yourself on point with a selection of treatments by Spring Spa which are tailored for the modern man. Keep yourself looking your best and feeling confident, visit springspa.com

ladypink.co.nz

021 753 327

CHAUN SPA Sothys Homme Facial and Chuan Man’s World As the temperature drops it’s the perfect time to restore your skin and prepare for winter with a Chaun Spa treatment, combining the benefits of massage with a purifying facial. The perfect mix of relaxation and rejuvenation. cordishotels.com/auckland

Men's Feature

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WORDS — MAX DAWSON @onemannz FB: onemannz oneman.co.nz

Manskin Maintenance Unless you’re some sort of genetic superfreak, at some point you’ll notice some serious signs of ageing. Face it.

Men are different from women.

Taken at face value that sounds pretty damn obvious, but to get literally and specifically 'in your face', men and women have quite different facial needs. Diving in deep here, we can talk hormones and stuff, and get all scientific but, in the true spirit of manliness, let’s focus on the superficial. To cut to the chase, why you need skincare products that are manly specific for manskin maintenance.

Firstly, there are some substantial hormonal differences in the structures of men’s and women’s skin. An obvious one results in beard growth. Hormones aside, there's likely to be significant differences in lifestyle and personal habits. The results of years before the mast or at the crease, years of exposure to the elements during the course of manly pursuits, sees

the lines on the face become deeper, the bags under the eyes darker. This is the price of la vie sportif.

If you’re wanting to delay, or at least reduce, the ravages of the sun and general wear and tear on your skin, you better make sure you have these items in your arsenal: Eye Cream

That skin under your eyes is paper thin and begins to look more dull and tired.

It’s the first area to show that the rigours of life are getting on top of you. And remember to get your recommended allotment of sleep each night, the body is a great self-healer.

Sunscreen

The only worn leather you should own should be on your belt, jacket, or boots.

Certainly not your face. For most us years of sun damage will eventually leave our skin wrinkled and littered with tiny age spots. The stuff that keeps it firm – collagen and elastin – aren’t quite producing the goods like they once were.

The easiest way to forestall this is to use a moisturiser with a built-in sunscreen.

Do not give up on yourself. Remember, life is a marathon not a sprint. This is OneMan on a mission to help keep you looking good all the way down the track.

And remember, there is no finish line.

Cleanser

The fundamental key to a good cleanser is that it washes the dirt and grime of the day away. Can you live without it?

Most probably. Will it make a definite improvement to what you have going on?

Most definitely. Use morning and night.

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The Last Man to Walk on the Moon

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Verve looks back 50 years to the moment Eugene Cernan boarded Apollo 17, homeward bound, and in the process became the last person to set foot on the surface of the moon.

When Eugene Cernan boarded Apollo 17 in 1972, few could have imagined the moon’s surface would remain untouched by mankind again for five decades. Afterall, in the three previous years, 10 others had made the journey to experience the sensation of touching down on earth’s only natural satellite.

Further missions had been planned to the moon, but even before Apollo 17’s departure, NASA had cancelled Apollos 18 and 19 because of congressional cuts. There was also a feeling after the Apollo 13 emergency that NASA risked having its entire manned space programme cancelled if a crew was lost on another Apollo mission.

The ability to reach an orb that had mystified civilisations for millennia almost normalised space travel. From there, we were supposed to look further. And in fairness, we have – such is today’s technology unmanned missions can reach well beyond the confines of what human participation makes possible. Yet, it’s with a certain level of sadness that the ultimate journey, one fantasised over by astronauts, authors, filmmakers, and generations of children the world over, is one thats been five decades without repeat.

Cernan passed away in January 2017; Evans had died aged 57 in 1990. Harrison Schmitt, who from 1977 to 1983 was United States Senator from New Mexico, is the lone survivor, joining only three other men who have walked on the moon (Buzz Aldrin, Apollo 11; David Scott, Apollo 15; and Charles Duke, Apollo 16), still alive today.

Cernan, the commander of Apollo 17, set off with his threeman crew to the moon on 7 December. He was joined by Lunar Module Pilot Harrison Schmitt, while Command Module Pilot Ronald Evans orbited above.

The crew remained at the moon for 75 hours, making three seven-hour moonwalks, and at the end of the third, just before the module was set to leave, Cernan dropped to one knee and etched his daughter's initials, ‘TDC’, onto the moon's surface.

Because there is no wind nor atmosphere present, those letters will likely remain there forever.

The trio began the return journey on 16 December, the trip back taking three days with them landing safely in the South Pacific Ocean.

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Light Posturing

How returning to the fundamentals of good posture could drastically improve your quality of life.

From slumping on sofas, hunching over computers, leaning in towards smartphones and tablets, and generally getting dragged down by life’s woes, bad posture not only takes its toll on joints and muscles but also affects how we feel about ourselves.

Physically, aches and ailments brought on from perennial bad posture spread to all parts of the body, creating issues as varied as poor digestion, neck pain, headaches, issues with feet, knees, and hips, and even breathing problems.

Muscle memory isn’t just something you read about when buying a mattress – it’s a real thing we can plug into our body’s framework to ensure we become more resilient to long periods sat or stationed in the same position. Remember: · Any general movement that frees you from being stuck in one place will lead to better posture, so change your stationary position, stretch, jog on the spot, and even lie flat if you feel it’s putting flexibility back into your body.

Our posture is most compromised when we’re sat or stood for prolonged periods of time. Humans are conditioned to know when they need to move around, and work can often seriously restrict our ability to do so (and long periods on a mobile phone are just as bad).

Here are some easy fixes to consider for alleviating the pressure on your posture: · Make sure your chair is at the right height so your screen is comfortably level with your eyeline. Shoulders should be down and back, and avoid crossing your legs. When typing keep arms at a comfortable 90-degree angle in a nice, neutral resting position. · Relax in your chair – they come with armrests for a reason! · If, alternatively, you have a job that means standing around for an extended period – for instance, a shop assistant – resist leaning on one leg and instead keep legs hip width apart, tummy pulled in and bum tucked under.

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· Good posture is achieved through strong core and glute muscles. That means regular exercise, so keep up with those sit-ups and lunges! · Undertaking exercise classes and pursuits to counter the negative effects of being stuck in one place is a great idea too. Pilates has been proven to be one of the most efficient workouts, and one that can retune your entire body to work more effectively, making you feel stronger and full of confidence.

WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

Golden Girls of Sunrise House

ABOVE: HELENE, EDNA, MAATA & KEIKO

In a modern, open-plan residence overlooking sprawling playing fields on Auckland’s North Shore, a group of sassy ladies are rewriting the rules of senior living – and in the process, having a blast.

A microcosm of Aotearoa’s wonderful multiculturalism at work, the women – aged from their late 60s to late 70s – hail from Canada, Japan, Rarotonga, and New Zealand. Verve visited their home, Sunrise House, for some tea, cake, and a natter.

“They’re just as mixed in the house next door,” says New Zealand-born Edna, who used to work in advertising and a legal office and is a recent member of the household. “They’ve got Scotland, England, and Russia, as well as a Kiwi, but those girls are even older than us!”

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“Everyone has to agree on everything.

Communication is key.”

The first-of-its-kind project has conceived by Neil Binnie of the Bays Community Housing Trust, a non-profit that provides high quality, affordable housing for those in social and economic need. Applicants are means tested and assessed by the trust before being interviewed by their potential future flatties.

French-Canadian Helene, the house’s longest serving resident, says that blokes were once considered but the idea was soon scrapped when it became abundantly clear that “men of that age are simply searching for a woman to look after them”.

“We’ve all been there, done that, and don’t need to do it again!”

Edna chips in.

I ask if they have a cleaning roster and Helene says that the group of “queen bees” choose their allocated chores.

“If it wasn’t for this place, I’d probably have had to move out of Auckland,” she says. “It’s very special here, the companionship.

It feels as though I’ve found a new family.”

Such companionship proved vital during the Covid-19 pandemic, when, while residents of pricey retirement villages were often confined alone to their bedrooms, the Sunrise gals were able to continue pretty much as usual. They even bought themselves a Nintendo Wii to keep themselves entertained, set up by Helene, the resident fixer.

“I taught IT in Montreal in the late ‘90s, having bought my first Apple PC in 1990,” she says. “I love teaching, and still do it. But now it’s mostly bridge.”

“We work together to make it home,” adds Maata, who served three prime ministers in Rarotonga. “Everyone has to agree on everything. Communication is key.”

She’s also a keen ballroom dancer, and some of the ladies play bridge and bowls (Keiko bowls internationally), though not always together. For another key to the group’s formidable friendships is to have other social circles and allowing each other their own space.

“Like all homes and families, compromise is occasionally required to keep things harmonious,” says Edna.

“But we try to meet up at 5pm every day for a catch up and a chit chat as we take turns preparing our meals,” says Maata.

Such as deciding what to watch on television?

Amazingly, none of the group had ever flatted before, and their coming together appears almost preordained. Some are widowed, some divorced, some divorced once or twice. All have lived full lives and are determined to live this new chapter to the fullest, too.

“We all have televisions in our private quarters, but we probably read more anyway,” says Maata. “I’ll sometimes watch Dancing with the Stars in here.”

I ask if much dancing goes on in the living room, and Maata says they have a boogie every now and then, but it’s Edna and and Keiko who are most likely to get up to groove, especially after a wine or two.

Keiko, “the baby of the house”, who originally hails from Japan and worked for the consulate, admits to having lacked courage and confidence for much of her life, of a feeling of “never quite fulfilling my potential”. But, moving into Sunrise with her “sisters” has really allowed her to grow.

