Avenues 242, February 2026

CATCH OF THE DAY

LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP

THE HEAT IS ON

THE MAGAZINE ŌTAUTAHI LIVES BY ISSUE 242 | FEBRUARY / HUI-TANGURU 2026

LET HER DISCOVER

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This month’s highs and lows, brought to you by social correspondent and spiller of tea, Shelby Write. YEAH

World Buskers Festival – what a joy for our little city. Ōtautahi is absolutely showing off.

Electric Avenue – if you snagged a ticket, Godspeed and hydrate. I hope you’re having the time of your life, xo.

Thrifting the dress for the tenth wedding you’re attending this season. Sustainable and superior. Huge win.

Voice notes – a free, unhinged podcast from your best friends. Five stars, no notes.

Resene Festival is a mellow yellow, 1960s top of the pops.

Millennial grey – we’ve suffered enough.

That viral chicken drumstick ice cream – I’m tired, and I don’t trust it.

The sun only appears once we’re back at work – personal attack, actually.

Summer roadie backseat drivers – if you’re not driving, you’re the DJ, or you’re quiet. Choose wisely.

Emojis over babies’ faces – either post the child or don’t, Sarah. Pick a lane.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Family business

It’s our first issue for 2026: welcome back!

This edition is about legacy, a theme I’ve found myself reflecting on deeply in recent months, prompted by a significant loss in my life. Someone often mentioned in these pages – my mum. I am part of her legacy. Her influence continues to be present in the way I approach my work and this magazine. Every speech, English essay, poem, and piece of creative writing passed beneath her watchful eye as I slowly built my writing muscle. The differences between similes and metaphors, assonance and alliteration, were drilled into me – always with love. In that sense, my writing career is very much a family business. Legacy is the impact you leave on a place or a space, on people and communities. In this issue, we meet family businesses and legacy companies that have shaped their industries – and continue to do so – for the better. From fish to finance, this is Canterbury: resilient, entrepreneurial, and deeply connected to place.

You may notice something new on the front cover. Avenues is now Canterbury Trusted – a certification earned through Business Canterbury. Being Canterbury Trusted is more than a badge, it’s a commitment to doing the fundamentals right. For us at Avenues, it’s about leading with trust, integrity, and responsibility, setting ourselves apart in a way that’s earned, visible, and verifiable. It means acting with integrity through ethical and transparent practice, delivering consistently with a reliable, high-quality product, and valuing people by making a positive impact on employees, clients, and the wider community. This recognition isn’t a one-off – it’s maintained through an annual assessment, reflecting an ongoing dedication to high standards. In a world where trust is everything, being Canterbury Trusted gives people confidence to choose wisely, and for us, that’s a standard we’re proud to uphold. You can read more about this on page 24.

So, once again, welcome back for a new year. It’s shaping up to be one of our city’s and region’s finest yet. I’ll see you out there.

Yours,

Liam Stretch Editor

Avenues.

THE TEAM

Publisher Lisa Phelan lisa@27publishers.co.nz

Editor Liam Stretch liam@27publishers.co.nz

Art Director Lucy Arnold lucy@27publishers.co.nz

Food Editor Sophie Petersen sophie@27publishers.co.nz

GM Sales Bronwyn Hawkins bronwyn@27publishers.co.nz

Accounts & Admin Hilary Armstrong accounts@27publishers.co.nz

PRINT

Blueprint, Christchurch

CONTRIBUTORS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Dave Richards, Mary Outram, National Geographic, Centuri Chan, Neil Macbeth, Sarah Mankelow, Jane Leighs, Streamliner Productions, Mercy Cornish, Atlantic Records, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Yorke Labs.

CONTACT US hello@27publishers.co.nz facebook.com/avenuesmagazine instagram.com/avenuesmagazine avenues.net.nz

Produced by Twenty Seven Publishers Limited PO Box 36753, Merivale, Christchurch, 8146

Your copy of Avenues, one of 25,000.

Douglas Lilburn Auditorium

Christchurch Town Hall, 7.00 p.m

Accompanied by the Christchurch

At the forefront of vision correction, Dr David Kent and Dr Zea Munro, offering premium cataract and RLE solutions as well as the most advanced laser eye treatments available

Discover what’s possible, you’ll be wishing you had seen us sooner.

complimentary

RECYCLE BOUTIQUE

The good stuff, second hand. Recycle Boutique brings together everyday faves and designer finds – making sustainable shopping fun and easy. Browse new arrivals daily and keep great clothes in circulation. Keen to sell with them? Head to their website for how it works or find them at The Tannery or 248 High Street. recycleboutique.co.nz

THE CHANGING SHED

The Changing Shed is a destination for quality, thoughtfully curated pre-loved clothing. Owner Gabrielle brings a keen eye for style, offering friendly styling tips alongside a diverse range of pieces in various sizes and styles. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it easy to browse and discover something special. From everyday staples to one-off finds, each piece is chosen with care, sustainability, and individuality in mind. You’ll find The Changing Shed at 67 Levington Close (between Lincoln and Tai Tapu), open Friday–Sunday, 10am–3pm. The Changing Shed is well worth a visit – and you should plan to stay awhile.

@TheChangingShed

TWINNEEDLE

TwinNeedle restores, repairs, and reimagines outdoor gear of every kind, from backpacks and tents to Gore-Tex®, down, and canvas. They are globally trusted; and the Christchurch technicians deliver accredited, warranty-level repairs. Recover from your last adventure, so you’re ready for the next.

twinneedle.co.nz

NURSE MAUDE HOSPICE SHOPS

Every year, countless remarkable garments are discarded long before their life is done. Nurse Maude’s Hospice Shops rescue the very best of these pieces, giving quality clothing, homewares, and treasures a second chance to be loved. Each purchase is a simple yet meaningful way to reduce waste, discover something special, and support sustainable shopping. Even more importantly, proceeds help fund vital hospice care and services for people and families in our community. Nurse Maude Hospice Shops can be found across Christchurch in Merivale, Beckenham, Avonhead, and Sumner, making it easy to shop with purpose close to home. nursemaude.org.nz

HALSWELL TRADERS

Halswell Traders is a locally owned business run by a husband-and-wife team. Located near Riccarton, they offer quality second-hand furniture, big-brand seconds, and end-of-line pieces, giving furniture a second life and keeping it out of landfill. Be surprised by the modern, stylish, and affordable options for your home. halswelltraders.co.nz

TO BE CONTINUED

To Be Continued opened its doors on Bryndwr Road in April 2017, quietly redefining the preloved shopping experience. Eight and a half years on, the brand has evolved into a curated multi-store presence, relocating its original space to Normans Road and, in September 2025, opening a second location on Papanui Road in Merivale. A pop-up at GM Hair proved so successful that it inspired the Ferrymead store, which opened in July 2021, offering both women’s and men’s pieces. To Be Continued offers style advice, meticulous merchandising, and an understatedly luxurious atmosphere. Firsttime visitors often assume the pieces are new – and that’s exactly the point. tobecontinuedpreloved.com

MUSGROVES

CREATIVE JUNK

Creative Junk collects unwanted materials from across the community and offers them for sale to the public for use in creative projects. Visit the Christchurch warehouse to discover an impressive range under one roof – from early learning resources and craft supplies to props available for hire. creativejunk.org.nz

Musgroves is a Christchurch institution, where generations have found high-quality building materials for their homes and baches. It is fascinating exploring Musgroves’ sheds, where an impressive mix of recycled and new building materials is on display. This iconic company has been recycling building materials for over 50 years, combining sustainability with exceptional service and deep industry knowledge. From reclaimed timber flooring to quality unused roofing iron and everything in-between, Musgroves is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a renovation or building project, offering inspiration alongside practical, cost-effective solutions. musgroves.co.nz

THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR

Top Dog Theatre returns with Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor, a fast-paced comedy of mistaken letters and clever revenge. Directed by Derek Doddington, the open-air production promises plenty of slapstick and laughs. Performances run 6–14 February 2026 on the Mound Lawn at Mona Vale. This is a perfect day out for the whole family, and is set to be another outdoor theatre hit. Picnics are welcome and refreshments will be available on site. Tickets are $20 for adults, and $15 concession – get yours now from the Top Dog Theatre website.

