UNO Magazine | Issue 71 | Autumn 2026 | Toby Burrows & Mitch Lowe

Where comfort meets design.

inspired carp s

PLAY

20 Cover: BOP ’s event makers

30 Flavours of Plenty

34 Recipes to nourish

38 Downtown's revamp

40 Sixty2 ’s Alice Rule

41 Whatʼs on: autumn edition

42 Foodie finds

44

Racing heart: Prima Park's horses

48 Chartering the seabed

53 Tauranga Museum makes friends

54 Awesome autumn reads

58 Leah Creaven: The art of wool

THRIVE

62 Focus on fashion

66 Best in beauty

69 Cashmore Clinic: Target treatments

71 Bay Eyecare: When eyes feel dry

72 Salon Grange: Stressed solutions

74 Dr Clive Price: Bowel cancer test kits

78 Ado Hair's creative couple

LIVE

82 Interior colours: Cosy does it

86 Oliver Road Luxury Real Estate

90 Studio H: House design

94 Interiors: Big features

WORK

98 Lexus SUV FSport tested

102 CBC Construction's building boom

105 When family fun feels forced

106 KPMG: building futures

109 Brooke Reynold's mortgage hacks

110 IDS is moving on up

113 Wasted Kate: Leftover love

EXPLORE

116 Roadtripping Ruapehu and beyond

120 A family's gap-year travels

122 Whakatāne's festivities

124 South Australia: McLaren Vale wines

128 Silversea's comfort cruises

130 Bay eats: The Fikâ feels

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DIRECTOR

Michele Griffin 021 183 4618 michele@unomagazine.co.nz

DIRECTOR

Rebecca Meyer 027 469 6177 rebecca@unomagazine.co.nz

EDITOR

Hayley Barnett hayley@unomagazine.co.nz

FASHION EDITOR

Nicky Adams nickyadams@xtra.co.nz

DESIGNER

Annabelle Rose

ASSISTANT DESIGNER

Hannah Mahon

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Amy McKenzie

Happy Hank Media

SUB-EDITOR

Shiree Schumacher

CONTRIBUTORS

Amanda Aitken

Amber Armitage

Jo-Marie Baker

Monique Balvert-O'Connor

Christine Cornegé

Katie Cox

Pip Crombie

Deborah de Graaf

Jess Easton

Jo Ferris

Salina Galvan

Sue Hoffart

Robbie Hunter

Jahl Marshall

Kathrine McDonald

Desiree Osterman

Karl Puschmann

Jamie Troughton

Kristin Ward

SUBSCRIPTIONS unomagazine.co.nz/shop

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DISTRIBUTOR Are Direct PUBLISHED BY SAO Media Limited

UNO is a quarterly publication: ISSN 2744-7901 © Copyright 2026. Articles and illustrations may not be reproduced in any form without the permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of, nor endorsed by, SAO Media Ltd, unless stated otherwise. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of printing, the publisher shall not be held responsible for any actions taken as a consequence of information contained in this publication.

Burrows, Amy McKenzie and Rebecca Meyer.

It’s been a tough few months for our coastal community.

The collapse on Mauao was a sobering moment for many locals, and the tragic loss of life that followed has weighed heavily on everyone. For those of us who live here, the maunga is part of our daily life, but if the past few months have shown us anything, it’s just how strong the Bay of Plenty community really is.

Across the region, local events have been bringing people back together, from weekend markets and community gatherings to concerts, festivals and celebrations. They’ve offered a chance to step away from the news cycle and enjoy the simple pleasure of being out and about again.

For the autumn issue of UNO, we’ve done what we always try to do, which is focus on the good. And there is plenty

to celebrate. Our cover stars, Toby Burrows and Mitch Lowe, know firsthand how powerful events can be in bringing people together and showcasing local talent. Between them, they organise more than 150 events across the country every year, making them the perfect pair to highlight why, and how, our region has become a national hotspot for events.

Turn to page 20 to read more.

As Mauao heals, there’s something reassuring about seeing parks full, with music playing and people gathering. It’s a reminder that while the landscape around us may change, the spirit of this place remains the same.

And right now, that shared sense of community feels more important than ever.

Hayley, editor

SUE HOFFART

When we asked freelance writer Sue Hoffart what she enjoyed about contributing to the current UNO issue, she laughingly told us “same as always”. Sue’s been relaying food, travel and fascinating people stories in this magazine for around 20 years. This time, she combines all three interests to celebrate the innovative restaurateurs who’ll feature in this year’s Flavours of Plenty Festival. “Our region is outrageously well served when it comes to kai,” she says. “And how lucky are we to have Rae Baker wrangling almost 60 culinary events at our annual food festival? She always cooks up something impressive.”

AMANDA AITKEN

Amanda has loved photography for as long as she can remember, starting out in her parents’ Mount Maunganui photo lab at 14, developing film and selling cameras. A few years in London photographing architecture and interiors gave her a different perspective, but she happily returned home to capture the people, places and light that make New Zealand special. She’s been contributing to UNO since 2009 and says there’s always something new to discover on every shoot. “I still get a thrill when the light hits just right,” she laughs, “and every story feels like a little privilege.”

ROBBIE HUNTER

Robbie Hunter and his brother James are the visionaries behind Hyperreal, a photo and video agency, and Suburbia studio in Pāpāmoa. Robbie describes their approach as “following ideas wherever they take us.” From start-ups to household names, they work with clients who aren’t afraid to dream big, and they make it happen, hands-on, from concept to final frame. For this month’s UNO cover, Robbie was pumped to shoot our cover stars, Mitch Lowe and Toby Burrows, as “they bring the world to our backyard”.

WHAT’S HOT!

The latest products for your mind, soul and body.

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COCO COSMETIC COLLAB

Coco Cosmetic Collab celebrated their launch in Mount Maunganui recently. The exciting new business is a collaboration of five beauty studios all in one space. They include Beautifully Enhanced, Inkology, Cosmetic Inc Studio, Keri Loves and New Aspect Appearance Medicine.

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STABICRAFT 2026 FISH 'N CHICKS COMPETITION

Held over Waitangi Weekend, the Stabicraft 2026 Fish’n Chicks fishing competition kicked off at Tauranga Sport Fishing Club. All funds raised went to the WBOP Women’s Fund.

PHOTOS JADE BUITENDAG (J.B PHOTOGRAPHY)

1. Karina Hedges, Corinne Aitchinson, Nicky Carr 2. Kendyl Van Dragt, Lara Mackay, Caleb Van Dragt 3. Chelsea Gill, Emma Herbert, Elise Hayes, Tracy Beaufill 4. Georgia Phipps, Bridget Potaka, Kendra Rowe, Regan Parkes 5. Ella Ensor, Emma Kettle, Sarah Ensor, Rebecca Penhall, Holly Jurisich 6. Tyron Patterson, Mr Flint, Marley Orr, Kristen and Neil Petterson, Kirstee Griffiths 7. Grace Jensen, Penelope Hone, Chloe Jensen, Alfie Hone, Georgie Hone, Isobel Jensen 8. Karina Hedges, Stu Hedges.

FESTIVAL OF INNOVATION

Priority One’s DayBreak Festival of Innovation 2026 saw a 300-strong crowd from diverse businesses gather at The University of Waikato. The theme, Make Shift Happen, started with an enlightening talk by futurist Melissa Clark-Reynolds.

PHOTOS SALINA GALVAN

1. Jorgia James, Chrissy Tarant, Parehuia Buchanan, Nikki Hansen 2. Jules Simpson, Tanya Drummond, Lee Martin, Vicky Crickett, Nina Le Lievre 3. Belinda Barnes, Helly Parsons

4. Tom Lear, Alex Metson 5. Florencia Scotti, Tere Strickland

6. Jon Murie, Hayley Nelson, James Hope, Tamati Te Wai, Jonny Beadle 7. Lyah Oliviera, Jeannine Walsh, Sandra Downs

8. Deborah Crowe, Melissa Clark-Reynolds, Kirsten Mead.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS FLOURISH IN ‘26

BurgerFuel Fairy Springs’ ‘Women in Business’ hosted their Flourish In ’26 event recently. Held by the Rotorua Business Chamber and taking place at Wai Ariki

Hot Springs & Spa, the event fostered networking opportunities and set intentions for the year ahead.

1. Melanie Short, Ashleigh Nairn, Aly Bennett, Delta Houghton, Jane Jennings 2. Nikki Melvin, Sarah Martelli 3. Pam McGrath, Helena Keenan, Ruth Clarke, Kathy Hawker, Lynette Jordan

4. Joanne Burns, Lorelle Philips 5. Kayla Middleton, Hailey Skeen, Terri Robson, Paige Olsen, Emma Frame, Hope Perry

6. Aly Bennett, Kylie Gunn 7. Karen Barker, Renee Cronje, Charlotte Porter 8. Tylan Moulder, Taylor Kaio, Lania Vulu

9. Angelique Scott, Ashleigh Nairn, Miriam Hewson, Philly Angus

10. Angelique Scott, Michelle Brittain 11. Susan Taylor, Theresa Le Bas, Lauren Alpin, Jo Lofroth, Clara Whitcombe, Wendy Ardern

12. Nicky Old, Trudi Herniman, Mary-Robyn Clement.

SHE. WOMEN’S MENTAL HEALTH

The very first ‘She.’ Women’s Mental Health event took place at The Cargo Shed in Tauranga. The line-up featured guest speakers Rachel Taane, Kelly Young, Deanne Parkes, Kim Brown and Shona Cawley, all reminding women that they are never alone.

Justine Coventry, Jenny Williams, Annemaree Crawford, Catherine Rollerson, Helen Bishell 7. Rachel Taane, Kelly Young, Deanne Parkes, Kim

TAURANGA BUSINESS CHAMBER’S BA5

Tauranga Business Chamber’s Business After 5 event welcomed attendees to explore the latest car models while gaining insights into emerging automotive trends and innovations from Farmer Autovillage.

CROWD PLEASERS

The Bay of Plenty is rapidly becoming a hotspot for events. Karl Puschmann talks to the key people behind some of the Bay’s biggest events to get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring these events to life, their cultural and economic impact, and discover if this is just the beginning.

PHOTOS ROBBIE HUNTER | HAIR + MAKE-UP DESIREE OSTERMAN

I’m standing in the heart of Mount Maunganui’s industrial area, in front of a large warehouse, wondering if I’m in the right place. This unlikely, unglamorous spot is where some of the Bay of Plenty’s biggest events are dreamed up, organised and, if all goes to plan, brought to life. I’ve come to talk to Mitch Lowe and Toby Burrows, the two chaps behind the summer’s history-making Fisher concert at the Bay Oval, about the resurgence of events in the Bay of Plenty, what goes into staging them, and the impact, both economically and culturally, that they have on our region.

But first, I need to find the front door.

I walk down the long driveway, and past the side of the building, whose sliding doors have been pulled open on this bright, hot day, affording me a view of the welders inside who are hard at work behind a shower of bright sparks. It’s a far cry from the triumphant firework display that lit up the sky to bring the Fisher concert to a close.

Near the end of the building, there’s a door. I poke my head inside and see a wall covered in framed concert posters, and a top-of-the-range Pioneer DJ set-up in a booth to my left. This is more like what I was expecting. What I don’t see is people.

“Hello?” I offer, walking inside and knocking on the

wood of the DJ booth. Toby bounds down the stairs to greet me.

“Hey mate,” he says, shaking my hand. “Can I get you a Red Bull?”

Energy drinks in hand, he leads me up the stairs and into a boardroom, which is also decorated with framed posters, and where Mitch is sitting in front of a laptop, which he closes as we walk in. It’s here, from this office, tacked onto the back of an industrial factory, that the pair plan out over 150 events a year around Aotearoa.

“The Bay’s always been a priority for us,” Mitch says. “Because we’re local, we’re going to push as much as we can into the Bay. It's a really exciting time.”

“The summer ’s been pretty busy,” Toby adds. That feels like something of an understatement. After a barren few years following the COVID pandemic, there’s been an unignorable resurgence of events happening here in the Bay recently. Coupled with the freshly rejuvenated city centre, the upswing in trendy caf é s, bars and restaurants popping up and the ongoing suburban growth down the P ā p ā moa coastline, it’s beginning to feel like the region is shedding its old, and somewhat unfair, reputation as a haven for oldies and gaining a name for itself as a spot where there’s always something happening.

“When I moved to Tauranga a decade ago, people used to go, ‘Oh, it’s a retirement village,’” Mitch laughs.

“That used to be the general feeling before we started doing big events here and trying to bring a bit of life to it. Now, I know tons of people who have moved here. They think of Tauranga as one of the event capitals of New Zealand. It’s cool to be a part of that.”

The pair have spent decades working in the events industry Toby for 23 years and Mitch for 16. Before joining forces, Toby was heavily involved in Gisborne’s New Year’s Eve festival, Rhythm & Vines, while Mitch built his career touring DJs and electronic acts and running club nights. Around a decade ago, Mitch moved to the Bay to launch the single-day music festival Bay Dreams, which debuted in 2016 and ran each summer until it was officially placed on hiatus last year.

The pair knew each other from the industry, and decided to work together on the legacy rocker Bryan Adams’ 2019 Aotearoa tour, which took in Auckland, Wellington, Nelson and Christchurch. This was a significant success, leading the partnership to continue and become more formalised, with Toby moving from his home in “Gizzee” to come to the Mount a year or so later.

More than 20,000 people attended Fisher, with 82 percent travelling from beyond the BOP.

“I did a lot of humming and hah-ing about it, but committed to the decision. Now I look back and wonder what I was humming and hah-ing about,”

Toby laughs. “It has the beaches and the lifestyle, and geographically it’s sort of in the middle of everywhere. It ticked all the boxes.”

“We love it,” Mitch says. “We’re both raising our families here, which is a good indication of our passion for the place.”

The success of Bryan Adams had shown them there was a gap in the market for legacy artists, so the pair naturally doubled down, bringing over legendary acts like Toto, The Jackson 5 and Snoop Dogg, while also creating one-day festivals targeted at different music genres and audiences, like Rock the Bowl, Le Currents and, of course, Bay Dreams. Most did well. But, the pair admit, not all.

“The funniest one was when I asked my dad ’ s opinion on a legacy act,” Mitch recalls. He said, ‘Oh, that ’ s a guaranteed sell. Absolutely. No question’. We booked it, promoted it, went on sale… and it flopped.”

Jokingly, he says, “Dad doesn’t get free tickets anymore.”

But that’s the nature of the events biz, he says. Every show is a gamble that could literally see you losing your house. Something, the pair say, has almost happened more than once over the years.

But that was when they were younger, more naive and excited. But there were some growing pains, and Mitch says they had to learn how to run their business properly.

“We’re not taking stupid risks anymore,” Mitch says.

“We’ve learnt how to take calculated risks. Now, when we go into things, I’m confident that we’re either going to win or we’re going to lose an amount that we can handle.”

“We manage risk in a way that doesn’t feel too risky,” Toby says, noting that while their gut feeling still plays a role, they also have a stringent process of running the numbers and looking at specific artist metrics that have to add up before they decide to go ahead with an event. “We’re not risking everything if it doesn’t work anymore. Initially, I was brazen and not afraid to lose everything I had, because I had nothing. As I’ve gotten older, you know, I don’t want to lose everything. We say ‘No’ to a lot of things that come to our desk.

It’s got to fit within certain metrics to make sense.”

Which brings us to Fisher. If there was a single moment that announced the Bay’s arrival on the national stage, it was that summer concert at Bay Oval — the first-ever music event held at the iconic stadium. In hindsight, it seems like a guaranteed success. But at the time, it was a bold gamble. And while their homes weren’t literally on the line, a flop would have set their business back years.

They’d invested half a decade securing Bay Oval and were determined to headline the first show with a global name. Still, having toured Fisher the previous year, they worried it might be too soon to bring him back.

“We thought if we brought him to the Mount in the middle of summer, put him on at Bay Oval with the right line-up around him, and marketed it properly, it would work,” Toby says. “We’re entrepreneurs at heart. We’ve lived with risk for so long that we’ve learned to thrive under that pressure.”

Adds Mitch: “We’ve done massive things here in the past, like Bay Dreams, but to promise one of the biggest acts in the world that they could come to this little region and still do the same numbers that they do in Auckland or Christchurch was pretty ballsy. It paid off.

“We were doubting ourselves right up until that moment we went on sale,” Mitch grins. “Within five minutes, we were like, ‘Okay, we ’re good.”