“There needs to be more places like this that strike the balance between independent and communal living,” says Helene.

With half-a-million Kiwis expected to be renting in retirement, she has a point.

“The trust checks in with us regularly, we feel safe and secure,” says Maata, “and we’re so grateful and thankful to be here.”

“We prop each other up,” adds Edna. “We share our stories. And we fill the house with much laughter.”

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All Change for Middle Age 92

The Cambridge Dictionary defines ‘middle age’ as “the period of your life, usually considered to be from about 45 to 60, when you are no longer young, but are not yet old”.

Opinions, however, vary dramatically.

A survey by online learning website Love to Learn found Brits don’t consider midlife to start until the age of 55 – surely wildly optimistic! – and old age to only apply to those pushing 70.

Respondents to a US Men’s Health magazine survey agreed middle age to begin aged 37, while in Aotearoa the consensus falls somewhere in between (aged 45, according to Te Ara: The Encyclopaedia of New Zealand).

Midlife is one of those things that I thought would only happen to other people, and, entering my 40s with no kids (and being part of a group of, so far, childless friends) has likely helped reinforce my state of denial – despite the expanding sprinkling of wrinkles and grey whiskers. Parenthood, I suspect, seriously sharpens the passage of time, watching that small human grow (and so fast, so says everyone) a reminder of our ever-changing – and ageing – state. Without children and all the responsibilities that they entail, does middle age perhaps sneak up on us even more surreptitiously so?

Midlife for many is the busiest and most stressful period of our existence, often juggling a marriage and mortgage while raising a family and perhaps keeping an eye on elderly parents, too. Yet it’s the most vital time for taking care of ourselves to ensure our older selves are around for the longest – and healthiest – time. Metabolism slows, the weight creeps on, and hormonal changes will likely wreak havoc. Sleep and exercise are never so important, and just when most have the least hours in a day to do them.

Middle age is also generally the longest and most diverse period of our lives, yet – perhaps, in part, because it is so difficult to define – remains far less researched than childhood, adolescence, and senior years. But it is agreed that it is certainly happening later.

“The sorts of things we might have seen people in their 20s doing in the decades past like having children, finding a life partner, and buying a house is being delayed now until the 30s,” says William Chopik, assistant professor of psychology and principal investigator of a Michigan State University study of more than half-a-million people.

And comfortingly middle age denial is not just common, but it’s rooted in reality too. A fifth of respondents to the study said they felt younger than they really are, with the percentage increasing with age.

“As our life spans get longer, so does our view of old age,” continues Chopik. “How we view ourselves changes constantly as we age.”

And the self-deception does wonders for our health: “People who report feeling younger actually tend to live longer and healthier lives and they don’t tend to have as much of a pattern of decline.”

Who says denial’s all bad.

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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.

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On the Bookshelf During these cooler months we're lighting Japanese incense, flicking on the reading lamp, and curling up with a mohair throw and an assortment of books. Ponsonby store, Everyday Needs, shares a few favourite reads.

AN UNRELIABLE GUIDEBOOK TO JEWELLERY Lisa Walker

THE SQIRL JAM BOOK Jessica Koslow

An incredible 600-page full-colour paperback which one could spend many, many joyous hours with. It explores the work of internationally celebrated New Zealand jeweller, Lisa Walker.

Sqirl all began with jam: organic, local, made from unusual fruit combinations, fragrant, and not overly sweet. The kind of jam you eat with a spoon. The Sqirl Jam Book collects Jessica Koslow’s signature recipes into a cookbook that looks and feels like no other preserving book out there, inspiring makers to try their own hands at canning and creating.

PRIVATE GARDENS OF AOTEAROA Suzanne Turley

IN AN ARTIST’S GARDEN Claire Orrell

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Much soug;ht-after Kiwi landscape designer Suzanne Turley has created many of the country’s most desirable private gardens, all set against the spectacular backdrop of the natural environment. From the pristine Pacific beaches of North Island to the breathtaking peaks of the Southern Alps, this book gives readers rare access to hidden gardens nestled alongside coastal cliffs and surging rivers, woven into bush, or etched seamlessly into volcanic hills.

Step into the gardens of celebrated artists from around the world in this charming seek-and-find picture book of rhyming verse. Visit Claude Monet's famous waterlily ponds, Frida Khalo's bright and colourful garden, and Emily Kame Kngwarreye's Country, Alhalkere. With all manner of creatures and objects to find, discover the delights of each artist's garden and the inspiration found in nature.

June 2022

Box Office Verve’s picks from the French Film Festival A MERMAID IN PARIS

Gaspard, a crooner with a broken heart, had sworn never to fall in love again. As for Lula, a pretty mermaid, she has only her singing to defend herself from men, making hearts race until they explode.

When the Seine floods and deposits Lula at the foot of the Flowerburger, the barge-cabaret where Gaspard sings, there comes a mini-tsunami that will upset and change their lives. He, the man who has suffered from having loved too much, and she, the creature who has never known love, will get to know each other. And to sing with the same voice...

ABOVE: A MERMAID IN PARIS

Directed by Mathias Malzieu.

MURDER PARTY

Sink your teeth into this juicy murder comedy! Was it Colonel Mustard in the kitchen with the candlestick? Or was it Mrs Peacock in the conservatory with the lead pipe? Murder Party follows Jeanne (Alice Pol), a brilliant architect on a new job, renovating a beautiful mansion owned by an eccentric family who head a board game empire. Jeanne turns from architect to investigator when the landlord and patriarch is found dead and suddenly everybody is a suspect.

LA TRAVIATA, MY BROTHERS AND I - OFFICIAL SELECTION CANNES 2021 UN CERTAIN REGARD -

Directed by Nicolas Pleskof.

Nour, a 14-year-old boy, is enjoying the beginning of the summer holidays in the South of France. He is the youngest of four brothers who live together in a council estate, taking turns caring for their mother who’s in a coma. She used to love Italian opera, so Nour plays it for her, and develops a passion for the music. Between community work and rising tensions at home, Nour dreams of escaping to a faraway place and when he crosses paths with opera singer Sarah he finally finds the opportunity to come out of his shell and explore new horizons.

Directed by Yohan Manca.

THE BANFF CENTRE MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL

The world’s largest mountain film festival arrives in Auckland this June. With over 20 powerful films on offer – from a man cycling the ‘chimneys’ of Cappadocia, to the first woman and person of colour to hike the Ice Age Trail in winter – Banff Film Festival will inspire Kiwis to dream big again. To remind us how diverse and adventurous the world is – both ‘out there’, and in our own beautiful backyard.

Screenings start in Auckland from 7 June. For more information and session times, visit banff.nz.

Art

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50 % ld so n w do

3 6 °47 ’ 17.0 ” S 174° 3 9 ’ 2 4 .7 ” E

With panoramic views across the Waitemata Harbour towards Herald Island, Clark Coastals are luxurious three-bedroom villas, nestled on the northern boundary of Summerset at Monterey Park, Hobsonville.

Each architecturally designed home is orientated for fantastic sun and views, and has been finished to the highest of standards, with contemporary finishes and features throughout.

Summerset at Monterey Park 1 Squadron Drive, Hobsonville

SUM3635

For more information, get in touch with our Sales Manager, Nicola Redmond on 09 951 8922 or visit summerset.co.nz/clarkcoastals

Allaying Anxiety Therapist, Margarita Politis writes about dealing with the dreaded social anxiety disorder.

Are you suffering from a social anxiety disorder? While away from home do you feel as though everyone's watching you and silently judging you? Are you afraid you'll embarrass yourself and people will laugh? You may feel like you're all alone, but you're not. Social anxiety disorder is a debilitating mental illness affecting millions of people like you worldwide.

Carrying out – or even considering – simple tasks like going to the shop or bank, heading to school or work, walking the dog, or making phone calls can wreak havoc on the minds and bodies of individuals with social anxiety disorder.

Here's some useful information, as well as some things you can do to help yourself: What is social anxiety disorder?

Social anxiety disorder (also referred to as ‘social phobia’) is the persistent fear of being judged in social or performance-based situations, of being made fun of, acting embarrassingly, or looking anxious. Social anxiety becomes a disorder when your fear significantly affects your ability to function in your day to day-to-day life.

While some mental illnesses eventually resolve on their own, social anxiety disorder rarely does. So, without treatment, you'll suffer with it for the long haul.

Beauty & Health

How can social anxiety disorder affect your life?

You may drop out of school early, accept jobs you don't like, or quit jobs altogether so that you don't have to deal with other people. You may avoid social interactions or avoid situations where you feel you can be judged. And you may find it incredibly difficult to reach for a helping hand or seek treatment.

There is help

Fortunately, I have found Rapid Transformational Therapy yields results fast, getting to the root cause of the anxiety while addressing the core belief system. Most people will try and change the behaviour (symptoms), however this is the wrong way around. Anxiety is the activation of the flight/ fight/ freeze mechanism, usually through a triggering thought, circumstance, or unresolved trauma that’s set off this alert.

Self help

To help boost serotonin, go for walks outside in nature. Daylight makes serotonin which in turn makes you feel pleasure.

Stimulate serotonin in your body for longer by being outside in daylight, exercising, walking, and eating certain foods such as bananas, eggs, chicken, turkey, pears, celery, dates, and very dark chocolate.

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WORDS — RACHAEL D'AGUIAR CREATOR OF ONE TRUTH 818 SCIENTIFIC SKINCARE

Combatting the Effects of Gravity?

ABOVE: ABICH TRIAL IMAGES TAKEN OVER 30 DAYS

Gravity is a scientific fact.

So when did it become something so negative? I’m talking about ageing – and noticing gravity in all sorts of different ways!