6–14 February, Mona Vale topdogtheatre.com

4

SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR

Millennials, rejoice! British chart-topper Sophie Ellis-Bextor is bringing her signature glossy disco pop to Christchurch in February 2026. Fans can dance along to beloved noughties hits alongside fresh, feel-good anthems from her latest album Perimenopop, performed live at the Christchurch Town Hall in what promises to be a high-energy, joyfilled night.

4 February, Christchurch Town Hall ticketmaster.co.nz

HOT HOUSE FLOWERS

6-14

21 21

THE ROCK ORCHESTRA

After captivating 700,000 guests across the UK, USA, and Europe, The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight launches its first-ever New Zealand tour. This spellbinding 90-minute performance blends iconic rock and metal anthems with classical instrumentation, set within an ethereal, candlelit atmosphere. Thirteen world-class musicians deliver powerful, haunting reinterpretations of legendary bands.

21 February, Isaac Theatre Royal isaactheatreroyal.co.nz

You may know them for their cover of the famous track I Can See Clearly Now, but Hothouse Flowers are also renowned for their explosive fusion of American Gospel, Irish Folk, and rock ‘n’ roll. These Irish legends return to Australia and New Zealand for the first time in 20 years. The long-awaited February 2026 tour brings them to Christchurch, with fans able to catch the iconic band live at the Christchurch Town Hall. Expect soaring vocals, spiritual intensity, and timeless songs that defined a generation, delivered with the passion only Hothouse Flowers command.

24 February, Christchurch Town Hall destroyalllines.com

GALLERY FUNDRAISER

Art lovers have a rare chance to win an original Philip Trusttum painting in Oxford Gallery’s fundraiser raffle. This is a chance to support the gallery’s work with the arts and artists throughout Canterbury, and you could take home a collectable artwork. The tickets are limited to 100, and the raffle is drawn on 21 February 2026. Secure your chance to win a work by a New Zealand art icon.

21 February, Oxford Gallery oxfordgallery.org.nz/art-raffle

ON THE FRONT LINE

The Tank is a German-made film directed by Dennis Gansel. It follows a German Tiger tank crew on the Eastern Front in 1943, sent on a perilous mission deep behind fiercely contested lines. As they cross lethal no-man’s-land, they confront both the enemy and their own demons. Solid, but not outstanding. Watch it now on Amazon Prime.

HIGHLAND HEARTS

Fire in Their Hearts is a gripping historical novel set during Scotland’s brutal Killing Times. Philip Paris vividly follows Violet and Samuel, lovers torn apart by war, shipwreck, and exile, weaving romance and resilience into a harrowing, often-forgotten chapter of Scottish history. One to add to your summer reading list!

TWO AND HALF STORIES

Aka Charlie Sheen on Netflix tells the backstory of Charlie Sheen and what led to his very public downfall. Now sober, Charlie Sheen takes audiences through his quite unbelievable life, challenges, and triumphs. You won’t be able to look away – and it’s a show that needs to be seen to be believed. Not for the squeamish.

SUMMER DAZE

The new single by Bruno Mars I Just Might is a poppy number for the last days of summer. This energising track marks the first release on Bruno Mars’ latest album, The Romantic, released on 27 February. Driven by buoyant melodies and a carefree groove, it blends nostalgia with modern polish, making you shake your hips while hinting at the album’s playful, heartfelt direction.

Refined living at the edge of the Alps

Set within the breathtaking alpine landscape of Wānaka, Metlifecare’s Wānaka Peaks redefines luxury retirement living – where design meets nature in perfect balance.

Surrounded by mountains, and just moments from the lakefront, Wānaka Peaks is Metlifecare’s latest statement in luxury retirement living. Located within the Three Parks precinct, the village captures the essence of one of New Zealand’s most desirable destinations – a place celebrated

for its cinematic scenery and vibrant year-round energy.

“Wānaka has this incredible alpine character – it’s both calming and invigorating,” says Village Manager and Wānaka local, Jo Fuller.

“I’m excited to welcome our future residents to a village designed and

built to the highest standard that reflects this spirit.”

Metlifecare’s Senior Design Manager Hadyn Neal says the architecture draws from the surrounding mountains, lakes and alpine palette.

“In Wānaka, the landscape

The village will be contemporary but cosy, luxurious and inspired by nature.

does the talking – those ridgelines, the schist outcrops, the warm timber tones you see throughout the region. We wanted the village to echo that without overpowering it.”

Hadyn says the materials were a big part of the story. “We used local Wānaka schist, Accoya timber cladding for warmth and texture, and bricks in earthy tones to ground the buildings.”

“The village will be contemporary but cosy, luxurious and inspired by nature,” says Hadyn. “Everything from the open-plan layouts to the glazing and landscaping, is about allowing residents to feel connected to this extraordinary place.”

Beyond appearance, the village’s design centres on comfort, care and community.

Stage One of Wānaka Peaks is scheduled to open in mid-2026 and will feature 28 single-level villas surrounded by landscaped gardens and shared green spaces designed

for community connection.

Looking ahead, the communal heart of the village will include a boutique clubhouse, cafe, bar and wellness facilities like an indoor heated swimming pool. An onsite aged residential care home is planned, delivering much-needed care to the region.

“The ultimate goal is for residents to feel a sense of belonging both within the village and to the surrounding community. They will be close to the local shops, golf club and the amenities of Three Parks,

so they’ll have the freedom to live a life as relaxed or active as they choose,” says Jo.

For more information call Jo Fuller on 03 222 8001 or visit metlifecare.co.nz

LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP

As Nurse Maude enters its 130th year, the organisation is looking firmly to the future under new chief executive Louise Zacest.

Founded in 1896 by Sibylla Emily Maude OBE, known widely as Nurse Maude, who pioneered district nursing.

At a time when access to hospitals often depended on the ability to pay, Sibylla walked the streets of Christchurch carrying medical equipment, delivering care in the homes of those who needed it. Within months, she had mobilised a small army of nurses.

Louise was appointed chief executive in September 2025, succeeding Jim Magee, and brings with her more than 20 years of healthcare leadership experience. Her career includes senior roles with UniMed, Healthcare NZ, and Counties Manukau DHB, where she focused on improving health outcomes, developing diverse service models, and strengthening community-based care.

“I was looking for an organisation that had a strong purpose and can make a difference in the health and wellbeing of New Zealand. Healthcare is where my heart is,” Louise says.

She describes Nurse Maude as an institution deeply woven into the fabric of the South Island and greater

Wellington. “Nurse Maude is an iconic organisation. I feel really privileged to lead it into its next phase of development,” she says.

For Louise, the role is as much about stewardship as it is leadership. “Nurse Maude, as an organisation, has evolved over time, but she laid the foundation for us. Our leaders, including Jim more recently, have advanced that legacy, and now I get the opportunity to support our team to continue that work. It’s just so exciting.”

While the mission and values of caring for people in need remain central, Louise acknowledges the environment has changed dramatically. Modern healthcare brings new pressures, expectations, and opportunities, and she is focused on ensuring Nurse Maude continues to adapt while staying true to its purpose and values.

One of the most significant projects under her leadership will be the new hospice that opens in May this year. The purpose-built facility will care for up to 12 in-patients, including paediatric and youth, with private rooms and garden views.

Fundraising for the new facility is ongoing, with donations helping bring this vital space to life.

nursemaude.org.nz

Feel at home with quality nursing care.

The N urs e Ma ud e C are H ome is located in the vibrant neighbourhood of Merivale. It’s a pla ce where residents can enjoy a sense o f purpose, mea ning an d di gnity with 24/7 nursing care available.