“Fisher was a proof of concept. We wanted to show what was possible,” Toby says. “The goal was to prove that the Bay could deliver numbers and production values comparable to the big cities.”

It certainly did. Over 20,000 punters packed into the Oval for the show. But it wasn’t all locals. More than 82 percent of the punters who attended were from out of town, truly making the Mount the hottest place to be in the whole country that weekend.

Tauranga mayor Mahe Drysdale describes the Fisher concert as an “amazing success for our city”.

“It worked really well,” he tells me. “The feedback we’ve had is that it was an awesome venue, and there’s an opportunity there to grow. Bay Oval is a real jewel in our crown. We’ ve had some really great cricket events over the summer, which is what it’s set up for, but we’ve said to Bay Oval, we really want to see more music acts and other events there.”

The one-two punch of Fisher, followed a week later by the UB40 with Ali Campbell concert, has proved the Oval works as a “legitimate venue”. Mahe says promoters can now have confidence that the Bay can successfully pull off these sorts of big events.

“Once one person’s done it, it opens up a whole lot more opportunities in the future,” he says. “We’ve identified events as being one of our priorities and one of our strategies to make this a better place. We want events here because of what they do for our region, for the accommodation providers, the local businesses, the hospo businesses, and for the sense of vibrancy that they attract. We can see the economic benefits of what events do for our city.”

He says the council is actively going out and finding ways to accomplish this strategy, pointing to the upcoming World Triathlon Series as an example.

“We’ ve got three years of world-class athletes coming to our city to compete,” he says. “There are so many events out there that we can attract. We’re really excited.”

But what is it that’s attracting these events to the region? Why are organisers increasingly choosing to put on events here?

“The Bay is blessed with natural beauty. That’s certainly a big part of why it’s attractive,” he says.

“A lot of people want to come here, so when events are on, people jump at the opportunity to come and enjoy the region. It’s a win-win,” he smiles.

“We can share our beautiful city, but also they help drive our economy. They have a significant economic and social benefit.”

One of the best examples of this economic and cultural coming together is the annual AIMS Games. The week-long multi-sport tournament brings together thousands of Year 7 and 8 students from across

New Zealand and the Pacific to compete in 27 different sporting codes, generating a tangible excitement as well as some serious cash for the region.

“Last year we had just over 14,000 athletes from 431 schools,” Kelly Schischka, the AIMS Games tournament director, tells UNO. “They compete in sport, make new memories and new friends in fit-for-purpose sports venues across the region. That, for us, is what makes it work so well.”

Add in coaches, managers, officials and supporters, and that number jumps to 29,558, with a whopping 23,425 of those coming in from out of town. This one event alone generated a huge $9,751,958 of tourism expenditure in Tauranga.

“Economically, the AIMS Games makes a big contribution, but more so, it really builds that pride of being hosts. That’s incredibly important,” Kelly says. “You can’t stage an event without the support of the community, and we absolutely have that with the AIMS Games. We’re incredibly lucky.”

The event started here in 2004 and has steadily grown in popularity ever since. The week-long event now takes over 29 different venues around Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.

“The AIMS Games have really helped shape Tauranga’s identity as an event city. There’s nothing quite like being in town when they’re on,” Kelly smiles. “There are 14,000 kids here for a week-long sleepover with their friends. The energy levels are incredibly high. It’s hard not to get caught up in that. It’s a really special thing to be a part of.”

Along with the AIMS Games, Kelly says there are many events that are now synonymous with Tauranga, making it a vibrant place to live, and encouraging people to visit. There’s the

Tauranga Marathon, the Jazz Festival, the Arts Festival, the Flavours of Plenty food festival and the Mount Festival of Multisport, one of the country’s longest-running and most iconic triathlons, to name just a few.

“These are part of the fabric of Tauranga,” Kelly says. “We’ve proven ourselves to be able to host international sporting events and fantastic music events incredibly well. It’s great for those of us who live here to be a part of that, and it’s fantastic to be able to showcase our city to different types of visitors who are here for different types of events.”

Things may feel big now, but it really is just the beginning, as national and international events are increasingly attracted by the region’s stunning backdrop, infrastructure and proven ability to be welcoming hosts for major events.

“It ’s an exciting time,” Toby enthuses. “We have agents and artists from all over the world wanting to come down and work with us. There’s a lot of exciting projects in the pipeline right across the country, including here in the Bay.”

“I agree,” Mitch nods. “I have the feeling now that I had when we launched Bay Dreams back in the day. It feels like the start of something big. We literally have the biggest acts in the world asking us to do cool things.”

After the triumph of Fisher, the pair are already working on next summer's show. They know Fisher's a tough act to follow. I cheekily ask who's on their radar and they both grin and say there's some exciting options on the table. Just before I leave, I mention that it's a great time to be living in the Bay.

"It's exciting," Mitch agrees. "And this is just the start."

“ THE GOAL WAS TO PROVE THAT THE BAY COULD DELIVER NUMBERS AND PRODUCTION VALUES COMPARABLE TO THE BIG CITIES. ”

When food, culture and creativity collide to make our region the place to be.

FLAVOURS OF PLENTY

The Bay's foodie extravaganza

PAGE 30

RAISING CHAMPIONS

Kelly Van Dyk's thoroughbred legacy

PAGE 44

MAPPING AND MENTORING

Charting the seabed, shaping careers

PAGE 48

TUFTS

OF TALENT

Wool artist Leah Creaven

PAGE 58

PLATES A PLENTY

In its most ambitious festival yet, Flavours of Plenty continues to champion the freshest and finest of the Bay. From daring flavour pairings to blind cocktail tastings, this year is shaping up to be a standout.

WORDS SUE HOFFART

Coastal Bay of Plenty chefs are pushing culinary boundaries with such gusto, they have ensured the biggest Flavours of Plenty Festival yet.

Festival director Rae Baker says this year’s eating extravaganza will bring almost 60 food events to the region, beginning in mid-April and running over 18 days.

“It’s almost quadrupled in size since we started five years ago,” Rae says.

“That’s partly because we have all these stunning food products and growers and producers here of course, but it’s our restaurants and cafes and chefs who have really driven the numbers up. So many of them have stepped aside from their everyday offerings and conjured all these exciting new ways to feed us.”

Rae says festival events will include contests and

workshops, food tours and market days. Some will happen in intriguing venues like a cinema or an art gallery, a community garden, a sculpture park or a marae. However, more than half will unfold inside established eateries and hospitality venues between Ōhope and Waihī Beach.

“We just couldn’t do this without our heroic hospo people. Plenty of them have been through tough times in recent years and yet here they are with all this energy and enthusiasm, making edible magic for us.”

She says restaurateurs have taken this year’s ‘pushing the palate’ theme to heart and devised experiences that challenge or thrill.

Like the Sip Tease offering that invites diners on a blindfolded cocktail adventure in Tauriko. Or the Wings of Fire contest that teams spicy chicken wings with music and a tattoo artist who will create fiery designs.

OTHER 2026 FESTIVAL EVENTS

INCLUDE:

“ CHEEKY AND PLAYFUL; INDULGENCE WITHOUT THE EGO. ”

FINE DINING, DONE DIRTY AT SALTWATER, MOUNT MAUNGANUI

Oysters with attitude and cocktails with character are on the menu during this determinedly unpretentious seven-course lunch. High end food and top-shelf Eurovintage drops will be teamed with a “deliciously unfancy fine-dining vibe”. Palate-pushing? Yes. But also cheeky and playful; indulgence without the ego.

Saltwater restaurant will also host the festival’s madly popular Battle of the Snack competition, where hotshot chefs are paired with rising talent to create imaginative canapés. This one always sells out quickly.

GNAM (YUM) CHA AT THE TRADING POST, PAENGAROA

An eight-dish yum cha-style lunch will carry diners from Taiwan to Tuscany.

Italian owner-chef Simone and his international kitchen crew have devised a menu that melds European flavours from his home country with Taiwanese and Singaporean flavours. If Eastern dumplings and Western ravioli had a love affair, it would taste like this, Simone says. He is also promising salads that flirt with spice and an experience that is “deliciously messy in the best way”.

POLARISING PLATES WITH NEIL SAPITULA AT SOLERA, MOUNT MAUNGANUI

The restaurant’s award-winning former head chef Neil Sapitula is asking diners to be brave when he returns to Solera for one night only. Neil’s daring five-course dinner is built around his favourite polarising ingredients and techniques. No menu will be revealed until the end, and no dishes will be explained, encouraging diners to approach each plate without bias or expectation. Embrace the unexpected, he advises guests. Optional wine matches feature natural and minimal-intervention wines, equally bold in character.

Solera is hosting two other events. A second five-course dinner, Melting Point, stars savoury ice cream in every dish. Shaken by the Sea, Stirred by the Land pairs cocktails with seafood

PLANTISSIMO AT GRATITUDE EATERY, MOUNT MAUNGANUI

Beloved for its delicious whole food menu and diverse dietary offerings, Gratitude is inviting guests to rethink the classic Italian feast. The usual kitchen team is handing over to Lombardy-born Stefano Raimondi, from Autentico, to offer a six-course vegan experience that will prove “flavour doesn’t need meat, cheese or wine to shine”. The plant-based, alcoholfree dinner will include handmade pasta though, and plenty of Italian-style warmth, generosity and soul. “It will make you rethink what’s truly essential for a happy table,” Stefano says.

FIVE GO WILD WITH FOOD AT ST AMAND, DOWNTOWN TAURANGA

Five fabulous chefs will each take charge of a course to showcase both their signature style and the region’s best produce. The degustation dinner will also star items chosen from the festival’s Plates of Plenty Challenge box, which challenges eateries to utilise a selection of locally-made artisan products or produce. Naturally, each course will be matched with a small-batch New Zealand wine.

FIVE BY FIFE AT FIFE LANE KITCHEN AND BAR, MOUNT MAUNGANUI

Five courses, each focussed on a single hero ingredient. Fife Lane will of course utilise the fire-driven style that fills its tables every week but this event is especially intent on delivering bold flavour combinations, elegant presentation, and a dining experience that celebrates craftsmanship at every level. Seating is communal, creativity is a given.

The restaurant will also host guest speakers at a Fuelling Our Future lunch to fundraise for the Kura Kai charity that feeds families in need.

SMOKE ON THE WATER AT FISHERMAN’S WHARF, ŌHOPE

Gregarious chef Paul Patterson will start his event early, cranking up custom-made wood-fired barbecues from 8am. He will utilise local fruit trees and native wood to cook and smoke a selection of beef, venison and pork in front of his harbourside restaurant. Ticketholders will be able to watch the process during the day, then return in the evening for a four-course meal featuring big flavours, bourbon and blues music. Each course will be paired with either small batch bourbon or red wine. FLAVOURSOFPLENTYFESTIVAL.COM

NOSE TO TAIL BBQ FEAST AT THE SMOKIN' GOOSE, AWAKERI

A sociable long-table banquet featuring both premium and adventurous cuts of beef, from ox tongue and beef cheeks to osso buco and bone marrow. Expect bold BBQ flavours, nibbles on arrival, a threecourse feast and a surprise dessert to push your palate. The rustic Western vibe spills over into live music and guests are invited to dust off their boots and dress to impress.

FUELLED WITH FLAVOUR

Chelsea Winter has returned with nourishing recipes so delicious, you'll be making them on repeat. Here are some simple, wholesome dishes to make everyday cooking a joy, from her latest cookbook, Nourish.

BROCCOLINI WITH WHIPPED FETA

Seriously impressive — yet very simple to prepare — you can serve this fabulously festive side dish all year round anytime you feel like escalating your green veges firmly into top gear. The whipped feta is luscious, and if you’re anything like me you won’t be able to stop swooping in with a finger to have a sneaky taste (it gets better with time, much like me). It’s also good as a dip with dukkah and toasted pitas — or with slow-roasted tomatoes. The pomegranate arils are optional here. They pop in the mouth with their fresh little bursts. I’m a sucker for toasted coriander seeds, too.

SERVES 4-6 (as a side) | PREP TIME 30 MINUTES | CHILL TIME 1 HOUR

INGREDIENTS

⅓ cup pistachios or macadamias

400–500g broccolini (or asparagus or green beans)

⅓ cup pomegranate arils (seeds)

Whipped feta:

200g feta

200g unsweetened thick

Greek yoghurt

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 clove garlic, crushed

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

¼ tsp fine white pepper

Coriander-infused oil:

METHOD

To make the whipped feta, add all the ingredients to a food processor. Whizz for a minute or two until smooth.

Alternatively, crumble the cheese into a mixing bowl, add the yoghurt and whisk until the cheese is completely broken up and becomes creamy. Add the remaining ingredients and whisk again. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to firm up a bit, or until needed.

To make the coriander-infused oil, put the oil, coriander and chilli in a small saucepan over a medium-low heat.

and fragrant. Don’t let the seeds burn, or they will turn bitter. Set aside. Toast the nuts in a small dry pan over a medium-high heat for a few minutes until fragrant and golden, shaking the pan as you go. Cool, then chop roughly. Just before serving, steam the broccolini until bright green and tender. Drain well, season with salt and pepper and toss with a little olive oil.

Smear the whipped feta on a serving plate and arrange the broccolini on top. Scatter with the nuts and pomegranate

CREAMY FRENCHSTYLE CHICKEN

Remember the Lightning Chicken from Scrumptious? It was a smash hit, but I’ve taken it up another notch here. This elevated version skips the wine in favour of rich herbs and savoury stock, adding depth of flavour, while a generous burst of lemon zest and juice brings a delightful zing you never knew you needed. Don’t worry: the cream still takes centre stage, ensuring the dish remains as comforting and indulgent as you remember. It’s amazingly simple to prepare and cook, and just offers a refined twist on a beloved classic. I mean, we can always do better, right? I get older and my recipes get better … and this one is a doozy. Use the smaller or larger amount of chicken depending on how many people you’re feeding.

SERVES 4-6

PREP TIME 15 MINUTES

COOKING TIME 30 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS

500g–1kg free-range chicken thighs, boneless and skinless

3 tbsp butter, refined (flavourless) coconut oil or avocado oil

1 cup chicken stock

25g butter or 2–3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

5 cloves garlic, finely chopped

2 tbsp lemon juice

300ml cream

1 tbsp lemon zest

12 sage leaves

1–2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (and the soft stalk part), chopped

To serve: rice, mashed potato or pasta salad or seasonal vegetables

METHOD

If you can, bring the chicken out of the fridge 30–60 minutes before cooking, so it loses its chill.

Lay the chicken on a board or plate and pat dry all over with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.

Heat a large pan over a medium-high heat. When hot, add the first measure of butter/oil, swish around to coat the pan, then add the chicken (you may need to do this in batches so you don’t crowd the pan). Leave to sizzle until golden brown on one side. Turn over to brown the other side, and repeat with any remaining chicken. Set aside in a bowl. Turn the heat down to low. Carefully add ¼ cup of the stock to the pan and let it bubble to deglaze all the cookedon goodness from the chicken. Pour this over the chicken in the bowl.

Return the pan to a low heat without

rinsing it, add the second measure of butter/oil and garlic and cook, stirring, for a minute or two until the garlic is fragrant and translucent but not browned. Add the remaining stock, then turn the heat up to medium. Return the chicken pieces to the pan along with any juices.

Simmer, uncovered, until the liquid has reduced by half (5–10 minutes), then add the lemon juice.

Add the cream, lemon zest, sage and thyme to the pan and continue to simmer until the sauce is just thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it gets too thick, you can add a little more stock to thin it down.

Taste the sauce, then season with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve the chicken with rice or mash or pasta, with your choice of salad or seasonal veges on the side.

