Verve. May 2024. Issue 208.

May the force be with you courtesy of the wonderful ladies in our Women in Business special feature! We also get in the mood with the first ever Lexus LBX and take a sail with Auckland’s boat builders .

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Editors’ Notes

Fran Ninow

Co-editor

The May issue of Verve has a special place in my heart, for it shines a light on Women in Business. The array of inspirational stories within never fails to ignite my motivation and enthusiasm.

This year’s edition, showcasing a diverse group of women dreamers, doers, challengers, and changers, all striving for excellence in their endeavours, is no different

Reflecting on Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino's insights from her latest tome, The Success Guidebook, I find myself resonating with her exploration of the behaviours nearly always exhibited by standout individuals. From the power to visualise, to the ability to actualise and amplify, these principles underscore a journey of overcoming obstacles and achieving success.

I share Elizabeth's belief in grounding life in gratitude and compassion, qualities which serve as guiding lights through change and help with personal breakthroughs. Gratitude, in particular, has been a powerful device in my own emotional toolkit, helping me find happiness, clarity, and a focus on what truly matters.

Recently, I witnessed the magic of visualising and actualising first hand when my youngest son married the love of his life on a rugged New Zealand beach. Despite the adverse weather that week, the wind and rain cleared just in time for an unforgettable ceremony – a moment of pure magic that will fill me with gratitude for months and years to come.

In an industry marked by upheaval, my wonderful colleagues and I are deeply grateful for Verve's resilience, allowing us to to bring you the wonderful issue you see before you.

And now, without any further ado – I invite you to immerse yourself in this stunning edition.

Enjoy. Fran xx

Jude Mitchell

Co-editor

BITTERSWEET

Here we are with another beautiful issue. I always feel super proud when I see it in print, as it’s a culmination of so many people’s hard work. It’s undoubtedly a good feeling to hold a month of writing, designing, creating, and working with our advertisers to promote them. And then, onto the next!

You will read in this issue our Women in Business feature . It has been so inspirational to hear from these women in business, all working hard, some with families, juggling schools, daycare, partners, and life. This careful balancing act seems overwhelming at times, but each of these talented women not only keep it together running their businesses and their own lives, but thrive at doing so. Having your own business is no mean feat — it requires accountability, striving for perfection, being creative and always thinking about how to keep it exciting — all traits possessed by the Women in Business we celebrate this month!

This month marks a bittersweet moment for me personally. My daughter, son-in-law, and beautiful granddaughter are moving to London. My life is going to change so dramatically. I’m fortunate to see my granddaughter most days and my relationship is very special with her. My intention is to keep that going, I will read her books on Facetime and nurture our beautiful relationship. I am determined to find ways to remain present in her life.

There are silver linings that come with this change – I’m going travelling to visit them all. It just means that no one is ‘on tap’. No more just popping in for a coffee — but that’s okay, I will need to put my big girl pants on and embrace this change!

Have a wonderful month, and if you are going through change, just embrace it.

Love Jude xx

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What’s Inside

Editors-in-Chief

Fran Ninow and Jude Mitchell

Sub-editor/Senior Writer

Jamie Christian Desplaces

Head Graphic Designer

Arna Martin

Graphic Designer

Yamin Cook

Social Media

Yamin Cook

Contributors

Nikki Addison, Manish Kumar Arora, Lucy Kennedy, Dennis Knill, Milly Nolan, Paul Leuschke, Aimée Ralfini, Helene Ravlich and Bella Sampson.

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Published by Verve Magazine Ltd 13 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021

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The

After the Fair 128 Lucy’s Corner 130

Papers Scissors Screens

Cover: Royal New Zealand Ballet Principal Dancer Mayu Tangaito in Swan Lake, photography by Ross Brown. Swan Lake is touring nationally, 1 May – 2 June.

Verve is published monthly (except in January) and has an estimated readership of 60,000. It is a free lifestyle magazine delivered to 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, Takapuna and in domestic terminal Auckland Airport. 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, ERC Contracting and Mailchimp.

In Short

Verve ’ s monthly round up of what’s new, interesting, and happening… in a paragraph!

Stress Relief

It seems so simple, but thanks to screens and kids and modern-day living, in reality it’s so hard to do. However, according to Harvard Health ensuring we get a good seven hours’ sleep, is the first step to greatly reducing stress in our lives and aiding our heart health. Other guaranteed stress busters include engaging in regular exercise, such as yoga or jogging, while dancing especially is great for releasing endorphins and reducing stress hormones. Practise deep breathing exercises or meditation to calm the mind and promote blissful relaxation. Spending time outdoors, whether it's gardening, hiking, or simply enjoying a nature stroll, offer both a change of scenery and change of perspective, while journaling or creative activities such as painting or crafting can serve as outlets for self-expression and emotional release, as can appreciating the arts, like reading or listening to music. Most meaningfully, make time to connect with loved ones, not only will your heart thank you for it, but theirs will too!

Getting Salty

Salt sure gets a bad rap – and it’s no surprise as excessive intake can lead to a wealth of health issues including high blood pressure, kidney and cardiovascular diseases, and increased stroke risk; it can even cause calcium loss. One in five Kiwis has high blood pressure, and salt – most likely from processed foods – is often the culprit. But sodium chloride, to give its scientific name, is also crucial to our overall wellbeing and plays an essential role in many bodily functions. Salt helps maintain electrolyte balance for nerves and muscles; it helps regulate our water balance at a cellular level; and helps with digestion by playing a role in stomach acid production. Adults need around 1-2g of salt per day to function well, and most who follow a sensible diet should manage that easily. Wholegrains, meat, and dairy products naturally contain small amounts of sodium – though cheese lovers should aim for ricotta, cottage, mozzarella and Swiss varieties to reduce their intake. And note that sea salt, onion, celery or garlic salts are not low-sodium substitutes.

Hair ‘n’ Health

There are between 100,000 and 350,000 hair follicles on the human scalp, each one growing for around three years, before resting for around three months, then shedding, and growing again. The condition of your hair can be an indicator of your overall health, giving clues to your diet, hydration, stress levels, and underlying medical conditions. It requires vitamins, minerals, and protein, so a balanced diet – including good hydration – rich in nutrients, supports healthy hair, while deficiencies can lead to thinning, dullness, or even hair loss (too much vitamin A can, however, have a detrimental effect on hair health). Good food for hair includes fatty fish, eggs, spinach, salmon, and nuts. A healthy lifestyle is essential also, as stress can disrupt hormone levels leading to conditions like telogen effluvium, where hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase, resulting in excessive shedding. Hormonal imbalances can also affect hair growth and texture, as can autoimmune disorders and skin conditions.

Winter Hobbies

There’s no such things as bad weather, so goes the saying, just the wrong clothing. But even if you are all kitted out to comfortably continue all of the wonderful outdoor pursuits that our wonderful country has to offer, there’s nothing wrong with seeking some cosy solace in the form of some indoor hobbies this winter. Bring the outdoors inside, with some indoor gardening –maybe grow some herbs to help improve your cooking skills as you master some new recipes this winter. It’s never too late to learn any new skills, so get creative with crafting projects such as knitting, crocheting, sewing, candle making, or quilting, or maybe learn to draw, paint or write – the latter could begin with some journalling, a surefire way to boost you wellbeing too. Board games and puzzles are experiencing a renaissance, providing both entertainment value and valued time with loved ones – whose patience you could also test by finally learning to play a musical instrument!

Music Matters

Research has shown that the rhythmic auditory stimulation provided by music can help improve motor functions in Parkinson's patients. Listening to music with a strong beat or participating in rhythmic activities like dancing can help manage symptoms by aiding in movement coordination, balance, and gait. It is being channelled by music psychologist Dr Dawn Rose and The Music Workshop Company’s artistic director, Maria Thomas, in an innovative project called Songlines for Parkinson’s. The course involves encouraging patients to make, listen, and dance to music from all around the world, exposing them to various types of instruments, beats, and rhythms. “The bottom line is that we know it is hard for people with Parkinson’s to keep their morale up and to keep moving when their body and minds sometimes say otherwise,” says Dr Rose. “So, based on what our Parkinson’s advisors shared with us, we have tried to make a course that has practical applications for everyday life and most of all, is fun.”

The Write Stuff

The 2024 Auckland Writers Festival Waituhi O Tāmaki returns a with brand-new artistic director – also one of the UK’s leading literary talents –Lyndsey Fineran overseeing more than 40 international authors across 200 events around Auckland. Ones not to miss include Sam Neill joining fellow actor Robyn Malcolm to discuss his memoir Did I Ever Tell You This? in his first New Zealand book appearance; and the latest Booker Prize winner, Paul Lynch chatting with Kim Hill about his novel Prophet Song, set in the Republic of Ireland as it slips into totalitarianism. “I couldn’t be prouder of this worldclass line up, nor the talented team behind it,” says Lyndsay. “It’s ambitious, interrogating, dynamic and fun and I can’t wait for it to all come to life in May.”

The festival takes over the Aotea Centre and select venues across the city for one week only, from 14-19 May. Find out more at writersfestival.co.nz

Pure Form

ARCHITECTS —

ANTONI & TOMEU ESTEVA

WORDS

PHOTOGRAPHY

GREG COX

ROBYN ALEXANDER

Meticulously restored and updated, this farmstead in northeastern Mallorca is a masterclass in how natureinspired minimalism can be the ultimate luxury.

Left page: In the entrance hall at the main farmhouse, a group of ceramic sculptures by the Mallorquín artist Jaume Roig take the floor beneath a painting by architect and co-owner Antoni Esteva.

This page: The instantly eye-catching sculpture in the entrance hall and stairwell is by the Japanese-born, Mallorca-based artist Hiroshi Kitamura.

Throughout, the architecture blends elements of the old with contemporary touches.

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This page: In one of several lounge spaces in the farmhouse, original ceiling beams combine beautifully with simple wooden built-in seating and linen-covered cushions produced by local artisans. The bamboo mobile is by Laurent Martin Lo. Throughout, the architecture blends elements of the old with contemporary touches.

Right image and right page: Lengths of organic hemp rope are used to screen off the sleeping area in one of the bedroom suites. Interior finishes and furnishings function to create an atmosphere of serenity.

Below : The simplicity of the finishes means that artworks and craft pieces stand out beautifully.

Over page: Minimal and elegant, this casual lounge opens out onto beautifully landscaped gardens.

This page: Added to the estate during its recent overhaul and upgrade, the spa includes a heated indoor swimming pool.

Right page: The meditation room, which was formerly a stable, is graced by a metal and glass mobile and made soft and inviting via layers of handwoven cotton rugs. Respecting its age-old forms, simple lines and honest materials – creates a feeling that is highly unobtrusive in its architectural style.

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Respecting its ageold forms, simple lines and honest materials creates a feeling that is highly unobtrusive in its architectural style.

Left page: The estate’s main pool area combines a range of textures –including gradations of greenery, the soft gleam of the water, deep grey stone gravel and rustic hand-finished concrete – to exquisite effect.

Above: A guest casita (cottage) sports its own plunge pool as well as lots of surrounding greenery that adds to the restful atmosphere while also creating privacy.

Design of May

STYLING

BELLA SAMPSON

Matisse

Domino Expo

Archiproducts

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Wallpaper

Cuchi

Sand Wabi Sabi Tray

Freedom Furniture Bari Armchair

Tim Webber Designs AND slab Pendant

Citta Design Bluff Patchwork Pillow

BoConcept Xtra Footstool

Mark Table

Matisse B&B Italia Area Low table

Archipro Studio Cone Side Table

BoConcept Ottawa Sofa

With decades of experience, we specialise in reviving character homes into timeless treasures. Our philosophy centres around our clients, providing transparent project tracking and prioritising a stress-free service. At our core, we’re passionate builders and aim to go above and beyond to continuously deliver top-notch craftsmanship.

Featured is one of our recent projects completed in Ponsonby. Breathing life back into this character villa was an incredibly gratifying experience. Incorporating an additional new master bedroom level and full home renovation, hidden doors, and a flush-floor spiral wine cellar, it made for not only a unique experience for us, but also in honouring the charm of this home. From start to finish, our team oversaw every element of this build – a genuine source of pride for us.

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Old Meets New

Architecture design is about occasions.

I have just returned from a week in Sydney. We stayed in a friends onebedroom apartment in Rushcutters Bay, a very small apartment in an older building.

The building was built of double-skin brick, had few windows and was dark, like a villa. It was how Sydneysiders combated the heat in the old days: thermal mass, and few windows. Now with modern houses, it’s glass walls and air conditioning.

It's inner-city living, medium-to-high density, but the area seemed lush with vegetation – street trees and, where possible, small gardens or potted plants.

Arches are back in fashion when you read the Australian design magazines, but arches are the natural way to form an opening when you are building in brick.

But what I really loved was the trend of hard corners of square buildings being softened with a curve. Curves are more expensive to construct but worth it.

The apartment being small makes you realise how much furniture, clothes, books, second bathroom, a laundry, cars, etc, we now live with compared with the past. The modern house has needed to get bigger just to accommodate all our stuff. I also realised the apartments were so small that many of our occasions can't be accommodated in them and so the plethora of corner pubs and many public parks in Sydney.

Up the road was a laundromat, cafes, several mini supermarkets, and all the other retail outlets you need to live in one area. We walked everywhere or tubed to go further.

WORDS PAUL LEUSCHKE

As a couple, we could live happily in the apartment. We would be careful of what we brought into the apartment, space being so precious, but is that a bad thing? The only issue that bothered us was not being able to get outside or the feeling of being enclosed. Now many of the older apartments are adding small balconies to allow the outside in and increase the feeling of space.

paul@leuschkekahn.co.nz 021 894 895 leuschkekahn.co.nz

Our service and marketing is the very best and outshines any other real estate agency. If you are thinking about selling, talk to Lisa now.

LISA THORSEN LLB/PG Cert Law

Licensed Salesperson M +64 21 442 655 lisa.thorsen@nzsir.com

For Landmark, detail is everything.

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Call Bella today to learn more about beginning your building journey.

CONTACT BELLA PETO-BENNETT 027 836 7744 bella@landmarkhomes.co.nz

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Prestige Marketing 2015 Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ

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Wonderwall

How does Nu-Wall compare with other cladding products?

Nu-Wall uses 85% recycled aluminium and made right here in New Zealand, supporting NZ businesses. Nu-Wall keeps our carbon footprint to a minimum. Because it’s lightweight and durable, and won’t rot, delaminate, or crack, Nu-Wall is the ideal cladding material. Also, the low maintenance requirements compared with other products in terms of painting and repairs and so forth means it is the most cost-effective option out there.

How long will Nu-Wall last, and what guarantees do you offer?

There is a Nu-Wall 100-year guarantee that the aluminium substrate will remain weather tight. The surface coatings have separate manufacturer warranties depending on the coating grade and against integrity and colour loss up to 25 years.

In what lengths is Nu-Wall available?

All Nu-Wall profiles can be supplied up to 6.5m long, with some profiles being able to be supplied longer—up to 8.3m in some cases. For many projects, profiles are supplied in custom lengths, calculated to minimise unusable waste.

Is Nu-Wall suitable for marine or harsh environments?

Absolutely. With a choice of baked powder coat or anodised finishes in several grades, Nu-Wall suits the toughest conditions. Remember that NuWall won’t rot, crack, or delaminate.

Is Nu-Wall resistant to impact damage?

Yes, with a buttressed wall thickness of 1.5mm, Nu-Wall is resistant to all but a determined attack. Rugby balls and the like will have no effect. Cricket balls could dent the surfaces.

What colours are available?

Nu-Wall comes in approximately 90 standard powder coat finishes, but that’s just the start. Just about any custom colour is available to match your taste or interior design.

What thermal properties does Nu-Wall have?

Like most cladding, Nu-Wall relies on the insulation in the walls to maintain the internal temperature. Corrugated iron roofs are the same, insulation is essential to create a comfortable temperature gradient.

Does Nu-Wall get hot in the sun?

Yes, it can. Like any metal surface the temperature can get hot, especially in summer. The insulation stops the heat entering the home just as the heat from a corrugated iron roof is insulated from inside the house.

Are there other applications for Nu-Wall?

Yes, Nu-Wall is used for soffits, counter fronts and cabinets, doors and screens, and suspended ceilings. Also, sectional garage doors are offered in Nu-Wall by most garage door manufacturers in New Zealand.

Is Nu-Wall noisy in the rain? No, the rain doesn’t have enough impact on a vertical surface to cause any noticeable noise.

If damage is done to my Nu-Wall cladding, such as a car backing into it, how is it repaired?

This can be answered in two ways. For a slight dent or scratch the repair can be done in a similar way to automotive panel beating – touch up paints are available and body fillers can be used on the cladding if necessary. Where serious damage has occurred and the panel is ripped, the wall can be disassembled from the soffit down and the damaged panels replaced. Nu-Wall is assembled using screws, not nails, so all undamaged products can be re-used without replacement.

Visit our Penrose showroom at 24 Greenpark Road to find out more!

Visit our NEW showroom in the heart of Grey Lynn, located at The Scrap Yard precinct, next to Ozone coffee roasters.

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18 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland, 1021

Climbing High & Cutting True

If you’ve ever watched an arborist at work, you’ll know there’s an art to the job – which is exactly what the Tree Fellas crew offers. This family-run business has been providing expert tree care across Tāmaki Makaurau for almost 45 years. We chatted to general manager Ryan Kneebone to learn more.

How did the business get started and what was the motivation behind it?

Steve Thompson and Greg Kneebone, my father, were neighbours in St Heliers and one day decided to start a lawnmowing business. Then a client asked them to remove a tree, and the rest is history!

How has the business evolved over the past 45 years?

It wasn’t until the 80s that material started coming out of the UK that changed the thinking about the way we manage trees in urban environments.

Then in the 90s, New Zealand polytechs started providing qualifications and there was a more modern approach to the learning, the gear, and the machinery being available.

Can you explain what arboriculture encompasses on both practical and non-practical levels?

We tend to look at trees as assets to a property. Maintaining an asset is crucial to maximising its value but sometimes you just need to start over. Most tree removal situations are where the tree has outgrown its position, the tree is not seen as an asset anymore, or the tree has just become a problem.

What are some of the services you offer?

They range from planting trees to trimming and pruning them through to large, dangerous and complex tree

removals. We also provide stump grinding services. Most importantly, we provide practical sound advice for free!

What can clients expect when they work with your crew?

From the first enquiry we try to achieve a quick turnaround, explaining when we’ll turn up to quote and how that process works. If the quote is accepted, we do the same in terms of scheduling the accepted quote. The crew will then arrive as arranged, and if the client wants to be present, they will have a pre-start meeting with them and talk about what they are expecting and anticipating the trees to look like.

