Reset-Travel 25th May 2025

ALERTS

New transtasman routes

Qantas and Jetstar have announced new direct routes between Aotearoa and Australia

Qantas’ direct flights from Auckland to Perth are set to take off in December this year and fly three times a week The airlines non-stop service from Auckland to Adelaide will operate four times a week between October 31 and May 3, 2026 Getting to the Gold Coast just got cheaper for those in Hamilton and Dunedin as Jetstar will operate direct flights from next month Both services will take off three times a week Jetstar will also fly direct from Sydney to Hamilton from next month

All aboard Ponant’s 2025 Discovery Sessions are your gateway to adventures in some of the most extraordinary destinations With new and classic

UN-endorsed coral restoration

The Soneva Foundations Coral Restoration Programme in the Maldives has received official endorsement from the United Nations and a spot on the Unesco Ocean Decade website This recognition highlights the programmes innovative and science-led approach to large-scale reef restoration in the Indian Ocean The Unesco Ocean Decade platform showcases impactful ocean science projects making this a significant milestone for marine conservation and a model for global reef recovery efforts soneva.com/foundation

explorations for 2025 2026 and 2027 youll hear about exploration of the Kimberley, Mediterranean, and polar regions aboard luxurious intimate ships With insights from expert Jude Cathcart, who has led expeditions across Europe Australia and Antarctica you will get insider knowledge and inspiration for your next journeys The first NZ show is on June 3 at Orakei Bay Auckland at 11am-1pm or 6pm-8pm Registration is essential au ponant com

PonsonBurger returns PonsonBurger returns to Ponsonby from May 26 to June 8 bigger and better for its second year Timed with International Burger Day on May 28 this two-week festival brings more than 30 local venues together to serve up limited-edition creations, juicy bundles and pop-up specials From spots like Better Burger to fine-dining favourite Sidart, chefs are firing up their grills to wow burger-lovers with sweet savoury and unexpected bites Come hungry bring your friends, and explore the full delicious line-up at ponsonburger.nz.

Luxury walks

Aschworth High Country Station has launched a new luxury hiking and 4WD experience just 20 minutes from Blenheim Set on a 2430ha merino farm, the three-day adventure includes guided walks with sweeping Marlborough views, two nights in wool-insulated glamping tents inspired by 1920s deer stalker huts, and gourmet meals from Kaiaka Catering Guests enjoy lodge comforts, hot showers, wine by the fire, and bag transfers Walks can be tailored to suit all fitness levels with highlights including Wards Peak and native bush trails aschworth.co.nz

CAPE OF CONTRASTS

A penguin documentary led to a spontaneous trip but nothing prepared Alexia Santamaria for Cape Town’s wild coastlines, cable-car views and vintage sidecar rides with a dog named Brody

On a bored Tuesday night, bereft after having binged through all my favourite Netflix shows, I came across a quirkylooking series called Penguin Town Looking for some light relief from crime dramas, I mindlessly clicked on it and discovered a hilarious and at times quite frankly stressful documentary on the lives of the penguins who have made Boulders Beach their home It never occurred to me that six months later I might actually be at that very location, kayaking the clear waters of Cape Town and seeing these unlikely TV stars (well some of their friends, at least) for real I’m not actually sure what I expected from a visit to Cape Town, but when you grow up in Tamaki Makaurau, you kind of think you know all about harbour cities indulging in seafood by the water, never being far from a stunning shoreline the sight of bobbing sailboats a daily backdrop But Cape Town takes this experience to a whole other level the sea views are more expansive the white sands seemingly straight out of a travel brochure and a coastline that regularly renders you speechless Unlike Joburgs artsy cool edgy vibe Cape Town is an unashamed beauty queen mesmerising everyone she shines her light on

African penguins preening themselves on the rocks and bobbing together in “rafts” at sea was such a treat And yes, they looked exactly like they did in Penguin Town Even better parts of the incredibly popular My Octopus Teacher were filmed nearby

After paddling parallel to the coastline, we eventually turned towards the shore and couldnt resist stripping down to our togs for a quick dip The water was so clear and the weather so perfect it was hard to imagine how this day could get any more magical On the paddle back to where we started we spotted seals sunning themselves on the rocks; it seemed like everyone was living their best life in Cape Town that day

DAY ONE of our Viva Expeditions trip started on a blue-sky day, kayaking with the penguins well not with them but respectfully close to them The team at Kayak Adventures were so patient and gentle, guiding us through the turquoise waters of False Bay and giving us so much information not only on these little black and white cuties but the whole marine environment its challenges and whats being done to protect it Watching these distinctly marked

DAY TWO began with a walk led by travel writer, hiking guide and seemingly inexhaustible fountain of knowledge Matthew Sterne, from Natural Wanders Meeting at a kramat on Signal Hill we found ourselves looking out over Lion’s Head Table Mountain City Bowl and Robben Island within minutes at our first stop It felt slightly surreal to be gazing upon the infamous Robben Island a name I had heard so much about during and after Mandela’s long imprisonment there

As we walked, we heard fascinating tales of the citys history, admired wild proteas and descended into some much-appreciated shady forest before emerging at Camps Bay Beach where white sands turquoise seas and the refreshment table of our dreams awaited Heaving with samoosas local cheese fruit bubbles and sparkling rooibos tea it

From left kayaking with

and seals in the

on a Camps

hike included samoosas local cheese fruit bubbles and sparkling rooibos tea Cape Sidecar Adventures use WWIIera motorcycles; gliding by cable car to the top of Cape Town’s crown jewel Table Mountain; the views from the top of Table Mountain African penguins at Boulders Beach a documentary on the lives of these unlikely TV stars sparked a trip to Cape Town

Photos / Alexia Santamaria

was everything an overheated, tired bunch of walkers could want Even the snacks had a story: the woman who makes the samoosas became something of a media sensation after putting her children through school from sales of these delicious morsels all while battling cancer After fuelling up, we returned to the lighthouse on e-scooters

With the weather still on our side it was exhilarating to whoosh our way down the promenade with Cape Town on one side and the wild blue ocean on the other passing locals eating their ice creams enjoying the green spaces and strolling around the waterfront

DAY THREE our final day brought more fun in the sun, but with slightly less exertion, as we glided easily and effortlessly by cable car to the top of Cape Towns crown jewel Table Mountain This towering monolith is a constant presence in the city standing sentinel over the streets below By day it commands the skyline; by night bathed in golden light (yes they illuminate one whole side), it takes on an almost mystical quality

But nothing could have prepared us for the scale of the views from the top dramatic grey outcrops in the foreground giving way to turquoise coastline below At moments the beaches could have been Australia; at others, there was a flash of the Cote dAzur