SAVOURY MUFFINS

These are so filled with goodness, it’s nearly a meal in a muffin. I’m very picky when it comes to savoury muffins; they’re not something I’ll generally order when out and about because I like them (need them) to be a certain way. Lightish, not stodgy or crumbly. Moist (obviously I had to use that word somewhere in this book!) but not soggy. And with the right balance of flavours. These ones are loaded with veges and fresh herbs, and the dollop of tomato relish on top is a final little savoury taste explosion that makes them look a million bucks, too

SERVES 6 Texas-sized or 12 regular muffins

PREP TIME 20 MINUTES

COOK TIME 30 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS

Muffins:

1 packed cup grated zucchini

2 cups white spelt flour

⅓ cup hemp seeds

2 tsp baking powder

2 tsp paprika

2 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

(or 1 clove garlic, crushed)

½ tsp baking soda

1¼ tsp salt

½ tsp fine black pepper

¾ cup unsweetened milk of your choice

2 free-range eggs

½ cup melted butter (or ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil)

3 tbsp tomato relish, pesto, or zucchini pickle, plus extra for topping

1 tbsp lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)

1 packed cup grated carrot (or orange kūmara)

1 cup rocket or kale, finely chopped

1 cup grated cheddar cheese or crumbled feta, plus extra for topping

¼ cup fresh chives, coriander or parsley, finely chopped

Topping:

extra relish/pesto/pickle

½ onion, finely sliced, tossed in a little olive oil

3 tbsp pumpkin/sunflower seeds, coriander seeds or hemp seeds

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 190°C regular bake and line a 6- or 12-hole muffin tray with cases (or grease with coconut oil/butter and dust lightly with flour).

Add the zucchini to a small bowl with a large pinch of salt, toss to combine and leave for 5 minutes. Before using, squeeze all the excess liquid out of the zucchini.

Measure the flour, hemp seeds, baking powder, paprika, onion and garlic powders, baking soda, salt and pepper into a large mixing bowl. Stir with a whisk to combine.

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter/oil, relish and lemon juice. Make a well in the dry ingredients. Add the egg mixture and stir to combine evenly.

Add the squeezed zucchini, carrot, kale/rocket, cheese and herbs. Gently

fold until it comes together into an evenly combined batter. The mixture will seem very firm, especially if you’ve used oil. Almost like a dough. Don’t worry, this is normal.

Using a ⅓ or ½ cup measure (or scooping/rolling slightly with your hands), fill the muffin holes with the mixture.

Dollop each one with a generous amount of relish, arrange some of the sliced onion over the top and scatter with extra cheese. Sprinkle with your choice of seeds, then finish with a little salt and pepper.

Bake for 35 minutes for regular muffins, or 40 minutes for Texas- sized muffins.

Cool in the muffin tray until you can handle them, then transfer to a cooling rack. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. Best reheated the next day and served with a little butter.

PROTEIN BOOST BROWNIE

This secretly-good-for-you brownie is decadent, fudgy and jam-packed with tonnes of vital nutrients, including protein. You’ll have no idea that its secret ingredient is in fact orange kūmara (or sweet potato). But it is this totally underrated vegetable combined with the other delicious ingredients that make this brownie quite literally out of this world in so many ways. Taste, texture and nutrition; it’s a winner. And best of all, you can quite happily eat a few pieces without ruining your whole afternoon. This one’s a real crowdpleaser and can be served warm, or kept in the fridge and used in lunchboxes, for parties or as a healthy nutrient-dense snack.

MAKES 16–20 pieces

PREP TIME 20 MINUTES

COOKING TIME 40-45 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS

80g dates, finely chopped

450g orange kūmara/sweet potato

4 tbsp ground flaxseed

6 tbsp cold water

⅓ cup ground almond meal

¾ cup cacao powder

1¼ cups coconut sugar

¼ cup hemp seeds

½ cup almond butter

¼ cup ghee or melted extra virgin

coconut oil

1 tbsp pure vanilla extract

3 tbsp protein powder (optional)

1½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

¾ tsp salt

To serve:

vanilla ice cream or coconut yoghurt (optional)

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 180°C regular bake and line a 21 x 21cm square or a 27.5 x 17.5cm rectangular tin with baking paper. Soak your dates in just-boiled water for 10 minutes.

Peel the kūmara and chop into 2cm (3/4 in) cubes, place in a steamer basket and steam for 10 minutes. If you don’t have a steamer, add 2 cups of water to a saucepan and add the sweet potato, cover and simmer on a high heat for 12 minutes.

While the kūmara is cooking, combine the ground flaxseed and water together in a small bowl, stir and set aside for 5 minutes to thicken. This is called a flax egg.

Thoroughly drain the dates, and add them along with the remaining ingredients, including the flax egg, to a food processor or high-speed blender.

Once the kūmara is soft, remove from the steamer or drain well if using the simmer method. Add to the food processor, and blend on high until a silky smooth batter forms. Scrape down the sides a few times in between blitzing.

Using a spatula, scrape the batter into the prepared tin and flatten until smooth. Bake for 40–45 minutes. The brownie should be firm on top but soft and fudgy in the middle. Once removed from the oven it will sink a little, and this is okay!

Allow the brownie to cool for 30 minutes before slicing if serving warm. I prefer to refrigerate it for 3-4 hours before slicing. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 10 days.

Serve with a scoop of your favourite vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yoghurt, or enjoy as is!

WINDS OF CHANGE

There’s an undeniable buzz building in the city. But how did Downtown Tauranga get its groove back? UNO goes in search of answers.

PHOTOS NICK NEWMAN + SALINA GALVAN + BEN PARKINSON @ PABLO CREATIVE

If you’ve visited Downtown Tauranga recently, perhaps to take the kids to the waterfront’s new destination playground, or grab a delicious bite from one of the many new cafes or eateries, or while away an hour or two in the stunning new Toi Tauranga Art Gallery, then you would have noticed that change is in the air.

Walking around, there’s a new buzz and vitality present. There are people and new shops opening everywhere you turn. As a local, it’s exciting to feel a vibe coming back to the downtown area.

Genevieve Whitson, general manager of Downtown Tauranga, says this shift has been gradual but unmistakable.

“It’s been a moving beast for a considerable period of time,” she explains.

“It’s taken a lot of major stakeholders working with the businesses, and a variety of different organisations, including the local iwi, to get these developments up and running as part of this massive revitalisation. I would imagine that what the Tauranga City Centre is going through must right now be one of the biggest city centre activations happening across the country.”

The opening or near completion of major projects is really fuelling the sea change.

Te Manawataki o Te Papa, the city’s new museum, is scheduled to open in 2028. The architecturally inspiring new library opens later this year. Panorama Towers and the Craig’s Investment Partners building continue to take shape. The large, mixed-use Northern Quarter development is now open and in full operation. These projects all add to the purposeful transformation that has been highly anticipated for years.

Since joining Downtown Tauranga in September 2023, Genevieve has been able to cross items off the city’s hypothetical ‘to do’ list.

“Every year I’ve seen more and more projects get ticked off. There are still

“ WHAT THE TAURANGA CITY CENTRE IS GOING THROUGH MUST BE THE BIGGEST CITY CENTRE ACTIVATION HAPPENING ACROSS THE COUNTRY. ”

more to go, but we’re starting to reap the rewards now.”

Along with the new developments, hospitality has also played a vital and visible part in bringing new energy to the streets. The formerly sleepy Grey Street is beginning to bustle with the arrival of Stassano Deli, which Genevieve credits with helping “zhuzh up the general atmosphere,” while at the other end of the street, The Clubhouse brings a unique experience, pairing a golf simulation and a bar setting.

“We haven’t had anything in the city centre before where you can go and play golf and then enjoy a drink,” she says. “That’s pretty cool.”

Alongside the eateries and bars, shops are coming back as well, many independently owned, giving the city a growing character.

“I think it’s going to have some niche stuff that you can’t get at a mall or sometimes

anywhere else,” Genevieve enthuses.

“Over the past four months, we’ve seen an increase in businesses choosing to move into the city centre.”

The injection of approximately 700 Tauranga City Council staff into the city centre last year has also supported weekday trade, adding a reliable base of customers for cafés and retailers.

Despite the complexity of construction and on-going change, the prevailing mood is shifting. “If we compare it to two years ago, it’s considerably better and if we compare it to a year ago, it’s definitely better,” she says. “There’s a sense of optimism building.”

The exciting part is that it’s only going to get better as more projects are completed, bringing people in with them.

Genevieve cites the new playground, a Tauranga City Council initiative, as one of the most significant contributors to the renewed energy, calling it “one of the best

activations for the city centre.”

It allowed families to plan whole days around a visit. With the updated Masonic Park, the waterfront swim access complete with its popular Manu launchpad, and the Sauna Project, the area encourages people not just to visit, but to hang around.

She also mentions the Tauranga City Council and their 700 staff moving into their new building last May, as another key moment, as it brings increased foot traffic to hospitality and retail.

“The revitalisation of downtown has been a huge task. It takes time,” she explains. “Bringing that energy back is not something that you can change overnight. We've entered a marathon, not a sprint. Now we just have to be patient, because things are changing. We’ve not been without some teething problems, but things are moving in the right direction.”

DOWNTOWNTAURANGA.CO.NZ

UNCORKING NEW RULES

Alice Rule has been defying expectations since she was a schoolgirl growing up in Northland. That determination shines through in her wines, but also makes her an inspiration to be around, as UNO wine columnist Jess Easton writes.

PHOTOS RYAN MCCAULEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Told she didn’t have the smarts to study wine, there’s no small irony that Alice Rule now owns her own international wine business.

‘Encouraged’ to leave school early by sceptical teachers, she now boasts a degree and a Masters’, the latter completed after a dyslexia diagnosis as an adult, just to show she could.

Now, having barely breached her 30s, the founder of boutique Marlborough-based wine label 3Sixty2 holds down a separate fulltime job, is the mother of ridiculously cute toddling twins, takes a mean photo and spends her spare time dreaming of biodiversity and nature-based solutions.

I first met Alice through mutual buddies in 2022 and we’ve since become firm friends as our wine adventures on page 124 of this edition can attest.

She’s funny and grounded, smart and driven. She also makes delicious wine, using sustainably-sourced grapes and taking a deep, respectful bow to nature in everything she produces.

Her wines exude confidence they know what they want to be. I really rate her Sauvignon Blanc, which stays true to the Marlborough region but brings in a balanced acidity and structure. Her Chardonnay has soul and her Pinot Noir is made with the passion and precision that only a small-scale producer can attain.

But like any great wine, it’s always the backstory which makes the vintage that much more spectacular.

That undiagnosed dyslexia, in hindsight, was like a giant brake on Alice’s schooling, and it took some time to find the tools to help her shine.

Leaving school at 17, she worked in a café before heading to Hawke’s Bay to study winemaking at CIT. Even then, those first few years were near impossible, but a supportive dean encouraged her to keep trying and she was eventually awarded Esk Valley top viticulture student.

Her first years in local vineyards were also a struggle, as a young female battling to be taken seriously. So, she figured she would go to work for the one person who truly believed in what she was doing herself and launched 3Sixty2 in 2016.

In the meantime, she completed the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme, investigating glass recycling in New Zealand, and introduced a range of sustainable measures into her business, like becoming the first New Zealand producer to have a complete climatepositive wine portfolio, certified with CarbonClick.

I asked Alice, ‘where to next?’ and she laughed heartily. Doors which used to slam shut keep springing open, and her next phase is picking which one to venture through.

You get the feeling, as the song goes, she’s only just begun.

Jess Easton is a director and owner of Kitchen Takeover and Saint wine bar, complementing her career as a Tauranga-based lawyer.

WHAT ’ S ON

Winter may be on its way, but our city events calendar is only heating up. From vibrant jazz and foodie festivals to ballet and sport, there’s something happening for everyone from April through July.

PORT OF TAURANGA NATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

Runs until April 6 — various locations in the city

Now in its 63rd year, New Zealand’s longest-running jazz festival fills the city with music over Easter. Catch the country’s finest jazz and soul talent alongside international acts, from Baycourt’s Concert Series to Easter weekend’s Uptown Downtown, with performances across bars, restaurants and outdoor stages in the city centre. On Good Friday, The Historic Village hosts the much-loved New Orleans-inspired Jazz Village — a full day of live music and great food in true festival spirit.

BARK IN THE PARK

April 11 – Memorial Park, Jordan Field

A free, dog-friendly day at Memorial Park. Connect with fellow dog owners and enjoy a relaxed morning out, complete with live music, food trucks, dog play zones and prizes a tailwagging event for the whole whānau.

DAZZLEHANDS

April 12 – Baycourt Community & Arts Centre

The award-winning children’s book by Sacha Cotter and Josh Morgan springs to life in a vibrant ballet adaptation. Created by Royal New Zealand Ballet Principal Joshua Guillemot-Rodgerson and Lauren Byrne, this delightful production features original music, playful costumes and plenty of heart a magical experience for young audiences and their grown-ups.

FLAVOURS OF PLENTY FESTIVAL

April 16 – May 3 – various locations

The Flavours of Plenty Festival is an annual celebration of the Coastal Bay of Plenty’s vibrant food scene, and this year’s “Pushing the Palate” theme brings a bold showcase of fearless flavour, creative flair and culinary innovation across more than 50 events, offering something for everyone to savour.

ANZAC DAY

April 25 – services citywide Come together to honour past and present servicemen and women on our national day of remembrance.

ANZAC Day services will be held across Tauranga, providing an opportunity to reflect, pay respects and acknowledge the sacrifice of those who have served.

MAGIC NETBALL

April 18 Magic vs Mystics & May 9 Magic vs Steel – Mercury Baypark Experience the thrill of live netball as the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic take to the court at Mercury Baypark. Two fast-paced, high-energy matches are coming to town promising edge-ofyour-seat action right through to the final whistle. It’s a family-friendly event and always a fun night out with friends.

HEALTHVISION FESTIVAL OF DISABILITY SPORT

May 23-24 – Mercury Baypark, Club

Mount Maunganui & Tauranga Marina

A two-day celebration of inclusive sport and the power of participation brings physically disabled athletes from across Aotearoa together to compete in wheelchair basketball, rugby, boccia and rugby league. The community can also join in with have-a-go sessions including inclusive play, badminton and more.

BALLOON DOG

May 28-29 – Baycourt Community & Arts Centre

Award winning Indian Ink brings new life to one of India’s most-loved tales, Kabuliwala, transporting it from 1800s Calcutta to 21st-century Auckland in a stirring stage adaptation that reminds us how much we share, even when we seem worlds apart. Balloon Dog offers everything audiences adore: humour, heart, live music, and pure theatrical magic!

PROJECT HIP HOP DANCE COMPETITION

May 30 – June 1 – Mercury Baypark Project is back bigger and more electrifying than ever. Over King’s Birthday weekend, more than 1,000 young dancers from across Aotearoa will light up the stage at Mercury Baypark with explosive hip hop and world-class choreography in a powerful celebration of youth talent and creativity.

FOODIE FINDS

Discover the latest delicious treats, drinks and pantry must-haves.

FROZEN FUN

Made in Nelson from real fruit and flaxseed, Fruzio Smoothie Pops are naturally sweet, dairy- and gluten-free, and packed with flavour. Eat them frozen for a cheeky snack or thaw for a no-mess smoothie, great for lunch boxes, post-workout treats or whenever you need a fruity pick-me-up. RRP$7.99. Available at PAK’nSAVE and New World.

SMOOTH OPERATOR

If your knives feel dull, HORL® might just change the way you cook. This German rolling sharpener glides along blades with a magnetic guide, making precision effortless. Beautifully crafted and surprisingly addictive to use, it turns sharpening into a satisfying ritual rather than a chore. RRP$209. knifeshop.co.nz

HORL.COM/EN-NZ

WILD WHISKEY

Peanut butter meets whiskey in this Canadian tipple, Skrewball, a smooth, balanced blend of salty and sweet. It’s an unexpected twist on a classic. Perfect in cocktails, we’ve tried one out for ourselves, and you can too! RRP$58.99. Available at all good liquor stores.

PUMPKIN PEANUT BUTTER ESPRESSO MARTINI

40ml Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey

20ml coffee liqueur

15ml pumpkin syrup

60ml espresso

Dash of pumpkin spice

Directions: Combine ingredients into a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously. Strain into a glass. Sprinkle with pumpkin spice and enjoy!

LIQUID GOLD

A golden kitchen staple with local roots, Ashley & Co. has teamed up with The Good Oil on a limited-edition extra virgin sunflower oil. Cold-pressed from Canterbury-grown seeds and bottled in a handy squeeze pack, it’s made for everything from dressings to roasting. RRP$18 ASHLEYANDCO.CO

FIZZY FIX

Dreamed up by a Wellington mum juggling endometriosis and exhaustion, JUNA is a lightly sparkling wellness drink that delivers vitamins and minerals for energy and mood. With just 21 calories and 98 percent less sugar than typical soft drinks, it’s wellness that tastes more like a treat than a task. RRP$6 for one or $50 for a 12 pack online. Singles available at FreshChoice. DRINKJUNA.COM

TAKING THE REINS

At just 34, Kelly Van Dyk is taking on the male-dominated horse racing industry, and winning. She tells Karl Puschmann all about Prima Park, the world-class facility she heads and the challenges she’s faced to get to the front of the pack.