A new boutique hotel crafted from the old Masonic pub

Enriching the way people live, work, stay and play through elegant architecture and interior design

+64 3 366 5445

design@dalman.co.nz dalman.co.nz

C onta c t u s today to arrange a viewing

Phone: 03 375 4145

Email: carehome@nursemaude.org.nz

CELEBRATE YOURSELF

1 ITALIAN SUN

Sun-kissed Italian bergamot is enhanced by zesty notes of blood orange, lime, lemon, grapefruit, and mandarin that come together in Versace Eros Energy, creating a refreshing, harmonious blend that radiates joy. farmers.co.nz

2 SWIM TIME

Let’s keep this summer going! This bold swimsuit from The Fitting Room is perfect for warm days spent by the beach or pool. The Primadonna Malabo Plunge One Piece comes in Hot Pink Zebra. It retails for $228.

thefittingroom.co.nz

3 MELLOW YELLOW

Crafted from archival organic cotton poplin in bold sun yellow, Kowtow’s fairy summer dress features a relaxed, ankle-length silhouette, gathered neckline, delicate straps, and in-seam pockets, perfect alone or layered underneath. kowtowclothing.com

4

TAKE ON AGEING

Don‘t forget to treat your neck! The neck is an oftenforgotten area of the lower face, but it is a tell-tale sign of someone’s age. The Skin Rejuvenation Clinic team have a variety of treatments to help rejuvenate the neck area. Some are energy-based treatments using either micro-focused ultrasound, radiofrequency or high-frequency muscle stimulation, and some require injectable treatments such as skin boosters for deep hydration. Check out this month’s special and give them a call to find out which one would be best for you. skinrejuvenationclinic.co.nz

START THE YEAR OFF RIGHT

Endolift® at KM Surgical is the new standard in subtle lifting and tightening.

In a world where confidence and refinement are important, KM Surgical introduces one of the most sophisticated advancements in modern facial rejuvenation: Endolift®, a doctor-only laser treatment designed for those who seek visible results without disruption or damage to the skin surface.

Unlike traditional tightening procedures, Endolift® works from within, using an ultra-fine laser fibre placed just beneath the skin to reduce laxity, contour the face, and refine areas where time has softened definition. The process requires no large incisions, just light local anaesthesia, and offers the combination of immediate lift with progressive collagen-building over several months. The result? A naturally refreshed version of yourself.

What sets Endolift® apart is not only the technology, but also the artistry and medical precision behind it. At KM Surgical, the treatment is performed exclusively by specialist Dermatologist Dr Ken Macdonald.

For those noticing early jowling, softening jawlines, under-chin fullness, or mild-to-moderate skin laxity, Endolift® offers a refined addition or alternative to short scar facelift to preserve facial character while enhancing definition. Most clients return to their daily lives within hours, making it ideal for people who value subtle transformation without downtime.

Patients increasingly seek treatments that deliver improvement without announcing it to the world.

Endolift® blends medical precision with aesthetic artistry, ensuring results that enhance rather than alter. The procedure is ‘doctor only’ because of the risks associated with subdermal lasers.

Endolift® can be performed on both the face and body.

KM Surgical offer a complimentary consultation with their Registered Cosmetic Nurses to see if you are suitable for an Endolift® procedure. For more information and to find out if this procedure is right for you, the professional team are available to phone at 03 377 1010, or drop a line at kmdsurgical@derm.co.nz.

OH SO MARY

Curated by Mary Outram | @mary_oh_

Whether you’re easing in gently or already knee-deep in to-do lists, February is when the work pace really starts to pick up. This edit leans into soft structure and easy polish, with elevated basics in classic black, a hint of tailoring, and pieces that move with you – from those 9am coffees through to the 4pm meetings that could’ve been emails. A standout moment? Polka dots. Yes, they’re back – and they’re surprisingly chic, adding just the right amount of playfulness to your workday wardrobe.

Tailored Vest, $259, and Bermuda Shorts, $179, from Witchery | Crystal Stud Earrings, $44.90, from Country Road | Frenchie Hair Pin, $25, from Ruby | Prada Sunglasses, $844, available online only from Sunglass Hut | Kenna Leather Flip Flop, $139.90, from Seed Heritage Lemaire Mini Fortune Croissant Bag, $1529, available online only from Workshop | Calder Polka Crush Top, $499, from Juliette Hogan

OUTDOOR CEDAR SAUNAS

BY SAFARI TENTS NZ

The ultimate luxury outdoor sauna experience

Beautifully crafted, Canadian made

@safaritentsnz www.safaritents.co.nz

IN DETAIL

ALL ABOUT TRUST

When Business Canterbury CEO Leeann Watson talks about trust, she speaks about it as something deeply practical, not abstract.

“Trust has always been the foundation of strong business communities,” she says. “But in today’s environment, it can’t be assumed. It has to be proven.”

That belief sits at the heart of Canterbury Trusted, a new certification recognising businesses that consistently lead with integrity, responsibility, and care for their people and their community.

To understand why Canterbury Trusted matters now, you have to look back.

Business Canterbury, our region’s chamber of commerce, was founded in 1859 by forward-thinking local business leaders who recognised the strength of a united voice. They understood that for commerce to thrive, businesses needed influence, advocacy, and confidence in the systems shaping their region. Today, Business Canterbury supports the business community through growth and strategy guidance, advisory and advocacy services, networking and training opportunities, and expert HR and employment law support.

More than 165 years later, that founding purpose remains. What has changed is the world businesses operate in.

“The expectations placed on businesses today are far higher,” Leeann says. “Customers want transparency. Employees want values they can believe in. Communities want to know that businesses are contributing positively.”

Business Canterbury listened closely to its members and the wider business community, alongside studying international best practice. This led to a complete evolution of the organisation’s operating model, membership structure, and support services, all designed to meet the realities of modern business.

Yet one request surfaced repeatedly.

“Our members told us they wanted a credible way to differentiate themselves,” Leeann explains. “Not through marketing claims, but through something meaningful.”

That insight sparked the creation of Canterbury Trusted.

Canterbury Trusted is a certification that recognises businesses committed to doing the fundamentals well, consistently and transparently. It is backed by Business Canterbury’s long-standing experience supporting regional businesses and transforms that local expertise into a clear, trusted standard.

“Canterbury Trusted turns trust into something visible,” says Leeann. “It gives people confidence that a business has been independently assessed and continues to meet high standards year after year.”

Recognition is earned and renewed annually through a comprehensive assessment. This process examines how a business operates across four key pillars: acting with integrity, delivering consistently, demonstrating financial strength, and valuing people.

Importantly, Canterbury Trusted is not self-declared.

“Anyone can say they are trustworthy,” Leeann says. “Canterbury Trusted asks businesses to prove it and to keep proving it.”

For businesses that achieve this certification, the impact goes beyond a logo or badge. Canterbury Trusted places them within a growing network of organisations committed to lifting confidence across the region.

“When trusted practice is visible, everyone benefits,” Leeann explains. “It strengthens relationships, raises expectations, and reinforces Canterbury’s reputation as a place where good business is done well.”

The long-term vision is for Canterbury Trusted to become the most recognisable and respected business certification in the region.

Avenues received its Canterbury Trusted certification in late 2025, joining a growing number of Canterbury businesses leading by example. This recognition reflects trust in action and reinforces Business Canterbury’s enduring mission to give businesses a voice, the support to succeed, and the confidence to thrive.

“At its core, Canterbury Trusted is about building a stronger, more resilient Canterbury,” Leeann says. “One where trust is earned, visible, and worth celebrating.”

For more information about Canterbury Trusted, head to businesscanterbury.co.nz/backedbyus

Monarch Cocktail Bar

Winner, Best Pub, Cocktail, or Wine Bar

RUNNER UP Moon Under Water

Unknown Chapter

Winner, Best Café or Coffee

RUNNER UP Coffee Embassy

Electric Avenue

Winner, Best Event

RUNNER UP Garden City Mākete

Ballantynes

Winner, Best Retail Experience

RUNNER UP Frances Nation

SHOWSTOPPER

Bellbird Bakery

Winner, Best Maker or Creator

RUNNER UP Purple Goddess

THE PLATE THAT STOLE YOUR HEART

Restaurant RUNNER UP Papa’s Smashies

The Arts Centre

Winner, Best Visitor Attraction

RUNNER UP King of Snake

ZEN ZONE

IHF

Winner, Best Gym/Pilates Studio/Spa

RUNNER UP He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools

Pelvic

Legacy

“Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”

Warren Buffett

CATCH OF THE DAY

Avenues sat down with fourth-generation custodians of Theo’s Fisheries, Yotti and Yanni Ioannou.

Theo’s Fisheries has been part of the Riccarton Road streetscape for 75 years, and now the iconic Christchurch business is in the hands of its fourth generation. Brothers Yotti and Yanni Ioannou officially took over the reins in 2025 – or, rather, filleting knives.