How do you ensure your crew’s safety on the job?

Our crew is trained from the get-go by Dale, our full-time health and safety and training manager, and are also sent for off-site qualification training where practicable, and our competency register means everyone is constantly assessed to

make sure they’re working safe. Plus, we use third party contractors to assess our business every two years to report where we can improve. We recently received a gold standard rating from SiteWise NZ.

Is upskilling something you encourage?

We invest heavily in our crew being health and safety compliant, and also to enable them to obtain broader skill sets.

What is the most rewarding part of the job?

The crew would likely say, “A cold beer at the end of a multi-day job!” My own experience was the satisfaction of solving problems. These days it’s more just the interaction with clients and their satisfaction with our work.

Looking for quality tree care in Auckland? Visit treefellas.co.nz for a free quote today.

Lens, Life, Landscape

WORDS

JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

Architectural photographer Simon Devitt has published several wonderfully striking books over the past quarter-century; his latest, Cape to Bluff, serves as “a survey of residential architecture from Aotearoa New Zealand”.

Shot over a 10-year period, the beautiful tome – which again sees him team up with writer Andrea Stevens and graphic designer Luke Scott – captures Aotearoa’s eclectic landscapes from top to toe, and some of the most beautiful homes that adorn it. “Although the idea for Cape to Bluff is mine, we are each a stakeholder in this publication,” the photographer tells Verve . “It is important to me that I collaborate with people that are not only amazing at what they do but are fun to work with too!”

What first attracted you to photographing buildings?

“I’m drawn to the places we inhabit and the things we do with those places. Where we live, where we work, where we play. It’s never lost on me that a lot of these homes that I photograph are the result of a lot of hard work by the architect and the homeowner and is often the result of someone’s dream coming true.”

Simon says that architects often tell him that he’s probably seen more architecture than most architects have.

“My eyes don't necessarily appreciate the technical detail, spot the mistakes, or see the architecture that could have been or the architecture that is, the way an architect would,” he adds. “As a photographer I see other things. I'm not married to the idea that the design works. I turn up for the first time to witness layers of beauty, atmosphere and moments. I see how the architecture serves its inhabitants, the landscape, and the community it occupies, in real time.”

He records these “ingredients” as a “series of moments”, his goal to capture “the spirit of place”.

“And so, it’s with fresh eyes, I arrive early and leave late, and there’s a bit of making it up as I go – it’s that in the moment creativity that excites me. I've been to hundreds of other shots before this one, but never this one!”

How do you approach capturing the essence a house?

“A sunset is already beautiful. And so, therein lies the trap. How do you honour this beauty without merely describing it with your camera? My practice involves sitting still and seizing a glimpse of subtle gestures, moments and brief encounters which represent how it feels to be there. I want to hear it; I want to expose its heartbeat. I want to strip the image of the artificial. This is perhaps where my approach departs from what is conventionally expected. I always spend time being still in the environment. I wait to hear its breath. I listen as much as I watch. This is how I find what is really in the space, by letting myself be led by its mystery.”

The spaces in between, he adds, are just as important, “in the same way we understand music because of the silence between each note”.

How were the houses chosen?

“Each house in this book is carefully chosen to allow the reader a view of our beautiful country, a view you may never get to see or experience. The strength of this engrained in the relationship between architecture and photography; the buildings cannot travel but the photography and the stories they tell can. The landscape alone cannot provide the full picture. It is when people, the manmade and the landscape that holds them combine that a wider truth is revealed. These brilliant architects creating context for the aspiration we thrive on. High reward architecture in a brave new world.

“Māori call it tūrangawaewae: a place to stand, where a person feels strong and at home.”

Simon believes the most powerful pictures have tension, a feeling that something has either happened, or is about to “so that you’re compelled to turn the page or look at the next picture”.

“The house,” he says, “isn't finished until the photographer has been.”

Women in Business

No matter your field, the incredible women over the following pages are guaranteed to alter your perspective, and inspire.

Better with Butter

Meet pastry chef and decadent baker

Petra Galler of Butter, Butter.

Doesn’t everything taste better with a little butter? We think so, and so does Auckland-based baker extraordinaire and business owner Petra Galler.

After working as a pastry chef in Melbourne, and locally, at celebrity chef Peter Gordon’s cooking school, Homeland, Petra launched, Butter Butter, a business under which she began selling sumptuous cakes, pastries, and breads with unique Middle Eastern flavours.

Now she’s also a best-selling cookbook author with her debut Butter, Butter: Sometimes more is more , having launched in 2023. Mouth-watering recipes including knafeh, challah and medovik honey cake even caught the eye of renowned Middle Eastern chef Yotam Ottolenghi, who shared the cookbook on social media. We caught up with Petra to discuss baking, business and all things butter.

You went out on your own after working as a full-time pastry for many years. What inspired you to take this plunge?

I’d been working in restaurant kitchens for 12 years and felt it was time for a change. They are relentless places and it got to the point where I asked myself if I wanted to be working myself to the bone for someone else? Obviously, the answer was no!

What’s most difficult about being a business owner?

I’m still figuring it out to be honest. It took a while to adjust to not having a salary and the irregularity the work is most stressful. Staying calm during quiet patches is something I need to master.

And the best part?

It’s so liberating having complete creative control. I run Butter Butter on a request basis which keeps it so fun and fresh for me – no day is the same. Being able to get up at 7am, instead of 4am, is also a luxury!

We love the title of your cookbook! Can you describe the origins?

We live in a time when everyone’s obsessed with wellness, and it felt like real cake got cancelled. It’s deeply cliche, but life is so short and are we really going to live in fear of the occasional bit of cake? If you’re going to bake or eat cake, do it properly! More is more, especially when it comes to food. More butter, more spice, more sugar, more texture!

But ter, Butter was inspired by your Jewish heritage. How has this impacted you?

Food was the centrepiece of everything. As a people, we’re feeders, and my family was no exception. My dad is a wonderful cook, and him and I would often spend hours in the kitchen. My Polish paternal grandmother, Zofia – who we called Zaza – was an Auschwitz survivor and had a funny relationship with food. She never ate anything, preferring a white wine spritzer and a million cigarettes instead, but when it came to feeding us, she was pretty staunch. She would make a huge tray of stuffed savoury crepes and insist that you ate every last one of them.

Jewish and Eastern European flavours are all over my book. There are recipes featured that are so nostalgic. Nothing has the power to bring people together better like food. Cooking is a way of showing love; that is how I grew up, and that is how I feel now.

What flavours and foods did you want to introduce New Zealanders?

I feel we can be pretty dull here in NZ when it comes to baking. There are so many exciting directions baking can take you and I really wanted to show people that in an accessible way. Kataifi pastry, pistachio, orange blossom, halva, tahini; these are a few flavours I highlight in my book.

Keep up with Petra and get your hands on a copy of Butter, Butter: Sometimes more is more, on Instagram @butterbutternz

Simply the Best

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: @ simplywonderfulclothes

Verve chats with Simply Wonderful store co-owner, Kathryn Butler.

How did you come to own the store?

I worked for the previous owner for six years. She wanted to retire and offered me the business. Initially I walked away and got a job in a designer store, as I didn’t have the confidence to purchase. After working in the new position, I learned I didn’t enjoy selling just one label. My husband and I had a deep discussion and thought, what is the worst-case scenario should we go ahead and take over Simply Wonderful clothes. We decided to give it a go and after two years I opened the store in Epsom and a few years later another in Mairangi Bay. After years driving in Auckland traffic, we decided to sell Mairangi Bay. Then in 2019 we closed our Birkenhead store due to the change in demographics in the area. We now have just the Epsom store, close to where we live.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

How our customers tell us how they love our selection of garments, the personal service, and the fun they have as we help them find the right clothes.

Tell us about your customers?

Many are over 50. As we get older, we can lose confidence about what suits us. I love taking them out of their comfort zone and encouraging them to try a

more modern look. This is done to suit their personality, lifestyle, and pocket. We strongly encourage to try with no pressure to buy.

How do you choose your stock?

Good old-fashioned gut instinct! If garments impress us, then why won’t they do the same for our customers? We always look for new looks and trends along with the good old basics. We are a shop as apposed to a boutique in so we can often provide a whole wardrobe. We do pick up and drop brands as we go but have a great brand range that we’ve carried always.

What sets you apart?

There seem to be fewer stores out there that carry the range we do, with so much online now. We won’t go there as the personal side of getting to know our customers matters more to us than turnover. We have ridden, along with many others, the difficult past three year, and still going through yet another. I love a challenge!

Tell us about your style?

Although I really love dressing other women, I’m a lazy dresser. I do love wellfitting trousers and zany tops to wear under a jacket. This summer I started wearing more dresses. They are so comfortable and easy to wear with a sneaker. I love easy garments…but with a twist.

What would you advise others starting out in the industry?

I can’t advise on the design side career wise, but retail is not that easy. I think the biggest thing is to know your customer and cater to them. You will never please everyone. Old fashioned service goes a long way. I have been ignored in too many stores. We are very proud to be still helping customers that have been with us for 30-plus years. simplywonderfulclothes.co.nz

Blazing a Path

Kiwi lawyer Fiona McMillan

didn’t always think she would have a legal career.

But after completing her Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts at the University of Canterbury, she took a job as a solicitor for Christchurch firm Lane Neave – and the rest was history. Today, Fiona is a partner and employment lawyer at the firm’s Auckland office, with a healthy repertoire of accomplishments under her belt. These include a nomination for Young Lawyer of the Year at the 2016 Law Awards and being recognised as an Elite Woman in NZ Lawyer’s annual rankings – twice. In leading by example and through her work championing equal representation at Lane Neave, Fiona is blazing a trail for those following in her footsteps. Verve sat down to talk law, life and leadership.

What inspired you to specialise in employment law?

It was a happy accident. I planned to be a high school English teacher, but I was persuaded to do first year law as a part of my BA. In short, I hated English at university but loved law. After being placed at Lane Neave through an internship paper at university, I quickly realised private practice, employment law and Lane Neave were the place for me.

Can you detail some of your pro bono work and why it’s important to you? This career has given me a lot, so it seems right that I do something for the community – and Lane Neave is very supportive of this. We don’t have a set pro bono programme, however if we want to support a particular charity, we’re given the time and space to do so. Working for the Stroke Foundation on a pro bono basis was another happy accident in my life. When I was with Lane Neave Christchurch, we were instructed by the then Canterbury branch of the Stroke Foundation. My boss at the time, and our now managing partner, Andrew Shaw, agreed we should do the work for free, and the relationship continues 16 years later.

What are the challenges and opportunities for New Zealand women considering law as a profession?

Working in a private practice law firm is only one of the many options available. My friends have become barristers, gone in-house, obtained roles in government departments, and have worked their way up as senior managers in some pretty impressive organisations. As for women in private practice, partnership is there if you’re in a position to look after a body of work

within the firm or prepared to spend your time building your own networks. But, partnership is not the be-all and end-all!

For people with families, having a fullon job is a big ask. Firms have come a long way to make law more family friendly, however we ultimately meet the demands of clients, not firms. My view is that it’s up to individuals to make decisions about their career and what works best for their family.

What advice would you give them?

I’m involved in the Auckland University mentorship programme that pairs senior female law students with females in the profession. Every year I tell my mentee to never say no to anything. Attending a function, doing a piece of work, being introduced to someone. You just never know where it will lead!

Can you tell us about a memorable or rewarding case that stands out?

A few years ago, I was pulled in to do a day of legal submissions before a full bench of the Employment Court. A colleague became unwell at the last minute, and I was it. It was a good reminder of my favourite aspects of the law – thinking on my feet and talking.

Inner Circle

Tiffany Hubbard epitomises her business name, truly embodying the essence of someone you'd want in your Inner Circle.

A queen of organisation and efficiency, she seamlessly juggles her role as a super mother of four while expertly streamlining processes for small-tomedium businesses, enabling them to work more efficiently.

Drawing on her expertise as a qualified bookkeeper and social media manager, Tiffany crafts bespoke packages

tailored to each business's unique needs, ensuring they not only survive but thrive in today's competitive landscape.

How would you describe Inner Circle Consulting? I assist small-to-medium businesses with financial organisation, marketing organisation, business planning, social media management, administrative operations, and any other support they may need. My focus is on empowering business owners to work on their business rather than getting bogged down in the day-to-day

operations. To do so, I offer ongoing support with DIY or Done For You options.

How do you balance motherhood with being a business owner?

To be honest, it’s thanks to a really great support structure. My husband is a very comforting presence in my life. He’s always keeping me laughing through the tough times, and I’ve also got family who are always on hand to help out. Doing my best to practise what I preach also helps – which means being organised and structured in my everyday routine. I only work between 9am and 2pm so that I can be fully present for my children when they finish school.

How do you find being a woman in business?

Being a woman in business can present intriguing challenges, with imposter syndrome being a constant adversary for me. It's a constant dance of proving yourself while staying true to who you are. On the other hand, it can be incredible, you have this built in support structure of other women in business cheering you on.

Do you have a mentor?

All the women in my Mahurangi Women in Business Network are my mentors to be honest, they are all hard working and incredibly inspiring. I'm also part of the New Zealand Qualified Bookkeepers Association, who run really great webinars and courses with some very knowledgeable and experienced people.

What is the most common mistake you see businesses make?

I think it's letting things snowball out of control by neglecting critical tasks like bookkeeping and social media. They may not seem a priority, but when ignored, they can build up, becoming an overwhelming problem. That’s when people tend to reach out to me for help.

What is your point of difference from other business consultants?

My specialisation in small businesses sets me apart from corporate-focused consultants. I thrive on nurturing budding businesses and assisting them from inception to growth.

“I thrive on nurturing budding businesses and assisting them from inception to growth.”

What are your proudest achievements to date?

My proudest achievements are definitely growing Inner Circle Consulting from the ground up, launching my podcast, and creating a balanced life where I can be there for my four amazing children.

What does success look like to you?

On the one hand, success is having a thriving client base, happy children, and personal fulfilment. On the other hand, success is also when a client becomes self-sufficient and doesn't need me anymore. I know that sounds ironic as it means I have worked myself out of a job, but getting a business to that point is a real pat on the back for me.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Don't doubt your abilities or let imposter syndrome hold you back. Trust in your skills and the value you bring to the table. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help and lean on your support network.

Any books or podcasts you are currently loving?

Drunk on Confidence by Heidi Anderson is an empowering read, and Building a Second Brain, by Tiago Forte, is totally motivating and inspiring.

How do you switch off outside of work?

Wrangling four kids, a husband and a dog helps switch my brain off work pretty quickly! We’re also renovating our house at the moment, so that takes up plenty of time. My favourite leisurely pastimes, however, are long lunches with my sister and friends, reading books, and watching reruns of Doctor Who.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I envision myself still passionately serving clients but with a team in place to expand our reach and impact within the business community.

If you’re looking to get your business organised, or you’re just starting out, you can get in touch with Tiffany at innercircleconsulting.co.nz

Celebrating the Beauty of Aotearoa

View a piece of work by Cathy Jane Designs and you’ll immediately be transported into New Zealand’s natural habitats. She tells Verve about her process.

How did your journey as an artist begin?

My art journey started at fashion design college when I was 17, where I was studying fashion illustration and designing garments. The creativity began to evolve from there, and I have been creating ever since.

Tell us about ‘sculptural embroidery’?

Sculptural embroidery is a simple take on an old-fashioned method called darning. It is created by a sewing machine that is put onto a manual function, and you stitch onto a water soluble fabric. I have created many types of stitching and methods of developing my art through hours of practise.

How do you continuously come up with new concepts?

All of my designs are one-of-a-kind pieces, largely due to the nature of my techniques. I am self-taught, and love to experiment with all types of ways I can create my unique style. My work is ever evolving. I love gardening, and tramping, and being outside gives me an endless amount of inspiration. I believe nature is the best teacher.

To find out more, visit: cathyjanedesigns.com Facebook and Instagram: @cathyjanedesigns

A Story of Compassion

Lea Devereux the owner of Epsom Spray Tan is a woman of resilience and compassion.

What began 15 years ago as a supportive sideline venture has blossomed into a thriving business. But behind the glow of success lies a heartwarming story of dedication and care.

Lea embarked on this spray tan journey to supplement her acupressure practice offering support to clients undergoing cancer treatment. Despite financial challenges, she never compromised on providing essential care, ensuring her clients receive the attention they deserve, offering treatments at minimal or no cost.

Today, Epsom Spray Tan stands as one of Auckland’s leading boutique salons, with service and results second to none. Continuing to fund treatments for her cherished clients, it’s a business built on compassion, where every glow supports a noble cause. So to Epsom Spray Tan clients, thank you.

EPSOM SPRAY TAN:

Communication’s Key

Serial entrepreneur Frances Manwaring became the co-owner and managing director of the boutique creative agency

Moxie in 2010.

Now the sole owner, she sits down with Verve to share more.

Through Moxie, you have advocated for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. What exactly is this, and why is it important to you?

Moxie was a foundation member of the Sustainable Business Network in 2003. In 2015, world leaders agreed to 17 global goals to end poverty and protect the planet by 2030. We’re already at the halfway mark, and only 15% of the goals are on track. In 2019, Moxie created a mini-campaign to support the uptake of the goals and get more people, including the government, behind them. Then came Covid…

Alongside a range of creative services, Moxie offers an online learning platform to help people create engaging brands. How did “learn with Moxie’ come about, and what’s it about?

I wanted to create a learning space for people who want to know more about branding but do it in their own time. So, I’m making a suite of resources, the flagship being my book Brands with Moxie – Eight Steps to a Winning Brand. I’m now recording video resources covering the main topics.

You’ve worked with several New Zealand charities. Tell us more about this?

We’ve worked with most leading charities and are currently the creative

partner for Riding for the Disabled, Rare Disorders, Transparency International and Age Concern in NZ. During 2020 and 2021, we supported Age Concern with their re-brand. This is a cause that’s very dear to my heart as I’m an older adult, and it breaks my heart to hear the stories of the treatment some seniors suffer.

Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a published author?

Before my current books, I’ve had several works published. The highlights were writing a tongue-in-cheek column for In Business magazine Wellington. I also created and wrote the copy for an exhibition on the food industry in this country for the Eastern Institute of Technology. EIT published the proceedings I wrote from the accompanying conference Food Futures, The Face of Tomorrow. I decided to independently publish my current two books which meant a lot of promotional work for me. But I’ve also got a superb editor who gets what I’m trying to say, a fantastic publicist and a local print partner who knows everything there is to know about getting a book ‘out there’. Of course, I’d love to find a publisher for my next book!