PHOTOS CHRISTINE CORNEGÉ + SUPPLIED

In the world of horse racing, everyone knows that bloodline is key. A horse’s pedigree reliably indicates what racing traits it will inherit and, most importantly, its champion potential. But, it turns out, you can extrapolate the bloodline theory out to the world of horse training as well.

Kelly Van Dyk is a third-generation horsewoman, a former champion equestrian and New Zealand representative, and now the head of Prima Park, the prominent, family-run thoroughbred farm and equine facility located in Matamata, the heart of New Zealand's racing country.

“My grandfather Brian trained racehorses as a hobby,” Kelly explains. “He’d take my mother, Louise, and her sister for riding lessons and decided he was going to try and train and breed racehorses himself. He was quite successful in doing that, and mum was a very successful rider herself, competing in events at a high level.”

When Kelly came along, Brian wasted no time in introducing his granddaughter to the sport.

“He bought me a pony when I was really young. I rode from when I could walk,” she says.

Brian’s plan worked. “I caught the bug,” she laughs. But, so had her whole family.

Her dad, Leighton, retired from the family business, the popular furniture chain Van Dyks Furniture, in 2010 to focus on the fillies. He bought two weanlings, foals that are six months old, intending to resell them. There was, however, a big problem.

“I was at the height of my dressage career riding in Germany, when dad rang me up and said, ‘I’ve bought these two horses. I don't really know what to do with them. You’d better come home.’”

So, she did. Kelly and her dad took those weanlings to the New Zealand Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale, sold them for a profit and then did it again. And again. And again. Eventually, she was able to leave the job she’d taken at Waikato Stud, where she’d been studiously learning the “tricks of the trade”, to work on Prima Park full time.

With Kelly’s sole focus on the business, things started to take off. They outgrew the family farm in Putararu, where they’d been since 1992, and moved to a bigger property in Mystery Creek in 2016. They wouldn’t be there long.

In 2022, Kelly took the reins, so to speak, to head the company. She expanded both Prima Park’s offerings and its premises, moving the company to its world-class 50ha facility in Matamata.

“Mum and dad were getting older and wanted to take a step back. It’s a demanding job, very physical, hands-on work,” Kelly explains. “I felt like I was just getting started. I had that hunger and drive to really sink my teeth into it. I could see the opportunity.”

Prima Park’s business expanded to include the services it offers today, including breaking-in, pre-training, and agistment, all supported by its purpose-built equine facility, which even includes an 800-meter training track allowing specialised preparation for the yearling and Ready to Run bloodstock sales.

The success has been notable. Prima Park has graduated multiple top-tier racehorses, including Beat The Clock,

a four-time Group 1 winner and Hong Kong Sprinter of the Year, and Warmonger, the 2024 Group 1 Queensland Derby winner. They’ve also won strong market recognition by consistently producing highvalue sales in the yearlings and Ready-to-Run sales. As well as the local market, Prima Park’s horses are also sold into Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia. At last year’s New Zealand Bloodstock sale, they sold 18 of their 19 horses, making them the second leading vendor by aggregate, a new milestone for the facility, and selling the second highest horse of the sale for a whopping $775,000.

What makes it all the more impressive is that Kelly is the only woman in Australasia running a facility of this scale. Something that she says hasn’t always been easy.

“It’s been hard because I’m dealing with males 24-7 in the industry,” she admits. “But I wanted to prove that women could do this and that we can do anything. I have my own goals of what I want to achieve, and just because I’m a woman, it doesn’t mean that I can’t do it.

It’s just choosing a path you want to go down and sticking to it, really.”

Another challenge is balancing her love of horses with the commercial realities of needing to sell them on. She spends months with these animals and gets to know them and their personalities intimately.

“You’ve got to separate your emotions because you form a bond with them, you love the horse, but we do need to sell them. I wouldn’t say it gets easier. It’s just part of it. But there’s satisfaction in knowing that you’ve installed a lot of groundwork that then becomes results on the track.”

“Ultimately, we want to prepare horses to go on and do great things,” she says. “That’s what we keep our focus on. It’s getting better and better every year. We’ve got some big goals, and we want to keep building and producing quality horses that win big races.”

Then, smiling, she adds, “This is just the beginning.”

PRIMAPARK.CO.NZ

INTO UNCHARTED WATERS

While making Aotearoa’s coastline and seabeds safer for all, Discovery Marine has also taken a novel and highly commendable approach to encouraging young people into the industry. Company CEO Declan Stubbing explains all to UNO.

PHOTOS KATIE COX + SUPPLIED

It’s hard to believe, but as a species, we’ve mapped the surfaces of the moon and Mars in higher resolution than much of our own seafloor. It’s estimated that around 75 percent of the world’s seabed remains a mystery.

But that is changing. Discovery Marine (DML), a company based in Mount Maunganui, is charting and surveying the seabed not just in Aotearoa, but also in Australia and the Pacific, in great detail, using high-definition 3D technology.

“There are a few uncharted areas remaining on the New Zealand coastline,” Declan Subbing says. “The Wairarapa coast is one area that is largely unsurveyed, and we currently have a team down in Moeraki, near Otago mapping an uncharted area.”

Declan is the CEO of DML, whose core business is hydrographic surveying and mapping the seafloor. To perform this technical and demanding work, their boats are equipped with state-of-the-art sonar systems that produce 3D data. This data accurately paints a picture of the seafloor, right down to the pebble.

“It essentially visualises the whole seabed,” Declan explains. “We’re able to make sure we’ve got every rock, every pebble, positioned and that everything is mapped accurately.”

This is important information for a range of industries. Part of their work is updating the nautical charts for the New Zealand Hydrographic Authority at Land Information New Zealand. These charts are relied upon by various seafaring businesses. There are some areas that were surveyed over 50 years ago using equipment that Declan describes as “similar to a fish finder”.

“We’re tasked with surveying the high-risk areas where there's a lot of shipping traffic, using our modern 3D multi-beam echo sounders to update those charts,” Declan says. “There are changes to the coastline and rocks or other hazards that might have been missed. That does happen occasionally around New Zealand ’s coastline.”

DML is also busy in and around our ports, monitoring the impact of dredging, tracking sandwaves which migrate up and down the harbour, and providing data that ensures critical clearance levels for the massive container ships that visit are maintained.

DML's work gives the ports more confidence on where and when it’s safe to navigate ships.

“We survey the harbour seabed in 3D, which gets turned into navigation products for pilots,” he adds.

Declan studied hydrography, the name given to the science of underwater surveying at University of Otago.

Shortly before graduating, Greg Cox, the founder of DML, got in touch with the School of Surveying to see if anyone there was interested in a job in hydrography. Declan was keen and became the company’s very first employee. The team now comprises 16.

DML faces a number of challenges when recruiting, because of the specialist skills required and graduates being lured overseas. Declan says they identified this as a “risk to the business growing” five years ago. To tackle the problem, they came up with an innovative solution.

“We thought ‘How are we going to be able

“ YOU KNOW YOU’VE CONTRIBUTED TO IMPROVING COASTAL NAVIGATION AND MAKING OUR COASTLINES SAFER.”

to encourage people into hydrography?’” He says. “That’s how we came up with the concept of offering a scholarship at the School of Surveying at Otago University.”

With many of their current staff having attended the university, it was a solution that held great appeal.

“We’ve got a really strong connection there,” Declan smiles. “I really like the idea of being able to give back to the institution that gave me a lot.”

Their scholarship covers full course fees for a final year surveying student who is undertaking research connected to hydrography. It also offers them support with their research, an internship at DML, exposure to the industry and opportunities to attend conferences with the DML team. A true kick start into the industry.

Their commitment doesn’t stop there. Employees at DML are encouraged to continue developing and gain

certification within the industry.

“We really push the certification angle within our business. We like the idea that you’re always working towards something. It keeps people motivated and it’s great when someone’s awarded a new certification. It’s a real reason to celebrate because it's a recognition of the hard work they’ve put in.”

Just across the ditch, demand for certified hydrographic surveyors is exploding with the Government committing to a 10-year programme of nautical charting work, to which DML was appointed to a panel of suppliers.

He says it’s “enormously satisfying” work, and would encourage people to consider it as a career.

“You see where your effort has gone. At the end of the day, you know you’ve contributed to improving coastal navigation and making our coastal communities safer.”

SEA OF POSSIBILITIES

Kate Downes, senior hydrographic surveyor at DML, swaps land for ocean depths and discovers a world of adventure.

With her interest in maths and geography, Kate Downes had been drawn to surveying as a career. But when she learned about hydrographic surveying, her plans quickly changed.

“I went along to an open day at Otago University, where they talked about surveying and explained it. I was like, ‘Yep, this is definitely what I want to do’. Then they talked about hydrographic surveying specifically, which hadn’t been well-advertised, and my ears pricked up. It sounded exciting. My family had a

boat, so I was familiar with the water. It was right up my alley.”

Realising hydrographic surveying could be a ticket to see the world, Kate dived in. Upon graduating, she moved to Perth to work for one of the biggest survey companies in the world. During her five-year stint, she learned as much as she could from those she worked with and “doubled down on travelling”. She’d be rostered offshore for six weeks at a time, and then have six weeks off to do whatever she wanted. Which was seeing the world.

Eventually, she decided she wanted to come back home and be closer to family.

Since joining DML, she has excelled and is one of only six women across Australasia to earn the highest level of certification in hydrography. Now, as a senior member of the DML team, she leads their major nautical charting projects for the New Zealand and Australian Governments.

“It’s always been about seeing new places. That’s one of the draw cards,” she smiles.

“We’re in remote places, seeing cool things. We see whales offshore all the time. Stuff like that I’m really interested in.”

“WE'RE ALWAYS IN REMOTE PLACES , SEEING COOL THINGS. WE SEE WHALES OFFSHORE ALL THE TIME. ”

MAKING WAVES

Charting hidden coastlines, Georgia Pendred, graduate hydrographic surveyor at DML, discovers adventure and a strong sense of purpose.

Georgia is chasing her dreams without compromising her lifestyle.

It’s a rare day off the boat for Georgia Pendred when UNO calls.

“At the moment, I ’m in Dunedin, Moeraki specifically, for a big three-month-ish, maybe longer job we're doing,” she says. “We towed one of our biggest boats down from the Mount, and each day we head out and do our survey.”

It’s not a bad way to spend a summer’s day. Even today, the weather is “a bit stinky”, meaning the team is staying on land. The team rotates out every two weeks, so she’ll be on the water for another week before returning to the office for two weeks, creating the perfect field to office balance

“Travelling is a big perk, and it ’s really fun,” she enthuses. “You get to see some cool locations and remote spots that not many other people would see. Parts of the Moeraki coastline, for example, hasn't been charted before.”

A Tauranga native, Georgia grew up around the water. Her family had a little boat, and they’d go out to Matakana Island for a BBQ or go biscuiting on the lakes. Even still, she didn’t realise her career would see her oceanbound. Instead, her focus was on land.

“I wanted to do environmental management. I love the sustainability side of things and protecting our earth. That's what led me to a Bachelor of Surveying at Otago University,” she explains. “Hydrographic surveying popped up as a paper that you could take as an elective. The lecturer, Emily Tidey, an industry role model, was so passionate about it and really sold it to me. I realised it was still the environment and still looking after our planet. Only on water, not land.”

She took the paper and “fell in love” with the subject. After that, she focused all her energy on hydrographic surveying.

She says it’s an ideal career for people who

love the outdoors, because “you’re doing fieldwork all the time.” It would also suit people who enjoy problem-solving, as things pop up every day that need troubleshooting.

As for surveying being a math-heavy career? Georgia is happy to bust that myth.

“I suck at math,” she laughs. “I dropped out in year 11. I love literacy, history, classics and all that stuff. When deciding to do surveying, I knew math was going to be a challenge.”

She says that while the degree does get math-heavy, if you’re determined, you can get through it.

“I put my mind to it, and put my head down. I asked a lot of questions, and because we’re a tight-knit group at the School of Surveying, I had a lot of support from my lecturers and classmates. If you’re motivated, definitely give it a go,” she says. “Don’t be afraid of surveying or scared off because everyone says that it ’s math-heavy.

I managed to get through it, and actually came out the other end with the math papers being my highest subjects!”

While at university, Georgia was awarded the DML scholarship for her final year where she completed an Honors research project. This enabled her to gain insight into the industry and complete an internship before accepting a graduate role at DML.

She’s already taking advantage of the opportunities to progress towards certification. “I’m starting to chip away at that,” she says.

Talking with her, it’s clear how passionate she is about her work, and the impact it has on the environment. She’d love to see more women taking it up.

“There aren’t many women in surveying in general, and then it gets even more niche when you go into hydro,” she says. “But it’s definitely changing, and DML is representing that really well. It's really cool to know we’re part of a new generation that's changing things. I'd like to keep that going.

DMLSURVEYS.CO.NZ

“ IT'S REALLY COOL TO KNOW WE'RE PART OF A NEW GENERATION THAT'S CHANGING THINGS. ”

MAKING FRIENDS

As the collection grows, Tauranga locals are already stepping inside the story of their new museum.

WORDS PIP CROMBIE

Steadily rising, the Tauranga Museum project, part of the Te Manawataki o Te Papa city centre redevelopment, is well underway and set to open in July 2028. Its steel frame is already complete, with mass timber components to follow, and the roof and external cladding will soon reveal the distinctive shape of Tauranga’s first central city museum. But while the building itself is taking form, the museum is already coming to life, and there are plenty of ways for the community to be part of it now.

Working from the Mount Maunganui Museum warehouses, museum director Greg McManus and his team are full steam ahead expanding staff, planning for the grand opening, securing loans of local taonga from around the world, and coordinating the two major exhibitions that will launch in the galleries. For McManus, the museum

is already becoming an active part of Tauranga’s cultural landscape.

“We hold regular activities that engage the local community in what we already have on offer,” he says. “History walking tours, public art tours, educational programmes and collection tours that provide a snapshot of the more than 35,000 pieces of history in our care.”

Individuals and groups can sign up for these tours, with one proviso, that you must join the free Friends of Tauranga Museum membership to take part in the events. Once you subscribe, you’ll be joining a growing community of more than 1,420 members. And who couldn’t use a few more friends?

Membership also brings a quarterly newsletter to your inbox, featuring upcoming events, snippets of local and international museum news and trends, insights into artefacts that will eventually feature in the museum, and other information reserved for Friends. It’s not an exclusive club. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The aim is to build a diverse

community of museum supporters well before the doors officially open in 2028.

In September 2025, the museum launched the inaugural Tauranga in the Spring photography competition. Judged by award-winning local photographers Michal Pinkerton and Bob Tulloch, the competition attracted 48 entries in the under-18 category and 54 in the over-18 category.

“The quality of the entries was simply outstanding. We were so impressed,” says marketing and communications manager Nineke Metz. “We’ll be running the competition again this year with a new theme to be announced.”

Excellent prizes will be on offer, and the winning images will be shared publicly. If you’re over 16, sign up as a Friend of Tauranga Museum to be among the first to hear the competition details, and to gain a whole new perspective on what promises to be a rich cultural journey for Tauranga.

LETSTALK.TAURANGA.GOVT.NZ/ PROJECTS/TAURANGA-MUSEUM

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BETWEEN THE LINES

Fresh reads and page-turners to add to your reading list.

THE BLACK MONK

By Charlotte Grimshaw

Penguin Random House

New Zealand author Charlotte Grimshaw is known for her sharp, psychologically rich storytelling, and The Black Monk is no exception. Following Alice Lidell, the novel weaves family secrets, memory and the enigmatic figure of the Black Monk into a mesmerising tale. Part psychological thriller, part intimate family saga, Grimshaw blurs fact and imagination with unsettling precision.

SEED

By Elisabeth Easther

Penguin Random House Motherhood, friendship and chaos collide in this laugh-out-loud novel about four women chasing the lives they think they want. Hillary’s baby plans are scheduled by her fertility app, Maggie’s juggling single motherhood and dating apps, Shelley’s back at work proving her worth, and midwife Virginia suddenly wants a baby of her own, by any means necessary. Hilarious, painfully relatable and big-hearted, Seed captures the highs, lows and absurdities of wanting more.