Founded in 1950 by Cypriot immigrant Theo Papageorge, Theo’s Fisheries began life as a modest butchery before being transformed into a fish shop. Theo’s nephew, Peter Ioannou (Yotti and Yanni’s grandfather) took over the business in 1964 and ran it for 40 years. In 1991, ownership passed to Peter’s daughter, Victoria and her husband, Kyriacos Georgiou.

Now, three-quarters of a century after its beginnings, Theo’s Fisheries enters a new chapter.

“The primary responsibility for me going forward is much like what they say about the All Blacks jersey,” Yotti says. “You leave it in a better place than when you found it. There’s 75 years of graft here – family history, ups and downs.”

Growing up, Yotti and Yanni were immersed in the business from a young age. That deep connection has shaped their approach to leadership, which balances respect for tradition with a desire to modernise. One of their first moves was a rebrand – not to reinvent Theo’s, but to make its legacy visible to a new generation of customers.

“We’ve paid homage to the past, especially the original 1950s window,” Yotti says. “We’ve kept the colours, the feel, the essence – but updated the brand so it speaks to younger people too.”

That respect runs deep. “I have so much respect for the hard work my grandfather did,” he says. “This is my history, and I’m incredibly proud of it. What they achieved here is amazing.”

For Yotti, the sense of family presence is constant. “I feel my grandfather here every day. Everything in our family centres around Theo’s. We have a responsibility to keep it going.”

While the values remain unchanged, the brothers are embracing new ways to tell their story. Alongside the new logo, they’ve invested in social media and merchandise, and introduced new initiatives – all while maintaining the same high-quality fish and chips and fresh seafood that locals have trusted for decades.

“The business has built an incredible reputation over many years,” Yotti says. “Now it’s about actively showcasing the quality and care that goes into what we do every day.”

Change, he says, is about adaptation. “Some things haven’t been updated for a while. We’re bringing in bolder window displays, home deliveries, and expanding our wholesale options.”

Central to that future is reconnecting Cantabrians with fresh fish. “Wild-caught, sustainable, and organic are values people are increasingly looking for,” Yotti says. “They’ve been at the heart of our business for 75 years. Our fishers are local, with relationships going back generations. This means people can genuinely find out where their food is coming from.”

“People buy sourdough at the market for its freshness and craft – that’s exactly what we deliver at Theo’s,” he says. “We’ve got all the advice you need if you don’t know where to start.”

Quality remains non-negotiable. “I’m not interested in selling cheap fish for a quick buck,” Yotti says. “I want people to walk in, experience great service, feast with their eyes, and feel confident they’re buying highquality, fresh fish.”

theosfisheries.co.nz

THE HEAT IS ON

There’s a particular hum to a kitchen when it’s doing exactly what it’s meant to do.

Flames kiss the hibachi, sake glasses clink around the room, and the team moves with a slick rhythm. At Bar Yoku, that feeling isn’t accidental. It’s clockwork, earned, and it’s intentional.

In a city rich with good food and hospitality, Bar Yoku has carved out something truly exceptional. Owners and life-and-business partners Shawn and Juliana McGowan have built more than a restaurant; they’ve built a place people return to without needing a reason. They have built a legacy. Shaped night after night, service after service, by people who understand that the most enduring restaurants aren’t just about what’s on the plate, but also how a room feels when you walk through the door.

Shawn hails from the mighty Southland, and Juliana’s a Cantabrian through and through. They first crossed paths in Melbourne in the early 2000s among the bustling Australian hospitality scene. From there, they gathered experience: a stint in the early days of Amisfield, a legacy of their own at Pegasus Bay Winery & Restaurant for seven and a half years, a leap to Sydney, and a wander through Europe before returning to Christchurch. It wasn’t long before the opportunity to take the reins at Bar Yoku presented itself.

By the time The Welder was established in Ōtautahi, Shawn and Juliana were ready, with years of experience under their belts managing kitchens and restaurants.

Their ambition? To serve food that’s affordable, tasty, and consistently excellent. As Juliana put it, they wanted to “cut through the barrier of traditional cuisine,” merging deep hospitality with the kind of Japanese flavours that had followed them since their adventures around Japan. Cue sushi tacos, flaming hibachi,

and dishes infused with a sushi skillset melded with Kiwi sensibility.

They started with six staff. Now? A slick team of twenty-four serving up dish after dish of delicious. That’s not just expansion. That’s family. So when the opportunity arose to launch their sibling lounge bar, Imōto (translating to “little sister”), the intention was clear: to build something together.

Where Bar Yoku leans into soulful dinners, Imōto plays it lighter, with snacky Euro-Asian dishes, playful shared plates, and Japanese whiskey and sake cocktails.

What Shawn and Juliana have created in Ōtautahi isn’t just two restaurants. It’s a community. It’s a crew. Faces like Arno, Laura, Emma, Andy, and Jordan, who’ve been there since the early days. Along with suppliers like Theo’s Fisheries, Akaroa Salmon, and of course the additions of Mila and Kaia to the McGowan family, the Bar Yoku legacy is one that extends far beyond the kitchen pass.

It’s the Wednesday hospo nights that truly cement Bar Yoku and Imōto’s place within the wider hospitality community. Monthly live DJ sessions set the tone, yakitori skewers sizzling under warm lights, while sake flows at eight dollars a pop and the projector rolls out grainy, after-midnight visuals.

But above all, it’s clear that this legacy exists because of an ingrained belief that “anything is possible” and “relationships matter”. That’s what Shawn and Juliana tell their staff: there is no such word as “can’t.” In ten years, their crew may just be leading new kitchens across Aotearoa, carrying with them a little piece of southern warmth and Ōtautahi excellence that was nurtured at Bar Yoku.

That’s the kind of legacy that sticks. And for Christchurch, we’re lucky they’ve built it.

baryoku.co.nz

A LIFE JOURNEY

Avenues sits down with Lynette and John McFadden, partners in life and business.

Lynette’s career began far from property listings, working full-time as a senior staff nurse on a surgical ward. Even then, real estate was quietly weaving its way into their lives. Together, Lynette and John were renovating homes – what we’d now call “flipping” – and developing a growing fascination with property. It was during a holiday that John suggested Lynette would be well-suited to real estate. She trusted his insight, took the leap, and never imagined it would lead to a 33-year journey culminating in Harcourts Gold.

That journey took a defining turn in the 1990s when the couple purchased the Harcourts Papanui office. At the time, it was a small operation, and the opportunity came under tragic circumstances following the death of its owner. Financially, the decision was daunting. “We weren’t in a position to afford it easily,” Lynette recalls. “It had to work.” They poured every dollar and every waking hour into building the business. Their commitment didn’t go unnoticed. Harcourts founder Stephen Collins recognised their drive and offered them the chance to secure three additional offices – an endorsement that cemented their confidence and direction.

Central to Harcourts Gold’s success is its philosophy of hiring for “attitude and energy.” Skills can be taught, they believe, but spark and intent cannot. “We have a talent for finding talent,” Lynette says, “but it also has a way of finding us. Those who join the business often know where they want to go and trust us to help get them there.”

The pair are acutely aware of the pressures of the industry. Long hours, rejection, and

weekend work can all contribute to burnout. Over many years, they’ve invested heavily in wellbeing, working with mentors such as performance psychologist Gilbert Enoka and clinical psychologist Dr Sarah Anticich. These “not-so-secret weapons,” as John calls them, have helped embed sustainable strategies for balance across the team. For Lynette personally, family, lifelong friendships, and the grounding influence of her parents have kept her steady.

Papanui itself is deeply personal. Both Lynette and John attended Papanui High School, and Lynette’s father grew up nearby. To now lead the number one real estate office in New Zealand – and the top Harcourts office globally – from Papanui is profoundly meaningful. “I think my grandparents would be very proud,” Lynette says.

Their success was recognised again with the 2025 REINZ Large Residential Office of the Year award, their third consecutive win. John says it reflects exhaustive planning, strong leadership, and a deeply embedded workplace culture. “There’s a sense of panache at Gold,” Lynette says. “Everything we do, we do with style.”

Working together remains one of the couple’s greatest rewards. “It’s a privilege to work with John,” Lynette says. Her advice to other couples in business is simple: “Stay in your lane. Your relationship has to be rock solid and built on deep respect.”

Looking ahead, Lynette states that she wants to keep working but on her own terms. John hopes for happiness and health for his family – and for Harcourts Gold to continue leading from the front and contributing positively to people’s lives.

harcourtsgold.co.nz

DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY

For three decades, a Christchurch firm has redefined financial advice with a client-first philosophy.