Gravity is only partly to blame, of course. The main reason is the loss of elastin and collagen in the skin which leads to sagging and a general loss of firmness. Sigh.

To me, it’s one of the most noticeable differences between my 30-something self and my 40-something self. I’m actually not too bothered with some lines on my face – in my case they’re mostly where I smile, so I figure why not show a life well lived? But the sagging?

My nemesis!

Here’s what I’m doing to combat it. (Full disclosure for those who don’t know me yet, I’m not one to slice and dice myself or do anything violent with my face. Keep reading if you’re looking for science-based tips that don’t include plastic surgery.)

First and foremost, let’s talk about One Truth 818 serum. It’s a no-brainer that I use this twice a day. It’s easy to use

and we know how effective TAM-818 is when it comes to restoring telomeres and undoing biological ageing. Did you also know that when using One Truth 818 the amount of elastin and collagen produced is so significant that independent doctors were able to measure and quantify it?

your own biological functions and then leaving your skin to produce its own fixup tools. In that sense, it fits the same philosophy of One Truth 818 for me. And although it uses micro-needles (hence the name), the surface of the skin is not scraped, blasted or pelted off, which is a no-go in my book.

I take the title ‘Scientific Skincare’ very seriously, so here’s proof to back up my comments. This is what the doctors at Abich Laboratories discovered when testing One Truth 818 on 100 volunteers over 30 days:

Internally, to help with the ‘plumpness’ and quality of my skin, I take a good quality marine collagen, omegas, and hormone balancers (in my case I break out without my iron and vitamin B) to keep my skin clear. Marine collagen and omegas can be good generic ones for most people.

• Elastin (elasticity) resulted in an improved average value equal to 4.83% after 15 days of product twice daily application, and by an average value equal to 8.33% after 30 days.

That’s why I never fail to use mine twice daily. It is proven, it works and it’s easy.

Personally, I’m not only fighting against ageing but some weight gain then loss while growing and having two children. I feel that the skin under my chin in particular needs a bit of extra help. My go-to professional facial for this purpose is micro-needling. I like the premise that you’re simply activating

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I’m often asked what I do for the antiageing of my skin, so I hope you’ve found this helpful if you’re looking for some real-life advice from someone who tries to look their best. My skin has also been supported with treatments from Louise Gray, and her fabulous team at Louise Gray Skin Care, always ensuring that I am in good hands!

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

June 2022

Wildly Inspired Sue Collis began making candles as a passion project, then created Piha Candle Co. pihacandle.co @pihacandleco

Now her full-time pursuit is making small batches of candles, hand poured to order, from her home in Piha, her influences being natural history, the intrigue of the natural world, and all the discoverers and pioneers of the past.

Sue tells Verve how she sources ingredients like coconut wax that have no chemicals or synthetics to ensure environmentally conscious, quality products.

Piha Candle Co began as a part time passion, tell us how you learnt chandlery?

I started making candles using leftover wax from commercially bought candles that my environmental conscience could not bear throwing away, and trial and error with a couple of secondhand pots! I set up my chandlery in Piha during lockdown in 2021, so there was plenty of time to hone my skills by watching YouTube videos, reading up on how to fix my mistakes, and developing my brand.

How did you discover coconut wax?

Upon discovering that many candles are made from blends of paraffin, palm wax, petroleum, and all sorts of carcinogenic nasties, I went in search for the most eco-friendly, plant-based products I could find. After much research, I discovered coconut wax. Coconuts are a very sustainable crop due to high yields and crop renewal – it resonated with me due to previous volunteer work in Borneo, seeing first-hand the effects on orangutan caused by deforestation for palm oil.

botanical illustrations of sketched botanicals in old books with yellowing pages. I choose my favourite native plants then choose the fragrances to resemble them. The nature collection labels are photos of Piha and the surrounding Waitākeres, taken by me and made to look like aged black and white photos depicting landscapes standing the test of time.

The black bevel jars used in this range depict the strength of the natural environment, the silver lids with the rippled pattern match the changing form of the iron sand of the west coast.

Tell us about your own daily candle rituals, do you have a favourite scent that you use every day, or do you vary it depending on your mood?

In the morning, I love to light a fresh fragrance to start the day like the green leafy notes of Waitākere or the citrus notes of Kōwhai. I burn a candle at my desk while I work. This depends on the weather and the seasons mostly, but my daytime go-to is Kitekite, a fresh and sweet fragrance with waterfall notes of seaspray and honeysuckle. As the sun goes down this is when the magic happens. I light candles throughout the home, all my favourite fragrances, meaning I enjoy a variety of scents as I move around the house! In winter by the fireplace, I love the spicy, earthy, ozone notes of Pōhutukawa and Piha, while Renga Renga is lovely and floral for the bedroom. Every day is a great day with a candle!

In what ways does the environment of Piha inspire your fragrances and the aesthetic of your brand?

The labels for the botanical collection were inspired by

Beauty & Health

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If you can grab it, it's fat. Freeze it.

Guaranteed results.

No two bodies are the same.

BEFORE TREATMENT

AFTER THIRD TREATMENT

BEFORE TREATMENT

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Treatment time is 70min for four areas No downtime Once cells die, they're gone for good Cool tech is the most advanced tech

June Special Free resistance band & programme Three areas for $1,600.

We guarantee full-body contouring using COOL BODY FAT FREEZING TECHNOLOGY To book, call 09 360 0055 or call Yvonne on 021 923 430 for a FREE CONSULTATION

FAT FROZEN

BEFORE TREATMENT

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BEFORE TREATMENT

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COOLBODYNZ.COM • 28 COLLEGE HILL, FREEMANS BAY

Smoother and 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 and no downtime – resume normal activities immediately after Customisable and flexible treatment opportunities depending your body and goals No BMI restrictions Male and 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

Probiotics For fertility, pregnancy and infancy maab.co.nz

In the previous issues we discussed microbiome in relation to fertility and pregnancy. Let’s now continue the journey for newborns.

Infancy

Like genes, microbes pass from mother to child, and babies born vaginally have more diversified gut bacteria than those delivered by caesarean.

Another factor heavily affecting the composition and development of infant gut microbiome is breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding has a profound effect on the development of the newborn as breastmilk, in addition to providing nutrients and protective compounds, also helps develop gut microbiome.

These nutrients – human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) – are specifically metabolised by gut bacteria, strongly favouring the proliferation of bifidobacteria, essential for proper development of the infant gut microbiome. Breast milk may also serve as a source of external microbes, aiding in the appropriate priming and development of the infant gut microbiome.

During the first three years of life, gut microbiome matures into an adult-like gut microbiome with a multitude of different microbial species, primarily bacteria. The transition is mainly driven by weaning and the gradual introduction of solid foods.

Primary changes observed are a decrease in bifidobacteria and an increase in other bacterial species. Proper development of the gut microbiome is of utmost importance to help prevent various adverse long-term conditions like asthma.

Probiotics may shape the microbiome toward a healthy, balanced state. Bifidobacteria, frequently in combination with lactobacilli, have proven beneficial in children, where a dysbiotic microbiome is implied – like antibiotic-associated diarrhoea.

The combination has also been shown to reduce the risk of atopic dermatitis. Furthermore, probiotics seem to affect the overall health of preterm infants with a marked reduction in the risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

Probiotic consumption during pregnancy may even affect the composition of HMOs in breastmilk.

Summary: probiotics for the first 1,000 days of life

Research has shown the microbiota is pivotal in the development of infants, in addition to nutrition, findings that have fostered the concept of ‘the first 1,000 days’, covering pregnancy and the first two years of life. This has now been extended to ‘the first 1,500 days’ to account for the importance of the microbiome during pre-conception. In all the stages covering the first 1,500 days, probiotics are suggested to be vital in ensuring an optimal conception state, pregnancy progression, infant development, and child maturation.

About MAAB probiotics

MAAB's Fastmelt probiotic supplements are purpose-made probiotic products. MAVAG is researched and developed to help maintain a balanced vaginal microbiota, while the product Immuno is designed for daily support of the immune system.

Even better, MAAB Fastmelts are unlike many supplement products in the form of capsules or pills for they are a tasty but sugar-free probiotic powder that can be ingested directly without water. So, it’s quite a pleasant and healthy trick even for children and those who resent the idea of taking pills to stay healthy.

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June 2022

OREXART

Exhibition of the Month

Peter James Smith An artist, traveller, and mathematician, highly celebrated, deeply immersed in the landscape and the stories he can tell us, Peter takes his paintbrush, maths and poetry into the Milford and Dusky Sounds to capture the waterfalls in all their glory.

Not only does he take us there, but also out to Lord Howe Island to measure the wind forces of cyclones in the painting Curvature of the Wind. These are paintings where mathematics, history, and romanticism connect us to the wonders of our world.

PICTURED ARTWORK: CURVATURE OF THE WIND, LORD HOWE ISLAND. 64 X 86CM $9500

PICTURED ARTWORK: FALLS, NINE FATHOMS PASSAGE, DUSKY SOUND. 61 X 91CM $9500

221 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby

Art

Open Tue-Sat 11am-5pm

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rex@orexart.co.nz 0212134449

orexart.co.nz

TIM JONES Tales of Light

INTO THE LIGHT – ACRYLIC ON CANVAS, 1500 × 1200MM

“We can hold a world in our hands, all is revealed by light.”

– Tim Jones In his latest exhibition, Tales of Light, Tim Jones engages with metaphor and abstraction, interlacing the notion of revelation with the presence of light through a series of expressive and engaging paintings.