THE DEAD SPEAK: MY LIFE IN FORENSICS

By Thomas Coyle Allen & Unwin

What can the dead tell us? Quite a lot, it turns out. In The Dead Speak, veteran forensic investigator Thomas Coyle takes readers behind the tape of more than three decades working some of the world’s most confronting scenes. From meticulous casework at Scotland Yard to disaster victim identification after the Boxing Day tsunami and the Christchurch earthquake, Coyle reveals how the smallest fragment of evidence can unlock the truth. Darkly funny and deeply humane, this is forensics from the inside.

DREAM DEALER

By Greg Newbold Allen & Unwin

Former drug dealer turned academic Greg Newbold recounts his unlikely journey from Paremoremo prison to becoming one of the country’s leading criminologists at the University of Canterbury. Fast-moving and frank, the memoir offers a vivid glimpse into 1970s prison life while charting a remarkable story of second chances and a life lived on both sides of the law.

THE ATOMIC HABITS WORKBOOK

By James Clear Penguin Randomhouse

James Clear’s The Atomic Habits Workbook turns habit-building into something practical, and even a little fun. Packed with simple exercises, it helps you turn his bestselling ideas from his first book, Atomic Habits, into daily action, navigate setbacks and build routines that stick. Think of it as a hands-on guide to lasting behaviour change, making goals achievable one small habit at a time.

LOST IN THE WILD – A DOGS’ TALE

By Maria Artho Goat Island Publishing

This heart-warming children’s book follows two small dogs on a gripping adventure through New Zealand’s rugged bush. Maddi and Borrie dodge feral goats, boars and possums while their family races to find them. Part Lassie Come Home, part conservation lesson, it’s a feel-good, edgeof-your-seat story that introduces young readers to courage, survival and the impact of introduced predators, with a distinctly Kiwi backdrop.

EVENTS WITH HEART

Host it differently at The Historic Village. Character venues, flexible spaces and inspired catering make for unforgettable moments.

You are invited to discover the charm and versatility of venue hire at The Historic Village in the heart of Tauranga.

From early-morning breakfast meetings to relaxed after-hours celebrations and weekend weddings, The Historic Village offers six distinctive indoor venues and four outdoor spaces, each brimming with character. The venues lend themselves well to breakfast meetings, community

events, smaller training sessions, Christmas functions, weddings and a wide range of celebrations.

Host a corporate presentation in the grand Balcony Room, complete with quality on-site catering, a licensed bar and seamless indoor-outdoor flow onto a wraparound timber deck overlooking The Village. Or choose the beautifully restored Chapel, where warm wooden detailing and an intimate atmosphere

create a memorable backdrop for ceremonies and gatherings.

From the Village Hall and Cinema to the Schoolhouse and Durham Barracks, flexible layouts and a dedicated events team ensure every detail is thoughtfully delivered. At The Historic Village, you’re partnering with people who genuinely care about bringing your vision to life.

HISTORICVILLAGE.CO.NZ/VENUE-HIRE

CREATIVE CURRENTS

In Mount Maunganui, Arte Haus Gallery is gaining a reputation for showcasing thoughtful contemporary work from both emerging and established New Zealand artists.

From luminous glass sculpture to expressive painting, contemporary photography, ceramics and woven works, the gallery showcases creativity, craftsmanship and the remarkable talent shaping today’s art scene.

Among the more eye-catching works are the glass birds, bees and butterflies created by New Zealand glass artist Luke Jacomb. Hand-cast and individually finished, the small sculptural pieces capture something of nature’s delicacy and movement. Their luminous colours add a playful energy while retaining a refined, sculptural quality.

to transform a sunrise harbour scene into vibrant

Photography also finds a painterly edge in the work of Photographer Jay Drew. Her piece Neon Awakenings uses intentional camera movement to transform a sunrise harbour scene into vibrant bands of colour and light.

Together, the works offer a glimpse into the breadth of contemporary creativity currently being explored within New Zealand’s art landscape.

If your out and about in the Mount then this hidden gem is a gallery worthy of a wander.

View more of the exciting artworks in gallery or online at artehaus.co.nz

Painter Emma Davie brings a more contemplative tone with her work Within Silence. Built up through layered oil and acrylic, the painting balances gestural movement with texture. The work was recently selected as a finalist in the Craigs Aspiring Artist Awards, highlighting the strength of her developing

practice.

TUFT LOVE

Irish-born textile artist Leah Creaven explores landscape through richly textured rug-tufted works made with New Zealand wool.

Rug tufting might be having a moment, but for textile artist Leah Creaven it’s a deeply personal way of translating landscape and feeling into form. Here, she talks process, inspiration and why working with wool feels like painting with fibre.

UNO: What first drew you to this medium, and what continues to captivate you about it? Leah: I was drawn to rug tufting a few years after finishing my degree in Textiles and Surface Design in Dublin. I started creating small art with a punch needle and wanted to work on a larger scale, so I guess I started rug tufting out of a desire to explore scale and impact. I ’m continuously captivated by the freedom that rug tufting gives you. In my eyes it ’s like painting with wool, but with the outcome being both beautiful and tactile. The repetitive rhythm of tufting is also meditative and helps me to shut out the noise (while music blares in my earpods!).

Your pieces often blend influences from both Irish landscapes and the land around you in Aotearoa New Zealand. How do these environments shape the stories you tell through your art? Ireland shapes the inner landscape of the pieces

with memory and emotion. It’s less about depicting Ireland directly and more about carrying its emotional weight a way of feeling land as archive and as something storied and tender. Visually, however, my response is grounded in New Zealand where I now live. The land here informs the physical language of the work. In that sense, my work kind of exists between inheritance and observation, emotionally anchored in Ireland and visually shaped by Aotearoa which allows them to hold both memory and presence at the same time.

Can you talk about your creative process, from initial concept to finished piece, and how you decide on colour palettes and forms? My process usually begins with an idea or a feeling that I hash out with my husband or my dad. I ’m a big communicator and voicing these ideas helps me make sense of them before they become visual. They ’re normally responses to landscape or a memory or a shift in light. I ’ll sketch loosely on my iPad, mostly abstract shapes that suggest contour or horizon, but I leave space for the work to evolve once I begin tufting. Colour is often the

first concrete decision (and the most exciting one!). I build a palette guided by emotional tone or seasonal shifts. Then I ’ll test combinations by tufting colour samples to see which complement or compete with each other. Then it is time to bring my drawing to woolen-life on my canvas.

You consciously choose New Zealand wool for your art. What significance does this material have for you beyond its physical qualities? Choosing New Zealand wool is a conscious way of grounding my work in the place where it is grown. Beyond its durability, wool carries a sense of locality. Using it allows the work to hold a direct relationship to its environment and embeds the landscape quite literally into the surface. Wool also holds warmth. It has clothed, sheltered and comforted people for generations. In my work, it reinforces the themes of grounding and belonging.

Your ‘Land Girl’ exhibition and pieces like ‘Rapa Rising’ have received critical acclaim. Has public response influenced the direction of your work or your confidence as an artist? While the public continues to be supportive and affirming, what I feel matters most is the sense that the work resonates. That the viewers recognise something of their own relationship to land, memory or belonging in it. That particular connection reinforces my belief that textile-based practices can hold conceptual and emotional weight. Public engagement hasn’t really shifted the conceptual foundation of my work but it has deepened my sense of authenticity and to honour the materials and stories I’m working with.

What role do workshops and teaching (like your rug tufting classes) play in your practice? Does interacting with other creatives change the way you think about your own art? Teaching rug

tufting workshops is such an important extension of my practice. Rug tufting can at times feel solitary so the workshops help top up my social meter, but also provide a space for creative exchange. I learn so much from the participants! There’s something exciting about watching people encounter a medium for the first time. Participants bring different stories and aesthetics into the space and that diversity expands the conversation around what tufting can be and encourages me to remain open and curious within my own work.

Looking forward, are there new themes, techniques or collaborations you’re excited to explore in your upcoming work? I ’m experimenting a lot with layering and texture, which is very exciting to witness and learn from. I just moved to the Bay of Plenty so I ’m feeling inspired conceptually and am looking forward to including some local walks and feelings of rejuvenation in my work. I ’m really loving my new studio and being amongst the artistic activity at the Historic Village. It has been a wonderful boost in energy, but also in my confidence. It feels like being back at university, where bouncing ideas and learning of art events is an everyday occurrence.

How long have you lived in the Bay and what do you love about it? I moved to Otumoetai in November so we ’re pretty fresh but are absolutely loving it. I ’m passionate about the outdoors. Being close to the ocean and surrounded by beautiful walks is everything we could have asked for. I also love an evening scene so it ’s been great to experience the fantastic restaurants and live music that are available to us too.

LEAHCREAVENTEXTILES.COM

EXCELLENCE IN DERMATOLOGY

THRIVE

Look and feel the best version of you .

AUTUMN FASHION

What's the forecast?

PAGE 62

SAVING LIVES

The local doctor making screening easier

PAGE 74

SKIN DEEP

Leanne Cashmore takes aim at problem areas

PAGE 69

TIPS FOR TIRED TRESSES

Repairing your post-summer hair

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STYLE STATUS

Electrify your everyday staples.

WORDS NICKY ADAMS

COLOUR RESET

If there’s one shade that seems to have captured the mood of the summer just gone, but is set to stay for the year ahead, it’s yellow. With butter tones moving more into celestial shades, this hue is a really joyous colour to incorporate into an outfit. It’s also one that suits every age bracket, and looks beautiful with burgundy, another trending tone. Those that have been loving seeing vibrance shine from their wardrobe will be thrilled to find that mid pinks, purples and blues will feature heavily. Colour pairings will also be exciting, and colour blocking is set to reemerge. Vintage prints and textures will prove the perfect way to liven up the autumnal palette.

MIX AND MATCH

The sports aesthetic has been strong for a while, and is set to continue. Athletic influences can be interpreted literally as well as subtly, and translate into all walks of life. However, when it comes to a key trans-seasonal piece that will carry through winter and beyond, a trench is a must-have. Trademark light beige is a safe bet for longevity as well as being able to act as a backdrop to pretty much everything in the wardrobe. That’s not to say that there won’t be other options out there coats can be found in every shade; if this is too much of a colour commitment, then look for something with a feature lining. The high fashion profile of such a classic piece really fits with the general mood of clothes buying for the year ahead. Separates are in so you need several pieces and a clear plan of how to put them together. Cardigans are a huge trend, and, paired with balloon trousers, this look will be everywhere in 2026.

TRENDING NOW

DIAL UP THE GLAMOUR

NICKY ADAMS

Ladylike dressing had already been making its way onto our mood boards, however don’t be surprised if, in the months to come, everyone starts wearing corsets, lace, and basically looking as though they’ve just stepped out of a romance novel. Seasonal looks are swayed not only by the catwalks, but also by the A-list celebrities of Hollywood. The ‘tourdrobe’, or method dressing, while promoting a film or Netflix series has become a way of whipping up a visual frenzy; from Barbie (cementing bubblegum pink as a staple) to the cult Netflix show Wednesday (black lace, chunky boots and elegant bias cuts) to Wicked (although it could be said that Ariana Grande swerved a little too much into the theatrical with her choices). However, the recent-release Wuthering Heights movie, saw the female lead character, Australian Margot Robbie, showcase a plethora of stunning outfits as she did the press rounds. Her ‘tour-drobe’ will have captured the heart of every style seeker. With enough of an influence of the romantic period drama to be clear in its messaging, her outfits have also been high fashion. Taken from collections as diverse as Victoria Beckham, Schiaparelli and Vivienne Westwood, despite the overt glamour, the looks were surprisingly easy for pretty much everyone to pick out and wear elements that work for their lifestyle. There has been an exhilarating combination of sheer fabrics, feathers, bodice tops, velvet and there’s no getting away from gowns which look red-carpet ready, but toned down, they speak to a refreshing return to dressing up and enjoying fashion.

STYLE UPDATE

Refresh and reinvent your existing wardrobe.

WORDS NICKY ADAMS

With a ‘more is more’ feel starting to creep into the looks for the year ahead, those who had been enjoying a clean, lean silhouette may be feeling a bit ripped off, and reluctant to reinvest in new pieces for the coming year. Before rushing out to buy more, think about how existing outfits can be upgraded.

PUT A BOW ON IT

Bow features are huge, and a bow is an easy add-on to update any look, whether as a main feature or as an accessory. A silk scarf around the neck will create a pussy bow, a swathe of fabric on a handbag handle, a bow in the hair (although try to channel the Princess of Wales rather than recreate a Little House on the Prairie aesthetic). And try not to multi-bow in one outfit subtlety is key.

BE CRAFTY

Craft details are being celebrated this year, and it’s easy to change the entire feel of a plain outfit by incorporating a little lace, crochet or texture. Op shops will be a gold mine for this project, and a good rummage will be sure to pay dividends. Look out for pieces to elevate your existing outfit, such as an embroidered evening bag, crochet waistcoat or if you want to go the extra mile, hit the vintage boutiques and keep your eyes peeled for a lace collar. These were worn in abundance in the early 20th century and can be literally thrown around the neckline of a plain tee to rework the entire look.

BELT UP

Mainstream fashion often borrows from the individual eclectic style of a specific person in the public eye: musicians, models, A-listers all shape the way we wear our clothes. With boho back, there are ways to dip into the vibe without rushing out to panic buy a range of kaftans. Coin belts are set to be big; styled loose around the hips over a plain knitted dress and straight away you’ll elevate a previously straightforward look. Thin belts are also making a comeback a run-of-the-mill office outfit of jacket and pants or skirt will be transformed with the addition of a skinny belt around the waist.

JINGLE-JANGLE

Jewellery is a great way to switch-a-roo an outfit and if you don’t have any costume pieces in your box of tricks, then it’s easy to find in the high-street. Look for fine chains of different lengths and styles to layer up; this is an easy-toachieve and effective styling trick that nods to the bohemian feel. Chunky bangles are another game changer, and for 2026 nothing is too ostentatious keep the clothes plain and let the bangles speak for themselves.

IT’S A SHOE-IN

Time to put your adidas Sambas, your Air Force or your New Balance sneakers to one side and pull out your pointed boots or loafers. We’ve been pairing wide-leg jeans with casual footwear for so long that most of us have forgotten what real shoes feel like. Similarly with skirts, from midi to maxi, the time has come to bring the heels back out. One thing is certain; it’s a sure-fire way to uplift an outfit in a nanosecond.

COVER UP

FASHION FORWARD

Prepare to winterise your wardrobe.

WORDS NICKY ADAMS

WHITE OUT

Cloud Dancer is Pantone’s colour of 2026, which offers up the chance to lean into a winter white palette and bring the softness of a light shade to brighten up a grey day. While the idea that this tone represents ‘calm and clarity’ in a noisy, chaotic world may feel a bit of a stretch, there’s definitely a visual harmony to a pale aesthetic. The added bonus is the creativity a blank canvas brings when used as a base.

Ditch the scarf and bury yourself down into the cosy cocoon of a funnel-necked coat. Hitting the high note of both elegant and practical, the permanently poppedup collar will adorn everything from classic wool coats to leather bomber jackets. This style is wonderfully transseasonal, so while Europeans will be incorporating it into their spring looks, we can get ahead of the curve and bring it into our cool weather mood board

KEEP YOUR HAND IN

Glove up as temperatures drop. Opera gloves have been a feature for a while, and can undoubtedly elevate any outfit instantly. However, add to this the playful coloured leather gloves trend and a simple look can become a statement.

GET THE SKINNY

It has to be acknowledged skinny jeans are back. Admittedly, they never left some wardrobes (I’m sure Kate Moss kept a few iconic pairs stashed for a rainy, nostalgic day). Most of us would have removed all traces from our fashion rotation. Well, watch this space as the slim-fitting silhouette nudges itself back into the limelight.

PRIME TIME

Our favourite beauty finds for autumn.

HAIR TO THE RESCUE

Straight from Brazil, Jacques Janine’s five-step Damage Repair routine, including shampoo, conditioner, mask, leave-in and serum, works to restore strength, smooth frizz and revive stressed strands. RRP$22.99–$34.99. FARMERS.CO.NZ

DON’T SWEAT IT!

Dove’s new Whole Body Deodorant gives you up to 72-hour odour protection while helping soothe sweat-related skin concerns, so you can move freely wherever the day takes you. RRP$16. DOVE.COM/NZ

CRÈME DE LA CRÈME

Boost Lab’s new Pro-Lift Neck & Décolletage Cream takes the viral Neck Firming Serum a step further, targeting sagging, crepiness and jawline definition with peptides, collagen amino acids and algaederived firming actives. RRP$64.95. BOOSTLABCO.COM

SPOT FIX

These ultra-thin blemish patches from T-Zone combine Tea Tree and Salicylic Acid to target breakouts fast. Stick on day or night to help calm redness and support healing before pesky spots have a chance to peak. RRP$12.99.