We love the title of your upcoming book, Never Succumb to Beige. What does this title focus on?

It’s about being true to who you are and what you bring to the world. When you commit to the non-beige approach to

life, you will always walk the road less travelled, leading to unknown and exotic destinations, even if they’re only in your mind.

What’s next for you?

I’m re-purposing Moxie to reflect the changing nature of how people work and what they need from a creative team so we can remain relevant and dynamic. And I’ve already started on the follow-up to Beige. I love entertaining people, and I’m working on how to do more of that, including finding speaking slots. That all should keep me busy and motivated for the foreseeable future. moxie.co.nz

The University of Auckland Business School

The University of Auckland Business School is growing the next generation of business leaders and entrepreneurs through two trailblazing initiatives: He Ira Wāhine – the Women’s Mentoring Programme and the Aotearoa Centre for Enterprising Women.

He Ira Wāhine – the Women’s Mentoring Programme at the Business School

The Women’s Mentoring Programme was set up in 2011, spearheaded by then executive-in-residence, Cecilia Tarrant, in a bid to address the lack of women at senior levels in the corporate world, providing an opportunity for the businesswomen of tomorrow to learn from the successful businesswomen of today.

"It’s about making sure that when women leave this university, they have some of those skills that can take years to acquire without mentorship," Tarrant said in 2021, when she took on the trailblazing role as the university’s first female chancellor.

Every year, the programme matches between 70 and 80 highly motivated and engaged business students with a diverse range of women working in business for a six-month mentoring programme, which includes monthly events and discussion topics, as well as one-to-one mentoring meetings.

Over the last 13 years, more than 900 students have been through the programme, with some of the earliest mentees now beginning to return as mentors. The success of the initiative has led to the creation of a similar mentoring programme within the Faculty of Law.

If you’re interested in getting involved as a mentor, find out more at: auckland.ac.nz/business/wmp

The Aotearoa Centre for Enterprising Women

The University of Auckland Business School is also home to the Aotearoa Centre for Enterprising Women. The centre launched in 2022, and is led by Professor Christine Woods, the inaugural Theresa Gattung Chair for Women in Entrepreneurship, a role funded by leading businessperson and former head of Telecom New Zealand, Theresa Gattung.

Gattung has gifted the University at least $2.5 million over 10 years, and her support is driven by a desire to help make New Zealand the best place to do business, particularly for women. Business School dean, Professor Susan Watson says providing women with an opportunity to engage with entrepreneurship – and the mindset and skills that accompany that – is one way of addressing current disparities in women’s business ownership, leadership, and representation in governance roles in the business world.

Find out more about the Aotearoa Centre for Enterprising Women: enterprisingwomen.ac.nz

Inspired Innovative Interiors

Entrepreneur and interior designer Laura Heynike founded Pocketspace Interiors nearly a decade ago to help Kiwis make the most of their properties. Verve finds out more.

We love the name Pocketspace. What inspired it, and the company?

As a design graduate I realised there was no one really servicing clients with tricky spaces. Travels to New York and Paris inspired me to hone in on the craft of maximising space as they do it so well over there. The name was formed one night when I was going out with friends and didn't want to take a handbag; instead, I put everything into my friend's pocket, much to his disgust. I replied that pockets just fit so much in!

You describe yourselves as ‘space maximalists’. Can you expand on this?

Essentially, I had to come up with a term that describes our craftsmanship that would instantly resonate with clients that need to maximise their interior space. We have large corporate clients through to car showrooms, marine clientele and high-end villa renovations. Our common denominator that links our client base is how we adapt style and function which we tailor to each project.

What are some of the challenges you encounter when transforming small spaces?

Most common is an office, house or apartment footprint that needs to expand to fit in another room. Alot of the time we can re-space plan without having to enlarge the space. Storage space is also a common problem.

Can you outline some typical design problems you encounter and resolve when tackling both residential and commercial projects?

Although different spaces they share the same problem –to use space better! For offices it's space-planning to fit in another meeting room or additional team, so we consider

acoustics, culture or privacy concerns. For residential, clients focus on quality and problem solving. It's about really analysing pain points in their home and making sure we address that before anything else.

You also work with marine interiors! Tell us about that? Pocketspace Marine is a perfect fit for us. We love being lifestyle designers. It’s more than about maximising every square inch of a boat, it's about adding functional details like technology, bespoke stitching, and study nooks.

In terms of process, what can people expect when working with Pocketspace?

Our communication is transparent, and our processes world class. The process is very similar to most design projects, however it's our internal processes such as automated task management, our collaborative workflow, and buddychecking system that really makes us stand out from other customer experiences.

Can you share your top interior design tip with our readers? Most of the time our clients are on the right track, but they struggle to have the confidence or time to pull it all together. It's important to back your instincts. Identify what success looks like in your space: get that right and everything else will fall into place a lot easier.

Ready to maximise your space? Head to pocketspace.co.nz and let the experts handle it.

The Little Things

nisa.co.nz

The little Wellington factory with a big story.

Verve interviews Pam Lowe of ethical underwear brand, Nisa.

How has Nisa adapted to, and overcome, the challenges it has faced?

At the end of 2022, company founder Elisha Watson needed to exit the business. Myself (production supervisor), Li Ling Ho (CFO maternity cover), Hannah McHalick (GM maternity cover), Yuribeth Mahecha (lead machinist), and Queen Sudagar (production supervisor) put together a PledgeMe campaign which raised the $80,000 we needed in under 24 hours, reaching $165,000 by the end of the campaign.

Tells us more about the beautifully crafted undies you manufacture?

Nisa makes garments that are about comfort, fit, and quality. We use a gorgeous organic cotton-Spandex mix for our briefs and bralettes, from a mill in Melbourne, and recycled materials for our activewear and swimwear. We have also just launched our Winter 24, Low-waste Merino range.

What makes Nisa unique?

We're probably the most transparent manufacturer out there. When you walk into the shop, it's just a rail of underwear separating the shop and the workroom – you can see who’s sewing your clothes as you peruse the rails.

‘Make your own briefs’ sounds like a fun experience… can anyone do this workshop?

Yep – no experience necessary! It’s a really fun day for friends or family members to do together. Plus, you leave with three pairs of briefs you’ve made!

What fun and innovative products do you imagine creating in the future?

Nisa has just started our journey into Zero Waste pattern making. It’s a clever and creative way to make your garments using up all of the fabric they are cut from, and not being part of the industry standard that can waste 30% of fabric before the garment is even sewn up. Our latest Low Waste Merino has used 96% of our fabric. We will launch a new Activewear collection in June that we aim to use 99-100%, achieved through clever panelling and tessellating the patterns so there are no gaps as we cut the garments out. This not only lowers the amount of fabric used but also the amount we need to ship into New Zealand. Please sign up to our mailing list if you would like to be notified when it comes out on our website.

Anything else to add?

With the money raised from the PledgeMe campaign, we also managed to buy a casing machine, which attaches the casing for underwire on bras. Our very first underwire bra, the 'Adele', has just launched. This bra has come about from my absolute hatred of getting to that uncomfortable 4pm period – I designed the Adele as a comfortable, all-day bra. With wide, 35mm straps, and most seams on the outside of the bra, there’s nothing rubbing against your skin. It’s made from our lovely organic cotton/spandex, so is breathable and hard-wearing. Made in New Zealand, the Adele comes in XS/84XL/22 in a C/D cup and a DD/E cup.

Shop, book a workshop, and find our more at nisa.co.nz , and use the code VERVE10 to get 10% off any full-price purchase.

In the Mood

WORDS

JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

With stubborn wads of sand wedged between our toes from the dawn beach walk, our group is guided through various yoga poses as Pacific waves crash in the near distance. Welcome to the Lexus lifestyle…

Luxurious, understated, and at one with its environment – a lot, come to think of it, like the first-ever Lexus LBX.

Beyond the breaks, Mangawhai Heads rise majestically through a salty morning mist; behind us, the undulating grassy green carpets of the spectacular Te Arai Links golf course unspool, dotted with red flags, and framed by towering pine trees. Immediately next to Verve , fashion doyenne Karen Walker flows effortlessly through her poses. Welcome to the Lexus lifestyle…

A select media group has been invited by the Japanese luxury carmaker (now second only to BMW in NZ’s premium market sales, we are proudly told by affable Lexus New Zealand VP Andrew Davis) to the launch of its gorgeous compact crossover, the LBX, which begins with an exquisite lunch at Morningside’s urban oasis, the Glasshouse, before beginning our road trip to Auckland’s far northeast coast to spend the night at Te Arai Links.

The golf venue boasts accommodation befitting its worldclass sporting reputation: luxurious, understated, and at one with its environment – a lot, come to think of it, like the first-ever Lexus LBX. The “Lexus family”, including brand ambassador Karen Walker, are impeccable hosts, joining us for firepit-side chats, fine dining fare, and an amusingly raucous putting competition (blame the cocktails/craft beer/wine) which is cut short thanks to rain and fading light. We’re even each gifted a pair of Karen Walker sunglasses. Welcome to the Lexus lifestyle...

But such lifestyle, of course, lives and dies by its product. And, just like that Pacific coastline, it’s a product already making waves: the LBX recently won the What Car? 2024 Car of the Year award and was a top three finalist in the World Car Awards 2024 World Urban Car category.

“We’re all about creating amazing experiences,” Andrew tells us. “The LBX is moving the premium hybrid game to the next level.”

Blending “hybrid efficiency and compact sophistication”, and beginning at $58,900, the LBX is all about “accessible luxury”, with the trendy city-dwelling millennial market firmly in its sights (though any of their hip older siblings or parents will just as easily tempted, too). Electrified vehicles play a significant role in Lexus’s sales, with nearly nine in 10 of local registrations this year being hybrids, PHEVs, or BEVs, though it is hybrids that are now leading the (excuse the pun), charge. We’re told to expect to spend around half of our driving hours in electric mode (and Karen Walker tells us she only fills up with fuel every couple of months) thanks to a highly efficient three-cylinder 1.5-litre petrol hybrid engine.

Fittingly, the LBX arrives not in grades or trim packages, but three ‘moods’: Active, Cool, and Relax, with eight exquisite exterior two-tone colours like Sonic Quarts, Silver, Pearl, Emotional Red, or Blue Crush. The surprisingly roomy cabins are a perfect balance of sporty and practical, riding on

handsome 18-inch alloys and packed with features, depending on the ‘mood’, like a reversing camera, automatic high beam, parking sensors, ambient interior lighting, leather seats, and a head-up display. Relax and Cool arrive with a 13-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system and are available with a choice of front-wheel or E-Four all-wheel drive.

While luxury and performance so often arrive with a hefty price tag, Lexus believes that everyone deserves to experience the finer things in life – and that’s where this LBX steps in. Japanese craftsmanship is no longer niche, and neither is that worthwhile journey to decarbonisation. Little wonder that for the second year in a row, Lexus New Zealand has reset its sales record.

Karen Walker has been with the brand for 19 years now, and relationships don’t last that long simply through convenience. “It’s a gem of a car,” she gushes. “It just looks like ‘fun’.”

But don’t just take her word for it. Or even ours. Beyonce herself is a bigtime fan, too.

lexus.co.nz

Come Rain Or Shine

1. Toteme Beige Button Coat 2. Entire Studios Khaki Fluffy Jacket 3. Rains Hooded Coated-Shell Jacket 4. Rains Long Jacket 5. Sérf Taupe Fuzzy Beanie 6. Thom Browne White

4-Bar Fingerless Gloves 7. Blunt Umbrella In Houndstooth Saeda 8. Acne Studios Brown & Pink Logo Jacquard Scarf Personalised Velvet Engagement Wedding Ring Box 9. Entire Studios MML Hooded Puffer Pu Croc 85 Crystal-Embellished Velvet Sandals 10. Jakke Winona Trench 11. Paris Georgia 12. YMC Green Mini Slot Scarf

1. YUME YUME Black Fisherman Boots 2. Ganni Embroidered Cowboy Boots 3. Bottega Veneta Green Puddle Boots 4. Marni Blue Pablo Boots 5. ASOS Rhodes Premium Leather Platform Ankle Boots 6. YUME YUME White Fisherman Boots 7. Feners La Semaine Boot 8. Givenchy Shark Lock Metallic Knee High Boot 9. Bottega Veneta Purple Puddle Boots 10. Chloé Beige Betty Boots 11. Moon Boot Icon Low Embellished Faux-Fur & Suede-Trimmed Shell Snow Boots 12. Bottega Veneta Brown Puddle Boots 13. Hogan H619 Sude Kneww-high Boots 14. Burberry Raymond Rain Boots 15. Mackage Black hero Boots 16. Kenzo Green Kenzo Paris Hunter Edition Wellington Boots 17. Tony Bianco Presley Boot

Autumn Style

1. Hartleys Sling leather belt

2. Zebrano Loulou Dress in Jacquard

3. Zebrano Tory Coat

4. Hartleys Desert Dress

5. Zebrano Jessie Jacket in ribbed velvet

6. Hartleys Lania Austin Coat

Paint it black

The impeccably crafted toe cap oxford. Purchase a pair of shoes for a chance to win a full refund!*

*Competition valid only during May and June 2024.

CLOTHINGGIRL DESIGNER RECYCLE

Clothinggirl Designer Recycle is based at Greenwood's Corner Epsom and open 7 days with free parking right outside.

We have an amazing range of designer labels from NZ and overseas and also stock samples and end of lines.

We cater for sizes 6 to 22 and offer free in-store styling.

553 Manukau Road Epsom, Auckland 09 623 0993

AUTUMN Dressing

Aotearoa All about

The Skincare Trifecta

As a seasoned professional skincare therapist, I’ve witnessed countless skincare fads come and go.

The latest TikTok sensation, the Trifecta Skincare Routine, has me concerned. So if you, your daughter or even your grandchildren are contemplating delving into this trend, allow me to dissect its components, and explore the implications that it can have on your skin.

What is the Trifecta Skincare Routine?

The Trifecta Skincare Routine has taken TikTok by storm, with users raving about its simplicity and effectiveness. But what exactly does it entail? Brace yourself, it’s a blend of three seemingly unrelated products:

1. Dial antibacterial hand soap: Yes, you read that right. People are using hand soap meant for germ-ridden palms as a facial cleanser. The rationale being it’s supposedly a potent makeup remover and acne fighter. But is it safe?

2. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Cream : This anti-ageing cream contains retinol. Retinol can accelerate skin cell turnover, fade scars, and improve skin tone. But should it be part of your daily routine?

3. Gold Bond Ultimate Age Defense Hand Cream with SPF 20: A hand cream on your face? Well, this one moisturises and shields against sun damage (but at SPF20 that is definitely not enough protection for skin in New Zealand). Is it a skincare miracle or a TikTok gimmick?

Dial antibacterial soap: friend or foe?

The lady who started this trend swears by Dial antibacterial hand soap. She claims it clears her skin and leaves her glowing. But let's pause. Our facial skin is not the same as our hands. Dial soap may strip away makeup, but it can also disrupt our delicate skin barrier. Longterm use or even short term use is a risky business! Contact dermatitis and irritation loom large.

Neutrogena's retinol revelation

I have always said that retinol is a skincare powerhouse. But here is the catch: retinol is definitely not a one-sizefits-all solution. It can cause redness, peeling, and sensitivity. Consult a professional before diving in as its introduction does require a staggered approach. SPF is also mandatory when using any form of retinol.

Gold Bond's sunscreen saga

Gold Bond's hand cream with SPF 20 sounds like a great moisturiser and protection formulation for hands, but for your face? Firstly sunscreen in New Zealand should never be a mere after thought, it is non-negotiable and you should be looking at least an SPF 50. Slathering hand cream on your face? Interesting! It’s usually too rich and may cause blackheads and blemishes.

The skin consultation reality check TikTok influencers are not your skin whisperers. They cannot see or understand your unique skin conditions. Always seek professional advice when it comes to your skin. Customised recommendations tailored to your needs – now that is gold!

Tweens and anti-ageing: a social media saga

Tweens dabbling in anti-ageing products? Social media wields immense influence with our young people using these products from a very young age – eight and above. It results in severally impaired skin barriers, causing dryness, irritation and leading to dermatitis and eczema. Young skin thrives on simplicity. Sunscreen? Yes! Anti-ageing potions? No!

Final thoughts

TikTok trends are fleeting, but our skin is forever. Let us all be discerning. SPF is our ally, and a skin consultation is our compass. As a professional skincare therapist, I implore you, do not let TikTok dictate your skincare destiny. When you need advice, my team and I are here, sorting out skin, one informed decision at a time.

Louise Gray Skin Care,

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

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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.

Nordic Walking is a fitness activity which uses specifically designed poles to enhance and intensify the natural way of walking. It’s essential to learn the correct technique, as the well-performed Nordic Walking action incorporates the upper body, improves posture and engages 90% of muscles, giving a ‘total body workout’.

nordicwalking.co.nz

We provide: All Dentures are professional denture clinics, dedicated to providing solutions for missing teeth. Our clinics are focused exclusively on denture and denture implant treatments, offering the latest innovative techniques that have assisted patients in enjoying their dentures again.

NORDIC KIWI – NORDIC WALKING

Lifts

Extraordinary Treatments

Fabulous Results!

At Clinic 42, our doctors pride themselves on keeping up to date with the most cutting-edge techniques in cosmetic medicine so you can look lifted, youthful and impossibly refreshed! As leaders in the cosmetic field, with 21 years of expertise, the Clinic 42 doctors have access to specialised products and can use a wide range of techniques to give you powerful, yet natural-looking results. Depending on your area of concern, we’ve got you covered with our three superstar cosmetic treatments: the Banana Lift, for the upper-face; the True Lyft, for the mid-face; and, for the lower face, Happy Face.

Banana Lift

Our Banana Lift is an exclusive treatment developed by the Clinic 42 doctors using non-invasive injectables to reframe the shape and appearance of the upper face. As we age, the temple area of the face hollows which can draw the eye and face downwards. The Banana Lift restores lost volume in the temple area, while also drawing the eye upwards for that perfected, snatched look. Using carefully selected dermal fillers, the doctors administer the product, sweeping it up along the cheekbone and into the hairline in the shape of a banana. The result is elevation of the outer corner of the

eyebrow which opens up the eye area and softens fine lines for a bright-eyed and fresh-faced appearance.

Price: $1,900.