When Cambridge Partners marked its 30th anniversary in 2024, it wasn’t just a celebration of longevity; it was a reaffirmation of a philosophy that has guided the firm since day one: to do things differently.

The story began in Christchurch in 1994, when Andrew Nuttall, Jacob Wolt, and Dave Bradley asked a simple question over a backyard barbecue: “What kind of firm would we trust with our own money?” Their answer became Bradley Nuttall Ltd, a business built on trust, transparency, and independence.

That same commitment resurfaced in 2009 with the creation of iQ² Private Wealth Ltd, founded by Richard Austin and Steve Mander. Both had experience working with large institutions and had seen the pitfalls of productdriven financial advice. They wanted something better, a model where clients came first, and financial advice was objective, not influenced by commissions or conflicts of interest.

In 2017, these two like-minded firms merged to form Cambridge Partners, combining decades of experience and a shared belief in unbiased, client-first advice. The name reflects that ethos: Cambridge evokes knowledge and tradition, while Partners highlights the relationships at the heart of the business. Even the logo carries meaning; the Greek letter Phi (φ) symbolises the Golden Ratio, representing balance, harmony, and excellence.

Cambridge Partners is proudly fee-only, a structure that ensures financial advice is always in the client’s best interest. In fact, the firm was an early adopter of the Aegis platform back in 1998, well before fee-based advice became industry standard.

“From the start, we’ve put ourselves in our clients’ shoes,” says Andrew Nuttall. “I thought, what sort of financial adviser would I want? It’s like the medical profession, you expect a doctor to prescribe what’s best for you, not what earns them a commission.”

That principle still drives the firm today. “Often when we deal with a new client, there’s a life transition happening,” explains CEO James Howard. “It might be the sale of a business or farm, receiving an inheritance, paying off the mortgage, or planning for a new phase of life.” The focus is on helping clients put in place a plan that addresses the concerns and worries they have and allows them to move forward and build a better life.

Education is central to the process.

“Investment is a big decision,” James says. “Most people jump straight into investing without being clear on what they really want. Our focus is on understanding what matters to them, then building a plan and strategy to get there. The investment decisions follow from that.”

Cambridge Partners takes a generational view. “Our fee-only structure works because we’re thinking about the next 20 or 30 years, not the next three months,” James says. “We believe investing in long-term relationships drives better long-term investment outcomes for our clients.”

Ultimately, it’s about clarity and confidence. “If we’ve added that to someone’s life, that’s incredibly satisfying,” adds Andrew. “It’s their money, investing should empower them to do what they want in life.”

Three decades on from a simple backyard question, Cambridge Partners continues to lead with a philosophy that puts people first.

cambridgepartners.co.nz

EVERYONE’S

ORANA

As Orana Wildlife Park approaches its 50th anniversary, exciting developments are on the horizon.

For many Cantabrians, Orana Wildlife Park is woven into family memories, first encounters with wildlife, school holidays, and wide-eyed moments that stay with you. But what Orana has always been about runs far deeper than what visitors see on a single day.

Orana has existed for one clear purpose: the care, protection, and thriving future of animals. From its earliest days, the Park has focused on conservation, breeding programmes, and animal welfare, working largely behind the scenes to support species survival in New Zealand and around the world.

This year, Orana marks its 50th anniversary, and as part of its celebrations, has collaborated with the National Geographic Society to bring The Greatest Wildlife Photographs exhibition to New Zealand for the first time. Now on display at the Park, the exhibition features more than 70 powerful images, presented alongside some of the animals that inspired them, creating a compelling connection between wildlife, storytelling, and place.

“We are so excited to host the New Zealand premiere of this incredible exhibition,” Orana Wildlife Park Chief Executive Officer Rachel Haydon says. “I’ve been blown away by the photographs and the stories behind each one. It’s extremely inspiring to see what these photographers have achieved. Ultimately, it helps visitors connect with animals they might not otherwise encounter. It celebrates their beauty, while also shining a light on the challenges they face.”

Another milestone for the Park is the development of its first-ever comprehensive master plan, a long-term blueprint designed to guide Orana’s evolution over the next decade and beyond. Grounded in animal wellbeing, improving visitor experiences and conservation outcomes, the plan strengthens Orana’s role as a modern conservation organisation, while redefining how people

experience and understand wildlife, right here on Christchurch’s doorstep.

To lead this work, Orana has partnered with world-renowned zoo design specialists Studio Hanson Roberts. Led by principal Becca Hanson, the team is developing a wholeof-park design and development roadmap aligned with contemporary conservation values and best practice.

“We’ve never had a true comprehensive master plan,” Rachel says. “As we approach our 50th anniversary, this is the right moment to take stock of what we’ve achieved, learn from the challenges, and be clear about how Orana needs to move forward.”

Since 1993, Studio Hanson Roberts has worked with zoos and wildlife organisations around the world, including Auckland Zoo, and is internationally recognised for championing naturalistic habitats, animal wellbeing, and immersive, educational visitor experiences. During their time in Christchurch, the team engaged closely with staff, volunteers, stakeholders, and community partners, asking critical questions about Orana’s future, how the Park should feel for the next generation, how its expansive landscape can be better used, and what environments will best support animals both now and into the future.

Community involvement will continue to be central to the process. While fundraising will play an integral role, it’s about creating opportunities for people to connect with and contribute to Orana’s future in ways that feel meaningful “We’re part of the landscape here,” Rachel says, “and as Christchurch continues to evolve, we want Orana to remain part of the city’s future. That means bringing people with us and shaping that future together.”

National Geographic’s The Greatest Wildlife Photographs exhibition runs until 30 April 2026 and is included with general admission.

oranawildlifepark.co.nz

FAMILY VALUES

Family-owned Whittle Knight Real Estate will mark 60 years of business in 2026.

Whittle Knight Real Estate will mark a significant milestone in 2026, celebrating 60 years as one of Christchurch’s most enduring family-owned real estate and property management companies.

Based in Riccarton, the agency has grown alongside the city itself, earning a reputation for innovation, integrity, and deeply personal service that has stood the test of time.

Originally named Whittle Knight and Boatwood, founded in 1966 by Les Whittle, Wally Knight, and Vic Boatwood, the business was born out of a bold idea. Establishing a real estate office in the suburbs was considered radical at the time, but it quickly paid off. Whittle Knight developed a reputation for thinking differently, becoming the first local agency to use aerial photography and the first to auction sections in Queenstown. Innovation has remained a constant thread, from early marketing advances to embracing the internet to connect Canterbury properties with buyers around the world. As the company grew, it remained committed to its suburban offices, expanding and redeveloping the Riccarton building and establishing an additional office in Papanui.

Today, the second generation, Gill Knight, manages the business having joined his father in the 1970s. From the beginning, Whittle Knight has offered both real estate sales and property management services, recognising that while people are more mobile and move more often, property remains the biggest investment most will ever make. Securing the best possible price and making the process smooth and stress-free continues to be the agency’s top priority.

Director Gill Knight believes the company’s longevity speaks volumes. “To us, legacy is the enduring power of the company,” he

says. “We’ve been here for 60 years and we’ve performed well for 60 years. That’s a testament in itself.”

A key part of that success lies in remaining deliberately small and flexible. Free from rigid corporate structures, the team is able to work across the whole of Christchurch without restrictions on suburbs or zones.

“Our staff and our clients have freedom,” Gill explains. “That’s a big advantage compared with larger companies.”

The agency’s client-first philosophy is also reflected in how it does business. One standout point of difference is Whittle Knight’s willingness to carry upfront costs on behalf of clients. “We take it on ourselves,” says Gill. “We carry the can. It shows confidence in what we do, and it’s a big benefit for our clients.”

Trust and ethics sit at the heart of the company culture, something Gill credits for the many long-standing relationships the agency enjoys. “We have strict rules within our business that everybody does the right thing,” he says. “We serve the client, we look after the goods, and we do it ethically and properly.” This commitment to integrity has helped the agency retain repeat clients across generations, with families returning time and again to buy, sell, and manage their most valuable assets.