BEAUTYGARAGE.CO.NZ

NO TIME FOR FRIZZ

Get up to speed with ghd’s fastest-ever hair dryer. The new Speed dryer has a powerful dual airflow for quicker styling, smoother results and precision drying all this, and no heat damage detected during testing. RRP$645. FARMERS.CO.NZ

BETTER WITH TIME

Vivéa®’s personalised skincare range is designed for women navigating peri- to post-menopause, blending New Zealand botanicals with advanced science to support hydration, collagen and a stronger skin barrier. RRP$47.

VIVEASKINCARE.CO.NZ

DIY PRINCESS

Lift lashes and fluff up brows from the comfort of home with 1000 Hour’s lash lift and brow lamination kits. Everything you need is included for salon-style results that’ll last for up to eight weeks. The plant-based formulas are free from silicones and parabens, and are completely waterproof. RRP$49.95.

FARMERS.CO.NZ

AT LONG LAST

Estée Lauder’s Double Wear Stay-inPlace Makeup returns with a breathable matte finish, extended 36-hour wear and an expanded shade range designed to better match real skin tones. RRP$93. Available at Farmers and Life Pharmacy stores nationwide.

CROWN PLEASER

This clever, mess-free powder instantly fills sparse areas along the scalp and hairline while disguising regrowth. The conditioning, waterresistant formula blends like a dream for a natural finish. It’s now also available in a new Auburn shade. RRP$33.95.

BOLDIFY.CO.NZ

STAYING POWER

MAC’s new Studio Fix 36HR Smooth Angles Concealer gives you lightweight, buildable coverage with a soft-matte finish and waterproof, transfer-proof wear in 44 colour-true shades. No creasing, no caking, just smooth coverage that stays put. RRP$61. Available at MAC stores and Farmers nationwide.

SHE’S A BEAUTY

This rich Lime Caviar Hair Mask from Antipodes deeply nourishes and softens all hair types, especially curls and coils, with clinically proven bioactives and New Zealand botanicals. RRP$49.

ANTIPODESNATURE.COM

A Season for Love, A LIFETIME OF BEAUTY

Crafting timeless jewellery that celebrates love, legacy, and life’s special moments.

Our Mount Maunganui workshop and showroom bring together bespoke design, expert manufacture, repairs, gold buying and insurance services all under one roof.

With a full onsite manufacturing and repair workshop and qualified jeweller with over 34 years’ experience, your treasured pieces are always in skilled hands.

Ourdifferenceispersonal.

You deal directly with the jeweller who is creating or repairing your precious items, ensuring a level of trust, craftsmanship and attention that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Browse our retail showroom of rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets and bangles, or begin a custom piece of your own.

Mon-Fri 8.30-5.00 | Sat-Sun closed Unit 18A Lambert Industrial Park, 23 Tukorako Drive, Mount Maunganui 07 5723434 | 0274 875106 | info@quantumjewellers.co.nz

quantumjewellers.co.nz

BALANCED BEAUTY

Target what matters and skip what doesn’t. Leanne Cashmore from Cashmore Clinic shows us what to do and where to do it, using subtle, considered treatments for a fresher look.

PHOTO SALINA GALVAN

When it comes to ageing well, the most effective results come from targeting specific concerns rather than overhauling your entire face.

Different areas age in different ways. Repetitive movement creates lines, volume loss causes hollowing, muscles pull downward, and skin quality declines.

A tailored plan focuses on what truly needs attention: softening expression lines, restoring structure where support has diminished, relaxing tension in the lower face, and improving overall texture and firmness. The goal isn’t to look different, but to look less tired, less tense, and more refreshed.

Here are the treatments that target all those areas of concern.

FOREHEAD

Concern: Horizontal lines, creasing and heaviness.

Treatment: Anti-wrinkle injections (Botox) to soften dynamic lines and prevent deeper creases. Strategic placement can also create a subtle brow lift.

FROWN LINES (GLABELLAR LINES)

Concern: “11” lines between the brows, resulting in a tired or angry appearance.

Treatment: Anti-wrinkle injections (Botox) to relax strong frown muscles, softening the expression while maintaining natural movement and preventing static lines.

CROW’S FEET

Cocern: Fine lines around the eyes when smiling.

Treatment: Anti-wrinkle injections (Botox) to smooth dynamic lines, brightening the eye area and improving make-up application.

EYE HOLLOWS (TEAR TROUGHS)

Concern: Hollowing, shadowing and a tired appearance.

JAW / JAW CLENCHING

Concern: Teeth grinding, tension headaches and bulky jaw muscles.

Treatment: Masseter Botox to relax overactive muscles, which reduces discomfort and can slim the lower face over time

JOWLS

Concern: Sagging or heaviness along the lower face.

Treatment: Strategic dermal filler placement to support and lift. A fullface assessment is essential, as this often requires balancing with Botox.

NECK

Concern: Neck bands, laxity, and fine lines.

Treatment: Neck Botox (Nefertiti-style lift) to relax downward-pulling muscles, or injectable skin boosters to improve texture. Often combined with collagenstimulating treatments.

Treatment: Dermal fillers to restore lost volume and brighten the under-eye area. This requires advanced anatomical knowledge and careful assessment.

OVERALL SKIN TEXTURE

Concern: Dullness, enlarged pores and uneven texture.

Treatment: Skin needling (microneedling) or radiofrequency needling to stimulate collagen. Medical-grade skincare and injectable skin boosters (such as Profhilo or Sunekos) are also highly effective for hydration and refinement.

DRY SPELL

Bay Eye Care’s Alex Petty on why dry eye is becoming the new norm and how to combat it.

PHOTO KATIE COX

If your eyes feel gritty, irritated or tired by the middle of the afternoon, you’re not alone. One of the most common issues we see in clinic nowadays is dry eye disease, which affects everyone from all walks of life and all ages. What was once a problem of the older population has got a new group of co-conspirators in recent times: our screens, our indoor environments, and, for many women, a change in life chapters.

However, most people don’t know that dry eyes aren’t as simple as not producing enough tears. And, surprisingly, for around 80 percent of people who have this problem, the cause has nothing to do with watery tears. At the edge of your eyelid there is a series of little glands called meibomian glands that secrete healthy oil, similar in consistency and appearance to olive oil, to prevent the tears from evaporating away too quickly. But modern lifestyles are working against them. When we’re looking at screens, our normal blink rate can drop to as little as one tenth. That means less natural pressure on the glands, poorer oil flow and more rapid tear evaporation. It’s the perfect recipe for stinging, redness, blurry vision and that persistent “sand in the eye” sensation. Hormonal shifts, certain medications, air-conditioning, make-up use and

even conditions like rosacea can all further inflame or block these glands.

Left unmanaged, the condition can progress. Using only lubricating drops often provides short-term relief but doesn’t address the root cause. In the last few years, with the help of advanced imaging, we’re seeing more patients whose glands have become permanently atrophied simply from years of untreated dysfunction.

That’s why early care matters. In our clinic, treatment often focuses on restoring natural gland function. In 2017, we pioneered the use of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for dry eye, a therapy which helps calm inflammation and abnormal blood vessels around the lids. More recently, we are the first Tauranga clinic to offer Lipiflow; a gentle thermal in-clinic procedure, that melts and clears thickened oils to 'reset' the glands. The best chance of long-term improvement for many people is to combine the two. Alongside this, recommendations include environmental tactics, targeted eye drops, lid hygiene and omega-3 supplements.

If you’re noticing dryness, irritation or fluctuating vision, a comprehensive assessment can identify the exact cause, and prevent years of discomfort.

Dry eye might be common, but living with it shouldn’t be.

BAYEYECARE.CO.NZ

“ DRY EYE MIGHT BE COMMON, BUT LIVING WITH IT SHOULDN’T BE. ”

POOLSIDE PERFECTION

Salon G’s Shelley Pullar shares her top tips to revive sun-soaked hair, keeping it glossy and effortlessly stylish well into autumn.

PHOTOS DEBORAH DE GRAAF

If you live in the Bay of Plenty, you already know the sun doesn’t pack up at the end of February. We keep swimming and pretending autumn isn’t creeping in. But while the long afternoons and poolside catch-ups feel great, your hair is probably telling a different story.

After months of UV, saltwater and chlorine, most people head into autumn with colour that looks a little tired and ends that feel a little crispier than they’d like to admit. This is the perfect moment to reset your

routine so your hair survives the next round of outdoor fun, and looks better than it did in January.

First, let’s talk colour care. If your hair has been living its best sun-drenched life, the fastest way to bring it back is to switch to a sulphate-free, colour-safe shampoo and conditioner. These formulas keep your colour from fading and help your hair hold onto moisture, something it’s usually desperate for at this time of year.

A new standout in this category is Wella’s Ultimate Colour line. It’s vegan, sulphate-free and has a built-in metal purifier. (Yes, metals in your tap water can

actually distort your colour, especially blondes and redheads.) There’s also a leave-in mask with UV protection and a spray-in hair shine that will make your colours more luminous.

If your hair has also been battling frizz, dryness or general moodiness, add a lightweight oil serum into the mix. Wella’s Ultimate Smooth Miracle Oil is a great option. It absorbs in about 30 seconds, keeps hair smooth for up to three days, and works as both a heat and UV protector. It’s the kind of product you throw in your bag and end up using for everything.

And because a seasonal reset should feel a little bit luxe, Salon G is running a limited giveaway. The first 20 readers who purchase any two products from the Ultimate Colour range, or book a colour service, will receive a complimentary Ultimate Smooth Miracle Oil, worth $88. Consider it your reward for giving your hair the attention it deserves.

Autumn may be arriving, but the outdoor lifestyle isn’t going anywhere. With a refreshed routine, neither is your shine.

SALONGRANGE.COM

BOOK, CONNECT, CREATE. Effortlessly.

From gala dinners to live gigs, experience effortless events with our bespoke, end-to-end service. Step-by-step planning, fresh local catering and AV is taken care of by our in-house expert team.

Talk to us about your next event, big or small.

TRUE TO YOU

Early detection of bowel cancer is a passion project for Dr Clive Price.

WORDS NICKY ADAMS | PHOTOS SALINA GALVAN

Whereas even mentioning bodily functions would have made my grandparents blush, today’s society is far more open and at ease with discussing matters of a personal nature. Which is why, along with general chatter about coffee prices or office politics, talk of the vagaries of bowel movements wouldn’t be unheard of among many friend groups. Rather than just casual chitchat, these conversations are usually rooted in cause; we are undoubtedly far more aware of our personal well-being (find me someone who hasn’t upped their protein intake), and way more proactive when it comes to safeguarding our health (collagen smoothie anyone?). Despite all these attempts at better diet, fitness and education, the thought of cancer still lurks in the back of many minds.

When Dr Clive Price, a GP at the P ā p ā moa Tara Road Medical Centre, relocated from the UK to New Zealand, he was surprised to find that the age to qualify for the New Zealand government early detection programme is significantly higher here than both the UK and Australia, despite him being under 40, and self-testing annually with a FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test), along with his dermatologist wife. The lack of privately purchased tests available shocked him.

“I’ve been a doctor for 12 years, a GP for the last eight years. Part of my training was in a hospice, and one of the things I noticed was the number of young people coming in with cancer. In a six-month placement, we had five or six under 40s come in for the last days of their life, and about three of those were bowel cancer.”

“It led me to think we’re doing things the wrong way round; we’re spending billions on treating things too

late. That got my interest in proactive healthcare and screening.”

With the New Zealand public system favouring the 58-74 age bracket, Clive believes, “There’s a huge proportion of the population who could do with being screened, but it’s not available. Most medical guidelines recommend screening from the age of 45 or younger, if you’ve got risk factors”. With the screening age set at 58 in New Zealand, that’s 13 years where earlier detection could potentially make a meaningful difference.”

Seeing a huge gap in the market, Clive felt he needed to introduce this test privately in New Zealand. His research showed there are bowel cancer tests available here in pharmacies (FOB tests), but they use unreliable, outdated technology.

“They work by detecting microscopic bits of hemoglobin in poo, but they cannot distinguish between human hemoglobin and animal, so basically anyone who eats meat tests positive a huge number of false positives, so they are really inaccurate.”

Conversely, a FIT does distinguish between animal and human hemoglobin. It’s designed to look for tiny traces of blood in your faeces that are too small to see with the naked eye, and which could be a sign of cancer. Made for ease of use, according to Clive; “They also use a much better analysing method, so rather than doing three separate samples, you need only one little poke (in the faeces). It can also distinguish where the blood is coming from, so the number of false positives is much less, and the sensitivity is much better. The studies I’ve looked at suggest that FIT testing, depending on the threshold, picks up to about 90 percent of tumours.”

In a health system that is not currently geared or resourced for the concerns of under 50s, GPs will

“ IF BOWEL CANCER IS DETECTED EARLY, IT IS HIGHLY TREATABLE AND OFTEN CURABLE .”

struggle to offer testing to ‘the low risk but not no risk’. The population that would find the FIT test particularly helpful includes two groups: symptomatic patients, whom a GP would be keen to rule out from bowel cancer, and asymptomatic individuals, whom a GP might want to screen proactively. While candidates would need to be over 18, growing evidence suggests that many people over the age of 45 would benefit from bowel cancer screening. In those with risk factors, or in certain ethnic groups such as Māori, emerging data indicates screening may need to begin earlier, potentially from around 35.

The decision to create the company TrueScreen was one that Clive and his business partner Richard Porter, both took extremely seriously. Richard was attracted to the venture for not only its core value, but also the “fundamental ease and accessibility” it offers to consumers. As a doctor, Clive reiterates, “I’m duty bound ethically, morally and professionally to make sure this is an evidence-based test it’s safe and the gold standard.”

Working in partnership with New Zealand’s biggest laboratory (which also runs the government

screening) means absolute reliability, accuracy and professionalism. As for the process, it couldn’t be simpler. Once the test has been ordered, it’s sent to the customer, who will then take their own sample. A return mailer is provided and keeps it safe, before being returned to the lab within a 14-day window. The results are confidentially accessed by Clive, who reviews them and then contacts the person being screened.

Clear evidence shows that bowel cancer is “the fastest growing cancer for under 50’s it’s disproportionately shooting up”. However, Clive points out, “if bowel cancer is detected early, it is highly treatable and often curable.”

The idea of getting on board with a privately funded, annual screening programme is not one that will be unfamiliar to Kiwis; Mole Map, for example, is rolled out on this premise. And when it comes to something that could be life or death, wiggling a stick in a poo sample, in the comfort of your own home, feels like an incredibly low-level commitment. I, for one, will be signing up.

Truescreen FIT Tests are now available via the website.

TRUESCREEN.CO.NZ

CUTTING EDGE

For 30 years, ADO Hair Salon in Tauranga has put the luxe into locks.

Everything about Jason and Penny Davies screams creative. The husband-and-wife team and owners of ADO Hair Salon are lively, animated and above all incredibly knowledgeable about the industry. This year they celebrate 30 years together as both salon owners and in marriage, with 2026 looking to be a year filled with new projects and professional goals.

Achieving this kind of longevity as business owners is no mean feat, yet both Penny and Jason fizz with excitement about the journey so far and the road ahead.

They met, Jason tells me, in 1993. By 1996 they were married and had purchased the business from Jason’s previous boss, when they rebranded to ADO.

Even as young professionals they thrived on the energy of Tauranga. “We’ve always loved Tauranga as a base,” says Penny. Adds Jason, “At the time, our main supplier was L’Oreal Professional and so they were able to offer a lot of opportunities that connection in Paris was really important. Having the infusion of international trends coming through was vital to our business growth.”

By the early 2000s, L’Oreal Professional strengthened the relationship further by recognising the talent of the team, selecting Jason to go to Paris, which was, he says, “a very humbling experience, but one which really opened our eyes up to the possibilities.”

This dynamic was stepped up further when Jason was chosen as an educator (a position he retained for 11 years), meaning he has been instrumental in bringing innovative styles, techniques and technology from the heart of the industry in Europe back to New Zealand.