It would have felt criminal not to grab a table at one of the bars to enjoy an aperol spritz with one of the best views in the world whats a girl to do? (theres a great 20-minute loop away from the hospitality outlets or other walks and hikes

ranging from 45 minutes to three hours if youre feeling energetic)

Just when it felt wed reached the peak of our trip, we embarked on what would end up being an equally mind-blowing activity with Cape Sidecar Adventures Its hard to find words to do this experience justice as its such a unique way to see the coastline that winds its way along the Cape Peninsula One moment we were cruising the streets of Cape Town, the next on the open road with towering cliffs on one side and sparkling sea on the other Spellbinding doesnt even begin to cover it But it wasnt just the views using this particular mode of transport is like stepping into a vintage postcard wind in your hair and the roar of a classic motorbike in your ears Seated snugly in these restored World War II-era sidecars, we rumbled through some of Cape Towns most striking landscapes our jaws almost permanently on the ground The icing on the cake was undoubtedly Brody the dog another Cape Town animal living his best life as he rides next to the owner on daily sidecar trips

It’s not hard to see why Cape Town has been referred to as the most beautiful city in the world more than once With its Mediterranean-esque vibe, vibrant culinary scene, fascinating Cape Dutch architecture stunning waterfront eclectic neighbourhoods, boutique shops, world-class museums and the winelands right on its doorstep, Cape Town isn’t just a city it’s a whole package Whether youre drawn by the jaw-dropping scenery and outdoor activities or a more city-side adventure, Cape Town will find a permanent place in your soul

‘HELLS’ AND

Brett Atkinson’s walking tour around Japan’s southern island of Kyushu blends hot springs and cuisine

High above the coastal city of Beppu, the relaxed town of Kannawa features six of the hot springs making up the regions Jigoku Meguri (Hell Circuit) a bubbling and steaming collection of eight different Hells (hot springs) Some are infused with a kitsch design combo thats equal parts Dali and Disneyland, but the Kannawa Hell is rather more heavenly Lilies float on a turquoise pond vermillion-coloured torii gates frame hillside walking trails and the hiss of sulphurous steam is masked by delicate waterfalls

Embarking on the first walk of our five-day Onsen Gastronomy experience around the northern Kyushu prefectures of Oita and Kumamoto, we soon learn Kannawa’s geothermal energy also infuses the towns history and culture Rustic cedar onsen (Japanese bathhouses) are used daily by locals and street stalls selling steamed sweetcorn, sweet potato and eggs reflect the tradition of Jigoku Mushi ( Hell Cooking ) a culinary practice dating back more than four centuries

Later that night dinner at Beppu’s oceanfront Amane Seikai Resort is very different from Kannawa’s simple street food Setting the scene for evening meals at different ryokan (Japanese inns) across the next four nights the resorts eight-course menu introduces our group of 10 walkers to Japanese-style kaiseki dining elaborate multi-course meals strictly showcasing seasonal and local produce Partnered with a flinty and fruity tasting flight of nihonshu the correct appellation for whats commonly known as sake super-fresh sashimi artfully piled high and grilled wagyu beef from nearby Oita are highlights of a leisurely feast lasting more than two hours

Two nights later in the riverside onsen town of Kurokawa, local trout is perfectly enhanced with salt and lemon while pickled eggplant, the zing of kabosu a citrus fruit popular in northern Kyushu and wild-harvested shiitake mushrooms all fasttrack our understanding of Japanese cuisine

It’s food worth getting dressed up for so we do wearing traditional and super-comfortable yukata robes to dinner each night As a shared sartorial choice it helps to bond our group of Anzac travellers plus the loose-fitting yukata is handy

when segueing between kaiseki courses four five, six and seven While we ’ re dining our rooms at each ryokan are transformed from relaxed lounges into cosy bedrooms, with firm but comfortable futons laid out on floors covered in traditional tatami bamboo mats

In a country where the concept of nagomi balance or harmony is so important our fiveday Walk Japan itinerary seamlessly blends the three elements of walking, culinary experiences and onsen bathing From hellish adventures around Beppu and Kannawa we detour northwest to the remote Kunisaki Peninsula, a rural area with a 1300-year history as the centre of the ancient Rokugo-Manzan Buddhist culture

A world away from the touristy scrums crowding the temples of Tokyo and Kyoto a forested trail leads from the centuries-old Buddha statues of Makiodo Temple, venturing across wooden bridges past rice paddies and soaring limestone cliffs As the trail narrows we negotiate caves originally inhabited by monks seeking enlightenment in Rokugo-Manzans unique synthesis of Buddhism and Shintoism before squeezing past the occasional fluttering bat to re-emerge into autumn sunshine Walk Japan also offers other more physically challenging hikes but the easygoing pace is perfect super-relaxed and ideal for leisurely chats about

HIGHLIGHTS

DETAILS

Walk Japan’s Onsen

Gastronomy: Oita and Kumamoto four-night, five-day itinerary is one of the company’s speciality tours and has a maximum of 12 guests Prices per person begin at ¥360,000 (around $4100). walkjapan.com

Japanese society and culture with tour leader Jon Finger raised in Melbourne but now a long-term Kyushu resident with a Japanese wife and a young family

After lunch of handmade wheat noodles at Kunisakis oldest family-run restaurant a visit to nearby Fuki-ji reveals the simple perfection of what is reputedly Kyushu’s oldest temple infused with an ethereal half-light teak interior and still in use after 13 centuries A shard of afternoon sunlight slyly intrudes to softly illuminate the centuries-old frieze framing the temples central shrine

Overnighting at Yufuins Enokiya Ryokan a stylish and modern reimagining of a traditional inn there’s time for both a relaxed onsen experience in their private couples baths, and a stroll along Yufuin’s pedestrian street and its Japanese approximation of a European spa town Mochi buns crammed with strawberries, black sesame ice cream, and refreshing yuzu and honey soda are all essential distractions before another yukata-clad kaiseki experience back at the ryokan Only-inJapan highlights in town include samurai dog tote bags and a giant crab announcing a seafood restaurant

Sheltering Yufuin to the northeast is the leviathan volcanic peak of Yufu-dake 1584m-high and still active but our next walking destination is Garan-

dake, further northeast, and around 500m lower than Yufu-dake

The open-air public onsen of Tsukahara sits on its volcanic, denuded slopes but were here to make a short but steady uphill hike to view the mountains main crater steaming and sulphurous with multiple fumaroles

After lunch of soba noodles in a roadside restaurant the days main walk begins in the town of Oguni Covering around 4km, its a relaxed stroll through abandoned railway tunnels a legacy of Ogunis past as a rail terminus across a viaduct and framed by a bamboo forest refreshed by intermittent rain showers