As the company moves into its seventh decade, a third generation of the Knight family, Thomas Knight is now within the business, ensuring the values that have underpinned its success will continue. Accounts manager Gillian Knight highlights the family values within the company. “We’ve got a great team who are so enthusiastic, and they look after each other. Everyone gets on and is respectful of one another – and that’s reflected in how we treat our clients too.”

whittleknight.co.nz

FAMILY FREIGHT PUSHES FORWARD

Bascik Transport’s family-led growth is seeing a new development in Tauranga come to life.

Family-owned Bascik Transport has come a long way since it was founded in 1970 by Mervin and Pauline Bascik as a small, local Christchurch-based transport provider. Built on hard work, reliability, and a deep understanding of its customers, the company has grown steadily across five decades to become a cornerstone of New Zealand’s freight and logistics network.

In 2000, Tony Bascik, son of the founders, took over as Managing Director. Under his leadership, the business continued its upward trajectory, guided by a clear strategy of expanding both network and services in an ever-evolving transport environment. While the scale of the operation has grown considerably, the values of a family business have remained central.

Today, Bascik Transport is a leading provider of freight services into the South Island, and that strength has grown into a nationwide service. The company now operates as a key part of New Zealand’s logistics framework, with national freight services and a close working relationship with KiwiRail, where it is one of the rail service’s largest customers.

Growth has continued at pace into 2026, with major expansion across the North Island. The acquisition of Jets Transport strengthened Bascik’s presence in the lower North Island and accelerated the need for new depots and facilities. They now have seven new regional depots in the North Island offering customers a full national network and have expanded across the Auckland, Northland, and Wellington regions, significantly enhancing national capability and reach.

One of the latest projects currently underway, and in development stages, is in Tauranga, one of the country’s fastest-growing cities. Located at the Tauriko Business Estate,

Bascik Transport is developing a brandnew, purpose-built facility as part of its nationwide expansion strategy. The project is being delivered in partnership with Carbon Property, who have supported the rollout of North Island operations from a strategic property perspective.

Situated at the cross-section of State Highway 29 and State Highway 36, the Tauranga facility will include more than 6,000 square metres of transport depot space, breezeway canopies, and offices. The location offers exceptional access to the main transport trunk lines, strengthening Bascik’s ability to move freight efficiently across the country.

“These regional North Island investments are driven by the need to be closer to customers and improve efficiency. By moving freight through major hubs such as Auckland and Christchurch, Bascik Transport can distribute goods to smaller, regional depots and continue to deliver effective metro services nationwide.” says Tony.

Carbon Property managing director Ben Lagan says the partnership has been built on strategy and insight. “Initially, we assisted with general property advisory which naturally opened the door to our full-service development model from that point on.”

For Ben, the partnership represents alignment with a successful, national operator where both businesses stand to benefit from the Carbon Property development model. As Ben notes, “There is so much to learn from a company like Bascik Transport. It’s an incredibly refined model, and we are excited to be a small part of their North Island growth story.”

With on-site construction starting soon, it won’t be long before Bascik is moving freight faster than ever before in the Bay of Plenty.

carbonproperty.co.nz

DOING IT RIGHT FROM THE START

Gavin Lowe Energy shares with Avenues the need to do ducted air conditioning right.

Ducted air conditioning has become the preferred option for heat pump air conditioning for many households; some are retrofitting it into their existing homes, and many new homes are automatically specifying it. But a warning: these systems are not self-contained like your high-wall heat pump. They need to be designed, with positioning and specification of appropriate materials, and airflows calculated for each installation, with a lot that can go wrong if it’s not.

As experts in the field, it’s not unusual for Gavin Lowe Energy’s technicians to be called out to a poorly designed and installed ducted system to provide advice and remediation.

“Using a recent example, when we assessed a system for a client, what we found was an absolute mess. Producing more draughts than warmth to the rooms, it was noisy, and vibrations from the indoor unit could be heard through the house. It cost a lot to run, being inefficient with air leaks and uneven airflow and temperatures, and the promised fresh air into the home was not performing as it should. Basically, they had paid a significant amount of money for a system that provided less comfort than if they had nothing at all,” says Lee Todd, Director and Commercial Manager.

After the assessment, they got underway setting it right: supplied and installed balancing dampers to control the airflow to each space; replaced the supply plenum to eliminate air (and heat) leakage into the roof space; replaced narrow, uninsulated ducting, which had choked the airflow and leached heat, with quality R1 insulated ducting; installed vibration separators between

the indoor unit in the roof space and the timber trusses to eliminate vibrations; replaced the ‘flat face’ supply grilles with eco automatic supply grilles that allow heat to be transferred more easily from the ceiling to the floor level, as opposed to being dispersed above and to the sides where the heat stays; relocated the outdoor unit from the back of the bedrooms to behind the garage, reducing noise at night while sleeping; installed a heat recovery ventilation system to replace the fresh air system, bringing in tempered fresh air and substantially improving efficiency; then commissioned and balanced the system to ensure the airflow heated the rooms to the desired level at an equal rate.

All this comes at a cost, and could have, and should have, been done at the time of the original installation.

“The message here is that having a properly designed and calculated ducted system is essential so that the correct airflow and zones are provided for in the home, the specification of materials is fit for purpose, and the positioning of those materials, indoor and outdoor units, works. Integration of fresh air, if required, adds another layer of complexity not to be underestimated,” says Lee.

The showroom at Gavin Lowe Energy has an operational ducted system and various ducted component options on display. It is worth checking out to help you with your decision on this significant investment. It’s not just the financial cost you’ll be saving, but also the stress. Gavin Lowe Energy celebrated 30 years in business last year; that is a long time to fine-tune its expertise and skills in this area.

gavinlowe.co.nz

GO WELL

An award-winning village unveils new Clubhouse & Wellness Centre.

When The Sterling, Kaiapoi resident, Mike, first walked through the doors of the underconstruction Clubhouse & Wellness Centre, he was “blown away”.

“I think it’s one of the best clubhouses that I have seen, from a number of villages that we’ve visited.

“We’re delighted to be part of this village and looking forward to when we will be able to make full use of it.”

This brand-new Clubhouse & Wellness Centre is officially opening in February 2026, and residents are extremely excited.

For fellow resident, Gina, the excitement centres around the activities she’s most looking forward to.

“I’m excited for the pool and the bigger space, so I can do things like play Rummikub, do jigsaw puzzles, entertain, and watch films at the movie theatre,” she says.

Village General Manager Suzi Cadigan describes the recent resident hard-hat tour of the building as truly special.

“Seeing their faces light up as they walked through the space and imagining the joy they’ll soon experience from the café, gym, pool, multi-purpose room, cinema, and outdoor activities right on their doorstep.

“This has been a journey we’ve shared together, and we just can’t wait. It’s a premium clubhouse in every sense, but it’s our people who will bring it to life and make it their own,” she shares.

The Sterling, Kaiapoi was recently named the Best Large Retirement Village in the South Island at the Seniors New Zealand Best Village and Care Awards 2025 – and you’re invited to see why at the grand opening of the new Clubhouse & Wellness Centre on 28 February 2026!

HIT THE ROAD

The iconic Wildfoods Festival returns to Hokitika on 14 March 2026, celebrating its vibrant tradition of adventurous flavours, creativity, and West Coast spirit. Visitors can explore a unique range of wild-inspired cuisine, from classic favourites to bold tastes like the huhu grub and locust. This year’s festival promises an unforgettable atmosphere with live entertainment from Sir Dave Dobbyn, Tadpole, Sonar Flare, and the Lady Killers, featuring special guest Annie Crummer. Set in the heart of Cass Square, the event brings locals and travellers together to embrace the untamed and discover something truly different. wildfoods.co.nz

Dolphin Encounter

Swimming with & watching Kaikoura’s Dusky Dolphins!

Enter the world of the dusky dolphin and experience the grace and beauty of the most acrobatic of all dolphin species.

Don’t miss these world-class tours... advance bookings essential.

Head north for a dose of history. Heritage Day (6 February), hosted at Brayshaw Park, is a great family day out. Explore the Marlborough Heritage collection, featuring historic machinery, trains, food stalls, village displays, and rides. marlboroughnz.com

Timaru’s Seaside Festival returns this February, bringing a vibrant summer celebration to Timaru city from 5–15 February 2026. Spanning ten days, the festival showcases a diverse programme of family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and seaside fun. Popular returning favourites include the Kite Day, Big Beach Dig, and Movies on the Bay. New to the 2026 calendar are three exciting additions: the Bay Fete, Food Truck Fiesta, and the Finish Line Festival, offering even more reasons for locals and visitors to enjoy Timaru’s waterfront over summer. seasidefestival.nz

is the best place in the world to see multiple species of albatross. Enjoy close up views of these majestic wanderers of the Southern Ocean just minutes from shore.