Despite both being ridiculously creative, Penny and Jason together drill into the different business aspects of the salon. They then come together, constantly inspiring each

other with their love of the craft. They are generous with their talents, sharing them with the community. If you’ve ever been to a local event with mind-blowing hair or props, from dance shows to Tarnished Frocks and Divas, you can be sure this couple is behind the scenes.

But the ability to harness the crazy and streamline their trade has been a big part of their 30 years in the industry. As Jason explains, “There’s a symbiotic nature to it, with the artistry supporting the business, but the business simultaneously supporting the creativity.”

With hair one of the most trend-led aspects of an individual’s experience, it’s exciting to know that the salon is not just following but leading with flair. Along with the consumer accessible styles, Jason says, “we can also turn our hand to the zanier looks.”

Penny and Jason have always prided themselves on their fusion of different methodologies; they bring in the cleaner cuts of Vidal Sassoon, but equally will work to the softer textured styles championed by Toni & Guy. This flexibility is something they acknowledge has served them well.

When I ask what they feel their greatest achievement has been over the years, they are in accord. “Penny and I both feel it’s the way we’ve created a salon with a distinctive vision and a leading-edge team that’s endured within the industry. We’ve cultivated a longstanding clientele that’s supported us, and we’ve done it together.”

As for the ‘where to next’, the excitement is palpable. Penny is the first to let the cat out of the bag. “We’re planning a boutique training programme, where we train up new skilled stylists, taking in ten, keeping a couple and the rest will go to other salons”.

With Jason’s background in education and Penny’s passion to nurture talent, this feels like the perfect next chapter.

ADO.NZ

REDEFINING RETIREMENT

Set amongst tranquil park-like grounds and private lakes, Pacific Lakes Village o ers spacious modern villas and terrace houses designed for a vibrant, active and independent lifestyle.

The Pavilion is now open – the village’s impressive community centre features an eatery, lounge bar, library, art studio, beauty salon, wellness suite and extensive recreational facilities.

Show villa available to view by appointment.

242 Grenada Street, Mount Maunganui

pacifi clakes.co.nz | 07 262 0191

WARM ON THE INSIDE

Celebrating the places and spaces we call home. INTERIOR INSPO

Clever with colour

PAGE 82

OLIVER ROAD

The latest luxury homes

PAGE 86

SIGHT UNSEEN

Turning an online buy into a dream home PAGE 90

Big and bold with Kathrine McDonald

PAGE 94

COLOUR ME COSY

Warm, sunlit tones have a way of making any space feel instantly more inviting and homely.

STYLING AMBER ARMITAGE @ MARIGOLD

PHOTOS MELANIE JENKINS @ FLASH STUDIOS

WALL COLOURS RESENE PAINTS

RESENE CASABLANCA IS A WARM, CLASSIC YELLOW-ORANGE, OFTEN DESCRIBED AS A “ GOLDEN SUNSET ” HUE OR A RICH MUSTARD. WE HAVE PAIRED THIS WITH RESENE SAKURA, A PEACH BLOSSOM PINK , WARMED WITH GOLD AND CORAL.

THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE: Wall and arch painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Casablanca, through arch in Resene Sakura. Floor painted in Resene Walk-On in Resene Alabaster with checks in Resene Avant Garde. Kelly Hoppen Pearl Dining Table, Big Foot Stool and Cobra Candle Holder from Design Cache Ember Buffet, Piccolo Dining Chairs, Theron Zenith bowl tall, Boden vases (on buffet) and Fruit Bowl framed canvas, all from Soren Liv Marlow rug in Wine from Baya. Fiora Stone Base Table Lamp With Pleated Shade From Lighting Direct. Bordallo Pinheiro Lemon Salad Bowl, Bison Ceramics Edo small bowl in Peony, Bison Ceramics Fagel Pitcher In Sunshine, from Allium

THIS PAGE: Wall painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Casablanca and floor painted in Resene Walk-On in Resene Alabaster. Cosy Cloud King Single Bed in Ivory from Mocka Sandringham rug in Cameo from Baya . Leon side table in Powder Blue and Easton Axel Desk lamp from Soren Liv Powder Blue linen pillow cases from Foxtrot Home. Patterson Willow duvet set, Design Alchemy Collective Quilt Velvet in Natural Green Moss, Villa Nova Amazon River Cushion, Jellycat Junglie Monkey, Jellycat Odyssey Octopus, Asobu Bottle Bestie Brown Dog, Oyoy Bean Bag Lobo Lion, Lexon Tykho 3 Radio Pink, Remember Light Ole Green, all from Allium

OPPOSITE: Wall painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Sakura and floor painted in Resene Walk-On in Resene Alabaster with checks in Resene Avant Garde. Ceiling painted in Resene Felix. Original locker wardrobe in Pink from Mocka . Kami Vase in chrome and Tribu Bench from Design Cache. Shirt stylists own.

CEILINGS, OFTEN CALLED THE “FIFTH WALL” , ARE A CRUCIAL, UNDERUTILISED DESIGN ELEMENT THAT CAN TRANSFORM A ROOM’S ATMOSPHERE, ADDING DRAMA , HEIGHT OR COSINESS WHEN PAINTED WITH COLOUR.

Floor painted in Resene Walk-On in Resene Alabaster with checks in Resene Avant Garde. Testpots clockwise from left in Resene Alabaster, Resene Sakura, Resene Casablaca, Resene Avant Garde and Resene Felix.

THE PINNACLE

This home – and its garden – prove dreams can come true; and earn national kudos along the way.

WORDS JO FERRIS

The journey began with a dream to move from living at the bottom of this hill to the top. As the peak site within an elite Welcome Bay estate, it was a constant lure – views from here the main drawcard; apart from the sheer expanse of the site itself.

That’s partly true. The home certainly exudes the magnificence of bygone history. Except for one key point. It was developed in 2009; designed, built and fashioned by an English couple with a vision to recreate American Victorian architecture.

Sun and scenery are headline stars, but this home captivates in ways that honour the vision behind it. The owners had the idea. Auckland architect, Cate Creemers brought it to life her architectural skill underpinning the design. Like the personal art collection that features throughout, this residence is its own interpretation of artistic brilliance. Built by Tauranga’s Calley Homes, it

was the regional supreme winner in 2022’s Registered Master Builders House of the Year, subsequently winning at national level.

Incorporating passive solar design principles, other sustainable attributes include a solar hot water system, warm roof system, along with thermal and acoustic insulation. Externally, Abodo Vulcan cladding is a New Zealand thermally-modified product. Inside, precast concrete panels anchor the home’s core, while enhancing its aesthetics. Timber also features strongly throughout.

Gated entry and an uphill driveway disguise the house initially. The greeting is a contemporary expression, but it’s not until the home unveils its soul that it tugs at the emotions. At around 475 sqm, the layered design sections this home into defined quarters.

Family and guests have choice on bedrooms and views for that matter. The master suite cherishes

special seclusion, thanks to its magnificent view, but the bedroom above has a personal outdoor zone that elevates that perspective.

Gatherings gravitate towards the heart of the home simple in its approach to intimacy and togetherness, yet characterised by the complexity of architectural nuance and building craftmanship. The astonishing panorama in front of this entire living area is heart-stopping. North-facing, it bathes in sun all day. Mauao stands majestically centre stage; views either side stretching from Papamoa to the Kaimais right up to Coromandel. It is truly breathtaking.

Massive banks of floor-length glazing were the only response to frame its full extent, while 100sqm metres of wrap-around decking provides a seamless connection. Underlying the glazing’s aesthetics however, the sun’s warmth is harnessed, while exposed concrete flooring absorbs it. The open fire in the ‘library corner’ is merely for mood; snuggled up with a book or watching TV once views fade into twilight and city lights twinkle.

A sunken lounge enhances its height as the raked sarked ceiling brings nature inside. Different timbers

also instil texture throughout from the lustre of Pacific cedar to the honeyed grain of American Oak. The contrast with concrete in key areas highlights how nature can harmonise with a man-made material if done properly.

With surround sound adding mood in the private cinema, this home was born to entertain. Elegant as the kitchen is, with its innovative scullery and unique finish, the outdoor lounge is a revelation. Moody in its dark tone and texture, one can be forgiven for thinking this is simply an outdoor fireside haven. Hiding discreetly behind what appears to be a corrugated iron feature wall however, is a significant barbecue kitchen. Genius.

From here, the garden offers its own invitation. Stepping down to lawn, the landscape slopes to the swimming pool and spa before meandering amid a wonderland of trees, grasses and specimens. Completely hand planted by the owners more than 3000 plants interweave another artistic interpretation that binds this home with the land and nature.

Truly a masterpiece with national kudos to match.

21 Estates Terrace, Welcome Bay OLIVERROAD.COM

MAISON DU SOLEIL

A sanctuary of luxury and tranquillity, this beautifully reinvented estate offers breathtaking river views, refined interiors and effortless indoor–outdoor living.

WORDS JO FERRIS

Nestled down a sweeping driveway, overlooking the Wairoa River and hills beyond, this commanding position basks in one of Tauranga’s prized areas. The tranquillity is bliss sounds of nature for company and grazing for horses or livestock; where friends can enjoy privacy in luxury surroundings; river views always in sight and a reserve to walk the dog with the children near the river below.

Mindful of respecting the home’s original calibre, these owners wove an extraordinary tapestry and warm embrace into its renovation. Exquisite marble tiling and mosaic flooring in bathrooms set the foundation for what now exists. Everything else is new; detail with soft sophistication underpinned by undeniable expense.

A grand foyer introduces a sweeping stairwell and step-down entries to both the lounge and heart of the home. The soft backdrop is personalised with accents that define each room plush drapes, Sante Fe shutters and bespoke lighting all statement features. The gourmet kitchen is a star the emotional and functional heartbeat of family life. Showcasing bespoke American Oak cabinetry and Abu Dhabi porcelain benchtops, oak flooring throughout this living area maintains continuity with the home’s greeting. This is where entertainment begins; before relaxing around the fireplace or stepping into the lounge for a more intimate ambience.

Unquestionable quality throughout highlights the diligence in reinventing this home.

A romantic master suite enjoys privacy downstairs, leaving three bedrooms and luxury bathroom upstairs for family and friends. Skilful interior design instils tender moods; refined in an understated manner, yet revolving around family, relaxation and entertaining. Crowds have cherished gatherings here; ample room to congregate inside and out. Gazing over the valley, watching rowers on the Wairoa River; or lounging around the solar-heated pool, wafts of the Mediterranean float in the air.

Surprises abound everywhere, from the impressive laundry, incredible storage to a well-positioned office. Nothing beats the sheer awe of the cinema, however. Soundproofed, dark and moody — with a full-wall screen this is the secret jewel of a residence that continually astounds. Stroll the promenade to the guest house and more surprises await. Fully selfcontained, with its own driveway entrance; this is highly successful guest accommodation and could continue to be. Choice is the key.

Perfect now, the expanse of land and shedding invites another chapter in this home’s story. Instilling artistry in the five years these owners have lived here, a new project calls out of town. They leave behind a legacy of love and reverence and an invitation to a wonderful lifestyle.

58 Miles Lane, Tauriko OLIVERROAD.COM

A RARE PRIVILEGE

Every corner of this home tells a story, from entertaining spaces to private upstairs sanctuaries overlooking the valley.

WORDS JO FERRIS

Built 25 years ago as a single storey home where family could grow amid spacious grounds, these owners always knew they would add another level at some point to create a refuge for themselves.

Nestled amid seclusion overlooking the Wairoa Valley, it’s hard to believe this home’s age. It is timeless; a reflection of people who understand longevity and how time enhances a property’s elegance and esteem.

During the extension in 2011, the owners upgraded the kitchen/scullery and made one other change. Flooring in the family hub is recycled rimu, now cleverly stained dark to infuse a greater depth of character; more in tune with the styling of this home.

It is beautiful elegant in its demeanour, yet firmly focused on family. From the heart of home and formal dining, living steps into a cosy vibe of the second lounge. Earthy tone and texture embrace like a favourite rug and the wood burner invites lingering evenings watching movies.

A swimming pool and sun-drenched patio outside entertain family and friends. Gatherings over the years have hosted upwards of 25 around tables at once, while a morning courtyard off the family hub has a more intimate ambience for few.

The original master bedroom is now an ensuite guest room. Two other bedrooms take their cue from the views outdoors the garden from one; the pool for the other. With a luxury bathroom and powder room for all to share; another bedroom downstairs offers flexibility for a library office, though there is already a dedicated study here.

Upstairs is a glorious retreat. A five-star master suite overlooks the Wairoa Valley and river. Flowing through to a loft-style rumpus, a kitchenette with integrated fridge enhances this upstairs haven.

Add a bespoke, separate laundry and three-car garaging, including a high-stud section for the boat, this home is complete. Storage throughout is unbelievable closets and alcoves everywhere and that’s just inside. Outside there’s a garden shed for the mower and tools, covered storage for firewood, parking for the trailer all this before you even begin to take in the garden. Colourful flower ribbons, raised beds for herbs and veggies, fruit trees to feast on, playground lawns and a corner for the hammock where tuis flock to feed on the kowhai.

A home that has kept on giving for one family, downsizing is the only reason these owners are leaving this cherished spot. As one of Tauranga’s best, River Oaks Drive is a rare privilege.

14 River Oaks Drive, Tauriko OLIVERROAD.COM

A VISION OF ZEN

Purchased online from England by a couple heading home to the Bay after 26 years abroad, a bush-clad Ōmokoroa site became a home shaped by close collaboration, thoughtful design and a shared vision.

WORDS PIP CROMBIE | PHOTOS AMANDA AITKEN

Buying property sight unseen is something we are familiar with in the Bay of Plenty, usually by international buyers who have access to extensive real-estate-supplied images and information. But for a New Zealand couple returning home after 26 years in England, the almost one-hectare Ōmokoroa section they discovered online had few details to recommend it. There was no exact address, limited imagery and little context. Yet something about the site appealed. Tracey and John’s return to New Zealand was nudged along by Brexit and COVID. The couple both work from home for large pharmaceutical companies, so the move was about transferring home locations and a desire to spend more time with family. The 2020 lockdown prevented an in-person search, so John’s parents visited the site on their behalf, walking the land, carrying out the due diligence and sending through images. On the strength of this, the couple secured the property from abroad. Working remotely from England, Tracey and John began collaborating with Hannah Armstrong-Gardner of Studio H on the design of their new home. With Hannah and her husband Chris, who would later build the house through their company Gardo Group, living just 500 metres up the road, the project naturally became a close collaboration between the four. Through a series of video calls, the design gradually took shape, evolving into a fully documented consent set before the couple had even returned to New Zealand.

It wasn’t until 2022 that Tracey, John and their woolly-coated black pooch Nonu set foot on the site of their new home. The property is gently nestled at the bottom of a winding drive below an urban development, bordered by trees that ensure

privacy from the nearby Ōmokoroa coastal cycleway, and has a small stream meandering through the boundary.

Fast forward to 2026 and the approach down that driveway halts me as I descend. The first impression is of a chic bush retreat. From above, the home is two distinct wings one black, one white juxtaposed against the lush clearing the dwelling sits within, surrounded by artfully curated native planting. There is a subtle Japanese influence to the design, and as I draw up to the front entrance, a long hardwood decked walkway draws me to the front door, bordered by its custom balustrade repeating a subtle architectural detail that appears throughout the home, protecting full-height openings on the upper level while reinforcing the project’s restrained material palette. To the left is the long, black Shou Sugi Ban charred timber clad wing, housing guest bedrooms, bathroom, office, kitchen and living, to the right is the white rendered plaster two-storey volume featuring two master bedrooms, large ensuite and dressing room, garage, storage and laundry space. Subtle circular water features set on river stone paths, suspended Japanese rain chains and a small red bridge spanning the stream and glimpsed through the feature window in the entrance, all set the scene for the interiors where tone and texture of materials come together in a magnificent blend of warmth, light and high-end luxury.

The 331m2 home was designed by Hannah ArmstrongGardner, of Studio H, a Tauranga-based design-led practice known for creating homes of quiet distinction. Hannah works closely with her clients from inception to completion, advising them early on that getting to know them well is a key part of her design process. “Where do you put your shoes and your bikes when you come home? What’s ‘your side’ of the basin? My design process is human-centric, not ‘Hannah-centric’," she explains.