Themes of subconscious engagement have persisted through the evolution of

Jones’ work, with the artist observing the myriad of layers and connections that make up the multi-faceted world we inhabit. His gestural and fluid abstracts in large scale project his own perceptions, while also offering the viewer space to engage with their own presence, their own contemplations, and their own Tales of Light.

THE ARTIST IN HIS MATAKANA STUDIO

“My work is a process of revealing, unlocking hidden layers and a new way of seeing. The paintings are ethereal, a story untold, something completely new.”

Tales of Light is on view at Parnell Gallery 14 - 28 June. www.parnellgallery.co.nz

INCEPTION – ACRYLIC ON PANEL, 1200MM DIAMETER

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June 2022

The Art of June

CURATED BY— AIMÉE RALFINI

ARTWORK: BEC ROBERTSON COURTESY OF TURUA GALLERY

While June’s poetry whispers of hardened dry leaves and rain-stripped stone from a scented damp earth of broken bough, the galleries are saying quite the opposite.

Colour and substance are on the menu in Tāmaki Makaurau this month.

Art

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Studio One Toi Tū Tupu Ma Ola Henderson Intermediate School 16 June – 14 July

Tupu Ma Ola takes its name from the school motto of Henderson Intermediate, to “Flourish and Grow.” Students have collectively braided, woven and stitched together a visual display of alofa (love).

This bright and vibrant exhibition invites you to immerse yourself in a sea of colour, amongst hundreds of ‘ula lei handmade by students. The ‘ula is symbolic of love, friendship, celebration, and honour. Also featured are a collection of gold carvings which celebrate and pay homage to students’ culture and identity.

Te Uru Motutapu Benjamin Work and Brendan Kitto 11 June – 11 September

Motutapu is a collaborative exhibition of new work by artist Benjamin Work and photographer Brendan Kitto. The show concludes a four-year journey by Work and Kitto looking at the shared history of motutapu (sacred islands) throughout Moana Oceania – including Tongatapu, Rarotonga and at the entrance to the Waitematā Harbour here in Tāmaki Makaurau.

420 Titirangi Road, Titirangi Instagram @te_uru_gallery teuru.org.nz

1 Ponsonby Road, Grey Lynn Instagram @studioone.toitu studioone.org.nz

Te Tuhi Elsewhere and nowhere else Kah Bee Chow, Li-Ming Hu and Yuk King Tan. Curated by Vera Mey 4 June – 30 July

"What is here is elsewhere. What is not here is nowhere else."

Fresh Gallery Ōtara

Taken from the 4th-century epic poem, Mahābhārata, this aphorism reminds us that despite differences in our cultural locales, there are aspects of the human experience we can connect to regardless of our personal subjectivities.

What is your VVAI? Jasmine Tuia and Ashleigh Taupaki 4 June – 30 July

Elsewhere and nowhere else looks at three artists who are umbilically connected to Aotearoa but, for different reasons, live elsewhere. In this moment of opening back up to the world, this exhibition seeks to agitate notions that separate the local from the international, reminding us how multifarious our connections to the world are.

What is your VVAI? is an exhibition that explores the process and materials of the contemporary Pacific objects that both artists create. For once, the objects and the names of the objects are absent, and viewers are made to ponder the complexities of making itself.

5/46 Fair Mall, Ōtara Instagram @freshgalleryotara Facebook @FreshGalleryOtara

13 Reeves Road, Pakuranga Instagram @tetuhiart tetuhi.art

Turua Gallery Joy Bec Robertson and Harriet Millar 10 June – 23 June

Joy presents the work of two painters with vastly different styles. From detailed works on plywood of native birds and flora, to chunky painted surfaces of loose and expressively layered brushstrokes depicting flora, this show has been curated to delight and bring joy.

Gow Langsford Gallery So no one will see me walk to deny me grace Virginia Leonard

10A Turua Street, St Heliers Instagram @turuagallery

Virginia Leonard works with clay, resin, and glaze to create abstracted and visceral ceramic sculptures. Her large vessel-like structures are inspired from domestic items such as vases, jugs, and urns, of which the artist abstracts with paint, resin and additional clay, creating dedicant, multi-coloured masses of magnificence.

Corner of Kitchener Street and Wellesley Street East, Auckland Central Instagram @gowlangsfordgallery

turuagallery.co.nz

gowlangsfordgallery.co.nz

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June 2022

WORDS — BELLA SAMPSON

What's On in June

PICTURED: DEAD SEA GUARDIANS

SEVEN METHODS OF KILLING KYLIE JENNER 2-18 June Basement Theatre

In 2019, Kylie Jenner becomes the youngest ‘self-made’ billionaire in history. It’s 4am and Cleo — @INCOGNEGRO — is mad as hell. Selfmade? Please. From the corner of her bedroom, she unleashes a tweetstorm that rapidly veers out of her control.

Jasmine Lee-Jones took London by storm with her award-winning debut play.

IMPROV TEST DRIVE 5 June Covert Theatre

Dip your toe into the wonderful world of improvisation with this entry-level workshop. Improv is a great way to stretch your creative thinking, collaborative mindset, and confidence in unknown situations, as well as being a lot of fun. Bring a friend or brave it alone, the class promises an open and friendly environment. coverttheatre.com

iticket.co.nz

FRENCH FESTIVAL 11-12 June Shed 10

If you’re a foodie or a Francophile, this festival is for you! Spread over two days, Le Chef brings a little bit of France to our shores. Expect delicious offerings like crepes, croissants, macarons, and many more French delicacies. As well as language classes, short film screenings, music, family fun zones, and additional entertainment.

AUCKLAND PHILHARMONIA ORCHESTRA: MATARIKI 23 June Auckland Town Hall

This special one-night-only Matariki concert has been masterfully orchestrated by the APO, Rob Ruha, and the Ka Hao choir. The uplifting and unifying curation of pieces is bound to make for a memorable night, as you celebrate the eve of the first official Matariki public holiday. ticketmaster.co.nz

le-chef.co.nz

THE BLACK SEEDS: LOVE AND FIRE TOUR 30 June Powerstation

The Black Seeds are back, kicking off their long-awaited return with a national tour with their signature blend of timeless reggae, funk, pop, rock, and soul. Perfectly paired with their soothing yet evocative lyricism, these guys know how to capture a crowd of any size.

THE EDGE DOCUMENTARY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 1 June – 10 July Virtual and select cinemas

aaaticketing.co.nz

This Oscar-qualifying international documentary festival is packed with powerful pieces of cinema that will open your mind, shed some light through exclusive behind-the-scenes action, and transport you to other worlds.

Catch titles like Ithaka in which Julian Assange's father campaigns to save his son from a looming 175-year sentence, or Dead Sea Guardians, where three men from nations in lengthy conflict rally together to save the environmental catastrophe happening in their backyard. Nothing Compares, a Sundance favourite, looks at Sinead O’Connor’s journey in a refreshingly open manner. docedge.nz

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June 2022

WORDS — LUCY KENNEDY

So much to watch, so little time...

This month, Verve’s star teen movie reviewer Lucy Kennedy gets stuck into American horror film series, Fear Street.

The Fear Street Trilogy Rated - R

The Fear Street Trilogy (based on the books by RL Stine) is a series of films cleverly set at the same location but spanning hundreds of years. The cursed town of Shadyside is a centre for mass murder, each time the killer a seemingly normal citizen who appears to lose their mind.

Fear Street Part One: 1994 is a horror/mystery revolving around a group of teens. A series of murders begin to stir up old secrets, leading them to uncover their town’s dark past. Deena, a high schooler going through a difficult breakup, finds out that a hoard of merciless zombies is after her ex, and when efforts to involve the Shadyside police prove useless, she summons her friends to help fight back against the undead.

Next in the trilogy is the slasher film Fear Street Part Two: 1978. The mall where the majority of the first film takes place has not been built yet, and at the site lies Camp Nightwing.

Ziggy and Cindy Berman are polar-opposite sisters sent to the

PHOTO: FEAR STREET PART TWO: 1978, NETFLIX

camp. Ziggy hates it. She doesn't get on with the other campers and doesn’t want to participate in camp activities. Her sister, Cindy, on the other hand, is having a ball. She’s a popular camp counsellor who gets to spend time with her boyfriend. However, the Shadyside curse won’t allow such happiness to last long as a possessed Shadysider’s murder spree turns a night of summer celebration into a nightmarish struggle for survival.

Fear Street Part Three: 1666 triumphs as the trilogy’s scariest supernatural movie: a chilling witch hunt horror, featuring a fast-paced plot and captivating cinematography. Viewers finally learn the story of Sarah Fier, the witch behind the cursed site.

Though, of course there is no mall or summer camp, but a tightknit community of witch-fearing and superstitious citizens. It’s told from the perspective of Sarah who must survive the deadly hunt and avoid damnation from the crazed townspeople, an event that causes deadly consequences for centuries to come.

4/5 stars Available now on Netflix.

Instagram @lucykennedyreviews

HANDEL SAMSON CONDUCTED BY RITA PACZIAN

JOANNA FOOTE · SOPRANO KATE SPENCE · ALTO ANDREW GRENON · TENOR SAMUEL MCKEEVER · BASS JOEL AMOSA · BASS

3 JULY SUN 5PM AUCKLAND TOWN HALL www.ticketmaster.co.nz | Ph 09 970 9700 | bachmusica.com

CONCERT SERIES 2022

MAGICAL GLOW-IN-THE-DARK GIANT SCALE PUPPET SHOW! Tickets on sale now and selling fast.