True Lyft

Inspired by plastic surgery techniques, True Lyft is one of Clinic 42’s most sought after treatments for those looking to lift and refresh the mid-face. Thanks to volume loss as we age and the effects of gravity, our cheeks can sag which creates heavy creases at the side of the nose and mouth. For the True Lyft, the doctors administer dermal filler with skilled hands to the five ‘true’ ligaments of the face, giving renewed structure for the facial soft tissues and creating a natural lifting effect. The result is beautifully contoured cheekbones, softened lines around the nose and mouth, and a lifted, defined jawline for added youthfulness.

Price $1,300.

Happy Face

For those who want to turn ‘resting grumpy face’ into a pleasantly relaxed facial expression, Happy Face is perfect treatment. In our late 30s and early 40s, signs of ageing emerge with the formation of sagging jowls, a down-turned mouth and a furrowed forehead, making us look tired and worn – even when we’re content and

happy! For Happy Face, the doctors use their expertise to soften the marionette lines with a combination of dermal filler. For an added bonus, they also administer botulinum toxin to the frown lines for a more relaxed and refreshed appearance. Happy Face helps to elevate the corners of the mouth, smooth out the chin, sharpen the jawline and soften brow lines, for a well-rested and brightened facial expression. Price $950.

For more information on the treatments available at Clinic 42, visit clinic42.co.nz . We also post before and after photos and updates regularly to our FB and IG pages. If you would like to book an appointment to see one of our practitioners, please contact our reception on 09 6384242 or reception@clinic42.co.nz

Restylane®, Medical Device Class III to smooth facial wrinkles and enhance lips by restoring volume and fullness. Restylane® has risk and benefits Ask your doctor if Restylane is right for you For product information check with your doctor or from product details with the supplier. Click for further details. Stabilised Hyaluronic Acid 20mg/Ml. Galderma, Australia, Sydney or distributor Healthcare Logistics, Auckland.

Botulinum toxin injections are Prescription Medicines for the treatment of frown lines, horizontal forehead lines and crow’s feet round the eyes. Botulinum toxin injections have risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if botulinum toxin injections are is right for you. For further information ask your doctor or go to medsafe.govt.nz.

Grow with Bader

Bader is a company with purpose. That purpose is to “impact and enhance humanity's natural state of being” through innovative products and lifestyle enhancement tools that go beyond supplements, quick fixes, and health hacks. They want to build a community. Co-founder Mike Wilson tells us how.

What inspired the creation of Bader?

Bader was born from my shared journey with my chosen brother, Ryan Bennett. We sought spiritual growth, health enhancement, and self-discovery. Recognising the need for a company that could help others enhance their natural state of being, we decided to offer innovative products, lifestyle tools, and breathwork

practices. We wanted to create the most premium products that would equal or even better than anything else on the market and have it created right here in New Zealand. We want to make optimal health and wellbeing accessible to everyone. We also launched a podcast, Journey with Michael and Ryan, to share insights and stories, fostering a community of like-minded individuals. Additionally, Bader offers a 28-Day State Change Program, which is free and provides tools and practices to transform lives and nurture the mind, body, and spirit.

What sets Bader apart from others?

Bader stands out by embracing a realistic approach to wellness, offering high-quality products that cater to all Four States of Being: Mental, Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual. Our products, like the Total State Enhancement Bundle, support individuals in reaching peak states across these areas. Additionally, Bader offers breathwork practices such as Rebirthing Breathwork, which help release negative emotions, gain clarity, and achieve personal transformation.

Our podcast also provides valuable insights into wellness, helping build a supportive community. This comprehensive approach, along with Bader's commitment to transparency, sustainability, and authenticity, has built trust within its community, making it a trusted choice for holistic health enthusiasts.

Tell us a bit about your wellness routines. Wellness is integrated into every aspect of our daily lives. Our team practises holistic self-care, starting each day with mindfulness exercises like breathwork and cold therapy. We also enjoy a balanced, nutritious diet, which complements our products such as Sleep and Focus. These supplements help improve our sleep quality, mental clarity, and energy levels. Additionally, our Rebirthing Breathwork practice helps reduce stress and brings coherence to our states of being. It’s also about having amazing people around you, who you can speak openly to and offer and gather support from, and, most importantly someone who can hold a mirror to you.

What kind of feedback have you received?

Customers have praised Bader for its products' effectiveness and their role in improving wellbeing. Testimonials highlight how Sleep and Focus have helped users achieve deeper sleep and mental clarity. We have customers send us their info after tracking their sleep with sleep watches and have gone from 20 minutes of REM sleep to up to an hour and a half in just a few days. The Total State Enhancement Bundle has been particularly popular, supporting balanced lifestyles across the Four States of Being. Bader's commitment to transparency and authenticity has further built trust. Additionally, the Bader Wellness Retreats have offered transformative experiences, including breathwork practices, helping participants release negative emotions, achieve spiritual growth, and gain holistic wellbeing. Our podcast has been well-received, as has the 28-Day State Change Program.

Could you highlight one of your most popular products and explain why it resonates so well with your customers?

The Total State Enhancement Bundle resonates deeply with customers due to its comprehensive approach to wellness. It includes Sleep and Focus which have been praised for improving sleep quality, mental clarity, and energy levels. This bundle also supports all aspects of the Four States of Being, helping individuals achieve balanced, holistic lifestyles. Breathwork practices like the Bader Breath and consciousconnected breathing contribute to customers' overall wellness and personal growth. It’s amazing value and on subscription is even better!

How does Bader stay innovative?

Innovation is at the heart of Bader's philosophy, guiding the continuous development of new products and practices.

Our team keeps up with industry trends, ensuring offerings meet evolving consumer needs. Customer feedback is also integral to refining our products and services. Additionally, we incorporate new holistic practices such as breathwork techniques, helping customers achieve balanced wellbeing. Our podcast provides additional insights into holistic health, supporting the community's growth, and the 28-Day State Change Program offers free guidance for balanced living, fostering transformation across all states of being. This commitment to adaptation and evolution allows Bader to deliver cutting-edge solutions, enhancing customers' wellbeing. The company's transparency and authenticity further foster trust, solidifying its place in the wellness industry.

What does optimal health and wellbeing mean to you both?

To us, optimal health and wellbeing mean finding balance in all areas of life. This involves nurturing the mind, body, and spirit through healthy habits, holistic practices, and breathwork exercises. We believe in the power of natural products, mindfulness exercises, and balanced lifestyles to support this balance. Our podcast offers daily insights into holistic wellbeing, fostering a community of like-minded individuals, and the 28-Day State Change Program helps individuals achieve balance across all states of being. By prioritising holistic wellbeing in our personal lives and through Bader's offerings, we aim to inspire others to cultivate lives that foster vitality, happiness, and growth.

Beauty Picks of May

Bolster your skincare routine for the colder season with our May beauty picks! From barrier repair serums to collagen-boosting tints, discover the essentials for radiant skin all season long.

1. Embodyme Courage Nurturing Body Oil

2. Murad Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Serum

3. Xcell Medical Skincare Potent DNA Super Serum

4. Xcell Medical Skincare Alive Advanced Lactic Acid Serum

5. Revlon Face Illuminance Serum Tint Soldier Light Tan 6. Murad Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Cream 7. Skin A to Z Skin Better Science Alto Defense Serum 8. Skin A to Z Skin Better Science Tone Smart

9. Revlon Face Illuminance Serum Tint Soldier Warm Caramel

10. Holski 50+ Dispensing System

11. Murad Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Mask 12. Skin A to Z Skin Better Science A-Team Duo Kit

Across the Sea

If the world seems to be dealing out extra lashings of madness, I know a place that awaits that's close but will take you far, far away, to something calm and beautiful. Parohe Island Retreat . Go there.

Parohe means relaxed in te reo – ironic as its founder Kerry Knight is perhaps the least chill person you’ll meet! A visionary with a New York kind of work ethic with multiple projects always on the go, he decided to turn this magnificent 22-hectare slice of Kawau Island paradise into an eco-luxury health resort when he discovered the calming benefit the island had on him. Now that’s saying something!

Auckland to Sandspit is a 45-minute car ride where you’re met by a water taxi and your escape from the modern chaos instantly begins. A long private jetty unfurls after your short boat ride to Parohe, where charming hosts Vicky and Glyn are responsible for keeping this semi-tropical island hideaway running smoothly. An electric buggy takes your belongings to your secluded cabin while you walk, breathe in the salty air, and watch seagulls dive for prey and the resident stingray float gracefully below.

and gardens, are lovingly tended by the couple, who also offer up everything form Buddha bowls to espresso and healthy cacao treats.

On the Couples Weekend Retreat I attend, the strikingly beautiful Rawinia Buchanan greets us with a freshly squeezed Welcome Cocktail (zero alcohol), a map of the resort, and an itinerary of suggested activities like group yoga, dance, and cooking.

Rawinia and her partner Gary are both health professionals. Rawinia is well known in the wellness space for developing spas for major hotel chains in Auckland and was midwife to the difficult birth of Parohe during the Covid lockdowns. Where many see restrictions, Ra sees possibility which is what makes her an impressive yoga teacher, out-ofthis-world masseuse, and team builder, too.

Head to the website to see what’s on offer but be sure to book well in advance. There are 17 rooms with ensuites; two potential conference areas; and only one Enchantment, the sheltered  organic garden of Eden dining and pampering  area.  WORDS JACQUELINE KNIGHT

A minimalist Swedish cabin with maximalist bush and harbour views, along with the impressive bush trails

Gary, too, is multi-talented. Not only a psychologist, he’s also a fearless Ceroc Dance teacher that even managed to get the most reluctant guests to confidently parohe.co.nz

learn a move or two! Gary also gently encourages guests to share in meditative experiences by leading them to a yoga platform nestled by the bush among filtered, sun-warmed moss. That meditation is what I took home with me from Parohe, and where my head goes now on a crazy day.

No two retreats are necessarily alike at Parohe. Different practitioners will offer different experiences. This was a couple’s retreat, but retreats are easily attended by singles who wish to take part in yoga, pilates, kayaking, archery, hiking, fishing, reading, golf swing practice, badminton, pickleball, darts, or corn hole. Then there’s the chatting, the sunbathing, the reading, the massage, and the friendship building!

Thoughtful Surprises

1. Louise Douglas 9ct Gold Chrysanthemum Necklace 2 LOVE IN A JEWEL The Chic Diamond Pendant holds Ashes or Love Note loveinajewel.co.nz

Carol Priest Revitalising Hair Care Duo

Nespresso Vertuo Creatista 5. Eden Health Retreat Eden Gift Certificate 6. Jeuneora FullStop. SPF 7. Painted Bird Vintage Song Birds Earrings 8. Embodyme Peace, Joy, Courage, Kindness Nurturing Body Oil 9. NOMAD TRADING COMPANY Broste Eli Bowl

LOVE IN A JEWEL The Full Circle of Love Diamond Pendant holds Ashes or Love Note loveinajewel.co.nz

Solitaire de Parnell Goccia Bracelet 12 Love Tea Sleep Canister 13. Georgia Jay Flo in Chalk 14. Painted Bird Vintage Burst Of Bling Earrings 15. PUMA Palermo in Alpine Snow

Auckland Obstetric Centre is a unique practice in Parnell made up of specialist obstetricians.

Together we have delivered over 15,000 babies, and working as a team, we’ll look after you from early pregnancy right through to your birth and post-natal period.

To find out more about how we can care for you and your baby, call our team or visit our website.

Mother's Day

7

EASY WINS COOKBOOK BY ANNA JONES

Award-winning and bestselling cook Anna Jones gives her golden rules for easy wins in the kitchen with supersimple recipes that are bursting with flavour and kind to the planet.

WIN We have one copy of Easy Wins by Anna Jones to giveaway.

ghd MAX STYLER IN RADIANT RED

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

Make an impact this season with the radiant red ghd Max. Ideal for styling long, thick and curly hair types for easy and flawless results. It evenly maintains the optimum styling temperature of 185°C for premium results without compromising the condition of your hair.

WIN Limited Edition ghd Max Styler in Radiant Red (with heat-resistant case) RRP $410.

POSTAL SERVICE CAFÉ MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH GIVE AWAY

Postal Service Café in Grey Lynn, known for its piquant Kokako coffee and mouth-watering heuvos rancheros, is offering a the most memorable vegetarian treat so that you can do something special for the ‘mother’ in your life.

WIN a Mother’s Day Brunch for four –what better way to celebrate this special day?

STUDIO PILATES MOTHER IN YOUR LIFE GIVE AWAY

Nestled in the heart of one of Auckland’s most beautiful suburbs, Studio Pilates Takapuna promises an unparalleled experience in a luxe studio with high-quality, custommade reformer pilates beds, polished hardwood floors and the signature Studio Pilates chandelier. Prepare to switch your mind off from outside distractions and focus on you.

WIN 2x 3 Class Passes at Studio Pilates Takapuna for yourself and the 'mother' in your life, plus a Studio Pilates Starter Kit (includes a tote bag and 2x pairs grip socks) valued over $150.

ZELANIA

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of Zelania, powered by the potent Zelven+, and to celebrate, we’re giving away a skincare travel set. To enter, follow @zelaniaskincare on Instagram, like Zelania Skincare on Facebook , and sign up for our newsletter at zelania.skin . Don't miss out on this opportunity to unlock the secret to radiant, youthful-looking skin to radiate BeautifulTM .  Good luck!

WIN one of our premium skincare essentials to pamper your skin wherever you go!

8

DRESS FOR SUCCESS

Hear from special guest Michele Meyer-Shipp, CEO Dress for Success Worldwide. Gain insights into the challenges of women globally, and in our community. Enjoy delicious nibbles, drinks, and a surprise goodie bag filled with treats!

WIN a ticket to “Empower your Life” celebrating the 25th anniversary of Dress for Success Auckland.

6

NISA

Wonderful Wellington-based ethical underwear maker, Nisa, creates beautifully crafted, high-quality garments while providing employment opportunities to empower women from refugee and migrant backgrounds. Once you’ve discovered their comfortable, long-wearing underwear, you’ll never wear anything else!

WIN a $250 gift card to discover the wonders of Nisa for yourself.

MOTHER’S DAY MUST-READ

Bestselling author Karen McMillan releases her latest historical novel in time for Mother’s Day. Turbulent Threads is a passionate tale of freedom and love in Victorian New Zealand, a page-turning saga set in extraordinary times.

WIN One of two copies of Turbulent Threads by Karen McMillan from Quentin Wilson Publishing, RRP $37.99.

The Kerr-fect Match!

michaelhill.co.nz

In exciting news for New Zealand’s leading fine jewellery brand, Michael Hill – and for Aotearoa itself –supermodel and super-entrepreneur Miranda Kerr has been named brand ambassador, a partnership she describes as thrilling.

“It’s so special to me because one of my first photoshoots was with Michael Hill over 20 years ago,” she says. “I’m proud to support Michael Hill in the next chapter of its journey, just like they supported me all those years ago.”

Michael Hill’s CEO, Daniel Bracken, describes Kerr’s appointment as a critical element of its long-term

brand strategy that includes a new logo, new website, and new global flagship store in Chadstone. “Miranda not only embodies our brand values, but she’s close to our antipodean roots and is the epitome of timeless elegance and sophistication,” he says.

“Michael Hill has the ambition to be one of the most sustainable jewellery brands in the world and this aligns perfectly with the sustainable business practices that Miranda follows.”

Lamb and Pea Shoots

Tender spring peas and tender spring lamb cooked directly over hot coals. Fat – rendered out by the slow heat – drips onto the fire, scorching the meat and amping up that beautiful caramelised crust. (Side note: you’re going to smell great after cooking this.) A lemon and chamomile-driven sauce, bolstered with chicken stock, adds a cut-through moreishness.

Ingredients

Lamb leg

20g each of rosemary, parsley, oregano leaves

3 garlic cloves, peeled

100g olive oil

1 lamb leg, boned

Chamomile oil

10g dried chamomile

100g vegetable oil

To finish

300g chicken stock

½ garlic clove, sliced

3 slices preserved Meyer lemons

150g fresh peas

100g pea shoots

Directions

Lamb leg

Make a marinade the night before by blending the herbs, garlic and oil together in an upright blender until smooth. Place the lamb in a suitably sized dish, coat with the marinade and chill overnight. The next day, light a nice fire and let the wood burn down for 45 minutes or so until you have a decent bed of coals. Take the lamb out of the fridge when you light the fire and let it come to room temperature. Using your hands, remove most of the marinade and place the lamb onto a rack around 1 metre above the surface of the fire. Cook slowly for around 1¼ hours, or until it reaches 50°C when tested with a cooking thermometer. The trick here is to manage the heat so that it is consistent but slow; the slower it cooks the more tender it will be. Remove from the fire and let it rest, covered, in a warm spot for 10 minutes.

Chamomile oil

Place the dried chamomile and oil in an upright blender. Blend on high speed for 4–5 minutes, or until the oil becomes hot to the touch. Pour everything into a small container and leave at room temperature overnight to infuse. The following day, strain the oil off the top of the sediment and chill.

To finish

Place the stock, garlic and Meyer lemon slices into a small pot and bring to the boil. Simmer until it has reduced by one-third then season well with sea salt. Add the peas and take off the heat. Dress the pea shoots with the chamomile oil and season lightly. Carve the lamb leg and arrange on a serving plate, spoon over the peas and some of the sauce, then top with the pea shoots.

Recipe extracted from On Sundays: Long lunches through the seasons by Dave Verheul, published by Hardie Grant Books.

Raw Kingfish, Lemon, Cucumber, Mint and Cumquat

Kingfish is on the meatier end of the fish spectrum, so it pairs really well with the pepita miso. I love this dish. It’s got a wicked balance of savoury and brightness. Citrus is my thing and cumquat is such an elegant flavour. Lemon cucumbers, though not sour, have an enticing lemon scent and taste great. To make the dried cucumber skin, dry out any excess cucumber peel over a fire or in a low oven then grind into a fine powder.

Ingredients

Pumpkin seed cream

30g pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

10g broad bean miso or white Japanese miso

40g vegetable oil lemon juice, to taste

Cumquat oil

25g cumquat skins

25g olive oil

75g vegetable oil

Cumquat dressing

25g cumquat juice

25g lemon or plain shio koji

50g cumquat oil (see above)

To serve

140g kingfish, cleaned and cut into 5mm dice

20g pumpkin seeds (pepitas), soaked in water overnight

5g olive oil

120g lemon cucumbers, or heirloom cucumbers

5g lemon basil

5g mint

1 teaspoon dried cucumber skin, ground

Directions

Pumpkin seed cream

Blend the seeds and miso in an upright blender and slowly add 100g water and the oil. Season to taste with salt and lemon juice.