Our overnight stop is at Kurokawa Onsen the most popular of the onsen centres fed by Kyushus hot springs and also the island’s most atmospheric At the end of a meandering road tracing a downhill riverine path, Kurokawas Ryokan Sanga has forestshaded pathways leading to onsen baths crafted in cypress and natural stone Adherence to traditional protocol means its strictly nude bathing in shared mens and womens facilities; an experience as authentic as the evening’s kaiseki dinner Shochu another Japanese distilled liquor and local craft beer fuel another superb meal Food history and relaxed walking also combine on the tours last full day with a morning exploring

the Oita Bungoono Geopark terrain formed by the cataclysmic eruption of Kyushu’s Mt Aso 90,000 years ago leading to the perfect horseshoe-shaped profile of Harajiri Falls

Any nerves instigated by negotiating the waterfalls suspension bridge are alleviated by a tasting at the Hamashima Sake Brewery, a familyowned business founded in 1889 but now serving lunches amid the Scandi-inspired blond wood interior of their Sasara Garden restaurant

In a largely traditional and rural area the sunny eatery is a cosmopolitan surprise with seasonal freshly-brewed sake alongside delicious karaage fried chicken A final walk to the windswept plateau of Oka Castle reveals 360-degree horizon views and a history of warring clans dating back 900 years, and nearby in the charming riverside onsen town of Nagayu Daimaru Ryokan is our last overnight stop Its the most rustic and traditional of our ryokan stays, and there’s even a mixed-gender, strictly nude-only onsen pool a few hundred metres along the riverbank

This particular open-air experience is bravely enjoyed by one of our walking companions but for the rest of us it sounds more like our idea of Hell

There are things you should know before exploring this beautifully chaotic destination, writes Natasha Bazika

India is a continents worth of cultures, cuisines and contradictions packed into one sprawling subcontinent It has a way of flipping your expectations on their head in the best, most beautiful kind of way And while its one of the most rewarding places to visit it’s also one that benefits from a bit of know-before-you-go

So, before you hop in a rickshaw or reach for that spicy street snack here are 10 helpful tips to get you started

1

Dress modestly

(especially in rural villages)

India isnt as conservative as many people assume especially in big cities like Mumbai Delhi or Bangalore where you’ll see everything from saris to skinny jeans But in rural areas, temples and religious sites modest dress is the norm

For women covering shoulders cleavage and knees is a good rule of thumb Light, loose cotton pants or long skirts paired with T-shirts or tunics are both respectful and heat-friendly Men should avoid going shirtless or wearing vests unless at the beach or in casual settings

2

Say no, firmly but politely

India is social People may strike up conversations offer help or try to sell you something within minutes of arriving While most interactions are genuine and harmless as a foreigner you may attract attention from touts guides or vendors eager to make a sale Be calm and direct A polite No, thank you and walking away is often all it takes The more you engage the more interest you seem to show

INSIDE

Above & right From spicy snacks to sacred spaces these travel tips will help you make the most of your Indian adventure Below Hiring a local guide can enrich your experience and help navigate unfamiliar areas Photos / Natasha Bazika

3

Get a local guide

This is a country that moves at full speed and doesn’t always come with street signs or straightforward instructions A guide can steer you through the busy streets, help you avoid common scams negotiate prices and take you to local spots For women especially solo travellers its an added layer of support and safety

4

Don’t jump or twirl at the Taj Mahal

Heads up: jumping at the Taj Mahal isnt just frowned upon it could get you arrested The security here is strict with guards frequently shouting no jumping and no twirling It’s not only about safety (there have been a few falls) but also about respecting the monument If a guard says something, take it seriously They may ask you to leave

5

Avoid pointing your feet towards temples

In India pointing your feet towards a temple is considered disrespectful Feet are seen as the lowest part of the body, so directing them at a sacred space like a temple is a cultural nono This gesture is thought to show a lack of reverence, as temples are places of worship and deep spiritual significance When visiting a temple sit with your feet tucked away or facing away from the temple as a sign of respect

6

Prepare for scams

Ive been scammed in India A mystery 80-rupee charge showed up on my spa bill I let it go but its something to keep in mind as youll probably face a scam or two Usually, its no big deal and just part of the hustle If you ’ re unsure ask a local; they’ll often share the best way to handle it or recommend tipping about 100 rupees to resolve things

7

Respect chai time

Chai time is a cornerstone of Indian culture

For travellers getting in on the chai ritual is one of the best ways to experience local life Its all about hospitality and community, and there’s no better way to connect with locals than over a warm spiced cup of masala chai

Be street smart about street food

8

Indias street food is both legendary and a little risky Look for stalls with long lines (locals know where it’s at) and always go for food cooked fresh and served hot Skip anything thats been sitting around like raw salads or food made with unfiltered water (like ice or chutneys) Trust your senses If it looks sketchy it probably

9

Embrace the experience

As soon as you step off the plane, your senses are hit with a wave of sound and sights Car horns blare motorbikes zip through traffic like they own the road and you might see some tough scenes, like women with children asking for money It’s all part of the experience so dont stress Take your time to adjust Your hotel will be your safe haven Take breaks, drink water and don’t feel guilty about retreating when needed India is a marathon not a sprint

10

Cash is king

While digital payments and QR codes are becoming more common in cities cash remains the preferred method of payment in much of India especially in smaller towns, markets, and for things like rickshaw rides or temple donations Many places still don’t accept cards and even when they do the machines arent always reliable Its a good idea to carry a mix of denominations with smaller bills handy for local transport or street food

A SPOT FOR ALL AGES

Akaroa may have a reputation for honeymooners and loved-up couples, but the delightful town is just as perfect for a large family, writes Jesse Mulligan

Charming Akaroa is around 90 minutes on the clock from central Christchurch, but youre better enjoying the journey rather than making the trip as fast as possible Cafes and other curiosities in the community of Little River (about halfway to your destination) are worth a stop as are the pretty bays at the top of Akaroa Harbour which runs north to south on the underside of Banks Peninsula (the name derives from Whaka-roa meaning “long harbour” in the local Ngai Tahu dialect)

We stopped at the foot of Onawe, a narrow strip of land that extends a long way into the harbour (look for Onawe Flat Rd on your right as you enter Duvauchelle Bay) If you time your visit for low tide youll be able to walk right out to the old pa site at the tip a family-friendly trek with no major hills and plenty of beautiful views to enjoy along

the way Itll take perhaps half an hour to get to the summit, where you can look out around the harbour (technically a crater, though you may not want to mention that to nervous kiddoes while youre standing at the centre of it) You can return to the car via a very pleasant walk through native bush with plenty of birdsong to soundtrack your journey Note that being a significant site for mana whenua Onawe Peninsula is wahi tapu leave your food and drink in the car to enjoy when you get back