Book now to avoid disappointment. glowshow.co.nz/north-island

AT A THEATRE NEAR YOU June 9 ....................................... The Rose Centre June 12 ...................... ASB Waterfront Theatre June 13 ...................................... The Trusts Arena June 14 ............................. Uxbridge Arts Centre June 15 ........................ Vodafone Event Centre June 10 .................................... Hawkins Theatre July 20 ............................ Bruce Mason Theatre

2022 Small Sculpture Prize Proudly sponsored by Perpetual Guardian in association with Te Motu Vineyard

Prize $3,000

Benefactors Prize $1500

Exhibition Dates: 03 June to 03 July Gala Prizegiving Friday 03 June 6pm Selector & Judge: Dr Kriselle Baker

Previous Winners 2021 2020 2019

Volker Hawighorst, Dimply #7 Gail Barratt, Ecosystem Chris Mules, Fireflies use light to locate mates…

OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM–4PM 2 Korora Road, Oneroa, Waiheke Island 1081 (09) 372 9907 www.waihekeartgallery.org.nz

Hola!

Mila here, founder of V on Wheels, NZ’s first vegan meal delivery service.

Today I’ll share a day in the life of one happy Argentinian living in Aotearoa!

I used to spend so much time cooking, shopping, and delivering food to customers, but after four years of HARD work, the business has grown enough to allow more Mila-time. I’ve learnt to direct more energy into creativity, while enjoying lots more rest, or il dolce far niente – the art of doing nothing!

Before sunrise: I’m such a morninglover. My day starts without an alarm, and it’s seasonal, like my food. Living near the beach, I’m absolutely in love with morning sunrises, so in summer I’m a 5:30am early bird, and aim for 7am in winter.

8am: I sit at the desk, open that inbox, and spend at least 4-5 hours here.

Some days I visit the stores where I stock my meals, others I go to check on cooking days at the factory where V on Wheels' meals are produced. The social part of my business is where my heart is. I love connecting, collaborating, and interacting with strangers. And the nature of my job allows me to meet at least one new stranger every day!

Lunchtime doesn’t have a specific time… just whenever I feel hungry. It could be as early as 10am, or as late as 2pm.

What’s for lunch: Unless I 'office' at a cafe, my meals at home are bowls.

Bowls of lots of everything I have in the fridge: veggies, raw and cooked, tempeh, rice, beans, herbs, hummus, avocado, sprouts, seeds, and nuts.

Settling: After a meal it’s natural to feel relaxed. I’m all about intuition so I start slowing down work activity. Normally my couch becomes the afternoon office and my cat joins me for some cuddles as I select photos and videos for social media, schedule posts, and check what’s on the next day.

3-4pm: Time to move. Either a walk or run to Mount Maunganui summit. It's been my go-to exercise for years. It’s my therapy, my time to disconnect, and be in nature. Winter, summer, rain, hail, or shine, I rarely miss a run.

Late evening: Again, it all depends!

I’m such an extrovert in summer but pretty introverted come winter. Warm evenings are social, with music, people, conversations. As it gets colder, I start going inwards, the soul demanding soup at the fireplace, with Netflix.

Please join me on Instagram and Facebook @vonwheelsnz, and visit vonwheels.co.nz.

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Dining Innovation at its Core

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She's progressed from being a 15-year-old dishwasher in her native Northern Ireland to working under Gordon Ramsay to the opening of her triple Michelin-star restaurant, Core.

Clare Smyth opens up about this most tasteful evolution of dining excellence and explains why simplicity is making a comeback.

The suggestion that being the most decorated female chef in the world is probably achievement enough is met with the sort of scornful look you’d expect of one of her rather more aggressive peers like Gordon Ramsay. Clare, who worked under the fiery Scot as chef patron at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay for four years from 2012, takes a wider view of food. “It’s not that I feel the kitchen and the industry is genderless – it’s clearly not,” she begins. “But rather than dwell on my own achievements, I’d prefer to kickstart potential in others. Surely that’s what cuisine is about – not just fulfilling people, but inspiring them too?”

it, otherwise you shouldn't be there; and that's very true. When people tell you there’s a problem, you must listen.”

The chef says that while skill, craft and originality in the kitchen have proven vital, research in the early days was a key factor: “I looked at all of the great chefs and decided who I wanted to emulate. I put my head down and worked really hard – putting myself in all the best positions to become the best chef that I could be.

As for the future, Clare is hungry to move forward. Core, located in London’s swanky Notting Hill, has charmed a mixed crowd in offering up an elegant and informal dining experience with an emphasis on sustainable food, sourced from the UK’s most dedicated farmers and food producers.

“By the time I had my first interview as a chef I’d been reading up on the likes of Auguste Escoffier and Anton Mosimann – real leaders in their craft. I’d researched classical sauces, and could make veal stocks, glace de viande. I had memorised every herb and could reel them off in the sort of way my school friends were reciting pop lyrics.”

Clare also credits her inability to recognise the prospect of failure as being a major part of how she moved her progressive, non-confrontational brand forward so quickly.

Gordon Ramsay may be confrontational on TV, but Clare insists that he’s tremendously supportive, and fine manager of people.

“I understand many people obviously don’t get to see that, but the best quality Gordon has is his ability to inspire That positivity is where real culinary craft comes from – being brave!”

“Core has given me the chance to take the simple ideas from my past projects,” she says – something that, no doubt, also helped it become the first new restaurant to score a perfect 10 in the decade-long history of The Good Food Guide. “The menu follows that trend of flavour, precision, and sustainability, where the elegance of the dining experience needs to reflect the food.

Where special attention is paid to the balance of guests – from connoisseurs to casual diners, from locals to people travelling halfway across the world. We try to have the same appeal to everyone, and that sense of inclusivity is the future of food.”

“I never used to understand the idea that I might fall short or not achieve what I set out to. That level of ignorance is fantastic to have, but it does change over time! Gordon always taught me you need to stand behind everything you do and believe in

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June 2022

Isle of Harris Scallop Tartare

While other dishes may have more intricate components or methods, this one adheres to one guiding principle: buy something beautiful and leave it alone. We’re lucky to serve this ingredient, and treat it with that respect.

Sea vegetable consommé Serves: 4

Ingredients

Method

Nasturtium oil

Nasturtium oil

100g nasturtium leaves 100g grapeseed oil 2g salt 2g caster sugar Scallop tartare

4 extra-large scallops (320g scallop meat), shells reserved 4g lime juice 4g chives, finely chopped 4g mascarpone salt, to taste Sea vegetable consommé

200g vegetable nage - see page 126 25g sea lettuce 25g sea rosemary 25g sea fennel 25g sea purslane lime juice, to taste salt, to taste To assemble

baby nasturtium leaves dill tips chive tips oyster leaves wasabi flowers baby wasabi leaves

Put all the ingredients into a blender and blend to a smooth purée. Prepare a bowl over ice. Pass the purée through a fine muslin cloth into the bowl, leaving it to hang overnight in the fridge. The next day, pour the oil into a sous vide bag, seal and hang it at an angle in the fridge for 24 hours, allowing the water and the oil to separate. Once the water has drained to the bottom corner of the bag, cut a small hole to allow the water to slowly escape, leaving only the oil. Reserve the oil until required.

Scallop tartare

Cut the scallop meat into 5-mm cubes on a cold chopping board.

In a bowl set over an ice bath, combine the scallops, lime juice, chives and mascarpone. Mix gently and add salt to taste. Reserve in the fridge until required.

Sea vegetable consommé

Bring the nage to the boil in a medium saucepan, then remove from the heat. Add the coastal herbs and leave to infuse for 15 minutes, then pass through a fine chinois into a bowl set over ice.

Add lime juice and salt to taste.

To assemble

Place some scallop tartare in the centre of a reserved scallop shell. Add some of the herbs, leaves and flowers on top. Pour some sea vegetable consommé into the shell around the scallop and add droplets of nasturtium oil onto the consommé.

Core by Clare Smyth, RRP$60.00, Phaidon Food & Wine

PHOTOGRAPHY — NATHAN SNODDON

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Crispy Smoked Chicken Wing

For our wings, we make use of a little-known yet very traditional cut from our birds: the manchon, the fatty drumette from the first part of the wing that is usually sacrificed or ignored in pursuit of the breast or leg, but that holds so much flavour and tenderness in just a couple of bites.

Beer, honey, lemon and thyme Serves: 20

Ingredients

Method

Dehydrated lemon and thyme

Dehydrated lemon and thyme

Brined chicken wings

Brined chicken wings

60g grated lemon zest 40g picked thyme leaves

20 chicken wings 1 kg 10% herb brine- see page 126

Place the lemon zest and thyme onto a dehydrator tray and dehydrate at 70°C for 24 hours until fully dried.

Put the chicken wings and brine into a sous vide bag, seal and reserve in the fridge for 1 hour. Drain the chicken wings in a colander.

Chicken wings preparation

20 brined chicken wings 2kg grapeseed oil 8 sprigs thyme 1 garlic clove

Lemon thyme spice mix

10g coriander seeds dehydrated lemon and thyme 10g salt Honey beer glaze

318g honey 32g Chardonnay vinegar 93g mead 43g pale ale 43g mirin To finish and assemble

1kg grapeseed oil grated lemon zest thyme leaves flaky sea salt, to taste

Preheat the oven to 98°C (fan). Dislocate the joints between the tip, wingette and drumette and cut through both joints. Reserve the drumettes and tips for later use in stocks and place the wingettes in a deep tray, cover with the grapeseed oil, thyme and garlic and cook in the oven for 2 hours. Once cooked, leave them to cool in the oil until they reach room temperature. Slide out the bones, keeping the wing intact. On cling film, position eight wings in a line then tightly roll them. Repeat the process for the remaining wings. Lightly press the wings between two flat trays and leave to rest in the fridge for 6 hours. Remove from cling film. Cut each wing at a 45° angle at both ends, from left to right, to create a diamond shape. Reserve for later.