Cumquat oil

Put everything in a small glass jar and place into a 60°C oven for 6 hours. Leave to cool overnight.

Cumquat dressing

Mix everything together and season to taste if needed.

To serve

Place the kingfish and drained pumpkin seeds in a small bowl. Add the olive oil and season lightly with salt and black pepper. Mix well and transfer to two serving bowls. Make a small hole in the middle of the piles of fish. Spoon 1½ spoons of the pepita cream into the hole. Using a sharp knife, cut the cucumbers on an angle 4mm thick. Place in a mixing bowl. Tear the herbs roughly with your hands and add to the bowl with the cucumber powder. Season lightly and dress with the cumquat dressing. Mix and arrange on top of the kingfish mix.

Recipe extracted from On Sundays: Long lunches through the seasons by Dave Verheul, published by Hardie Grant Books.

KRISTOFFER PAULSEN

Marinated Cherry Tomatoes, Bay Leaf and Pine Nut

At the restaurant, we used to put a cut-to-order tomato salad on the menu every summer. But given that everyone loves summer tomatoes, we’d end up making it for every single table, which would drive us crazy by the end of January. This recipe is our solution to capturing the sharpness and brightness of tomatoes in a way that could be pre-made and plated straight from the fridge. One of my finer moments.

Ingredients

Burnt bay leaf oil

20g bay leaves

500g vegetable oil

10g salt

Marinated cherry tomatoes

500g mixed ripe cherry tomatoes

20g vegetable oil

To finish

30g sourdough breadcrumbs, toasted

30g pine nuts, toasted

30g aioli

5g olive oil

2g dried oregano white vinegar, to season

Directions

Burnt bay leaf oil

Place the bay leaves into a wide grill sieve and grill over a hot bed of coals. The trick here is to grill them a little unevenly; you want a range from bright green and fragrant all the way through to ‘I have to blow out the burning bay leaf’. Immediately transfer the leaves to an upright blender and add the other ingredients. Blend on high speed until the oil reaches 60°C, or is hot when you hold your hand against the blender bowl. Pour into a container big enough to hold the oil and the tomatoes and leave to cool.

Marinated cherry tomatoes

Place the tomatoes in a bowl and pick through to make sure they’re clean and free of debris. Add the oil and season with sea salt. Working in small batches, grill the tomatoes quickly over a really ripping fire, then take them off the heat. The key here is speed, as we aren’t looking to cook them at all, we just want the skin to blister and crack open. Place the grilled tomatoes straight into the bay oil and chill overnight, ideally.

To finish

Place the sourdough crumbs, pine nuts, aioli and olive oil in a small bowl. Season lightly and stir to combine, then scoop this into a pile on one side of your serving bowl. Using a slotted spoon, scoop the cherry tomatoes from their marinade and place into a bowl. Add the dried oregano and season to taste with salt, pepper and white vinegar. Arrange the tomatoes and some of the dressing on the other side of the serving bowl.

Recipe extracted from On Sundays: Long lunches through the seasons by Dave Verheul, published by Hardie Grant Books.

Stracciatella, Walnut and Cime Di Rapa

Cime di rapa, also known as broccoli rabe in the northern hemisphere, is a leafy, big-tasting plant with strong mustard and turnip-y notes. The stems can be stringy, but when peeled and cooked at a low heat, they wilt into the most delicious addition to any pizza or pasta. Keep some covered in olive oil at the back of your fridge and you’ll be surprised how much you use it.

Ingredients

Braised cime di rapa

300g cime di rapa

1 garlic clove, finely sliced 15g oregano, leaves only small pinch of Espelette chilli flakes 100g olive oil

Black walnut pesto

75g walnuts

50g pickled black walnuts

1 garlic clove, peeled 10g parmesan

50g olive oil

25g vegetable oil

Directions

Braised cime di rapa

Give the cime di rapa a good wash under cold running water and gently shake dry. Pick the leaves and flower heads into a suitably sized bowl. Take the stems and, using the tip of a small paring knife, peel away the fibrous outer layer starting from the base and working up. When peeled, finely slice the stems on the diagonal. Place all of the ingredients into a suitably sized pot, season with a little salt and cook over a low–medium heat until softened. This will take around 15 minutes – you want the rapa to turn an even army green and become luxuriously soft in texture. When it is ready, remove from the heat, leave to cool then season to taste with salt and black pepper.

Black walnut pesto

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the fresh walnuts on a baking tray and toast for 3–4 minutes. You do not want to brown them much at all, just toast some of the rawness off them. Remove from the oven and leave to cool. Using a sharp knife, roughly chop the toasted nuts, followed by the black walnuts. Transfer the nuts to a small mixing bowl and microplane in the parmesan followed by a touch of garlic (start with half a small clove, you can always add more afterwards). Pour in the oils, give it a good mix and season to taste with salt and black pepper.

To finish

This may sound a little odd, but I like to plate this dish like a Neapolitan ice cream. With that in mind, scoop the stracciatella onto one side each of two serving bowls. Next, scoop the braised cime di rapa into the middle of the bowl, followed by the pesto on the opposing side. It doesn’t resemble the Italian flag in any way but still screams Italian to me. Serve with crostini on the side.

Recipe extracted from On Sundays: Long lunches through the seasons by Dave Verheul, published by Hardie Grant Books.

Choccy Ripple-Misu (aka 'The Rippa')

Serves 4

Further to the above, this dessert is our mash-up of a classic tiramisu and the much-loved Australian choccy ripple cake. It’s bogan meets Italy, kind of like driving through Portofino in a VL Commodore, with just as much impact. We’ll be making all the components, from the biscuits to the coffee and cream. Get this into the fridge the day before so it has time to do its thing.

Ingredients

Chocolate biscuit

150g unsalted butter, softened

300g sugar

1 egg

200g plain (all-purpose) flour

80g cocoa

20g instant freeze dried coffee powder

1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)

¼ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

Marsala caramel

250g Marsala, plus 25g extra

200g sugar

900g espresso, plus 25g extra

Mascarpone mousse

5 egg yolks

5g gelatine

200g sugar

50g Marsala

Egg whites

5 egg whites

90g sugar

Cream

300g cream

600g mascarpone

50g Marsala

To finish cocoa powder, for dusting

Directions

Chocolate biscuit

Preheat a fan-forced oven to 160°C. Add the butter and sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment and whip until the mix has a creamy consistency. Add the egg and beat until combined. Sieve all of the dry ingredients and add to the mixer bowl, then slowly beat until fully combined. At this point you will need to decide what container you are going to build this in. Divide the dough into four, then roll each piece out to the same size and shape of the final serving dish. The dough needs to be 4mm thick when uncooked. Bake the biscuits on a baking tray lined with baking paper for 6 minutes, then remove to cool.

Marsala caramel

Place the first three ingredients in a small pot and stir over a low heat to dissolve the sugar. Bring to the boil and skim well. Cook over a medium heat until it has reduced down to a thick caramel consistency, then freshen with the second measures of Marsala and coffee. Chill.

Mascarpone mousse

Recipe extracted from On Sundays: Long lunches through the seasons by Dave Verheul, published by Hardie Grant Books.

Place the yolks in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Place the gelatine sheet in a small metal bowl and cover with cold water. Leave to bloom for 5 minutes, then drain off the water. Place the sugar and 100g water in a small pot and warm over a low heat until the sugar

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PHOTOGRAPHY: KRISTOFFER PAULSEN

dissolves. Turn the mixer to high speed and turn the heat up on the pot. Cook the sugar to 117°C, then slowly pour into the mixer while it is running. Once you have all the sugar in there, knock the speed back to medium. Put the bowl of gelatine over a low flame until it dissolves, then slowly pour into the yolk mix with the Marsala. Turn to low while you make the rest.

For the egg whites, whip the whites to soft peaks while slowly adding the sugar using a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, or by hand.

To make the cream, add everything to a bowl and whip to soft peaks. When you have prepared all the elements, very gently fold the mascarpone into the yolk mix, then finally the whites into the rest. Season with more Marsala if needed.

To finish

Grab your final dish. Working in layers, start with a layer of mousse, then drizzle (for lack of a better word) the caramel over, then add the biscuit. Repeat until you finish with a layer of the mousse, then chill for a minimum of 4 hours so that the mousse sets and the biscuits hydrate slightly. When you’re ready to serve, dust with some good-quality cocoa.

Let’s Eat Out Taste & Drink

Wine columnist and connoisseur DENNIS KNILL gives his views on two new wines from Pernod Ricard.

Pernod Ricard, the second-largest wine and spirit producer in the world, is never caught napping when it comes to launching new brands. In figuring out the next big trend they’ve recently unveiled four new wines under the umbrella of Greasy Fingers.

Each of the wines have been skilfully crafted to cut through greasy food while epitomising the perfect match for gourmet fast food. The aim is to re-engage with younger wine drinkers who more frequently consume convenience food at home. Greasy Fingers also goes back to the real heartland of food and wine pairing without tablecloths.

For moments of pure indulgence these two wines are deliciously greasy when paired with gourmet hamburgers, pizza and pasta dishes.

’22 Greasy Fingers chardonnay; RRP $22. Full of colour, freshness and aroma that’s nicely balanced with hints of oak and a lasting mouth-filling crispness that rests on the palate.

’21 Greasy Fingers shiraz; RRP $22.

A youthful, ripe and fruit-packed wine that’s dense and bold in colour, with lots of character and complexity rounded off with soft, food-friendly tannins.

DENNIS and ROSAMUND KNILL

Famed suburban eatery, the Java Room, has occupied its terrace house for an impressive 29 years and remains largely unchanged apart from the occasional refreshed ownership and decor.

The Java Room has attained its place as a favourite in Parnell’s crowded eat street by following a simple formula: imaginative and refined Indonesian cuisine served by floor staff who skilfully navigate the diverse menu in relaxed surroundings.

Appetisers include roti with a curry dip ($9); prawn and corn fritters served with sweet chilli dip ($16); chicken satay served with peanut sauce ($16); vegetarian spring rolls ($16); raw snapper soaked in lime and coconut dressing ($24.90); and steamed dim sum ($16.90). Some mains you’ll find in most other Indonesian eateries, but if you look beyond the traditional curries, rice and noodles, wok-fried, vegetarian and Asian salads there’s some interesting classics. These include crisp Siamese snapper ($46.90) served with sweet chilli jam and fresh salad; salmon teriyaki ($38.90) served on cabbage, lettuce, and teriyaki glaze; and crumbed eye pork ($29.80) served with coriander and plum sauce. For sides, think jasmine rice ($4); coconut rice or noodles ($6); and a garden salad ($9) with baby bok choy, sweet chilli jam and crushed peanuts.

To start, we opted for a grand tour of Asia ($28.90) which is a selection of all the appetisers on the menu. For the main dishes we chose nasi goreng ($29.90) stir fried Malay rice, fried egg, vegetables, and toasted shallots; and some Thai gai ($29.90), a chicken salad with fresh paw paw, grilled lemongrass, roasted peanuts, crisp shallots and Thai dressing. Although traditional Asian simplicity can usually be thin on the ground, all the dishes were delightfully and theatrically presented and merit recommendation. The wine list, while basic rounded, off a winning formula.

And the verdict? Genuine hospitality, fair prices, and assured cooking with primary flavours all combine to create an irresistible culinary charm. In all, the Java Room is an unpretentious dining experience that sits comfortably among Parnell’s numerous dining options.

Menu: 8; cuisine: 8; wine list: 6; service: 8; decor: 8; value for money: 8.

Licensed and BYO. 317 Parnell Road; 09 366 1606; thejavaroom.co.nz

That’s the Spirit!

WORDS

JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

Famed for falling from trees, having imbibed too much fermented fruit, the loveable kererū is undoubtedly New Zealand’s original drunk. Our human history of alcohol, however, is a relatively brief one.

Named waipiro (stinking water) by Māori, alcohol was introduced to New Zealand society by early European settlers.

Captain Cook is believed to be the nation’s first beer brewer, concocting a batch of booze on Resolution Island in Dusky Sound in 1773 to fend off scurvy. The brew, made using rimu branches, leaves, and molasses, was described as “very palatable” by some of Cook’s crew, with many able to “drink plentifully of it” (a far cry from the reviews of Lion Brewery’s attempted recreation around 200 years later, which ranged from “awful” to “revolting”). London-born Jewish trader Joel Polack was to establish the nation’s first brewery, in Kororāreka, in 1835.

However, according to Te Ara, early pioneers preferred spirits and fortified wines over beer, partly because of their potency, partly because of practicality for “beer was bulky and did not travel well”. Until well into the second half of the 19th century, consumption of wine and spirits was up to four times that of the UK, while beer accounted for less than half in comparison.

With many Scots arriving in Otago in the 1830s, a whisky distilling industry soon flourished, particularly in Dunedin, Oamaru, and Gore. Whalers and sealers notoriously had their own liquor stills too, but these were outlawed in the early 1840s, and

Contrary to popular belief, whisky need not be at least five years old to be any good either.

over the following decades, a popular prohibition movement led to various legislative restrictions effectively closing down the spirits industry – and it didn’t really recover until well into the 20th century.

Under the stewardship of Aotearoa’s first modern distiller, Robert Logan, Dunedin’s Wilson’s Malt (also known as Willowbank and Lammerlaw) is credited with breathing new life into our whisky industry – though the resurgence was brief, and the distillery closed in 1997. Its stills were sent to Fiji to make rum, and in 2010, its remaining stock – around 500 barrels that had been kept in storage in an old aeroplane hangar – was bought by the Oamaru-based New Zealand Whisky Collection, who later began distilling their own, based on the original recipes. Now, a new distilling renaissance is taking root across the land – which also serves as an inspiration to it.

The diversity of whisky, says NZ Whisky Collection head distiller and general manager, Michael Byars, is vaster than most realise: “There are so many processes before bottling. Time is the biggest factor. As an ex-winemaker, it’s very similar to producing your top-end single vineyards continuously, 12 months

of the year. Smelling and tasting through the entire process is imperative.”

Contrary to popular belief, whisky need not be at least five years old to be any good either.

“Every country and every region within the country has its own unique weather, and, as the wine industry calls it, 'terroir',” continues Michael. “New Zealand has a much warmer and humid climate than Scotland, for example, and can produce whiskies in half the time. We are also not bound by a 'whisky law', so have open hands to experiment to produce whiskies with exceptional character.”

“The climate of the subtropical North Island in particular has a massive impact on the maturation of our whiskies,” Matt John, founder of Pōkeno Whisky, tells Verve . “The angels are greedy here, and we can have evaporation rates up to 9% per year. This means that our single malts reach maturity early. The growing conditions and terroir for our barley also impact the profile, giving our whiskies an incredible sweetness.”

ANCIENT ALCOHOL

Our human ancestors might have begun consuming alcohol 10 million years ago – long before we learned how to brew – as a means of using up rotting, fermented fruit.

Inconclusive cave art hints at humans imbibing alcohol around 30,000 BCE.

Pottery was invented in China at least 15,000 years ago enabling any intentionally fermented drinks to be made and stored.

Twelve-thousand-year-old grape seeds in a Greek cave could be attributed to wine consumption.

Archaeological evidence suggests that fermented beverages made from fruits, grains, and honey were consumed as early as 7,000 BCE, enjoyed by civilisations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China.

Grape pips, skins and double-handle cups are the earliest concrete evidence of wine production in Greece in 4,000 BCE.

By the 9th century BCE, beer was being brewed throughout South America.

The following century, Homer writes about wine in The Iliad and The Odyssey Around this time, wine is also being produced in Italy.

The Greeks bring wine to France, via Marseilles, in 600 BCE.

Around 500 BCE, beer and mead is being enjoyed throughout what is now Germany.

By the 1st century BCE, thanks to the Roman empire, wine production and trade has taken root throughout the Mediterranean.

“Clarity was born on the principle that we are transparent with our processes and ingredients as our customers need to know that they are drinking quality.”

The Gin Makers

Clarity Distilling Company already has reason to pop some celebratory corks having bagged a handful of prestigious international awards, most recently the Gold and Best in Show at the 2024 London Spirits Competition, for their Clarity 2023 Gin – fending off hundreds of competitors from around the world.

Even more impressive, the Kiwi company was only founded just over a year ago, by George White and Stephanie Downer.

BOOZY BENEFITS

Watching your weight? Clearer spirits like vodka, gin, and tequila are generally lower in calories – just be sure to mix them with a no-sugar mixer, or soda water.

Similarly, lighter beers tend to be kinder on the waistline than, say stout.

Dieting wine drinkers should swap their reds for dry whites.

Red wine, however, is generally richer in antioxidants, such as resveratrol, which may have heart protecting properties (when consumed in moderation – as with the rest of this list!).

Whisky contains just as many antioxidants as wine, as well as polyphenols which can decrease bad cholesterol, and increase the good.

Beer also contains a surprising amount of nutrients, including B vitamins, magnesium, potassium, and antioxidants.

“We have been working together for about seven years in various other businesses, and we realised that we shared the same passion and drive to create and set up a business together,” George tells Verve . “We both enjoy gin, and being able to change the flavour profile of a drink to suit your own palettes was an extremely attractive proposition. Clarity was born on the principle that we are transparent with our processes and ingredients as our customers need to know that they are drinking quality.”

Can you tell us about those ingredients?

All the flavour in our gin comes from the botanicals during the distillation process so ensuring we source consistently high-quality botanicals is vital. Through trialling botanicals that are grown in different regions around the world, we’ve selected ones that we believe offer the best flavour profiles. Our coriander seeds and citrus are both locally grown here in New Zealand.

Can you tell us a little about your distilling process – and the cool artwork on the bottles?

Our flavour is created from distilling natural botanicals, with no flavourings or additives in anything that we produce. We distil all botanicals individually and then blend the individual distillates as per our recipe. This individual distillation allows us to very closely control the temperature of the still and how

long we distil the botanical, enabling immense control over the flavour profile of that single botanical and ensuring consistency of our product batch to batch.

The inspiration for the artwork on each bottle is drawn from that gin’s flavour profile. All the artworks are painted and hand-drawn by Stephanie. Our Dry Gin is a rich, earthier, more spiced gin and the artwork embodies that by incorporating colours and shapes reminiscent of the earth and shifting sands. With our Navy Gin, the artwork is a bit more obvious, conveying the story behind the highproof navy gin that was carried on British Naval ships in the 1700s. The swirls of the waves draw from the dynamic, rough seascape, embodying the courage of sailors navigating tumultuous waters.