Nomads & Dynasties: Mongolia & China

Join our 26 day escorted tour, departing 25 Aug 2026

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Mongolia’s most iconic landscapes — from the vibrant capital city of Ulaanbaatar to the dramatic White Stupa cliffs, the icy gorge of Yol, the endless dunes of Khongoryn Els, the flaming cliffs of Bayanzag, and the legendary capital of the Mongol Empire, Kharkhorin. Guests will travel in comfort with a private coach in Ulaanbaatar and Toyota Land Cruisers in the countryside, ensuring flexibility, safety, and personalized exploration.

In China, we combine the contrasting urban splendour of Shanghai, Beijing and Xian with the majestic sights of the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors and extraordinary landscapes of the Li River, this tour showcases China’s most glorious highlights.

Tour Price from $21,495pp twin share*

$25,495 per person in a single room

Price includes: Economy class return airfares from Christchurch • Tour escorts • Accommodation • Transfers and transportation by air, rail and road • Meals: 22 breakfasts, 21 lunches and 22 dinners •

Sightseeing & excursions with local guide • Admissions to all excursions • Gratuities/tipping for group activities

tour

MONGOLIA

Tour Highlights

• Visit capital city Ulaanbaatar

• Explore the Gobi Desert

• See Bayanzag’s ‘Flaming Cliffs’

• Cross the Singing Sand Dunes

• Tour ancient Kharkhorin

• Sleep in a traditional Mongolian Ger

• Enjoy a Mongolian meal with a real nomadic family

• Visit the Genghis Khan Statue and Turtle Rock in Terelj National Park

CHINA

• Explore the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven in Beijing

• Walk on the Great Wall

• Experience China’s bullet trains

• View the spectacular Terracotta Warriors in Xian

• Meet Giant Pandas in Chengdu

• Relax on a Li River Cruise to rural Yangshuo

• Tour cosmopolitan Shanghai

• Stroll around charming Zhujiajiao Water Town

*Full details, enquiries and bookings: Email ideas@discovertravel.co.nz Visit www.discovertravel.co.nz Call 03 364 3400 or 0800 747 737

Roses are red, violets are blue

Sophie Petersen Food Editor | @fulltimetart

February 14 arrives each year with all the subtlety of a giant foil heartshaped balloon. The chocolate aisle becomes a battleground, florists are stripped bare, and securing a walk-in table requires either divine intervention or a willingness to eat at 4.30pm. Love, apparently, waits for no one. But it will absolutely judge you if you haven’t booked ahead.

On Valentine’s Day, food becomes foreplay. Champagne corks pop with promise. Oysters are swallowed with exaggerated confidence. Chocolate-covered strawberries arrive on silver platters, glossy and indulgent. Textures that flirt. Flavours that linger. It’s no coincidence that the most romantic meals are rarely rushed; seduction, like a good sauce, requires patience. There are, of course, foods that should never be eaten on a date. Spaghetti tops the list. A dish with a sadistic ability to flick tomato sauce directly onto white shirts, it has ended more promising evenings than bringing up politics. I fear I lack the slick, synchronised slurping skills so effortlessly demonstrated in Lady and the Tramp. Where romance blooms under a moonlit Italian sky, reality offers aggressive slurping, sauce on chins, accidental eye contact at the worst possible angle, and one of you pulling too hard and inhaling a noodle like

a malfunctioning vacuum cleaner. Still, we persist with the fantasy. Love makes fools of us all, and stains of us too.

This might explain why dining at a chef’s table, in my opinion, is an outrageously sexy choice for Valentine’s Day. The confidence. The knife skills. The calm authority over heat and timing. Watching someone command a kitchen is deeply attractive. Though I fear this dining style may distract any food lover from the person whose attention you should really be fixed on.

Of course, not all Valentine’s Days are spent locked in candlelit seduction. Last year, mine involved standing in line for ice cream, where the teenager behind the counter asked, brightly, if I’d like a single scoop. Single! Scoop! A linguistic gut punch. I said yes, obviously, and ate it alone on a nearby bench, watching couples stroll hand in hand beneath the lights of New Regent Street, like a woman in a French film. Romantic, in its own way.

Perhaps that’s why Valentine’s Day endures despite the chaos and clichés. Beneath the forced gestures and inflated prices is the desire to nourish and be nourished. To cook for someone. To send flowers to their office. To make a reservation with the person you love. Just maybe skip the spaghetti on the first date.

Will you be my Valentine?

It’s February, which means Valentine’s Day has snuck up on us all once again. This month, Avenues food editor Sophie Petersen has rounded up four places guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re wooing a new romance, celebrating a long-time love, or booking in with the girls for Galentine’s. From first-date flat whites to full-blown feasting, consider this your loved-up guide to food this February, whatever (and whoever) you’re into.

CHIM DON DON

8 Somerfield Street @chim-don-don

Sizzling hot plates, fiery flavours, and cosy corners. This suburban, family-owned Japanese and Okinawan restaurant is made for Valentine’s dinner this year. The Angry Bird is a favourite on the menu, though let’s hope it’s not an omen for the date. With delicious ingredients such as chilli, ginger, wasabi, and salmon, all known aphrodisiacs, gracing the menu, it seems only right to add Nasu Dengaku (miso-grilled eggplant) to your order. Think rich, soulful flavours that transport you somewhere far more romantic than the suburban streets of Somerfield. And if dinner goes well, just a wee stroll down the other end of Somerfield Street leads you straight to Moon Under Water, where a nightcap awaits.

LOWER GROUNDS ROOK

Sign of the Takahe, 200 Hackthorne Road @lower.grounds

It was Friday, 15 December 1989, when my parents dined at the Sign of the Takahe, and somewhere between the whispers along the old stone walls and the flickering candlelight, my father took the grandest of romantic gestures and dropped to one knee. Romance, quite literally, is built into this building. Almost castle-like, this neo-Gothic Ōtautahi landmark entered a new chapter in 2025 with Lower Grounds Café. This Valentine’s Day, my recommendation would be to take the dogs for a morning walk through the Victoria Dog Park, looking out over some of the most glorious views of Canterbury, before parking up in the garden at Lower Grounds with your favourite person, an Embassy Coffee, a Bellbird pastry, and who knows, they may just pop the question.

Malvern House, 159 Hereford Street @rook.cafe

Breathing new life into the Otautahi coffee scene, Rook is an easy yes for a Valentine’s Day first date. It is sleek and hyper-modern, with a clean concrete aesthetic. Rook takes an experimental approach to coffee. Primarily serving local coffee roaster Ozone Coffee, they also offer a rotating list of international roasters. From classic cappuccinos to the smoothest of filter coffees. Time it right and you may just find a DJ spinning tracks atop the chrome-plated Modbar while you sip on the viral Mont Blanc: a cold brew crowned with orange, vanilla and nutmeg cold foam. Add excellent pastries, window seating, and the buzz of the inner-city, and you’ve got chemistry brewing before the second sip.

176 Oxford Terrace @miro_christchurch

For me, Miro has always been a place I go with my best friends. Nothing tops a Saturday morning sliding into a sun-drenched bistro seat, a round of Morning Margaritas, followed by laughter, gossip, and a collective decision to all order the Steak Frites at 10am. Call me crazy, but with some of the girls living around the country and abroad, a breakfast Steak Frites at Miro has become a small but sacred ritual whenever we all find ourselves back in Christchurch. So if you’re leaning fully into the Galentine’s spirit this year, Miro is hosting The Ultimate Galentine’s on Friday the 13th. Expect dirty martinis (extra filthy), bowls of truffle fries, and their iconic crispy Caesar salad. It’s generous, joyful, and set at exactly the right pace for a day dedicated to celebrating the girls. No partners, no pressure, just good food, good drinks, and even better company.

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FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD!