Lemon thyme spice mix

Toast the coriander seeds, then set aside and cool. Blend the dehydrated lemon and thyme with the coriander. Transfer the resulting powder to a bowl, add the salt and mix well. Store in a sealed sous vide bag or airtight container.

Honey beer glaze

Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan, bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the liquid reduces to 135g in weight or has a thick, glossy consistency. Pour into a container and reserve at room temperature.

To finish and assemble

PHOTOGRAPHY — NATHAN SNODDON

Core by Clare Smyth, RRP$60.00, Phaidon Food & Wine

Chicken wings preparation

Heat the grapeseed oil in a small pan to 180°C and add four chicken wings. Fry for 1½ minutes, then flip and cook on other side until golden brown. Fry remaining wings, four at a time.

Drain the wings on paper towels to remove excess oil. Using a brush, glaze wings with the honey beer glaze. Sprinkle with the lemon thyme spice mix and lightly season with flaky sea salt.

Garnish with thyme leaves and lemon zest. Skewer the chicken wings with a small cocktail stick, place under a cloche and add smoke using a smoking gun (food smoker).

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Roast Grouse Red cabbage and bell heather Serves: 4

We treat our grouse with respect when we receive them, smoking them in the bell heather they grazed on, to return them to the land they came from. When we can serve it at Core, we do; when stocks are too low, and our serving it risks damaging the long-term survival of the grouse flock, we simply skip a year. We only work with what nature gives us.

Ingredients

Method

Grouse preparation

Grouse preparation

2 whole grouse 100g bell heather 200g 10% herb brine - see page 126

500g duck fat 2 garlic cloves 4 sprigs thyme 2 white peppercorns 4 grouse legs (reserved from above) 20g salt

Remove both the wings and legs of the grouse, leaving as much skin as possible attached to the crown. Set the legs aside.

Remove the wishbone. Turn the grouse over and remove the back by cutting in between the second and third ribs. Remove the innards, leaving a clean crown. Torch the skin lightly with a blowtorch. Place the heather in the cavity and set it on fire with the blowtorch, allowing it to smoke for 10 minutes. Put both grouse into a large sous vide bag with the herb brine, seal fully and marinate for 1 hour. Preheat a water bath to 65°C. Remove the grouse from the brine and place into a new sous vide bag and cook in the water bath for 45 minutes, then chill in an ice bath.

Red -wine pickled cabbage

Grouse legs

Grouse legs

250g red wine 250g ruby port 25g cabernet sauvignon vinegar 4 baby red cabbages salt and sugar, to taste

Preheat the oven to 98°C (fan). Melt the duck fat in a deep oven tray, then add the garlic, thyme and peppercorns. Season the grouse legs with the salt and add to the oven tray, cover with parchment paper and cook for 4 hours until tender. Leave the grouse to cool in the duck fat, then pick the meat and reserve the fat.

Grouse farce

25g chicken mousse - see page 126 grouse legs 150g minced pork 20g confit shallots - see page 126 5 g brandy 5 g chervil 5g chives 4 chicken livers, trimmed and cleaned red-wine pickled cabbage grapeseed oil, for frying salt and pepper, to taste

Red -wine pickled cabbage

Bring the red wine and port to a boil in a saucepan over a medium heat and reduce by half. Add the vinegar and set aside to cool. Open the first three layers of leaves of each cabbage, keeping the root intact. With a small knife, remove the centre and separate the leaves to be pickled. Reserve the external leaves and root for the presentation later. Transfer the cabbage centre leaves to a container and pour over the wine and port reduction.

Place the container inside a vacuum-pack machine and close on full pressure. Compress 4–5 times.

Grouse farce

Bread sauce

12g butter 100g onions, thinly sliced 1g clove, grated ground white pepper, to taste freshly grated nutmeg, to taste freshly ground Voatsperifery pepper, to taste 1 bay leaf 75g chicken stock 75g whole milk 4 slices of white bread (pain de mie) salt, to taste

Put all the ingredients, except the livers, red cabbage, oil and seasoning, into a large bowl and mix thoroughly. Portion the mixture into four 40-g balls and place in the fridge. Preheat a non-stick frying pan over a high heat with a dash of oil. Butterfly the livers and season them with salt and pepper, then sear in the pan until browned all over. Remove the livers from the pan and chill as quickly as possible. Lay out a square of cling film on a work surface, place 1 cabbage leaf in the centre, followed by the liver, then the grouse farce. Taking all four corners of the cling film, pull up to the centre. Close the cling film around the ball and tie a knot. Repeat to make four balls. Poach the balls in a saucepan of boiling water for 10 minutes, then chill in an ice bath. continued page 124

Food & Wine

122

PHOTOGRAPHY — NATHAN SNODDON

Roast Grouse continued Bread crisps

½ loaf white sourdough (pain de mie), frozen 100g beurre noisette- see page 127 5g thyme, picked salt, to taste To assemble

grapeseed oil, for frying grouse sauce - see page 127 confit shallots - see page 126 Swiss chard leaves, cut into ovals thyme tips chive flowers sherry vinegar, to taste

Bread sauce

Melt the butter in a large saucepan over a medium heat, add the onions and sweat (with no colour) until tender. Add the spices and bay leaf and cook for 30 seconds, then add the chicken stock and milk and bring the mixture to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, then season to taste and remove the pan from the heat. Pass the liquid through a fine chinois into a blender jug. Add the bread and blend on full power until completely smooth. Transfer to a squeeze bottle.

Bread crisps

Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan). Cut the frozen sourdough lengthways on a slicer to slices 2mm thick, then cut 4-cm discs with a ring cutter. Spread a layer of beurre noisette on a tray lined with parchment paper, lay the discs of sourdough on the tray and season with salt and the thyme leaves. Cover with a sheet of parchment paper followed by another tray and toast in the oven for 5 minutes until golden. Remove from the oven, remove from the tray, and leave to cool.

To assemble

Light a wood-fired grill, making sure it is nice and hot. Heat a dash of oil in a medium cast-iron pan over a high heat, add the grouse crown, skin side down, and roast all over. Transfer the grouse to the grill and slowly finish off the cooking until the core temperature reaches 55°C, then remove from the heat and rest in a warm place. Warm the bread sauce in a small saucepan over a medium heat, then transfer to a squeeze bottle. Bring a medium saucepan of water to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer. Place the grouse farce in the pan of simmering water, then remove the pan from the heat for 2 minutes. Heat the grouse sauce in a small saucepan and finish with a dessertspoonful of the confit shallots. Add a small amount of grouse sauce to a small pan and place over a medium heat. Remove the grouse farce from the water, unwrap, and add to the sauce to heat through. Place the grouse farce onto the presentation plate, cover with a glass cloche and smoke with bell heather. Reserve the sauce. Remove the breasts from the crown, trim and check for shot, then place on a tray with a rack underneath. Add a dash of vinegar to the reserved grouse sauce and glaze the breast. In a small pan of seasoned boiling water, blanch the Swiss chard ovals, then drain on paper towels. Place the Swiss chard on the right hand side of the plate, followed by the grouse and top with thyme tips and chive flowers. Pipe a dot of bread sauce on the left hand side and top with the bread crisp. To finish, place the sauce into a sauce jug and serve at the table with the grouse farce.

Core by Clare Smyth, RRP$60.00, Phaidon Food & Wine

PHOTOGRAPHY — NATHAN SNODDON

124

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June 2022

Core Basics Stocks and Sauces

Confit Shallots

10% Herb Brine

250g grapeseed oil 500g shallots, brunoised salt to taste

1.6kg water 160g salt 60g rosemary 10g thyme 1.6 bay leaves 10g garlic cloves 3g black peppercorns Combine the water and salt in a large saucepan and bring to the boil. Once all the salt has dissolved, 40°C, add herbs and aromatics. When the brine is completely cool, pass it through a chinois and reserve in the fridge until required.

Chicken Mousse

1kg chicken breast 40g salt 400g double cream salt to taste Place an empty blender jug into the freezer. Once chilled, place the chicken breasts inside and blend on full speed for 30 seconds, then stop, scrape the mixture down from the edges of the jug and blend again for 30 seconds. Repeat this process once more. Scrape down the edges again, add the salt and blend for another 30 seconds until smooth. Pass the purée through a fine tamis sieve into a bowl set over ice, then beat the purée using a spatula. Gradually add the cream, ensuring it is fully incorporated after each addition before adding more, then season to taste. Reserve in a container in the fridge.

Heat a spoonful of the oil in a medium saucepan over low heat, add the shallots and sweat without colour, seasoning with salt. Once they have softened add the remaining oil to cover.

Cover the pan with a cartouche and cook over a low heat for 45 minutes – 1 hour, stirring regularly, until the shallots are completely soft. Check the seasoning.

Vegetable Nage

200g carrots cut into 4-cm dice 200g onions cut into 4-cm dice 200g celery cut into 4-cm dice 200g leeks cut into 4-cm dice cold water to cover 1g black peppercorns 3g fennel seeds 1 bay leaf 200g white wine 1 slice of lemon 2 cm thick 10g sprigs parsley 10g sprigs chervil Put all the vegetables into a large saucepan and place over a medium heat. Cover with cold water and bring to the boil, then add the aromatics and white wine and simmer for 20 minutes.

Remove the pan from the heat and add the lemon slice and fine herbs and leave to infuse in the fridge for 24 hours. Pass the stock through a chinois into a container and reserve until required.