Any recommended mixers and/or cocktails?

For an everyday drink, we love a classic G&T, preferring to use plain Indian tonic

water. When we’re feeling like something a bit fancier, our 2023 gin makes an amazing Martini, and both work extremely well in a French 75 for a really special occasion.

What do you find most satisfying about your work, and most challenging?

Gin is an extremely creative spirit, being able to experiment with flavours and ultimately create a product we love that we can then share with people and see and hear their feedback is amazing. Being only one year old, we’re still

learning the industry. Making connections with retailers and bars and restaurants to get our products into the market has taken time. We are also incredibly small, with only the two of us working in the distillery, so we wear all the hats between us – from distilling to bottling to marketing and everything in between!

MATCHES MADE IN HEAVEN

“Like wine, whisky goes with everything, you just need to know which whisky with what food,” says Michael. “A light ex-bourbon whisky to start the meal, a salty character whisky goes well with red meats and salads, finished with a light ex-red wine whisky, or peated, with a good cigar, maybe!”

“Pōkeno Origin, with its lovely citrus notes, pairs beautifully with seafood or deserts,” says Matt, “whereas Pōkeno Discovery with its rich sherry notes pairs better with meet or cheese.”

Here are some more pairings to consider:

Sushi and tequila . Fish especially is complemented by the earthy and citrus notes of tequila.

Chocolate cake and stout beer. The rich, chocolatey sweetness of chocolate cake pairs beautifully with stout’s roasted malt and coffee flavours, while the beer's creamy texture complements the cake's richness.

excellence & elegance

Spicy tacos and margaritas . The heat from spicy tacos is cooled down by the refreshing, citrusy flavours of this classic cocktail. An obvious one, and a goodie.

Curry and riesling . The sweet, floral notes of riesling counterbalances the spicy and aromatic flavours of curries, while the wine's acidity also helps refresh the palate between bites.

Blue cheese and port wine . Bold, pungent blue cheese pairs beautifully with the rich sweetness and nuttiness of a good port, the sweetness complementing the salt.

Bacon-wrapped dates and bourbon

The smoky, savoury flavours of baconwrapped dates are perfectly enhanced by the caramel and vanilla notes of bourbon.

Oysters and champagne . One of the most famous – and loved – food and booze pairing for good reason! The briny, mineral flavours of oysters are complemented by the crisp acidity and effervescence of champagne (or sparkling wine), while the bubbles cleanse the palate and enhance the freshness of the oysters.

Discover the depth of flavour, the purity of ingredients, and the commitment to excellence that make Clarity Gin an exceptional choice for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

The Evolution of our Oceangoing

WORDS JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

The

New Zealand SailGP Team recently announced their new identity as the Black Foils, with driver and co-CEO Peter Burling announcing that the name represents the

“spirit of New Zealand”, a nation of “pioneers, achievers, and ocean lovers”.

Indeed, few countries can quite boast such a relationship with the ocean – the sea is simply stitched into the Kiwi psyche. From those early Polynesian explorers that arrived on their sophisticated waka, through to the European settlers and tenpound poms, the Pacific, Southern and Tasman waves have shaped our souls as much as they have shaped our coastlines.

According to a 2023 Maritime NZ’s Recreational Boating Monitor report, half of Kiwis – including kayakers and standup paddle-boarders – consider themselves recreational boaties, with 17% of those claiming “super fan” status. With around 1.5 million vessels around the county, that works out at a boat for every 3.5 people – the highest ratio in the world. Forty percent of those are in Tāmaki Makaurau – the City of Sails – with the upper half of North Island home to nearly three quarters of the nation's boats. Auckland’s Westhaven Marina is also the largest in the southern hemisphere, with 1,800 berths, and a good few of those are no doubt occupied by vessels sold by Peter Hrones, founder of Eyachts.

Over three decades, Peter has sold over 1,000 boats across Australia and Aotearoa. His original sailing boat business has since evolved into Eyachts, Australasia’s exclusive power boat dealer of leading European performance day boats and luxurious long-range motor yachts. He tells Verve that luxury boat ownership has surged in popularity in recent years all over Aotearoa, with Auckland a particular hotspot for the trend.

“The statistics show that the majority of boat owners only use their boats during the day, the boats overnight capabilities going unused,” he says. “This is why many boat owners are downsizing, prioritising convenience and ease of use over extended cruising experiences.”

‘Day boats’, however, are more than capable of playing host for a night or two, usually equipped with the likes of double beds and ample cooking facilities.

Adventure boating is fast gaining popularity too, continues Peter, with the innovative, tailored vessels of the likes of Axopar and BRABUS Marine leading the line: “They're designed to do it all – from wakeboarding and water skiing to fishing and paddleboarding.” Thrill-seeking credentials come courtesy of powerful engines coupled with agile handling, and backed by features like ski poles, fishing rod holders, and roof racks.

Axopar is also the fastest growing company when it comes to commuter boating as well, explains Peter, because of its promise of “speed, comfort and offshore performance”.

“We are certainly seeing more boat manufacturers turning towards performance sailing style hulls, powerboats with twinstepped hulls and cutting bows which allow light weight boats to sit high and slice through large waves while remaining dry,” he says.

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The America's Cup, the oldest trophy in international sport, has a deep connection with New Zealand.

As with the automobile industry, more and more ocean-going enthusiasts are looking for sustainable solutions: leading the charge in this space are RAND and Greenline Yachts – both offering electric and hybrid vessels whose eco-credentials don’t come at the expense of performance. “Most users engage in short trips and prioritise social interaction on the water, seeking more eco-conscious solutions within boating,” reveals RAND co-founder, Oscar Rand.

Eyachts were the first to introduce hybrid boats into the local market around 10 years ago.

“The rise of day boating, adventure boating, and sustainable boating reflects a shift towards more accessible, environmentally conscious maritime experiences,” says Peter. “As Auckland’s boaters continue to evolve, so too does its boating culture.”

Aotearoa Sailing Through the Ages

The first Polynesians arrived in Aotearoa around the 13th century, sailing upon their legendary waka using celestial navigation and knowledge of ocean currents.

Waka played a crucial role in Māori culture and were also used for transport, exploration, fishing, and warfare.

European exploration of New Zealand began in the 17th century, with notable voyages by Abel Tasman in 1642 and James Cook in the late 18th century.

European settlers arrived in increasing numbers in the early 19th century, bringing with them Western sailing technology and traditions.

Yachting and recreational sailing became popular in New Zealand in the 19th century. At the Auckland Regatta, Māori and European fishermen and traders would compete.

The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, founded in 1871, is one of the oldest yacht clubs in the country and has played a significant role in the development of sailing in New Zealand.

By the turn of the 20th century, Auckland was a major centre for boat building.

Sailing as a leisure pursuit took off after the second world war with an increase in prosperity and spare time.

The America's Cup, the oldest trophy in international sport, has a deep connection with New Zealand. The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron won the cup for the first time in 1995, aboard Black Magic. More victories followed in 2000, 2017, and 2021.

nzsuperyachtservices.com

New Zealand Superyacht Academy

The New Zealand Superyacht Academy is dedicated to supporting and empowering those considering a career on international superyachts.

Our interactive courses result in internationally recognised superyacht qualifications, and are designed to kick start the careers of our ambitious graduates. Most courses take place in Auckland's CBD, with the academy also offering online courses for existing superyacht crew to upskill.

Kiwis are world renowned as having an incredible work ethic and are highly sought-after in the superyacht industry. We ensure graduates meet and exceed the high expectations from both local and international recruiters.

Experienced instructors Alice Baker and Courtney TeWhiu collectively have over 12 years' experience in the superyacht industry. The New Zealand Superyacht Academy also runs a recruitment programme to place candidates in roles both locally and internationally, as well as assisting superyachts in New Zealand with crew, provisioning, and interior services. This

provides the opportunity for graduates to gain crucial work experience in preparation for international roles.

Visit our website today for course dates, and to book the first step in your superyacht career today!

Kiwi Yachting

New Zealand made quality inflatable Boats

Since 1988, Southern Pacific has been crafting inflatable boats tailored for New Zealand’s rugged conditions.

Now the nation’s premier producer with decades of expertise, we specialise in designing and manufacturing boats for a diverse range of applications, be it small tenders, yacht club chase boats, or a classic RIB for leisurely harbour cruises. From inception, we have prioritised durability, comfort and performance, and these values are still the driving force behind the range you see today.

Introducing our latest creation, the SeekR, a premium open-top boat designed for recreational users who refuse to compromise on performance. With a high bow design shielding ocean spray and advanced ‘never-go-flat’ D-tubes maximising internal volume, the SeekR offers all the convenience of a RIB whilst eliminating the risk of a tube puncture. These features combine to make the SeekR an extremely family-friendly boat for days cruising out on the water.

+64 9 600 4817 kiwiyachting.co.nz

Sealegs Delivers More

A luxury amphibious platform to take you anywhere. Sealegs tells us more.

When it comes exploring our magnificent and at times remote coastline in luxury and style, you need to go a long way to beat Sealegs International’s latest offering. The recently launched range-topping 12-meter Sealegs Cabin RIB (12RC) is an explorer’s dream. Add to that the significant convenience having an amphibious craft offers and you have nothing short of a game changer in terms of size, convenience, luxury, and, of course, functionality. One of their clients recently collected his – his fourth Sealegs craft – upon which he plans to circumnavigate the coastline of New Zealand this summer. The craft will be aptly named Kupe in honour of the early Polynesian navigator.

First launched back in 2022, the range-topping 12RC provides an enviable large-format amphibious platform. Measuring in at 12.3 metres overall length, with a beam of 3.6 metres, the 12RC provides a mountain of space for all manner of activities like overnighting, coastal exploring, or serious fishing expeditions out wide. This craft will take you there.

Nicholas Glanfield, Sealegs GM of sales and marketing, notes: “To say power on the most recently launched 12m is ‘plentiful’ is nothing short of an understatement. This, the latest 12RC, is being supplied with a pair of Mercury 600HP V12 outboards –that’s 1,200 horsepower on a 40-foot craft.”

Rigged with the latest in electronics including Starlink internet, digital switching throughout, integrated electronic steering, and Mercury’s Skyhook digital anchoring system, this 12m beauty is built for adventure. And, as you can imagine, the performance is nothing short of exhilarating with an expected top speed likely to exceed 55 knots (current bets are that it will achieve over 60 knots when fully commissioned!).

Sealegs CEO David McKee Wright adds: “The latest 12RC build further defines a new standard of freedom, luxury, comfort, and performance in an amphibious craft. The size of the platform enables customers the freedom to use their Sealegs in nearly all weather conditions, in style and comfort.’’

Further adding to the comfort factor are dual electric sunroofs and an electrically operated divider providing even more space between the cabin and the cockpit. The 12RC is available in several layout options including a galley, up to four berths, and a bathroom.

The amphibious enablement system is Sealegs’ proven System100 kit, based on existing Sealegs patented technology. It is the result of a three-year development project to upscale and commercialise the amphibious capability for much larger professional craft.

A TRUE GO-ANYWHERE BOAT

Embark on exhilarating adventures along New Zealand’s coastline onboard the all-new Axopar 45 Cross Top –a vessel meticulously crafted to redefine your boating adventures. Seamlessly blend the thrill of open-air journeys with the comfort of sheltered spaces and sleeping for up to 4.

Explore further with highly efficient 30 knot cruising speeds thanks to Axopars renowned twin-stepped hull, capable of reaching 50kts. Revel in the exhilarating feeling of taking the helm, then unwind in the generous social areas onboard. Explore boundless customization possibilities and embark on a journey like no other onboard the Axopar 45. Also available with an enclosed Cross Cabin or open Sun Top.

allantongsboatbuilders.co.nz

Evolving Elite

New Zealand has long been synonymous with boats. Once upon a time the Auckland landscape was rich with boat builders, our glittering coastline filled with locally designed-and-built sails and launches. Today however, against a huge influx of imports, only a few remain.

Having built custom luxury launches in Auckland since the 1980s, Allan Tongs Boatbuilders saw a gap in the market and went for it – Allan, his son Nigel, and their team moving into the boat production scene. And so, working closely with renowned boat designer Bill Upfold of Elite Marine Design, the Elite AT43 was born. Crafted meticulously in their Wairau Park factory, this vessel quickly gained traction.

Launching the Elite AT43 just before a global pandemic was a worrying time but proved beneficial with forward orders stretching out years ahead. Kiwis recognised the benefits of buying a launch that was made for our unique coastlines and our way of boating. Often, imports from Europe or Australia have features designed for a vastly different climate. Open flybridges or swim-up bars are not too practical in our changeable weather and sometimes challenging seas. The island-hopping, deep-sea fishing, harbour cruising, and adventurous diving of the Hauraki Gulf, Marlborough Sounds or Far North are a far cry from the Med or the Gold Coast Canals.

The Elite AT43 is designed to fit a 13.5m or 14m marina berth. With options for single or twin engines (with 27 or 32kt top speeds), a rarely found three-cabin layout, separate shower and bathroom, and a range of interior finish options, it feels more like a custom build than a production boat. The large, versatile cockpit and duckboard will suit the keen fisherman or diver but is also spacious enough for outdoor dining or sunset cocktails.

One hugely attractive feature is the uniquely designed silent chines which make for a quiet night's sleep with no slapping – even in a bit of chop. The Elite designs are known for their stable, level-running hull, meaning more fuel efficiency and a smoother ride. For over 40 years, the Allan Tongs name has

been known for creating high-quality, luxurious-but-practical, world-class boats. It is that same care and precision that has made the Elite AT43 become a sought-after vessel.

Now run by Nigel and wife Ester Tongs, the team is working on the 8th Elite AT43 out of the moulds and is truly in the swing of things. Production is becoming more efficient resulting in a 6.5-month build time. With boats in the Ownaship syndicate, and two boats being built per year, you will no doubt see more of these beautiful boats on the water.

So far, Elite AT43s have been built for discerning owners up and down the country from Kerikeri to the Marlborough Sounds. The next available build slot begins in September 2025, so contact Nigel to secure your spot at nigel@allantongsboatbuilders.co.nz or 0211741574.

Silver Wave Yacht Charters | silverwave.co.nz

Embark on a lavish voyage with Silver Wave Yacht Charters, based in the Bay of Islands. We curate bespoke experiences aboard our luxurious sailing catamaran, Serenity. Whether it’s a single day cruising the Bay of Islands or multiple days voyaging the dramatic coastline further afield, a luxury yacht charter stands as the epitome of opulence and adventure. Step aboard and discover the ultimate blend of comfort, style, and discovery on the waters of Northland.

Embark on exclusive journeys, curated just for you. Voted Best Luxury Tours in New Zealand for 2022, we guarantee unforgettable adventures, showcasing New Zealand like never before.

alpineluxurytours.co.nz · 027 257 4632 lee@alpineluxurytours.co.nz

“A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles”

Tim Cahill

Big Views, Tiny Homes

Autumn is here and there's no better getaway than a cosy cabin stay.

IMAGE: THE MINIMALIST, PAETEAROA, CENTRAL OTAGO

As summertime weather well and truly draws in, beachside stays make way for cooler climate experiences and getting into nature. Autumn is the best time for many top city break destinations – whether a wine country weekend or a far-flung digital detox escape. From across the country, we've rounded up the best tiny house cabin escapes for when you crave an autumn getaway with a difference.

Muddy Hill Moments, Arrow Junction, Queenstown

In a secluded nine-acre property in Arrow Junction, in a beautiful 2.5acre garden with an orchard, enjoy a large vegetable garden, a stonewalled hothouse, ponds, and other unique garden elements. Gorgeous Arrowtown is a just a 6-minute drive from the property, with other nearby attractions including Gibbston Valley Winery, and stunning lookouts such as Coronet Peak, and Brow Peak.

Taranaki Creekside Retreat, Midhurst, Taranaki

Taranaki Creekside Retreat sits close to the town of Stratford, where you can explore stunning, alpine mountains, beaches and more. Surrounded by working agricultural farms, including a dairy farm, a horse ranch, and a beef cattle ranch, this hidden gem within Egmont National Park, overlooks Tongariro, Ruapehu, and Ngāruhoe. The tiny house sits on a four-acre lifestyle block, with unobstructed views of the spectacular Mount Taranaki. It’s one of

the few places in the world with both an alpine mountain and a surf beach all within a 30-minute drive.

Taratahi Escape, Clareville, Wairarapa

Surrounded by mature gardens with abundant birdlife, relax in privacy, keep warm by the outdoor fire pit, and watch stunning sunsets as they turn into an endless starry night sky. Located in Wairarapa, Tarathi Escape is set amongst an eclectic mix of interesting towns and some of the country’s top wineries. In nearby Carterton, you'll find a large artistic community and nearby Stonehenge Aotearoa – a working replica of England's famous ancient site.

Harrington's on the Terrace, Te Anau, Fiordland

Nestled amidst lush greenery and overlooking a serene river, this cosy haven offers a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located in Te Anau, the house is the perfect base to explore Fiordland National Park, and is close to bushwalking trails, fishing, and jet

boating. Your host offers men's and women's mountain bike hires for free upon request – perfect for exploring the beautiful mountain bike trails in Te Anau.

The Minimalist, Paetearoa, Central Otago

This charming tiny house offers a perfect blend of peace and proximity to iconic towns like Naseby and Ranfurly, making for a fantastic way to experience the unique beauty of Central Otago. The area is also known for its water sports on the Kawarau River and the house is close to the Otago Rail Trail, a 150km track for walking, cycling, and horse riding. For walkers, just a 25-minute hike gets you to Dykes Dam, a charming spot with jaw-dropping scenery. At night, the fairy lights that adorn the exterior of the tiny house lend it a magical feel.

Te Hau, Blind River, Marlborough

With stunning views of Cape Campbell Lighthouse, Lake Grassmere, and the North Island Coast, Te Hau Tiny House sits in the stunning rural locality of

Blind River, Marlborough. Ward Beach, Marfells Beach, and Yealands Winery are just a few of the attractions in the area. Just a short drive is a popular salt pond destination, Lake Grassmere Saltworks, with plenty of fishing spots for keen anglers. Popular Marfells Beach is also within walking distance.

Forest Hill Farm, Herbert-Hampden, Waitaki

At Forest Hill Farm, guests can enjoy stunning views and fresh air that will make them feel a million miles away. Located in the small township of Herbert-Hampden, the farm stay accommodation is nestled on nine acres of dense woods and wide-open fields, all of which highlight the grandeur of this stunning landscape.