The Christchurch Food Show is set to return to Wolfbrook Arena from 27–29 March 2026. With more than 100 exhibitors ready for sipping, sampling, and shopping, the show promises an immersive celebration of New Zealand’s ever-evolving food and beverage scene.

From the moment you step inside, it’s a choose-your-own-adventure of flavours. Artisan producers rub shoulders with household names, and every aisle offers something new to taste, discover or take home. Whether you’re hunting for pantry upgrades or planning your next dinner party, the show delivers inspiration in abundance.

One of the major highlights is the Cooking Theatre, which this year shines a spotlight on an all-female lineup of Kiwi culinary stars. Nadia Lim brings her signature healthy, farm-to-table approach, Chelsea Winter leans into comforting bakes and crowd-pleasers, while Annabelle White shares timeless tips for effortless entertaining. These live demonstrations are designed to ignite your confidence in the kitchen and are free to attend with your show entry ticket!

The show also welcomes an exciting wave of debut exhibitors, reflecting emerging trends and fresh ideas. Expect to see Maru Matcha with premium matcha powder, All Buttered Up serving homemade baking, SHNACK shaking up protein drinks, Martinez introducing Spanish-style sausages, Kai Sum delighting with dumplings and buns, and Forty Thieves showcasing their cult-favourite nut butters. International flavours, wellness, and artisan craftsmanship are firmly on the menu.

Returning are some Kiwi favourites.

Apostle Hot Sauce brings the heat, Barrys Bay Cheese delivers creamy indulgence, First Light Farms champions premium meats, Mt Lyford Honey offers local sweetness, Forrest Estate Winery pours tasty tipples, and Kapiti Artisan Bakehouse fills the air with the smell of fresh bread.

Themed zones elevate the experience further. The Artisan Village is a haven for small-batch, bespoke producers, while the Deli Collective is a dream destination for anyone serious about building the perfect platter.

Tickets go on sale in late February 2026. Get in quick to snap up pre-sale prices!

foodshow.co.nz

SETTING THE STANDARD

As Christchurch enters a new era of major events with the opening of the nearby stadium, Earl stands ready to evolve alongside the city. With expanded pre- and post-event dining and the calm, welcoming atmosphere locals trust, Earl is built on consistency and care. Its legacy isn’t about trends, but dependability – a place people return to, year after year. Visit Earl in 2026 and discover why Christchurch keeps coming back. Bookings are already open for all major events!

earl.co.nz

PASTA & WINE NIGHT

EVERY TUESDAY FROM 5PM

$28

TOP PICKS

UNIQUE CHARACTER

New Zealand’s unique wine character has uncovered an exotic new possibility along the way. In chasing one vision, something entirely different was discovered. Defying convention, Strange Nature Gin is a true grape-based gin, crafted from the spirit of New Zealand wine and shaped by exploration, innovation, and bold thinking. Bursting with citrus and tropical notes, a juicy and refreshing gin that pairs perfectly in classic cocktails.

strangenaturegin.com

MARGARITA POPS

Perfect for hot days and warm nights, these Zodiac Margarita Pops celebrate in two ways. Zodiac’s Arnie has whipped up a Pomelo and coconut version that’s smoky and creamy, and a Chilli Dragon Fruit option – fiery and refreshing. Each is complemented by an ice block – summer in a glass. To find out how to make them, keep an eye on Avenues’ socials or try one made by Arnie himself. Head into Zodiac today. zodiacbar.co.nz

128 Lichfield Street

LUNCH & DINNER WEDNESDAYSATURDAY WITH FREE PARKING

Bringing the past to life

From 16–22 February 2026, Cathedral Square Unearthed invites visitors to step into the layered past of Ōtautahi Christchurch, using artefacts and cuttingedge digital technologies to bring buried stories vividly to life. Timed to mark the 15th anniversary of the 22 February 2011 earthquake, this free exhibition reconnects the city with the people, places, and moments that shaped its beginnings.

Set inside Christ Church Cathedral, the exhibition showcases artefacts uncovered during post-earthquake archaeological excavations. Together they paint an intimate picture of 19th-century Christchurch.

What makes Cathedral Square Unearthed even more unique is its immersive, technology-led approach. Developed by Christchurch based innovation studio Yorke Labs, augmented reality allows visitors to interact with the past in entirely new ways. Six selected artefacts have been digitally scanned and recreated as detailed 3D

replicas. Using a web-based AR application accessed via QR codes, visitors can see objects and interact with them, exploring their finer details.

Augmented reality is complemented by large-scale projections that transform the Cathedral interior. Strouts’ 1877 map of Christchurch is animated and projected onto a plinth, revealing the locations of archaeological sites and artefacts across the city. An AI-enhanced historic image of Worcester Street is projected onto the Cathedral’s east wall, layering past streetscapes over the present architecture.

The animations are brought to life by event specialists Streamliner Productions, who have provided and installed the projectors and audio equipment. South Island Manager Rowan Heeringa says, “Partnering with talented Christchurch experts like Yorke Labs allows us to create an international-quality experience, and we’re delighted to do this for the people of Christchurch.”

You can bring a Cathedral Square Unearthed artefact to life by scanning this QR code on your phone and following the prompts.

Tickets are available now from christchurcharchaeology.org/cathedral-square-unearthed

Ofusina

SOMERFIELD

“Christianity, it’s always been with me. It’s always been instilled in me all my life. I grew up wanting to work for God in any way I could. I always prayed to him to use me, although I don’t have much to offer.

“Then all of a sudden, I was married, and the man I was married to was not the man I chose. He was the man my mother chose. I was not thinking of getting married. I was telling mum, ‘No, I’m here for you, I don’t want to leave. ’

But she said, ‘No, that’s that man for you’. And I trusted mum with all my life. She had this instinct, you know. Sal and I grew into a relationship, and we grew to trust each other. Trusting was a big thing with me. Then love came after. And then ding dong, six children!

“When we got together, he said his future was to become a minister. So, Sal started to work towards his spiritual life, and I helped him along that way as well.

“Three years later, we went into theological college. That was the first time I set foot in

Samoa. That was a huge change. But I love big changes. I thank God for the change. But the question was, can I last? How am I going to persevere through seven years of training? Five times I’m packing my bags but never got out of the door.

“But now that I’ve made it, I see why. It’s created character, to prepare you for ministry; I was thankful.

“I think God purposely put us here in this parish, because they need the help. I have so much to do! They need property and a place of worship. They need funds, and to come out into the open a bit more.

“For now, we’re using our double garage. We just did it all up with the pulpit, everything. My husband went on Facebook Marketplace and then, all of a sudden, we’ve got chairs! So that’s where we do our services.

“It’s a challenge, but Sal and I, we know that it’s all in God’s time, it’ll come to us. We feel it.”

facebook.com/humansofchch

Escorted by Dalwyn & Michelle Sinclair, House of Travel

INCLUDES AN 8-DAY LYON TO ARLES RIVER CRUISE

DEPARTS 09 SEPTEMBER 2026

RETURNS: 03 OCTOBER 2026

from $ 2 8,159 per person twin share

HIG H LIGH T S

Dubai, Madrid, Malaga, Ronda, Setenil, Granada, Valencia, Albufera, Barcelona, Paris, Lyon, Tain L‘Hermitage, Tournon, Viviers, Avignon, Arles, Port Saint Louis & Nice.

Your Fully Escorted Tour Includes:

• Includes: Return economy class flights from Christchurch to Europe on Emirates

• 2-night stopover & sightseeing in Dubai

• 9-day Captivating Spanish Tour from Madrid to Barcelona

• Economy class flight from Barcelona to Paris

• 2-nights & sightseeing Paris

• TGV Train Paris-Lyon

• 8-day River Cruise from Lyon to Arles on Avalon’s suite ship Avalon Poetry 11 in a twin or double deluxe stateroom, all meals onboard including wine with dinner

• Airport taxes, Port Charges & Gratuities

• 2-nights & sightseeing Nice.

Easily one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in Christchurch. The atmosphere was amazing, and the food was delicious. Loved the attention to detail in both the presentation and service. Highly recommend for anyone wanting something special in the CBD.

S Laughton

Incredible French food- we loved the snails, beef tartare, souffle, lamb, chicken, fennel salad, and the lemon tart was 10/10. The service is the very best in Christchurch - perfectly attentive and so informative. Really amazing interior with views out to the river. An amazing spot to try!.

H Mulligan