Core by Clare Smyth, RRP$60.00, Phaidon Food & Wine

126

Grouse Sauce

grapeseed oil, for roasting 1.5kg grouse bones and legs, chopped 1.5kg duck bones, chopped 100g butter 150g shallots, thinly sliced 3 garlic cloves 10g white peppercorns 750g Madeira 750g port 2kg veal/lamb stock 2 kg chicken stock 4 sprigs thyme 1 bay leaf salt, to taste

Beurre Noisette

250g unsalted butter, cut into 1-cm dice salt, to taste.

Place a medium saucepan over a high heat, add the diced butter and allow it to brown until there is a nutty aroma (be careful not to let it burn). Quickly remove the pan from the heat. Pass the beurre noisette through a fine chinois, season to taste and reserve.

Heat the oven to 180°C (fan). Heat an oven tray with a dash of grapeseed oil. Add the grouse bones and legs and duck bones, lightly season and cook until browned all over.

Heat the butter in a large saucepan over a medium heat, add the shallots and garlic, lightly season and cook until browned.

Add the roasted bones and peppercorns, then pour in the Madeira and reduce it by three quarters. Add the port and reduce it to about 100 ml. Add both stocks and the aromatics and bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 hours, continuously skimming off any impurities that rise to the surface. Pass the liquid through a fine chinois, then through a muslin cloth into a container over ice.

PHOTOGRAPHY — NATHAN SNODDON

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Fur Friends

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WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

Mutts for Mensa Research suggests the average dog is about as smart as a two-year-old baby, capable of understanding around 200 words or commands. But of course, there’s no such thing as an average dog as far as their owners are concerned…

I often communicate with my fiancée, Heather, via our dog, Squid. “Squidders,” I’ll say, “do you think Mommy realises it’s her turn to put the kettle on,” or “Squidders, don’t tell Mommy I forgot to put the bins out again.” Depending on her mood – and how overflowing the bins are – such quips will either tax or amuse my darling Heather, but they certainly always give Squid and me a lift. (English staffies are always smiling anyway, look at that pic!)

Dog owners, I feel, generally appear to fall into two proud camps: those that think their dogs to be so monumentally dumb it’s beyond endearing, and those that consider their fur babies canine Albert Einsteins. For the latter, it turns out the internet is full of IQ tests to separate the howling halfwits and slobbering savants.

Now, while I certainly don’t expect Squid to display Chaser levels of intelligence, I certainly expect him to ace the IQ test (no pressure, Squidders) I find on Outward Hound (outwardhound.com). As we prepare, Heather morphs into one of those psycho stage moms adopting a look of such seriousness I expect her to begin shadow boxing to warm-up on Squid’s behalf. Squid doesn’t care. He's eyed up the pouch of super-duper treats reserved only for training, knows something AMAZING is about to happen and immediately sits, his tail wagging furiously, as Heather breathes deeply to calm her nerves.

Squidders, come!

First up, the Towel Test. A towel is placed over Squid to see how long it takes him to escape from underneath it. Three points if he’s free in less than 15 seconds, two points if it takes up to 30 seconds, and one point for anything more. Squid takes eight seconds, no messing. He knows there are treats at stake.

The smartest dog on record is a sadly now-deceased border collie (of course) named Chaser. Chaser was able to identify and retrieve not only more than 1,000 toys by name but even differentiate similar looking objects like balls or frisbees by their size and shade. Amusingly, Chaser was apparently not a particularly obedient pooch – and never forced into doing anything that did not take her fancy – but was named “the most scientifically important dog in over a century” by Brian Hare, co-author of The Genius of Dogs.

Next, the Hidden Treat Test. Too easy – my dog once dug up a single grape at a beach. All Squid must do is retrieve a treat from under the towel in less than 15 seconds for three more points. He sniffs the towel, then ignores the towel and decides I must have the treat in my hand. He sits at my feet and looks up longingly as his tail sweeps back and forth like a windscreen wiper in a storm. “Under the towel!” I yell, pointing to the ground. He looks at my finger, I look to Heather and fear she may weep. Twenty seconds have passed, Squid can still

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salvage two points. A symbolic buzzer sounds in our heads as Squid fails. “Damn it!” screams Heather. But wait, hold on, apparently, she insists, that didn’t count. “Why not?” I ask.

“Because it just doesn’t” she says, “he didn’t understand.” “Isn’t that the whole point of this exercise?” I ask. Heather throws me some side-eye and we go again. Squid dives in like a bull shark and begins to eat the treat through the towel. Heather is even less impressed. It’s a guest towel. Null points for Squid.

And we need a new towel.

Memory test Which Cup? offers Squid chance to claw back some glory. Three upside down paper cups are lined up, with a treat under only one. Squid is shown it, distracted for a few seconds then instructed to take his treat. He correctly knocks over the middle cup for his reward, then begins to eat the cup after checking there are no more treats under the other two vessels. Doesn’t matter. Three more points are scribbled into my notepad.

paw. If he tries to use his head first, he loses a point. Which he does. This time it’s my turn to protest. “He has to use his head to see where the treat is!” I plead. But now Heather’s being a stickler for the rules. Sorry Squidders, two points.

Finally, it’s Beyond the Barrier whereby Squid must retrieve a treat from behind a sheet of cardboard by walking around, rather than over or through it. It’s a bit of a boring one to finish off with I think, and Squid seems to think so too as he nonchalantly notches up three more points to bring his total tally to 11. But what does that mean?

“Your dog’s not quite Einstein,” reads Heather from the website, “but he’s still a smart cookie.”

“Speaking of cookies,” she adds, “Squidders, tell Daddy it’s his turn to make the tea.”

Things step up a notch with Problem Solving. A treat is placed under the couch, which Squid must retrieve using only his

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A Winter Garden Winter is officially here. The cold has set in and deciduous trees are losing their leaves.

But when it comes to the garden, there’s still much to do.

Veggies

Winter is a great time to plant veggies such as broad beans, onion, garlic, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, leek, silverbeet, and lettuces. Remember to protect your seedlings from morning frost by covering them with frost cloth. Keep your winter veggie bed weed-free, and if it’s a really wet winter, add some gypsum to the soil to improve drainage.

Fruit Trees

Winter’s also a great time to plant fruit trees so their roots can get established before the heat of spring and summer.

Deciduous fruit trees such as plums, nectarines, apples, peaches, and pears will be in store this month, and vary in sizes to suit every garden. If you have established fruit trees in the

garden, now is a good time to prune back any new growth so energy can be distributed to fruit production.

Flowers

Plant winter annuals for instant colour such as cineria, pansies, viola, polyanthus, and cyclamen. Winter shrubs are available now and are perfect to fill gaps in your garden beds. Helebores are great under trees, and daphne, azaleas and camellias are popular brightly coloured flowering shrubs with beautiful fragrance. Remember to deadhead your hydrangea and cut back any perennials that have finished flowering.

For more winter gardening tips, pop into your local Kings, or visit kings.co.nz .

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Horoscopes GEMINI 21 May – 20 June

CANCER 21 June – 22 July

LEO 23 July – 22 August

Horoscopes

Your goals become more realistic, and you have a good sense of where you stand.

Although personal relationships may have some restricting or tense moments, you learn more about how far you can go, and you come out stronger. Use this period to re-evaluate what it is you want, what you are attracted to, and relationship needs, instead of forging ahead into unknown territory.

Your dreams become more vivid and intriguing, and you are more comfortable with generalisations and abstractions than with cold, hard facts. There are likely to be some pressures on the home front, but also opportunities to really get our domestic life into order. Organising or reorganising your home, downsizing and streamlining where necessary, and establishing better and more efficient routines will be helpful.

VIRGO

You are more intellectually curious this month, and you may have opportunities to travel, study, go abroad, expand your horizons, and meet people who are of diverse backgrounds. Business dealings, particularly long-distance ones and those involving publicity and promotion, are likely to be profitable.

Good energy is with you for getting close to someone, negotiating, and connecting. Your powers of attraction run high.

LIBRA

23 August – 22 September

23 September – 22 October

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This month can bring closure or re-evaluation to issues you have been dealing with regarding learning, communication, personal projects, and relationships with acquaintances.

You will find better ways to manage your time, become serious about your studies, or find that you have less time for idle chat. What you need to do is grab opportunities when they come up, or they might pass you by, but don’t overload your plate, either.

Your career dreams may be just in reach, and you are bound to be working hard, with new responsibilities and increased focus. You’re in an excellent position to pour energy, passion, and love into your work, business, or something you’re building. Opportunities to begin anew along romantic, creative, and playful levels are likely to emerge and you’re encouraged to explore, express, and share your passions and creativity more heartfully.

manish@manishastrologer.com

SCORPIO 23 October – 21 November

SAGITTARIUS 22 November – 21 December

CAPRICORN 22 December – 19 January

AQUARIUS 20 January – 18 February

WORDS— MANISH KUMAR ARORA

You may gain a greater depth of understanding, having focused on information and communication that you really can use to feel more effective in the world. You are persuasive and find it almost effortless to reinvent a project or perhaps even your reputation now.

You are loving what you’re doing, and it shows! Some level of introspection characterises the period, but it is seldom a lonely sort of self-absorption.

PISCES

You may discover new ways to boost your income, enjoyment of material pleasures, and your overall sense of security. However, what comes in might easily slip through your fingers if you satisfy an urge to speculate, although you probably will have fun doing so!

Pleasant contact, friendly exchanges, or improved relations with classmates, siblings, neighbours, a partner, or a good friend can headline in your social life.