From there, its just a 15-minute drive to Akaroa, the only real town in the area If you haven’t yet eaten make plans to visit A La Baguette as soon as possible Its one of the greatest boulangeries Ive visited anywhere in the world and it’s fitting that Akaroa New Zealands last remnant of colonial France, also has the best croissants in the country

Inexplicably the bakery doesnt serve coffee so youll need to explore a little further to find a flat white to enjoy with your viennoiseries

Its a very compact town and you can walk almost anywhere within a few minutes We wandered from our accommodation to where a friendly team packed us off in a van and out to the largest little penguin colony in New Zealand

The project is a labour of love for the local family whose parents (themselves fourth-generation Banks Peninsula farmers) live on site and have published research papers on the population of birds that call their bay home Their daughter Joey drove our van the 30 minutes or so from Akaroa to the colony, pausing for a family photo at the top of a misty mountain then descending a steep valley towards the unnervingly blue waters of Flea Bay

Clockwise from below: Barrys Bay Cheese Factory; a family trip to Akaroa includes history walks penguin tours and starspotting; Akaroas bakery A La Baguette is considered one of New Zealands best for croissants; Akaroa is built in an ancient volcanic crater on Banks Peninsula; Onawe Peninsula is wahi tapu a sacred site significant to local mana whenua

shallow water To get closer to these intriguing animals and the dolphins that occasionally visit the bay book a kayaking sea safari through the same company and get out on the water

We returned to Akaroa in time for dinner, then trekked off to our evening entertainment Local astronomer Luca Devescovi is campaigning hard to make Banks Peninsula a Dark Sky Reserve an international designation that would recognise the natural lack of light pollution alongside efforts locals are making to enhance the night sky by limiting artificial light sources

Our kids were almost as excited to feed the boisterous sheep as they were to see the penguins, who will make a home wherever they find shelter but benefit in particular from the dozens of wooden human-built houses scattered helpfully about the hillside This tour is less about showing off the birds to tourists and more about letting visitors tag along with a scientific survey It was exciting for the kids to see Joey lift the roof off a house and check for tenants and there is plenty of time for photos and a closer look Some of the penguins are friendly, others more nervous Joey entering these observations into her survey app before moving on to the next nest

As well as the penguins, Flea Bay is home to hundreds of sea lions They’re not usually all there at once but youll be unlucky not to spot at least one on your visit usually playing about in the

Its a labour of love for Luca who learnt his trade at the famous Mount John University Observatory and now runs stargazing tours for visitors to Akaroa Its a short drive from his ticketing office (right next to Pohatu Penguins in town) up to the observation area on a nearby hill, but sadly the cloud cover was too extensive on the night we visited so we got the indoors version a clever piece of software that recreates the exact night sky in Lucas office, with the advantage that he can fast-forward and rewind time to show you different constellations of interest Our children took loads of fun facts away from his presentation including how to pick their own star signs out of the night sky and how to find south no matter where you are or what time of year it is

We slept well that night and drove back to Christchurch in the morning We heard great things about The Giant’s House, a family-friendly garden of curiosities which has won numerous awards Well go next time, but as a family of foodies, we had a date at the Barrys Bay Cheese Factory, a fun early stop on the way back to the city Their cheese has a lot of fans including some high-profile chefs who swear its the best in the country; at the factory you can see it being made try some samples and (best of all for those like us who love a bargain) take home some offcuts at a fraction of the usual price

Long-beloved as a romantic destination for couples, Akaroa has more than enough to keep a young family busy We had a fast-paced 24 hours but you could always do things a little slower by including some wine tasting and a couple of the fantastic local restaurants while you ’ re there

❏ The writer stayed at Akaroa Waterfront Motels and was supported by Christchurch NZ christchurchnz.com

ON THE UP

Skyline has celebrated 100 million Luge rides across its eight global tracks and is all set to enter the UK market, writes Varsha Anjali

Grant Hensman can still remember his first ride

The director of the New Zealand adventure company Skyline Enterprises recalled riding down on the go-kart-like prototype from Coronet Peak into the streets of Queenstown weaving through traffic caught up in the sheer thrill of it

That was decades ago before he began using a wheelchair Not that its ever stopped him from riding

“It gets a bit of adrenaline going and that illusion of being close to the ground, being in control it was a great a great thrill ” Hensman whose father Hylton Hensman founded Skyline in 1966, says

That prototype developed into what we today recognise as an iconic Kiwi attraction: the Luge

Now Skyline has reached a milestone of 100 million Luge rides across its eight global tracks two of which are in New Zealand

On the secret to its enduring success, Hensman hints at this: true universal appeal The Luge is a very simple idea that spans the generations, the Queenstown local says

I mean I still enjoy it having been reviving it for 40-odd years from the original model my father made which

was just a timber cart and a couple of skateboard wheels right through to the evolved model with brakes ” Danny Luke Skylines chief operat-

top

has reached a milestone; Grant Hensman enjoying a ride on the Luge; fun is guaranteed for every generation

Photos / Andy Brown Skyline Enterprises supplied

ing officer and grandson of the founder agrees This achievement reflects the incredible popularity of the Luge It’s more than just an exhilarating ride its a tradition that families and friends return to time and again sharing the thrill across generations, he says

Many adventure activities have accessibility restrictions But the ease and simplicity of the Luge largely eliminate those concerns meaning Hensman could still enjoy riding even after he started using a wheelchair

following a workplace accident around 32 years ago

We have a policy of making it accessible to all, Hensman says

The company is trialling a new cart to support the independence of people with physical limitations

“[The] cart will allow somebody who doesnt have the ability perhaps to drive the Luge themselves independently

“To be taken down by their friend or caregiver or parent or brother or sister and they’ll be in a car behind them and they can enjoy the rides ”

On what drives his determination, Hensman says: “I dont want to sit around I dont think life’s a practice run You get one shot at it Ive been lucky enough to have the odd opportunity and I want to get on with it

This is an incredible achievement and were just getting started ” says chief executive Geoff McDonald

The company is getting ready to open a new site in Swansea Wales marking its entry into the UK market

It will be modelled on the Rotorua site and will have both the Gondola and Luge with more attractions to come

“The intent is to put on a Skyswing as well and a couple of other smaller attractions its a significant investment,” Hensman says

The popularity of the Luge is rising It increased from 7 46 million rides in 2023/2024 to 9 89 million rides in 2024/25 with the company projecting that the next 100 million rides will happen in only eight years

“Thats a big number of smiles ” Hensman says

reset reset

AOTEAROA MUSIC AWARDS

OUT-TAKES WHAT PEOPLE ARE TALKING ABOUT NKS

THE WRONG TIME TO WORK OUT

Working out within four hours of bedtime can make it harder to fall asleep a study published last month in Nature Communications shows