IMAGE: TARANAKI CREEKSIDE RETREAT, MIDHURST, TARANAKI

The Art of May

CURATED BY AIMÉE RALFINI

There is so much going on this May, tune your visual senses to the pollen of paint and handcrafted energy. Keep an eye out for Verve online to see the full gamut of artworks to accompany this month's curated selection.

ARTWORK: QUEEN TIDE 3, HANNAH MELVILLE-MAURICE, COURTESY OF THE ARTIST

FRESH GALLERY ŌTARA

To Live + Die in South Auckland

Vasemaca Tavola

4 May – 15 June

Vasemaca Tavola is a Fijian-Pākehā visual artist interested in the genre of social practice and the socio-political positioning of art in society.

To Live + Die in South Auckland coincides with the gallery’s 18th anniversary, of which the artist is a founding curator. In this solo exhibition Tavola explores the ways South Auckland has shaped her life since arriving from Fiji at the age of 19. Reflecting on the spaces’ founding energies and offering a new way to perceive South Auckland, its complexities, and its superpowers.

5/46 Fair Mall, Ōtara Town Centre vasemacatavola.com

MELANIE ROGER GALLERY

Afternoon Sun

Kirstin Carlin

1 May – 25 May

Kirstin Carlin’s solo exhibition, Afternoon Sun, brings together a new series of larger scale “invented” garden paintings created in her highly developed visual shorthand: paintings with quick brushstrokes, vivid colours, and shifting perspectives which are visually rich and complex.

Embracing the changing nature of the garden, the paintings move from figuration to abstraction and include recurring motifs and loosely rendered flora that vibrate on the picture plane. Her use of one-of-a-kind colour and distinctive brush marks conjure up painting’s history.

444 Karangahape Rd, Newton melanierogergallery.com

MASTERWORKS GALLERY

Ceramics of Unease & Bead Up

John Parker; Various artists

4 May – 1 June

Masterworks is hosting two exhibitions simultaneously: Ceramics of Unease a solo show by John Parker, and Bead Up, a Group Exhibition of multidisciplinary artists who have created jewellery in celebration of the humble bead.

In Ceramics of Unease , Parker presents a new series of ceramic vessels in which he strives to create the perfect shape. These objects are devoid of the 'makers touch' which identifies most studio ceramics, yet these pieces are handmade, with every detail and mark attended to by the artist.

71 Upper Queen Street, Newton masterworksgallery.co.nz

SANDERSON CONTEMPORARY

Rewilding the Garden

Molly Timmins

15 May – 9 June

In Rewilding the Garden, Timmins presents the garden abstracted: through wild and jagged dollops of paint, a Bromeliad leaf or Ponga frond emerges, before dissipating back into well gardened brush marks. Letting the paint lead, these paintings reimagine the garden outside of such hierarchy, as both its own entity and as an intangible idea led by imagination. jure up painting’s history.

Osborne Lane, 2 Kent Street, Newmarket. sanderson.co.nz

THE UPSTAIRS GALLERY

Enersefrequence

Sean Hill

3 May – 19 May

Enersefrequence is a combination of three words: energy, sequence and frequency combining to create one singular word. In this solo show, Hill presents works that individually represent each of these words but also combine as a Enersefrequence within the exhibition space. Sean Hill is a Taranaki-based multidisciplinary artist of Samoan/NZ European descent. His works are process-aware, and full of movement, colour and texture.

Lopdell House, 418 Titirangi Road, Titirangi. upstairs.org.nz

LITTLE ROSIE

Queen Tide

Hannah MelvilleMaurice

5 May – 31 May

A collection of works which are water marked or rather, marked by water, celebrating the cycles and our intrinsic part in and of them.

This latest series by Melville-Maurice draw on the artists’ somatic and mythical experience of being alive. Her voluptuous and richly layered figures cast dew dropped and prickly stemmed narratives that bloom and fade, in seed and sea.

Rejoicing in the liquid nature of her medium, Melville-Maurice creates paintings infused with earth energies, influenced by magical traditions and folklores, intersectional feminism, a keen appreciation of weather systems, a bittersweet love of Holocene era seasons, and a huge love for moon and sea.

82 Gladstone Road, Parnell Instagram: @honeymoonseastudio

Editors Selection:

BERGMAN GALLERY

Fā'aliga –Beneath the Surface

Siliga David Setoga, Sefton Rani, Sean Hill, Iokapeta MageleSuamasi, Raymond Sagapolutele

2 May – 25 May

Fā’aliga is a Sāmoan word to reveal something, the quality of having a ready insight into things. Fā'aliga –Beneath the Surface features five diverse Pasifika artists from Aotearoa. Through painting, sculpture and photography, this exhibition offers the viewer a selection of works that individually encompass each artist’s practising narrative.

3/582 Karangahape Road (Entrance via 2 Newton Road) bergmangallery.com

TURUA GALLERY

The Happiness Project Group Show

3 May – 15 May

A seriously happy show of floral, landscape and abstract originals along with ceramics and glass make a beautiful collection of joyful pieces happy from 16 of Turua Gallery’s stable of artists.

Featuring work by Abbey Merson, Alice Berry, Alicia Beech, Bec Robertson, Carrie Broomhall, Dean Wallace, Georgina, Hoby Scutt, Harriet Millar, Jody Hope Gibbons, Josh Davison, Narelle Huggins, Racheal Mayne, Sarah Barton Hills, Judith Milner, Frances Hanson, and Jacqueline Kampen.

10A Turua Street, St Heliers turuagallery.co.nz

ARTWORK: FOUR WHEELS, TWO SCOOPS , JUDITH MILNER

The Count is Coming!

An all-new take on a Rossini classic, New Zealand Opera’s 2024 season of Le comte Ory is set to surprise and delight audiences across Aotearoa this winter.

Originally a comedy set in medieval France, this brand-new production of Le comte Ory, led by internationally acclaimed director Simon Phillips (North by Northwest, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, The Elixir of Love) and scenographer Tracy Grant Lord (Così fan Tutte, (m)Orpheus, The Unruly Tourists), has been given a present-day facelift. Set in Aotearoa New Zealand, there will be plenty of local humour and references in this contemporary staging.

Phillips says: “This production felt like a brilliant opportunity to make a new version of this bonkers, madcap, rom-com of an opera – unapologetic, irreverent and funny, just as Rossini intended it to be.”

Leading the outstanding local and international cast, award-winning New Zealand-Tongan lyric tenor Manase Latu (Hamlet, Don Giovanni, Idomeneo) makes his role debut as the scheming Count Ory. One of Australasia’s most in-demand sopranos Emma Pearson (Così fan tutte, Semele, Lucia di Lammermoor) will dazzle as Countess Adèle, complete with coloratura vocal fireworks, joined by mezzo-soprano favourite Hanna Hipp (Così fan tutte, Ariadne auf Naxos, A Handmaid’s Tale) from the UK, in the quick-witted role of Isoler the page.

With a wider cast that includes Wade Kernot, Andrea Creighton and risingstar Tayla Alexander, not to mention the very-long-awaited return of Sol3 Mio

LE COMTE

star Moses Mackay to the New Zealand Opera stage, NZ Opera’s fresh and slightly naughty take on Le comte Ory is an unmissable interpretation of one of Rossini’s funniest and most beautifully sung comedies.

New Zealand Opera's Le comte Ory by Rossini plays in Auckland 30 May and 1 June at Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, followed by seasons in Wellington and Christchurch. For tickets and details visit nzopera.com

IMAGE: MANASE LATU PHOTOGRAPHY: DARIO ACOSTA

At the Art Fair and now showing through May at 221 Ponsonby Road.

This was a standout showing of paintings by Kathy Barber, Richard McWhannell, Tony Lane, Martin Ball, Philippa Blair and Peter James Smith, along with sculpture in Italian Carrara marble by Johnny Turner.

But just in case you missed it, OREXART continues the show with some of these exceptional works and new pieces as a revolving exhibition exclusive to Ponsonby Road (and right opposite the newly enlarged premises of Farina, our favourite Italian restaurant).

221 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby Open Tue-Sat 11am-5pm rex@orexart.co.nz 021 213 4449

ARTWORK LEFT: TONY LANE RICHARD MCWHANNELL

ARTWORK RIGHT: JOHNY TURNER

Elevate your event into a memorable occasion in our beautiful heritage venue.

TOP RIGHT: ROOM 5 | MIDDLE RIGHT: ROOM 10

BOTTOM RIGHT: PAINTING & PRINTMAKING STUDIO

BOTTOM LEFT: POTTERY STUDIO

On the corner of Ponsonby and Karangahape Road, and within walking distance of the city, this venue isn’t just a standard space but a character environment with full wheelchair access and a variety of rooms for your next work meeting or function.

The iconic Studio One Toi Tū site boasts a diverse array of rooms ready to cater to your needs. Need a spot for that next big business meeting? Check! Looking to foster team spirit with a corporate teambuilding function? Check! Dreaming of hosting a bustling market day or a popup exhibition? You got it!

From public seminars to presentations, performance rehearsal space to launch parties, between the hours of 8am and 10pm Studio One - Toi Tū has got you covered, seven days a week.

In our largest space, you’ll have views of Ponsonby Road and the city. This versatile space with retractable projector screen caters to a wide range of events, team-building meetings, seminars, workshops, film screenings, poetry slams, public talks, and performances. It also serves as a dynamic venue for pop-up exhibitions, art projects, and small dance and theatre rehearsals. With its blend of functionality and charm, Room 10 provides the perfect canvas for creativity to thrive.

Painting & Printmaking Studio is set-up for all kinds of making. It boasts printing presses, worktables, a fume cupboard,

easels, model platform, and even a life size skeleton for anatomical drawing reference. Getting paint on the table is not a worry in this space. The view towards the harbour gives you a feeling of tranquil elevation in the midst of city fringe hubbub.

Staying with the theme of making, our Pottery Studio is where people bring clay to life. Our Friday drop-in is open to anyone with their own clay and provides a friendly space for makers.

Downstairs, Room 5 & 6 have been hired for small rehearsals, table reads, talks and seminars, arts activities, hens painting classes and more. A portable projector and screen are often hired with these spaces, which easily convert into meeting rooms.

Limited onsite parking, conveniently accessible via Hopetoun St, is available for your convenience at Studio One Toi Tū. Additionally, each room hire comes with the option to include a projector for a nominal fee. Reach out to us today to discuss booking your next meeting or event at Studio One Toi Tū.

Studio One - Toi Tū

1 Ponsonby Road 09 376 3221

Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm, Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm Saturdays

Henry John Yeend King, Still Waters, c.1890, Oil on Canvas.

After The Fair

WORDS BY AIMÉE RALFINI

On a rainy, tepid autumn evening in Viaduct Harbour, I navigated through street traffic toward the Viaduct Events Centre for the opening night of the Aotearoa Art Fair.

As the sun set behind the silos, a heavy downpour suddenly animated the port. Shards of streetlight pierced the bruised twilight hue, silhouetting the area's architectural tropes and evoking an atmosphere reminiscent of film noir. So far, my evening had begun perfectly.

Stepping into the bustling hall of the art fair on opening night felt like entering a kaleidoscope of swirling chaos and creativity. The air crackled with energy, infused with the scent of taste and the hum of expectation. As I navigated through the maze of booths and fabulously dressed people, my senses were awakened by a symphony of colours, textures, and forms, each

artwork beckoning me closer with its silent invitation. With every step, my heart quickened, fuelled by the promise of discovery and the thrill of encountering something extraordinary.

This vibrant tapestry of artistic expression swept me away on a journey of inspiration and delight. I found myself alive with the joy of possibility, eagerly embracing the magic that unfolded with each new encounter.

It’s no wonder I became overwhelmed and had to leave early.

Acquiring art at the art fair isn't always a straightforward task — even seasoned pros have their off days. At times, the decision-making process becomes daunting, and the premise of making a purchase in such an environment feels pressured. If you find yourself in this camp – you held back from buying a piece you loved and are now suffering the pangs of non-buyer’s remorse – there’s good news for you: this is all part and parcel of your journey as a collector.

The artwork you admired at the fair may still be available, the artist likely has more work, and the gallery is undoubtedly still selling art. Don't let regret linger; take proactive steps to secure your desired piece. Jump online and scour the artist's website or the gallery's online catalog to find your pièce de résistance. If it's not readily available, trace back the floor map you received at the fair and locate the gallery's contact information. A simple phone call or email inquiry might lead you to the artwork you regret not purchasing.

Buying artwork after the fair is an exciting journey that offers endless possibilities for discovery and enrichment. You've already laid the groundwork by exploring the art fair, so trust your instincts as you continue your quest. With determination and a keen eye, you can uncover hidden gems that resonate with your unique sensibilities.

Go forth and build a meaningful art collection that reflects your individual taste and passion for creativity. Remember, each piece you acquire tells a story and adds depth to your personal narrative. Embrace the adventure of art acquisition, for the journey itself is as enriching as the destination.

And always keep in mind that art on the wall enriches your life more than money in the bank ever will. Participating galleries can be found online at artfair.co.nz

VIRGINIA LEONARD, LEGS AND LOVERS I , MARTIN BROWNE CONTEMPORARY

TRAVIS MACDONALD, TOP OF THE POND, ENVY GALLERY

MICHAEL ZAVROS, SATYR WITH BLACK AND ORANGE, STARKWHITE GALLERY

Trust Talk

Is your family trust still serving a purpose?

With the introduction of the Trusts Act 2019 (the Trusts Act) bringing many changes to trust law, many people are considering whether a trust is still right for them. Here are three questions to consider when evaluating whether your trust is a useful asset planning tool.

Why did you establish the trust?

Did you establish your trust decades ago when you owned a business and wanted to protect your assets from creditors? You may have been told that forming a trust would protect your assets if you need rest home care or if you enter into a relationship.

It is important to assess whether the reasons you established the trust still exist or are still valid reasons for having a trust.

Are you aware of the provisions of the Trusts Act?

If you are a trustee of your trust or someone else’s trust it is important that you are familiar with Trusts Act and your duties as a trustee. There are now mandatory and default duties that trustees must carry out. These are set out in the Trusts Act but may have been modified by the Trust Deed. Your trust may still be a useful tool but you may need to make some amendments or upskill yourself to ensure you are complying with the Trust Act.

Are you comfortable with providing trust information to beneficiaries?

The Trust Act creates a presumption that “basic trust information” be disclosed to all beneficiaries of the trust. “Basic information” includes; the fact that a person is a beneficiary of the trust, the name and contact details of the trustee, and

the right of the beneficiary to request a copy of the terms of the trust or trust information. Beneficiaries can also request financial information.

It used to be common practice to include a large number of potential beneficiaries in a trust deed. Many of our clients are surprised to learn that their trust deed include the spouses of children and grandchildren as discretionary beneficiaries.

There are many factors that your legal advisor will consider when advising you on whether your trust is right for you. If you would like an assessment of your trust, contact us to book an appointment with one of the team at Dawsons Lawyers.

Claire Endean – Director/Lawyer dawsonslawyers.co.nz

| 09 272 0002

COME FOR THE PRIME LOCATION . STAY FOR THE PERMANENT VACATION .

Experience the next level of retirement living at The Helier.

Whether you’re after a central spot you can lock up and leave, or somewhere you’ll never want to, here’s your central oasis for both convenience and comfort.

Take a tour of the state-of-the-art apartments and amenities that put The Helier in a league of its own.

To view, call Debbie on 0800 333 688 today.

Books of Excellence

Auckland Writers Festival

WORDS — KAREN MCMILLAN , bestselling author karenm.co.nz | nzbooklovers.co.nz

THE SPACE BETWEEN

Lauren Keenan

As English settlers clash with local iwi in Taranaki in 1860, the lives of Frances and Matāria become intertwined. Frances, a once-respected Londoner, unexpectedly comes face-to-face with the man who jilted her a decade earlier. He is married to Matāria, who is shunned by her own whānau due to the controversial marriage. Both women must confront their pasts, even if it means risking it all. Gripping and unforgettable.

Penguin, RRP $37.00

BEFORE THE COFFEE GETS COLD

Toshikazu Kawaguchi

There is a small cafe in a back alley in Tokyo that has been serving the same coffee for the past 100 years. The coffee shop offers customers a unique experience: they can travel back in time, but there are rules that make this risky. A beautiful, moving read that begs the question: who would you travel back in time to meet again if you could?

Pan Macmillan, RRP $19.99

KNOWLEDGE IS A BLESSING ON YOUR MIND

Dame Anne Salmond

This is the story of Aotearoa and one woman's pathway through our changing land. This important book traces Dame Anne Salmond’s journey as a writer, activist, anthropologist, wife, and mother. It brings together her key writing over the decades that explores the Māori world, cultural contact, Te Tiriti, and the wider Pacific. Beautifully insightful and sensitively explored, this book is a must-read.

AUP, RRP $65.00

DIVINE MIGHT

Natalie Haynes

Natalie Haynes impressed readers with her women in Greek myths in Pandora’s Jar. Now she turns her attention to the goddesses in Greek myths: there is Hera, Zeus’s wife, who seeks revenge when confronted with her husband’s dalliances; Aphrodite, who will make you miserable if you annoy her; and Athene, who sprang fully formed from her father’s head. Original and compelling, this is nonfiction writing at it’s best.

Picador, RRP $39.99

Love the choice.

Retirement can be blissfully laid back, or it can be wonderfully unretiring and active.

Summerset St Johns 09 950 7982 Dear diary, here’s to the 7-day weekend

At Summerset, it’s your choice. From day to day, you have the freedom to pursue all your passions and hobbies, or just find a place to relax. All set within a secure, warm and friendly community.

Love the life you choose.