ARIES

Your attitude and mindset attract positive attention. You have the chance to discover new or untapped resources on a financial level that can translate to a boost to your financial wellbeing. You are less inclined to sweat the small stuff.

A more faithful attitude towards life in general is likely now –you tend to feel that everything will work out in the end.

TAURUS

19 February – 20 March

21 March – 19 April

20 April – 20 May

You experience high hopes and enthusiasm, and others are attracted to your unique self-expression and vision.

You might become more intellectually curious now, and academic pursuits are likely to benefit more. You’re in a great position to improve or bring into reality programmes that help you organise your life, starting with the smallest of details. Creatively speaking, you’re motivated and ready to take on a challenge.

Much of your focus this month is on personality development and subtle changes in the people and groups you associate with. The direction your life is taking on a more philosophical level is what is on your mind these days, and you’re looking for something profound and deep. Relationships are intense, serious, and changeful, but also extremely rewarding. Depth in your connections is what you seek.

Your magnetic powers, which enable you to attract positive energies, attention, and financial rewards, are strong in this month. The pursuit of pleasure is high on your list of priorities, and, so long as you don’t overdo it, you’re likely to find yourself enjoying life more than usual. Fortunate events occur as a direct result of your willingness to entertain the unusual and to think outside of the box.

You’re in a great position to enjoy new, non-routine experiences, information, places, and faces. It’s a time when the need for progressive change suddenly becomes apparent. You now have a taste for something different and exotic, particularly when it comes to love, your social life, pleasures, and pastimes.

Your dreams and visions are richer than ever, and you experience a magical opportunity to tap into your intuition and imagination.

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June 2022

Time on Your Side?

WORDS — JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

“Procrastination is the thief of time,” so goes the famous quote from the 18th-century English poet Edward Young, and with more people now working from home, there’s probably more of it going on than ever.

Of course, it’s not just time that procrastination robs, but energy and money (and, in the case of climate procrastination, the Earth and our grandkids’ future, but that’s a whole other article). A study by US research firm Basex estimated lost productivity through “unnecessary interruptions” to cost a staggering US$650 billion. That was back in 2007, the year the first iPhone was released and before the world became hooked on social media. Studies now show social media to be the biggest cause of procrastination, not only consuming time and energy that would otherwise be devoted to tasks at work, but to even have a continuing detrimental effect on concentration when tackling said tasks. (Then there’s the sleep deprivation and detrimental mental health effects associated with high social media use.)

Keeping Procrastination at Bay

The Psychology of Procrastination

“The cafe went viral on social media and people are saying the rules are scary or that it feels like being watched from behind,” owner Takuya Kawai tells Reuters. “But actually, instead of monitoring, I’m here to support them.”

But procrastination wasn’t always such a sin.

“The Greeks and Romans generally regarded procrastination very highly,” Professor Fran Partnoy, a self-confessed procrastinator and author of Wait: The Art and Science of Delay, tells Smithsonian. “The wisest leaders embraced procrastination and would basically sit around and think and not do anything unless they absolutely had to.”

Similarly, in his book, the professor argues that it’s often advantageous to wait until the last possible moment when making decisions about work and life – but only if we’re procrastinating ‘actively’. ‘Active procrastination’ is when we delay something to do something else that, though perhaps less urgent, is at least just as valuable, while ‘passive procrastination’ is the likes of lying around on the sofa watching Netflix, which “clearly is a problem”.

Procrastination, he continues, is “a universal state” for human beings, some are just better at managing it than others.

In her book, The Up Side of Down: Why Failing Well Is the Key to Success, Megan McArdle argues that though many procrastinate, for writers “it is a peculiarly common occupational hazard” – a self-sabotaging act often linked to imposter syndrome. As Alain de Botton notes: “Work finally begins with when the fear of doing nothing exceeds the fear of doing it badly.”

A cafe in Japan has gone to extreme lengths to help creatives counter their procrastinating urges by essentially locking customers inside the premises until their deadlines are met.

Based in Tokyo’s Koenjikita district, the Manuscript Writing Cafe is a 10-seat establishment favoured by local writers, editors, and manga artists who are given ‘work goals cards’, similar in looks to regular cafe loyalty cards. But, rather then collecting stamps for a free coffee, customers write down their planned finishing time and choose one of the three ‘progress checks’. The ‘mild’ option entails being asked if you’re all done as you pay, ‘normal’ means getting checked on every hour, while ‘hard’ results in staff frequently standing silently and staring over your shoulder to pressure you into finishing.

As a result, Kawai – who is also a writer – reveals that many of his customers are managing to cut their usual working hours by up to a third.

The bare brick-walled eatery is equipped with Wi-Fi and docking ports at every seat, with bottomless tea and coffee offered alongside a good selection of creativity-inducing topshelf booze. It charges 130 yen ($1.60) for the first half-hour, then 300 yen ($3.70) per hour after that. The cafe even allows customers to remain past closing time to finish their projects.

“I think most importantly, it’s the fact that everyone around you is concentrating on a task, which makes you feel like you need to work too,” cafe staff member – and magazine editor – Tomu Inokawa tells Vice. “Everyone’s working on something different, but the goal is the same – to meet your deadline” "I don't know what kind of work might be born,” says Kawai, “but I'm proud to be able to offer my support so that things written here can be published to the whole world.”

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June 2022

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June 2022

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BMW iX: Welcome to the new age of luxury motoring

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BMW’s most sophisticated EV to date is a compelling way to transition to a fully electric and sustainable motoring life.

Electric vehicle sales are accelerating, and BMW is leading the charge with its latest and greatest: the all-new iX. This state-ofthe-art SUV is based on a dedicated EV platform and signals another evolutionary step in emissions-free luxury.

For starters, the iX brings new dimensions of space and refinement to BMW’s ranks. It filters noise and smothers road imperfections with aplomb and, in our week, proved longlegged enough to virtually banish range anxiety. What’s more, in flagship xDrive50 guise, it manages to retain genuine driver interest thanks to rapid acceleration and fluid handling.

Rest assured, the green credentials are impeccable. Over the course of its life, BMW insists the iX has a vastly lower global warming potential than that of a comparable diesel SUV and increased use of recycled materials helps to cut production emissions by about 20%. BMW also now procures the cobalt and lithium used for its EV batteries itself, so you know the highest environmental and sustainability standards are being observed.

The front grille is an obvious talking point. It’s really an intelligence panel that points to an advanced high-tech experience inside. And the futuristic cabin is remarkable, not just for the wealth of technology at your fingertips, but for the overall lounge-like feeling of warmth and character. You slide into broad, sumptuously padded leather seats, while the very long wheelbase maximises interior space and comfort levels.

your favourite road. Personal, Sport and Efficient driving modes are easily accessible, and you can choose your preferred level of brake energy recovery.

Mostly, though, an iX will get you from A to B serenely, with minimal effort, as you glide along on adaptive air suspension.

The steering wheel is light to twirl around town and manoeuvres are made easy by rear wheel steering, a raft of cameras, and parking assistance.

The energy-dense xDrive50 battery is rated at 105kWh capacity, enabling a potential 550km range with thoughtful driving. And while the iX is compatible with the fastest of fast-chargers, you’ll be well served at home by BMW’s Generation 3 Wallbox.

It speeds up charging with 7.4kW capability or scalable power of up to 22kW (if three-phase power is available).

So, at the better end of the luxury EV spectrum, BMW now caters for the buyer who covets comfort and isolation (iX xDrive40, with 240kW and 370km range) and the buyer who wants extra range, engagement, and occasional sporting thrills (iX xDrive50). Based on this memorable experience, we’d be sorely tempted to pay a little more for the latter.

IN A NUTSHELL BMW iX xDrive50

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Rather than being overwhelming, the iX makes the transition from driving a petrol or diesel-engine car straightforward.

There’s a welcome simplicity in the pin-sharp curved screen display, and although configuration options are endless, the basic functions are child’s play.

Effortless performance is a hallmark of all high-end EVs but especially one with dual motors and 765Nm of torque. In the xDrive50, there’s massive thrust if you need it and surprisingly fluid handling when demanded. The centre of gravity is low and there’s near 50:50 weight distribution for beautiful balance on

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June 2022

Luke Crockford Connecting with the Community

“It’s been a tedious few years, with Covid affecting so many lives regarding work, family and school. The Christmas break had me thinking about the children and how much this has affected them with home learning and not being able to be around their friends and classmates. It made me think of my own children and question what I could do to help local children understand that school is still relevant and important.

And so, I decided to donate to Richmond Road School, which I’ve been supporting over the last six or seven years in the form of sponsorship and fundraising. It was my pleasure to present the school with a $5,000 cheque. It certainly has been tough on the children, so it was great knowing I was able to give something back to the community during these times. For me, it’s always been about the little things that can change people’s lives.” – Luke Crockford Words from Emma Tolmie (Deputy Principal of Richmond Road School)

Richmond Road School greatly appreciates Luke Crockford’s support and partnership over the last seven years, which all began with providing sports uniforms with our school logo. Other donations have supported things not provided by the Ministry of Education, such as funding playground apparatus for our children, and stall equipment for a successful PTA gala and community event. Without the support, our tamariki (children) would not have the extras that people like Luke provide to our kura (school) – which makes being there such fun.

We’re so fortunate to have people like Luke Crockford, from Ray White. Not only has Luke paid to advertise his business with us this year but has given a further $5,000 for our school to acknowledge how well our community has done over these past two years, coming back together in person this year. Luke wants this money to be used for our tamariki to have positive and rewarding experiences. We’re in the process of asking our children and staff for suggestions about what the whole school might enjoy and how to celebrate our successes during such a challenging time.

Thank you, Luke Crockford!

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