Researchers analysed data from almost 15 000 active men and women aged 18 to 87

They categorised workouts as light, moderate hard or maximal corresponding roughly to a brisk walk, easy jog long run, or prolonged highintensity interval training They found that later exercise timing and higher exercise strain were each strongly linked to worse sleep

Even relatively modest evening workouts, such as light weight training or a gentle gym class could somewhat disrupt sleep

If people ran a half marathon or took part in a strenuous late-night game of soccer hockey or basketball within about two hours of their usual bedtime, they needed an average of 36 extra minutes to fall asleep

Finish that same exercise after

someones usual bedtime by an hour or two and they would need an extra 80 minutes to doze off

THE PERCENTAGE OF YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM THAT RESIDES WITHIN THE WALL OF YOUR GUT 70%

Beyond taking longer to fall asleep, people also slept less overall and experienced declines in sleep quality including frequent waking and increased tossing and turning Tracker data showed that heart rates remained elevated and heart rate variability stayed low even hours after intense evening exercise suggesting that the body may remain physiologically pumped up ”

Source Dr Will Bulsiewicz gastroenterologist and researcher

Josh Leota, a researcher at Monash University in Australia who led the study advised that if evening is the only time available for exercise, it would be preferable to finish as early as possible or opt for lighter workouts

Washington Post

5600 people in Sweden those with lymphoma were 21% more likely to have received a tattoo compared with those without lymphoma

Given that lymphoma affects around 1100 people in New Zealand a year the risk from tattoos appears very small Hookah smoking

Smoking hookah may be worse than smoking cigarettes The US Food and Drug Administration says people exposed to hookah tobacco absorb more carbon monoxide because sessions tend to be longer In a study of almost 40 000 people in northern Vietnam, hookah smokers had higher risks of dying

g head and neck and ers Sekeres you avoid all forms of ks

China followed more people for about nine who drank burning-hot at least one alcoholic beverage daily had five times the risk of oesophageal cancer

Chemical hair straighteners and dyes

These products may contain formaldehyde or endocrine-disrupting chemicals A study of more than 46 000 women found that permanent hair dye use was linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and straighteners have been linked to higher risks of breast ovarian and uterine cancer

Meats cooked at high temperatures

Grilling meat generates carcinogenic chemicals Studies suggest that those who eat more meat cooked at high temperatures have a slightly higher chance of developing colorectal cancer Washington Post

‘A BEAUTIFUL THING’

New Zealand music stars and industry experts reflect on 60 years of the Aotearoa Music Awards.

By Stephanie Holmes

ThisweeksAotearoaMusicAwardsmarks 60yearsofcelebratingKiwiartistsandtheir songs albumsandachievements

JoOliver chiefexecutiveofRecordedMusic NewZealand,saysforlocalartistsandthemusic community theAotearoaMusicAwards(AMAs)are seenas“essential”

“Theeventbringsthemusiccommunitytogether toacknowledge,recogniseandvalidatethework ofrecordingartists, Oliversays “Winninganaward, beingafinalist,andhavingtheopportunityto performliveallbringtangiblepromotionalbenefits forartistsandhelpthemtoconnectwithaudiences andfans

ThefirstiterationoftheAMAswastheLoxene GoldenDiscaward whichwasawardedtoRay ColumbusandTheInvadersin1965forthebands singleTillWeKissed

Evolvingfromaradio-onlybroadcasttoTVand tosocialmediastreamingandwiththebreadth ofcategorieschangingwiththetimesoverthe60 years Oliversaysonethingremainsconsistentfor theawards itsabilitytoconnectKiwiartiststo audiencesandfans

Intodaysworld whereattentionisdivided it’s harderthanevertobreakthrough” shesays AMA providesapowerfulpromotionalplatformforartists includingnewandemergingacts

ChrisCaddick theformerchairmanofRecorded MusicNewZealand agrees

Inthepast winninganAMAcouldmeana significantupsurgeinsales,nowitisperhapsmore usefulasamarketingandpromotionaltool But aboveall,itisalifetimeachievementofwhichany recipientcanbeproud”

SarahOwen,theformerAMAsmanagerandnow itsoperationsandeventsliaison,saystheawardsare alsoimportantforanindustrynotalwaysgoodat celebratingitsownsuccess

Aotearoa’smusiciansaregenerallyafairlyselfdeprecatingbunch [theAMAsare]achanceto cometogetherandcelebratetheyearthatwasand thoseartistsandprojectsthat‘turnedthedial ”

Oneofthemostsignificantchangesintheawards historyisthechangeofname,fromtheNewZealand MusicAwardstotheAotearoaMusicAwards which happenedin2020

“Thechangewasreallywellreceived, saysOliver andjustfeltrightasareflectionofourunique culturalidentity”

Anotherbigchangecamein2017,whenthebest malesoloartistandbestfemalesoloartistcategories becamethenon-gender-specificBestSoloArtistTūī DamianVaughan,RecordedMusicsformerchief executive recalls theargumentdecadesagowas thatfemaleartistsweren’tgettingrecognisedwhen goingupagainsttheirmalecounterparts Butinthe firstyearofthechange Ithinkwehadanall-female nominationline-upandLordewon

TomarktheAMA's60thanniversary andbefore thisyearsawards whichtakeplaceonThursday, May29 werelookingbackonsevendecadesof historicmoments

The most memorable moment of my own was standingin the wings with [Sir] Dave Dobbyn and watchingMick Fleetwood stopto shake his hand before we walked out on stage to perform. Dave was smilingfrom ear to ear. Legends recognise legends. Duettingwith Dave was a moment I will treasure forever. TAMINEILSON

HISTORIC MOMENTS 7 FROM SEVEN DECADES OF THE AMAS

1960s

The Best Group and Solo Artist awards were introduced in 1969 The first recipient of the Group award was The Hi-Revving Tongues for Rain And Tears The Solo award went to Shane for his similarly grand No 1 smash Saint Paul, which also won the 1969 Loxene Golden Disc The TV show drew more viewers than that years election results

1970s

In 1970, the award presenters were Johnny Devlin who also performed and Max Cryer The show was emceed by Peter Sinclair as it had been since 1967

1980s

In 1982 Prince Tui Teka won Single of the Year and Best Polynesian Artist for E Ipo The now Sir Dave Dobbyn was awarded Most Promising Male (he was knighted in the 2021 New Year’s Honours list)

1990s

The MK 1 Tūī award debuted in 1995 Designed by Nicola Marshall the trophy was a stylised design representing New Zealands native songbird 1995 was also the year a fight broke ou between members of Herbs and The Exponents; Supergroove killed it with Traction (Album of the Year and Best Group Music Video, Engineer and Producer); and the Once Were Warriors soundtrack won its category

2000s

A full list of 60 memorable moments from 60 years of the AMAs will be published on Thursday, May 29 on nzherald.co.nz/ entertainment.