What's On in May

WORDS BELLA SAMPSON

IMAGE: SWAN LAKE

3 – 29 May

MACKLEMORE

9 May

Spark Arena

Prepare your abs for a laughing workout with this three-week-long festival. Catch comedy stars like Mel Bracewell, Two Hearts, Fern Brady, Alice Snedden, Chris Parker, and more, doing what they do best! Check out the Comedy Festival calendar to see the full line-up.

comedyfestival.co.nz

BOOGIE WONDERLAND

16 May

Auckland Town Hall

The Thrift Shop singer and rapper is here touring his third solo album, BEN. Known for slipping poignant commentary into his energetic songs, this is said to be the most personal tour yet. One of the most successful independent artists of the 21st century, people can’t get enough of Macklemore.

ticketmaster.co.nz

SAM NEILL

18 May

Aotea Centre

Get ready to boogie well into the night as disco meets a full symphony orchestra for this groovy celebration. The symphony events always add an extraordinary element to whatever genre they tackle.

purchase.apo.co.nz

Sam Neill joins Robyn Malcolm to share anecdotes from his incredible life and career from his aptly titled memoir Did I Ever Tell You This?. Hear firsthand about Neill’s youth amateur theatre days, and how that led to a five-decade acting career that had him travelling the globe.

ticketmaster.co.nz

SWAN LAKE

9 – 12 May

Aotea Centre

Often referred to as the most famous ballet of all time, Swan Lake is a timeless tale. Journey into Odette’s magical world, where everything is not quite what it seems. Elevated by the mesmerising score from Tchaikovsky, masterful choreography, moody lighting, and stunning set design, this is a must for ballet fans of all ages.

heartofthecity.co.nz/aucklandevents/swan-lake

14 – 19 May

The Auckland Writers Festival brings together over 200 international and local authors across many genres. Providing a range of events like workshops, panels and readings, it gives up-and-coming writers, experienced writers, and readers of all levels, ages – and intensities – a space to connect, learn and grow.

writersfestival.co.nz

DAWN FRENCH

29 May

The Civic

The British queen of comedy returns to our shores with her new solo comedy show with a title so cheeky I don’t dare write it here! French is the hilarious creative force behind treasures like French and Saunders , and an award-winning author, celebrated screenwriter, and actor.

aucklandlive.co.nz

Box Office

IMAGE: JOIKA

JOIKA

In cinemas

16 May

Joika is based on the true story of Joy Womack, who made history as an American ballerina who was accepted into the Bolshoi Ballet Academy. At 15 years old, she left her family home in Texas to travel to Moscow to follow her dream – to become a Prima Ballerina at the world-renowned Bolshoi Ballet Company. Starring Diane Kruger and Talia Ryder, and directed by James Napier Robertson (Whina, The Dark Horse).

FREUD'S LAST SESSION

In cinemas

30 May

On the eve of the second world war, two of the greatest minds of the 20th century, father of psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud (Anthony Hopkins) and children’s author C.S. Lewis (Matthew Goode) converge for their own personal battle over the existence of God, the future of mankind, and the complex relationships that shaped them. Academy Award-winner Anthony Hopkins (The Father) and Emmy nominee Matthew Goode (The Crown, Downton Abbey) deliver "sterling performances" (Deadline) as these two titans of the 20th century.

COPA 71

In cinemas

23 May

It is August 1971. Teams from England, Argentina, Mexico, France, Denmark, and Italy are gathered in Mexico City for a watershed soccer tournament: lavish sponsorship, extensive TV coverage, merchandise on every street corner, and over 100,000 roaring fans turned the historic Azteca stadium into a cauldron of noise while a fawning media treated the players like rock stars. This is the greatest show on Earth but, despite being one of the most groundbreaking moments in soccer history, you’ve probably never heard of it. And why? Because the players were all women, and the heroic event that unfolded, has been sidelined from history – until now.

A film by Rachel Ramsay and James Erskine, Executive produced by Serena Williams and Venus Williams.

DIVERTIMENTO

Playing at French Film Festival 2024

29 May

Classical symphonic music is everything for 17-year-old Zahia Ziouani and her twin sister, Fettouma. Nevertheless, living in underprivileged Parisian suburbs in 1995 with their Algerian background, they struggle arduously to approach their dreams of becoming an orchestra conductor and a cellist. Driven by determination, passion, and courage, they create their own orchestra, Divertimento. It will be a game-changer.

Divertimento is inspired by the life of Zahia Ziouani, one of the few worldwide renowned female conductors.

A film by Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar.

Lucy's Corner

This month Verve’s star teen reviewer LUCY KENNEDY gets stuck into Netflix's latest global hit series, Baby Reindeer

Baby Reindeer

Rated 18+

Netflix

Donny Dunn is failing. He’s failing at his life-long dream of being a comedian. He’s failing at adulthood, living rent-free at his ex-girlfriend’s mother’s house. He’s failing at his love life, at happiness, at life. Then, Martha appears. Slipping onto a barstool at his work, she seems trampled-on, tragic. He relates to her, feels sorry for her. He buys her a cup of tea. This simple act of sympathetic kindness is the key to the lock that is Martha Scott. Their strange, burgeoning friendship then turns to harassment, then finally to full-on stalking. Donny receives a monsoon of disturbing, nonsensical, and horrendously misspelled emails, sees Martha at every turn, and genuinely can't escape her. This addicting, off-beat limited series details the entire (TRUE!) ordeal.

This is an addictive, laugh-inducing, delicious show that is simultaneously infuriating and cringe-worthy. Donny’s awful

prop comedy was enough to make me want to leave the room. I definitely shouted at my TV more than once: “NO, Donny!” However, you just can’t stop watching. Writer and creator of the series, Richard Gadd, based the plot off his own real-life stalking experience, and plays the main character Donny Dunn, so essentially re-lives his absolute nightmare on screen.

Available to stream on Netflix - 4/5 stars Instagram: @lucykennedyreviews

No job too big - No job too small

Weather you dream of a stunning garden tranformation, or simply want you lawn trimmed and free of weeds, ERC has got you covered

Attention to detail

We don't overlook the little things. Our meticulous approach ensures you’re left with flawless results

Personalized Service

Your satisfaction is our priority. Tailoring our approach to your unique needs, from the consultation to the end result. Ensuring your vision is realized with care and attention

Reliability

Count on us for

performance, timely communication, and a steadfast commitment to meeting your expectations, every step of the way

IMAGE: BABY REINDEER

Luxury Meets Location

The Foundation is without doubt, one of the most sought-after retirement locations in Auckland. The Nathan Residences are now complete and work is underway on the second building, Abbott Residences. This new development features a conservatory rooftop garden terrace with views overlooking the museum and harbour.

We are delighted to announce that appointments are now available to view the show apartment and plans for the Abbott Residences. Please arrange an appointment with Bev Dyson.

Paper Scissors Screens

WORDS

JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

With great power comes great responsibility, so goes the saying, and with digitisation comes great opportunity, too. But, in a world obsessed with clicks and swipes, there is danger in diverting our kids’ attentions from the good, old-fashioned book.

Between 2012 and 2018, the global rate of adolescent device use increased from 21 to 35 hours per week, but in Aotearoa, it nearly doubled from 22 hours to 42. New Zealand schools also have among the world’s highest use of digital devices in schools, and of course, screen time further increased during and following the Covid-19 pandemic. A US study found that since the pandemic text comprehension skills of 13-year-olds has dropped four points – seven since 2012. Also since 2012, the number of 13-year-olds who reported “never or hardly ever” reading for fun rose from 22% to 31%.

Even parking the pros of having every fact – and cat video – at your fingertips, the benefits of digital learning are plentiful. Screens allow for learning to happen anywhere while also offering a plethora of interactive elements which can be especially beneficial for visual or auditory learners. Customisation means content can be tailored, and nontraditional learning techniques and self-study projects introduced to further a child’s development while also teaching them essential modern-day skills around the likes of photography, videography, and using online maps and apps. Digital books also cost less than physical ones, use less resources, and can be tailored to aid with certain conditions (text can be made larger for those with poor vision, for example, while certain fonts can help those with dyslexia learn easier).

However, a plethora of research shows that children – and adults – tend to retain information better when they read and write on paper. And not only are they more likely to retain the information, but they’re also more likely be better equipped to

A UNESCO report released late last year expressed concern that excessive screen exposure through school use can contribute to exacerbation of overall health risks.

analyse it, too. Dartmouth researchers found those that learned on computer screens had difficulty understanding abstract concepts when compared to the paper learners, meaning they could, for instance, give you a timeline of certain historical events, but could not tell you why those events happened.

“We weren’t sure what to expect,” Geoff Kaufmann, assistant professor at Carnegie Mellon School of Computer Science, and one of the paper's co-authors, tells ABC. “Some of our previous work showed that people had a hard time seeing ‘big picture’ information when they did activities on an electronic device compared to paper.”

(The study did, however, show promise for screens to aid in the retention of quick, concrete facts.)

Other studies have revealed that not only are screen readers failing to see the ‘big picture’, they also, perhaps even more worryingly, don’t realise that they’re not getting it.

A recent groundbreaking study by Columbia University examined the brain responses of 59 children aged 10 to 12 years (by kitting them out with hairnets kitted out with electrodes) and found that they were clearly engaged in “deeper reading” when presented with text on paper rather than a screen where “shallow reading was observed”.

But why do brains respond so differently to the two different mediums?

continues over page

Screens’ blue light, the glow, the distractions of ads, popups, notifications, and hyperlinks all contribute to the detrimental effect, but there may also be something deeper at play. Our brains are wired to respond naturally to sounds – we learn to talk by listening – and reading we find much harder, in part because there is no part of the brain dedicated to it. It is thought that when learning to read, the brain ‘borrows’ from networks that have evolved to carry out tasks like recognition, but rather than recognising faces or danger, it learns to recognise letters and numbers then creates new sets of connections. Some believe that the brain then borrows from this new set of connections again when reading online text, creating a kind of dilution that results in slipping into a skim-reading mode. The skim reading becomes habitual, and breeds overconfidence: the more we skim, the more we think we’re reading, but the less we’re actually taking in.

Research has also shown that when we learn, we create mental maps – like when we’re often able to remember the part of a page where there was a certain quote or fact. This sense of place helps with memory, something which is lost when scrolling endless text on a screen. Even scrolling takes more mental effort than reading a page – eyes chasing the text further reduces focus.

A UNESCO report released late last year expressed concern that excessive screen exposure through school use can contribute to exacerbation of overall health risks. It was also the subject of a study led by AUT student and paediatric physiotherapist Julie Cullen published earlier this year in the New Zealand Journal of Physiotherapy.

“While digital technologies certainly offer opportunities for learning and other benefits, frequent and extended device use is associated with risk of harm to child and adolescent health and wellbeing,” says Julie. Health problems can include dry eye disease and myopia.

“For issues such as these, what kids are doing on the screen doesn't make much difference,” she continues. “The impacts don’t really change based on whether a child is playing games, using social media or doing schoolwork.”

Interventions like taking eye breaks, blinking exercises, and regular vision and hearing testing can all help reduce risk so that children can “access technologies and gain essential digital skills” while encouraging “safer screen behaviours in education and home settings”.

While digital tools have their place, paper-based learning offers benefits that simply can't be replicated on screens. By incorporating paper into their learning routine, kids can develop a deeper understanding of the material, improve their creativity and retention, and enjoy a more engaging and effective learning experience. As with so much in life, it’s all about balance.

BE MORE THAN YOU EVER IMAGINED

Imogen

Future Commodore of the Royal NZ Navy

How will your daughter make her mark?

The world is changing and the role of women is changing even faster. Join us to experience the people, place and depth of education that can encourage, challenge and inspire your daughter to be more than she ever imagined.

Join us at our Open Day and experience the world-class opportunities awaiting your daughter at Dio.

Open Day

Thursday 23 May, 9am – 11am

Living Quarters

WORDS

JAMIE CHRISTIAN DESPLACES

In the 1920s, American planner Clarence Perry proposed the idea of “neighbourhood units”, a theory of “new urbanism” that promoted walkable cities.

It was a concept that would eventually morph into the ‘15-minute city’ (or sometimes, 20- or 30-minute ones) that have since spread around the globe.

The term ‘15-minute city’ was first devised in 2016 by Carlos Moreno, a professor at Paris’s Sorbonne University, as a way of rethinking urban planning. Nobody, he argued, should have to walk, or cycle, more than a quarter-of-an-hour to their work, their doctors, or their local stores.

In his recently released book, The 15-Minute City: A Solution to Saving Our Time and Our Planet, Moreno invites readers on a “different journey” to the kind of city that “no longer wants long distance with an inhuman transportation system; that refuses to damage its health by pollution that is becoming almost permanent; that wants to rediscover its humanity”.

Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo incorporated the concept as a defining part of her 2020 re-election campaign – and won. And it has spread well beyond the borders of Europe. “The pandemic has seen demand for walking and cycling infrastructure soar, and outdoor spaces more valued than ever,” noted NSW minister Rob Stokes in 2022. “Our vision for 15-minute neighbourhoods

will also improve health and wellbeing outcomes, and ensure local communities thrive.” Here, Hamilton Council announced plans for a 20-minute city to give its residents “more time to spend on the things we like to do, like being with whānau and friends, enjoying our city’s parks and playgrounds, and downtime for our hobbies”.

So far, so perfect, right?

Step forward, conspiracy theorists!

A third of respondents to a Kings College London survey believed it to be probably or definitely true that 15-minute cities were “an attempt by governments to restrict people’s personal freedom and keep them under surveillance”.

Polarising psychologist Jordan Peterson has also tweeted on the issue: “The idea that neighbourhoods should be walkable is lovely. The idea that idiot tyrannical bureaucrats can decide by fiat where you're 'allowed' to drive is perhaps the worst imaginable perversion of that idea – and, make no mistake, it's part of a well-documented plan.”

The growing mood of suspicion since the Covid lockdowns have perhaps been the biggest driver of rebellion against this seemingly utopian urban dream that some argue is laying the foundations for future ‘climate lockdowns’. Conservative MP Nick Fletcher used his British Parliament platform to publicly denounce 15-minute cities as an “international socialist concept” that “will cost us our personal freedom”.

“Our vision for 15-minute neighbourhoods will also improve health and wellbeing outcomes, and ensure local communities thrive.”

Vancouver’s former chief planner Brent Toderian says that the backlash is “surreal”, and that the concept is designed to promote, not limit personal freedoms. “We used to have 15-minute cities as the norm,” he tells ABC. “They were called good neighbourhoods – where you didn't have to get into a car for everything.” The positives go well beyond lowering our carbon footprints, 15-minute cities benefit the health of both towns and their residents and can even combat the housing affordability crisis. The ideal 15-minute district, Moreno tells the Guardian would have “50% of the inhabitants live in social housing, 25% in middle class and 25% own their homes”, the proximity of the likes of independent bakers creating a “vibrant neighbourhood”.

Former President of the International Union of Architects, Thomas Vonier, says that the state of our planet “and perhaps even humanity itself” hinges upon how we shape and manage urban centres, and “Carlos Moreno has defined clear visions of the way forward”.

If you’re considering independent retirement living in Remuera, The Avenue Apartments could be the perfect choice for you. There are 61 private and exclusive apartments in two buildings over five levels. The pavilion will be a social hub for the community, running alongside the bowling green between the buildings. For convenience there are underground carparks and electric charging facilities.

Contact us today to find out more about this fabulous new development – we’d love to show you the master plan and how the completed apartments will look.

P: 0800 736 427

E: sales@theavenueapartments.co.nz

367 Remuera Road, Remuera

Horoscopes

It is a good month concerning professional life. You will be enjoying yourself. Taking life at its own pace, you will also not insist on your own agenda at home. Love ties are coming up for review, and the need to put the past behind you becomes insistent. Some of you will be determining whether a romantic relationship is strong enough to be brought forward.

Inspiration for new knowledge that you might want to obtain in the course of your experiments and researches will increase. For those in business, this is a financially rewarding period. Some business contacts will mature into close personal associations. You will end the month on a high, with rainbow-hued hopes of a great financial future.

Public engagements, new business associations, and renewed professional contracts top this month. A few agreements or documents connected to a profession will also be revisited or redrawn, with a fresh set of opportunities and possibilities. It is a month of intense emotional churning leading to sea-change in the way you have been viewing and approaching your intimate personal life. Adventure, travel, and higher learning call to you.

It’s a great time for making new resolutions. Your desire to learn, share ideas, and improve your skills is powerful. Moneywise, more expenditure than income is indicated this month. Conversations with friends and acquaintances can be eyeopening, propelling you along a new path of discovery. This month will be beneficial in helping transform fledgling romances into potential commitments and contractual relationships.

You are making exciting new contacts and reconnecting with old friends. You are keen on sharing your personal philosophies with others and are especially intrigued with other points of view. Restlessness with routine is sure to get you out and about. Health wise, you will be in top form, brimming with vitality. Singles may be meeting new romantic interests or experiencing a rejuvenation of romance in existing relationships.

23 September –22 October

Energy for improving your skills and getting projects going runs extremely high this month. Take some extra time to tend to projects that have been on hold. You may do tight-rope walking, balancing a busy work front and demanding home life. You will also be involved with hectic behind-the-scene activities and sorting out irritants and frictions that unexpectedly crop up in relationships.

SCORPIO

23 October –21 November

You open this month’s balance sheet with carry forwards from last month. This will exclusively apply to finance and family relationships. Some aspects of financial dealings may have to be reworked with partners and collaborators. Straightening out domestic problems will also be necessary, and this sets the stage for pleasant relations with family and a more organised home life in the second half of the month.

SAGITTARIUS

22 November –21 December

22 December –19 January

This is a feel-good time for you, when you feel the need to make a fresh start. You will also introspect and reflect on minor irritants faced at home and try sorting out personal issues. A surprising new friendship could develop this month. Slowing down, going downmemory-lane, being retrospective, introspective and reflective may all sum up your internal journey.

AQUARIUS

20 January –18 February

You are setting your sights on the future instead of worrying about the past, and setting your sights high! There may be unexpected events that free you from confining situations. Financial concerns and mix-ups lift by mid-month, when a new budget will be helpful. Relationships will experience ebb and flow, and romantic notions and ideas will be replaced by cool logic and pragmatism.

PISCES

19 February –20 March

Motivation to make money is strong this month. The work you do could find financial support or your work may be related to supporting others’ talents and resources. The latter part of the month will find the moody Aquarians shying from friendly interactions and staying away from social engagements. Peace will reign supreme, and you will enjoy the company of your family and friends over food, fun and frolics.

New ideas are abundant, and your energy levels run high. Some form of tug of war when it comes to finances could be irksome but clearing up financial matters will do wonders for your outlook. Academically inclined Pisceans, pursuing courses on public relations, communications, and media management, will perform well and come out with flying colours. Home life will remain animated, busy, and involving.

ARIES

21 March –19 April

Aggressive communication is the key phrase for this month, as you go all out to promote your business ventures or professional skills. This vigorous and energetic campaign will prove to be a boon for career-minded Aries. Strong energy for new beginnings in close relationships is with you. Stimulating changes in the realms of friendships, group connections and business plans are on the horizon.

CAPRICORN

LIBRA

Seasonal Dinner Series

With

Camilla Belich Labour list MP

Authorised by Camilla Belich MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

kelrayheating.co.nz

info@kelrayheating.co.nz

DONALD OUTDOOR SMALL RECLAIMED TEAK COUNTER HEIGHT BAR TABLE & JACK TEAK & WICKER COUNTER HEIGHT BAR STOOLS