2004 was Scribe’s big year the artists debut LP Crusader won no less than eight Tūī 2025 AMA finalist MOKOTRON says: They should have just given him a couch on the side of the stage A victory on so many levels for Scribe, for hiphop for the Pacific community and for Aranui” 2004s Highest Selling New Zealand Single was however They Can’t Take That Away by Ben Lummis, following the artists win on the first season of NZ Idol

2010s

Following his Australian Idol win in 2009 2010 saw Stan Walkers introduction to the awards and his first-ever Tūī for Highest Selling NZ Single, Radio Airplay, Peoples Choice and International Achievement Walker has been an awards mainstay in the years since and is one of 2025s most nominated finalists alongside CHAII

2020s

The 2021 Aotearoa Music Awards which were able to proceed under strict Covid restrictions saw co-hosts Stan Walker and Hayley Sproull walk the red carpet in New Zealand designer wear including stylish co-ordinated masks Walker wore a red Zambesi number, while Sproull wore an outfit designed in collaboration with Sammy Salsa and Judy Gao

NZ MUSIC STARS

& INDUSTRY EXPERTS SHARE THEIR FAVOURITE AMA MOMENTS

TAMI NEILSON

Any moment the Topp Twins have been on that stage has been a favourite for me to watch All the too-cool-for-schoolers crack big smiles and pure joy fills the room Its a beautiful thing to watch them unite people from every walk of life with humour and music

The most memorable moment of my own was standing in the wings with [Sir] Dave Dobbyn and watching Mick Fleetwood stop to shake his hand before we walked out on stage to perform Dave was smiling from ear to ear Legends recognise legends Duetting with Dave was a moment I will treasure forever

THEIA

One of my favourite moments of the last few years was watching Hori Shaw receive the 2024 People’s Choice Award (Tā Te Iwi) I was overseas so couldn’t make the awards that y B t I it ll i l media Seeing Hori a h stage in his Red Bands a by the people was a suc kauae e Hori!

DAMIAN VAUGH

former Recorded Music

In 2015 for the 50th ann Taika Waititi hosted an funniest and most unp Neil Finn welcomed Music Hall of Fame tha touring scheduling Fle country and Mick Fleet our invitation to presen went to Broods that nig After the ceremony w for being involved and “I haven’t seen you in ag much later [saw] Neil Fi for a few years

Another favourite mo PM [now Dame] Jacind each other on stage for had never met each oth an opportunity for Jacinda to present Lorde with the Peoples Choice award live on TV, which was a very special moment I believe the words uttered by both on stage were “mutual fangirl moment”

MEL PARSONS

AARADHNA

My personal favourite Aotearoa Music Awards moment was when I attended for the very first time in 2004 I wasn’t nominated that year but I got to attend and perform Getting Stronger with Adeaze and I was just so excited to be there and to see all the talented artists that I admired.

GEORGIALINES

One of my all-time favourite moments was back in 2012 when Kimbra performed Come Into My Head I wasnt at the awards that year, but Ive watched that performance many times Kimbra has always been one of my favourite artists her songwriting her stage presence, her vocals her band everything about that performance was incredible

The very first awards I ever went to, I was 19 and on crutches after rolling my ankle badly he night before I didnt want to miss ly I had a pair of crutches stored in at home from a previous injury So I o the awards, walking the red carpet d made in high school, with crutches

ER

ded Music NZ ht for me is the opening moments of 2024, where Stan Walkers powerful ce filled the Viaduct Events Centre st full-scale event in four years and the Aotearoa Music Awards after we e in 2022 to review and reflect on the their purpose The refreshed event w venue and new time of year and d by an enhanced social strategy ot of attention to our finalists and

My favourite thing about the music awards is just to be in a room full of friends and musicians and people who all love music in the same obsessive way Its like our annual reminder that even though we re all working away on our own things, touring, often on our own for long periods, that we do have an amazing and supportive community

REB FOUNTAIN

In 2018, I won a Tūī for Best Country Album for my record Hopeful & Hopeless Its the one and only time I’ve been to the Aotearoa Music Awards and I took my buddy Rohan Evans (who has just taken home the Independent Spirit Award at the 2025 Taite Music Awards) He had produced the album and we recorded it at the infamous Wine Cellar here in Tāmaki Makaurau We had a great time and I was heartened to hear someone tell then MP Simon Bridges to stop yakking whilst Upper Hutt Posse accepted their lifetime achievement award

It was also the first time I had seen Jess B and Alien Weaponry and my mind was blown

ADDICK

man, Recorded Music NZ

Kristian from Ray Columbus and who brought the original Loxene disc from 1965 to a reception we held just prior to the 50th Awards in 2015

KIMBOSHIER

managing director at Sony Music Entertainment NZ

An incredible memory was when Teeks won Best Solo Artist, Best Soul/RnB and Best Māori Artist in 2021 Te Karehanas No 1 debut album had gone platinum hed had an incredible year It was a Covid year though, we couldn’t attend in person so the team were having a party in our office kitchen When TK won that award, that party took a turn what a night!

This years Aotearoa Music Awards take place on Thursday May 29 at the Viaduct Events Centre in Tāmaki

Makaurau Auckland

Follow nzherald conz for live coverage and breaking news from the event.

The Awards will be livestreamed on rnz. co.nz and the AMA social media channels and available to stream on TVNZ+ from Friday May 30.

AGEING TASTEFULLY

Eating well in older age is vitally important from chicken to yoghurt, nutritionist Sam Rice reveals the foods you need

Eating well in later life is vitally important

People over 60 tend to be less active, which leads to decreased muscle mass and a lowered metabolic rate reducing their overall energy requirement At the same time the gut becomes less efficient inhibiting nutrient absorption In short we need more sustenance from fewer calories as we age So pop that ready meal back on the shelf; these are the nine nutrient-packed foods you should always have in your fridge or larder

1 BROCCOLI

Broccoli is the nation’s darling when it comes to cruciferous vegetables Notably it contains the antioxidant sulforaphane, which can protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimers and Parkinsons

My healthy tip

If youre looking for a way to jazz up your broccoli then all you need is a vegetable stock cube and some sesame oil Place 300ml vege stock in a lidded saucepan add your broccoli florets and place the lid on, allowing the vegetables to simmer and steam in the stock When tender about five minutes remove to a warm plate season, and drizzle with sesame oil You can sprinkle over some sesame seeds too

2. SARDINES

Oily fish is a key source of two essential nutrients for the older person: vitamin D for bone health and omega-3 fatty acids to guard against age-related cognitive decline You can boost your intake by eating oily fish such as sardines, salmon, mackerel and herring twice a week

My healthy tip

Keep it simple and thrifty with my posh sardines on toast Choose a good quality whole grain bread and toast Then peel and halve a garlic clove and rub it over the toasted bread Place some sliced tomatoes on top then mash over tinned sardines (in olive oil) I like to add a squeeze of lemon juice and some dried mixed herbs to the oil left in the tin and drizzle it over the top Season well and finish with a sprinkle of pumpkin (or other) seeds

3. CHICKEN

It’s recommended that older adults have 25–30g of protein at each of their three daily meals to support muscle synthesis

Protein-rich foods include meat fish eggs dairy, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds, and one of the best lean sources is poultry Just 100g of chicken breast contains around 31g of protein with just 25g in the

red meat equivalent

My healthy tip

Chicken mince is an affordable way to eat more protein and you can use it to make this meatball dish Simply season the mince and roll it into small-ish balls (25–30g), then fry them in a large nonstick frying pan in some olive oil until slightly browned Add 100g of frozen soffritto to the pan and saute for five minutes more until softened Add a tin of chopped tomatoes 1 tsp honey 1 tsp dried oregano and season well Simmer for 20 minutes on a low-ish heat Add a little extra water if its becoming too thick Serve with brown rice or wholewheat spaghetti

4 OLIVE OIL

A study conducted by Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health following 92 383 adults over 28 years found that people who consumed at least 7g of olive oil per day had a 28% lower risk of dying from dementia This association was found regardless of diet quality So, if theres one thing you can do to improve your health span its increase your olive oil consumption

My healthy tip

You can use extra virgin olive oil for most purposes including frying (contrary to popular belief) but the easiest way to up your intake is with a really good salad dressing Make my essential salad dressing by combining 4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1⁄2 tsp honey 1⁄2 tsp dried mixed herbs and a pinch of salt and pepper in a lidded container Give it a good shake to emulsify and drizzle

liberally over salads and roasted vegetables

5 MIXED WHOLE GRAINS

Whole grains can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels both risk factors for cardiovascular disease

My healthy tip

To make life easier you can buy packs of pre-cooked mixed grains in the supermarket now I use them as the base for my zingy grainy salad Combine a pouch of grains with chopped carrots, cucumber and peppers and some sliced avocado Drizzle with the “essential” salad dressing (above) and top with a sliced boiled egg for extra protein

6 BLACK BEANS

Black beans are a rich source of fibre protein and essential micronutrients like folate potassium and magnesium which can help manage blood sugar levels, promote healthy digestion support bone health lower cholesterol and potentially reduce blood pressure

My healthy tip

Make a delicious bean-y toast topper by sauteing a clove of crushed garlic, a diced red onion and a diced red pepper in some olive oil

Add 1 tsp cumin and 1 tsp paprika and season well before adding a drained tin of black beans and 400ml of vegetable stock from a cube Simmer for 30 minutes When thickened and the beans are soft mash them a little with a fork Serve on grainy toast topped with a fried egg

7. FROZEN MIXED BERRIES

Berries are hard to deny when it comes

to health-enhancing properties Along with antioxidants and fibre they also contain plant chemicals that help maintain good vision protecting against macular degeneration which affects 4 8% of the population over 65

My healthy tip

Fresh berries are pricey out of season so I recommend buying frozen mixed berries instead My favourite way to prepare them is to gently heat them up in a small saucepan along with a smidgen of maple syrup This quick hot berry mix can be stirred into yoghurt or porridge (and topped with chopped nuts and seeds) for breakfast or blitzed in the blender to make a delicious compote to keep in the fridge

8. MIXED NUTS AND SEEDS

Nuts and seeds are hard to beat as an energy source, and studies of older adults have shown benefits for muscle mass function and cognition

My healthy tip

I shoehorn more nuts and seeds into my diet with this speedy seed sprinkle which you can add to all sorts of dishes With whatever nuts and seeds you have to hand place 200g chopped nuts and 100g mixed seeds in a hot, dry frying pan to toast until golden To make a savoury version mix the toasted nuts and seeds with 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1⁄2 tsp cumin, 1⁄2 tsp turmeric and season well Mix them with 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp honey and 1⁄2 tsp cinnamon (optional) for a sweet version Keep in an airtight container in the fridge

9 FULL-FAT GREEK

YOGHURT

Full-fat Greek yoghurt is not only delicious but also great for your gut Although saturated animal fat has been linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers newer research indicates that consuming full-fat dairy products like cheese, yoghurt and milk may not increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and could even be protective against it; this is referred to as the “dairy fat paradox ”

My healthy tip

Given that youve got your hot berry mix and speedy seed sprinkle now to hand I would recommend putting both on top of a few tablespoons of Greek yoghurt for breakfast Greek yoghurt is also an excellent replacement for mayonnaise in sandwich-fillers and can be used to enrich soups stews and sauces

And a few treats coffee, dark chocolate and red wine

Daily recommended limits are one cup of coffee (which contains 50–100mg of caffeine, which is well tolerated by the majority of older people) one 175ml glass of red wine (thats approximately 2 units, which fits with the UK guidelines to have no more than 14 units a week) and 20–30g or two to three squares of dark chocolate (minimum 70 per cent cocoa solids)

As European summer approaches celebs are dusting off their solstice wardrobe and embracing the colour of the season: butter yellow Legendary Parisian actress Juliette Binoche offered a masterclass in French-girl style on the first day of Cannes Film Festival last week donning French fashion house Jacquemus for the occasion The Chocolat actress who serves as president of the feature film jury was a buttercream dream in the Giacca jacket (US$1485) teamed with matching trousers and accessories Take a leaf out of her lookbook and add lashings of butter yellow to your winter wardrobe as evidenced by Binoche the elegant pastel doesnt have to be reserved for sundresses Soft and muted butter yellow can effortlessly substitute cream beige or ivory with its subtle pop of colour, which also teams well with neutrals like black and chocolate brown Start off small with a buttery accessory or go full French-girl with chic matchin

BUTTER

R YELLOW

BINOCHE

As our gardens put on their autumn displays of orange, and yellow it’s a good time t some winter flowering plan

The temperatures are edging slightly cooler as we move through autumn and we are seeing some spectacular colour around

The flowering cherries (Prunus) are putting on a show of orange, red and yellow leaves Also at the moment are the rich gold colours of the ginkgo trees Red oaks and pin oaks have offered great colourings over the past few weeks Another tree that is becoming increasingly recognised for its landscaping value is the ornamental pear (Pyrus aristocrat) This tree has spectacular white spring blossom offer refreshing summer shade and then good autumn colour tonings

In another week we will be officially into winter and the shortest day is only a few weeks later than that on June 21

This is a good time of the year to add some more winter flowering plants for colour One of the most prolific flowering plants is the bold bright colourful cyclamen They are a very popular colour plant to grow during the winter months They start throwing flower buds as the weather cools in March and continue in mass profusion into September

As a result of selective breeding, a range of different cyclamen are available In addition to the bold bright single colours of red violet white and many shades of pink, there are some with frilled flowers butterfly double-type flowers as well as variation in leaf marbling (colour)

Cyclamen can be generalised into two main sizes: the miniature or smaller type and the larger flowered and leaved type

Cyclamen are a bulb although they are most commonly available as a potted plant They die down and go into dormancy during the hot summer months emerging into growth as the cooler damper autumn weather arrives As a winter dweller they do not need a lot of sun and are very happy in shady positions with little or no direct sunlight

They are versatile for use in the home garden

Cyclamen do best in a well-drained situation If the soil becomes saturated, the bulb can be prone to rot Wet soil combined with lack of air movement can also cause botrytis

Cyclamen will grow outdoors in the garden or in pots They are also regularly used indoors as flowering house plants and then planted outside in the garden when the flowers die off When kept inside the flowering season is usually shortened by the heat of being indoors

Growing in pots is probably the most popular use for cyclamen where they can provide bright cheerful and happy colour throughout the cold dark winter months Over the winter they will grow successfully pretty much anywhere in pots from a sun-drenched north-facing patio to the southfacing front door which doesnt even get a ray of sun

Cyclamen can be grown in hanging baskets where they make an excellent centrepiece surrounded by pansies or other winter flowering annuals

To get maximum flowering from cyclamen they should be fertilised with dried blood Yep, it is what it sounds the dried blood from the meat works This product is extremely high in nitrogen which

WINTER COLOUR

Keep the blues away by adding some more colour to your garden with winter flowering plants

these plants love not to be mixed up with blood and bone, which is not as suitable For the best results flower booster should be applied at the time of planting and every few weeks after It is also the preferred fertiliser for pansies and polyanthus

Shrubs

In the shrub garden we have a number of plants that present stunning flowers or foliage in these cold and darker months Shrubs are good in the garden, offering structure and form and in their particular flowering season they provide colour

Having a selection of winter flowering shrubs in your garden is a sure way to provide cheer on a dull winters day

Some good ones to look out for include:

Many camellias are flowering now, offering colour There are varieties with flower colours ranging from white to pink to reds with varying petal forms and features Camellias offer year-round structure in a garden as well as a long flowering period lending themselves to be used in many types and styles of garden Camellias grow best with an abundance of summer moisture, relatively cool summers and soils that are rich in organic matter

They can be grown successfully all over New Zealand If you take care to provide suitable soil conditions shelter from strong winds and provide some light shade they will thrive Soil conditioning with the addition of peat moss will improve the texture of the soil and increase the acidity Always use acid fertiliser to feed these plants and never use garden lime

Ericas are another large genera with many varieties some good ones flowering now include Winter Fire and Ruby Shepherd

Leucadendrons are another great range of shrubs that provide winter colour The blooms make excellent cut flowers that last for a long time indoors in a vase

Nandinas are a shrub foliage that deepens to some spectacular colours as the cold sets in

Nandinas are one of the most popular shrubs for a number of reasons They have a tidy compact growth habit that makes them good for small and narrow gardens They grow well in full sun or shady conditions windy coastal conditions and pretty much all soil types

They dont need trimming or pruning and look good all year round An excellent cultivar is Nandina pygmy which forms a rounded shrub with a tidy compact habit Its leaves are initially green and yellow tones, but darken to a dramatic red as the weather cools through autumn and into winter It can be used in gardens borders patio pots and containers The leaf colour is actually more intense if the plants are kept a little hungry

Nandina gulfstream: this nandina has more finely divided and pointed leaves than Nandina pygmy It is highly decorative and also valued for the wonderful autumn colour which intensifies to a brilliant red in winter Easy care and tolerant gulfstream makes the ultimate minimal care garden It looks wonderful planted in a group

Coprosma are similar to the nandinas in that their feature is the intense leaf colour change that takes place in the cooler weather Some good ones to look out for include Wendy Evening Glow and Scarlet OHara

Coprosma grow in most soil types and almost any position from shade to full sun Protection from harsh frost (-1C and below), so not so good in colder climates like the central plateau but grows great throughout other milder areas

So if your garden is looking dull, check out some of these plants to offer colour through the winter months I haven’t got space to mention grevilleas proteas, polygala, coelonema astartea and hellebores as well, which all offer vibrant colour through the winter

DAN DAN NOODLES CHICKEN

Dan dan noodles are super-popular for a great reason they are fast to make and deliver a world of flavour. This recipe subs the traditional pork or minced chicken, but it would also work well with a crumbled firm tofu.

INGREDIENTS

For the sauce

2 Tbsp soy sauce

2 Tbsp black vinegar

1⁄4 - 1⁄2 tsp ground Sichuan peppercorns (add more if you prefer)

1-2 Tbsp crispy chilli oil (add more if you prefer)

1 Tbsp tahini

2 tsp hoisin sauce

For the chicken

1-2 Tbsp oil

300g chicken mince (or 300g crumbled firm tofu)

2 cloves garlic minced

4 spring onions, white and green separated and sliced on the diagonal

2 Tbsp Shaoxing cooking wine

1 Tbsp soy sauce

To serve

2 bundles dried ramen noodles

1⁄4 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped 1⁄2 cucumber, cut on the diagonal and then into matchsticks

METHOD

For the sauce:

Whisk together the sauce ingredients in a medium bowl and set aside

For the chicken

Heat a little oil in a pan or wok over high heat and add the chicken Cook until browned then add the garlic and the white parts of the spring onions and stir fry for a few minutes Add the wine and soy sauce and cook until golden Set aside

To serve

Cook the noodles in boiling water according to packet directions then drain well, reserving 1⁄4 cup of the cooking water Whisk the cooking water into the noodle sauce then add more chilli oil if required Spoon the sauce into the bottom of the serving bowls, then add the noodles Sprinkle over the cooked chicken mince the green parts of the spring onion, the peanuts, and the cucumber Stir well before eating Farro.co.nz

Using beer in these scones gives them a delicious yeastiness and cheese, onion and apple are a classic flavour combination Slather lots of butter on and eat them while they are still warm Try them as an accompaniment to soup one night

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 220C Line and grease a baking tray Fry the bacon in a non-stick frying pan until crispy about 5 minutes Chop into pieces and set aside to cool

In a bowl combine the flour, baking powder and salt Add the cubed butter and combine with your hands or food processor until it resembles breadcrumbs

Add the bacon diced apple and cheese

Pour in the beer and mix

Knead the dough until smooth and bouncy

Spoon the dough one large tablespoon at a time on to your baking tray

Top with more grated cheese Bake in a hot oven for 10-15 minutes until golden

Serve with butter and your favourite relish or sauce