Tracey and John arrived with a clear priority: warmth and comfort. Memories of cold New Zealand houses from earlier years abroad meant the thermal performance of their new home was paramount. Instead, the couple and their designer carefully considered the site’s microclimate, including existing tree cover and the natural topography of the driveway ridge. The main living wing therefore faces east, allowing soft morning light to enter the space while avoiding excessive summer heat. To maintain consistent indoor comfort, a hydronic underfloor heating and cooling system runs beneath the home’s light oak flooring, creating an even ambient temperature year-round. The timber floors extend throughout the house, softening the floor-to-ceiling tiling used within the bathrooms and reinforcing the calm material palette. Overhead, 2.7-metre ceilings allow light to move easily through the spaces while housing discreet mechanical systems.

Sustainability was also a key consideration. The property operates with a significant degree of independence through rainwater harvesting, solar generation and efficient systems, while the materials used throughout the home were selected with attention to origin.

The kitchen is dark and seamless, softened by wooden handles in keeping with the subtle Japanese aesthetic, the intentional use of empty space, calming, natural colours and product. With this in mind, the deliberate selection of the Dekton Laurent benchtop an earthy chocolate shot through with streaks of natural golden hue bring the whole space, including the offset scullery, together.

From the time the build was completed in March 2024, it has felt like a forever home for Tracey and John peaceful, sleek, soft and something of a sanctuary. A retreat indeed.

STUDIODESIGN.CO.NZ

TECH TESTING CORNER

Karl

Puschmann

tries out the latest and greatest gadgets.

WIZ HDMI SYNC BOX STARTER KIT

If you're looking to glow up your home viewing experience, this is an appealing option. Designed to mirror your screen's action with real-time, vibrant backlighting, the kit transforms a standard movie night into an immersive event. For example, if there’s an explosion, your room lights up red and orange, or an underwater dive is reflected in shimmering blue hues.

The set up is incredibly simple. The Sync Box connects to the TV via a single HDMI cable, while the self-adhesive LED lighting strip easily attaches to the back of the set. Connecting to the WiZ app, which offers a range of customisation and quick lighting options, is also a breeze. To function, the Sync Box must be connected to a media player (Apple TV, Google TV Streamer, etc.), Sky box, or gaming console via HDMI. If you watch content directly through your smart TV’s native apps, it won’t work. It is also worth noting that the box only offers a single HDMI input. If you have multiple devices hooked up to your TV, as many of us do, you’ll need an HDMI switcher.

The ambient atmosphere genuinely zhuzhes up the viewing experience, especially for movies and gaming, at a great price. It also links with other WiZ products, making it an affordable entry point into the world of smart lighting. Widely available from $179.

SHARK CRYOGLOW COOLING & LED FACE MASK

LOGITECH PRO X2 SUPESTRIKE

The eye-catching monotone aesthetic isn’t the only striking feature of Logitech’s flagship gaming mouse. Traditional mechanical switches are gone, replaced by electromagnetic coils and haptic motors that allow you to customise the exact feel and depth of every click, granting a tactical edge. Whisper-quiet, unbelievably light and blisteringly responsive, it's a real Widely available from $349

XIAOMI ELECTRIC SCOOTER 6 ULTRA

Admittedly, my first few minutes with the Shark CryoGlow were spent creeping through the house and inflicting Friday the 13th-inspired jumpscares on the family. Once I’d gotten that out of my system, it was time to get the imperfections out of my skin. After becoming a household name with their leading range of vacuum cleaners, Shark is making a splash in the beauty world, so much so that this mask secured a spot on TIME’s Best Inventions of 2025 list. It features proprietary iQLED technology paired with InstaChill cold plates to deliver a medical-grade treatment that firms skin, clears blemishes, and physically de-puffs the under-eye area. There are three modes to choose from, Better Aging, Skin Clearing, and Skin Sustain, and with sessions ranging from just four to eight minutes, it’s an easy ritual to fit into a busy day. The external battery pack means you aren’t tethered to a wall plug, while the remote keeps essential info at your fingertips, including a handy session countdown. While I’m probably not the primary target market, the effects were noticeable; I genuinely came to look forward to the daily cooling sessions, which left my under-eye area feeling refreshed and pleasingly chilled. It turns out that looking like a slasher-movie villain is a small price to pay for a hero’s glow. Widely available from $849.99

With petrol prices skyrocketing due to global volatility, many are re-examining electric-powered transport. Xiaomi’s new flagship electric scooter 6 is a highly appealing option. Its "Lightning Yellow" scheme looks suitably racy, while its 12inch all-terrain tyres and dual-swing-arm suspension give you top performance both off-road and on. The 1200W motor hits a 25km/h top speed and offers a massive 75km range, which is enough to cross the city and back without breaking a sweat.

$1499 at pbtech.co.nz

POCKET HOTTY

With winter fast approaching and the days getting noticeably colder, this breakthrough in personal warming technology brings the luxury of a hot water bottle to the palm of your hand. Simply flex the internal disc to trigger a chemical reaction that crystallises the gel, generating immediate heat for up to 30 minutes. These eco-friendly warmers are infinitely reusable; a quick ten-minute boil resets the crystals for your next outing.

$12.99 at funkygifts.co.nz

BIGGER

Overscale is more than a passing moment. Think expansive sofas that anchor a room with presence, sculptural lighting that falls like jewellery hanging from the ceiling, and statement artwork bold enough to command an entire wall. When furniture, lighting and art are intentionally larger than expected, they shift the balance of a space, creating drama and cohesion. Generous scale quiets visual noise and lends a sense of gallery-like intention to everyday living.

WORK

Stories about the everyday passions that drive us.

HOME LOAN TRUTHS

Brooke Reynold's hot tips PAGE 109

PATH TO SUCCESS

KPMG's future focus

PAGE 106

FIGHTING FOR FAMILY FUN?

How to stay the course

PAGE 105

WASTE NOT

A love for leftovers

PAGE 113

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Karl Puschmann puts the new Lexus flagship SUV, the RZ 550e F Sport, to the test on an overnight roadtrip through the winding Waikato. But, is the car a refined, luxury cruiser or a performance powerhouse? As it turns out, it’s both.

PHOTOS JAHL MARSHALL

Atrip to Cambridge seemed the perfect excuse to test drive the new flagship EV SUV from Lexus. But really, it was the other way round. The sleek RZ 550e F Sport provided a compelling reason to drop the kids at Nana’s and hit the open road.

As the crown jewel of their EV range, the F Sport is brimming with high-end tech and all the creature comforts Lexus is renowned for. The package is topped

off with a stylish, head-turning design and bleedingedge performance that practically demands to be taken out of the congested city streets and let loose. I was happy to oblige.

As you’d expect, tackling the mountainous Kaimai Range proved no challenge. With a hefty 402-horsepower on tap, we thundered up its steep, winding slope and had more than enough juice to safely pass the lumbering trucks that pulled into the slow vehicle bays on the short corners of the decline.

From there, State Highway 29 is a mostly straightforward journey to Cambridge, which allowed me to get some real-world testing of the car’s driver features. These are bundled under the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 umbrella and include Lane Tracing Assist, which helps keep the car centred in its lane when adaptive cruise control is engaged, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which automatically adjusts acceleration and braking to maintain a safe following distance, and Curve Speed Management, which can reduce speed through bends when cruise control is active.

I found that letting the driver-assist systems shoulder much of the steering, acceleration and braking reduced fatigue, although this would likely be more noticeable on longer trips, with Cambridge only a little over an hour away. With these features engaged, the car can briefly track the lane on its own, though it quickly prompts you to keep your hands on the wheel if it senses you’ve let go.

Setting your speed and engaging the systems is as easy as pressing one of the touch-sensitive buttons on the steering yoke (yes, steering yoke, not steering wheel) once you reach your desired cruising speed. The yoke is the F Sport’s marquee feature, and we’ll get to it in a moment.

From there, you can run adaptive cruise control on its own, or add lane tracing assist for steering support, with the option to have both working together. Their status appears in the heads-up display, projected onto the windscreen directly in the driver’s line of sight.

This may be the sport model, but the ride inside was never anything less than comfortable and whisper-quiet,

even on the plentiful stretches of chipseal road. The silence provided the perfect canvas for the impressive 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system to shine, while the Ultrasuede-trimmed sports seats, with their bluestitch detailing, proved both comfortable and supportive. With my phone sitting on the charging pad, it was simple to navigate Apple CarPlay through the Infotainment system’s crisp and bright 14-inch touchscreen display. It was too nice a day to use the heated seats or steering yoke, but pressing a button to switch the Dynamic Sky panoramic roof from opaque to transparent flooded the cabin with natural light and blue sky, making the spacious interior feel even airier.

Much like the seats, the position of the steering yoke can be electronically adjusted for reach and height, with memory settings allowing multiple drivers to quickly return to their preferred seat, steering and mirror positions.

This is a good time to talk about the synthetic leather–clad steering yoke, which replaces the traditional wheel and looks like it’s been transplanted from an F1 car, complete with what Top Gear’s Jeremy Clarkson dubbed “flappy paddles.” The RZ 550e also ditches the mechanical steering column in favour of a full steer-bywire system, replacing traditional mechanical linkages with digital precision. It’s easy to oversteer at first, but I quickly acclimated to its responsiveness, with the smallest turn of the wrist producing surgical maneuvers.

Not that I was too worried about precision or scratching the 20-inch alloy wheels, or their aerodynamic resin covers, when I pulled up outside the newly renovated,

historic Clements Hotel, our lodgings for the night in the heart of Cambridge. Instead, I happily pushed a button and let the Advanced Park system navigate us into the space. Lexus EVs have had this feature for a couple of years, but it still feels like magic every time, and there’s a satisfying moment seeing the car parked perfectly in the middle of even the tightest spot.

We’d left Tauranga on a full charge and were still sitting above 60 percent on arrival, which was impressive, considering I’d been fiddling with every button I could reach, had the Climate Concierge cranking, and had really been putting the car through its paces.

We cruised all around Cambridge and ventured out to the Sculpture Park at Waitakaruru Arboretum, roughly 20 minutes from town, as well as the Takapoto Estate Winery, which was another 20 minutes in the opposite direction, before bidding farewell to The Clements, packing our two suitcases into the F Sport’s spacious boot, and heading home the next day.

There was one feature I’d purposefully saved for the return trip: the 550e F Sport’s exclusive Manual Mode. This uses the flappy paddles on the yoke to physically simulate an 8-speed manual gearbox, essentially transforming the car from an automatic into a rocket-powered manual, although it must be stressed that in auto, the car is no slouch, capable of throwing you back against your seat as it rockets to 100km/h in a mere 4.4 seconds.

Taking manual control of all that power was a thrill, seeing the rev counter race up to the red and hearing the engine roar as I planted my foot down. But, you may be thinking, this is an EV I shouldn’t have been hearing any roaring whatsoever out of its batterypowered motor. And you’re right, I shouldn’t have been. But Lexus has very cleverly equipped the F Sport with what they call Active Sound Control, which simulates the sound of a high-performance engine, roaring, rising and falling in perfect sync with every flappy paddle gear shift. It makes for a visceral experience and one that is a heck of a lot of fun.

With an advertised 437km range on a single charge, I had no battery anxiety at all on our trip, even with how much time we spent in the car and my enthusiastic pushing of the vehicle. In fact, I didn’t charge it at all until we got back to Tauranga, where I gave the car a quick blat from one of the Quick Charge stations at The Crossing while we grabbed a bite to eat.

With its sharp style, racy split rear spoiler, blacked out trim and aerodynamic body kit, the 550e F Sport leaves no doubt that it means business, while the sophistication of its design reinforces its premium luxury roots. This is reflected in its driving experience. You can cruise in supreme comfort or harness the thrills of its power. Whichever you choose, it doesn’t disappoint.

LEXUS.CO.NZ/EN/DEALERS/TAURANGA

“YOU CAN CRUISE IN SUPREME COMFORT OR HARNESS THE THRILLS OF ITS POWER. WHICHEVER YOU CHOOSE, IT DOESN’T DISAPPOINT.”

Busy mornings? Long days?

When the only thing you need is coffee to feel like yourself again.

A quiet sip when you finally pause.

BUILDING A LEGACY

CBC Construction has spent two decades shaping Tauranga’s skyline, earning respect not through fanfare, but through steady delivery and an unwavering commitment to doing things well.

WORDS PIP CROMBIE | PHOTOS

SALINA GALVAN + SUPPLIED

How does a company achieve a gold standard reputation and stand out above others in a competitive, cost-driven, time-constricted market, one which demands quality, sustainability, longevity and capability with care? The commercial construction business demands all of the above and locally owned and operated Classic Builders Commercial Construction (known as CBC) have proven time and again they have the answers.

With over 220 completed commercial projects in the last 20 years that have contributed a $400 million turnover in the wider community, there is no doubt that CBC has made its’ mark on the landscapes and skylines of New Zealand. As they acknowledge two decades in the commercial construction business, it is without major fanfare and celebration.

Sitting with managing director, Drew Beekie, in the CBC Mount Maunganui office tucked away in the back

of the industrial area, there is an overall atmosphere of ‘business as usual’ projects coming to completion, others in development. That in itself is part of the essence of their success, getting the job done, keeping the customers happy it has earned an immense amount of respect.

CBC’s knowledge and expertise in the construction industry are the overarching factor in their reputation for delivery of excellence in the commercial building sector. Their work spans compact retail spaces to multi-floor office complexes, industrial warehousing, dedicated health and education buildings, accommodation complexes, hospitality and more. From demolition of existing properties through to fitout, the 20 years CBC has spent in the commercial construction space has cemented their claim that integrity matters deeply to them, that conducting their business honestly and well, at every level, has maintained their impeccable reputation.

The story of how it all began is worth telling. Drew, a Scottish qualified quantity surveyor with 10 years

of experience in London, and then Auckland, crossed paths with Peter Cooney when Drew relocated to the Bay of Plenty. It was 2005 and at that time Peter was managing director of residential construction company Classic Builders Ltd (now one of several entities under the Classic Group).

“I approached Peter to build a house for me when I moved to Tauranga,” Drew explains. “The timing was serendipitous. Classic was just beginning to dip its toe into the water with commercial builds, my area of expertise. During the house build, Matt (Lagerberg) and I got chatting about a commercial construction company and by the end of the house build, CBC came to fruition. We turned a three bedroom house on 15th Ave into an office.”

He muses over the changes technology has brought to how the business is operated today. “We used fax machines, typewritten letters, power cuts blew us out, I had my laptop stolen from the office and with no iCloud backup there wasn’t a lot you could do, but start again”.

The first project Drew was involved with was the iconic apartment and boat-stack complex at Sulphur Point, the Nautilus. The build was an Australasian first of its kind, allowing residents to steer their boats right into the garage below. The project was brought together by Peter and sealed by a handshake with the developer. From this first project, Drew, who was and still is “the do-er, the person who puts all the pieces together, to literally get the projects out of the ground”, initiated Classic Builders Commercial (CBC).

Today, Drew heads CBC as managing director, accompanied by group directors, Matthew Lagerberg

and Peter Cooney. Their combined building industry experience and sharp business acumen make them a formidable team, one that with the well-considered selection of project-management teams have seen multiple properties transformed from blank canvases into prime real estate.

Further developments followed. The award-winning glass-panelled, louvred office development, 247 Cameron Road (the ANZ Business Centre), opened in 2012 and was deemed a trophy building for Tauranga, the largest commercial office development undertaken in the city for 35 years. CBC’s ability to secure blue chip tenants for the 10,000 m2, four-level build saw the project fly and has been a premise of other successful commercial projects. “We promised it would be ready on September 6, 2012, and that’s the day we handed over the keys,” Drew recalls.

Trustpower’s three-storied central city office, a slick design inside and out, was a two-year project and boasts a positive architectural feature of a redeveloping inner city. Exterior materials were chosen to balance performance, longevity and affordability with a large interior atrium connecting the three floors with a light-filled collaborative space. The building accommodates over 600 staff, and was a two-year, $25 million build. Like other big developments CBC have had, they’ve often had to overcome complexities of factors out of their hands.

“We’ve always had a big project on the go like the Trustpower head office during a recession, the GFC, some kind of world crisis, COVID...” Drew says. “These events have all in some way affected the state of construction today, the limitations. Comparing when we first began in 2006 to 2026, there’s been huge

overall cost inflation in construction. Projects require more of everything to get them over the line, the processes and consenting hurdles are more complex and take more time. They’re not insurmountable, but post-COVID we’ve seen around 40 percent inflation in costs.”

There is an extensive suite of developments CBC are proud to have brought to fruition. On Tauranga’s city limits in the Tauriko business park are Cubro, SIMS Distribution, Penske, NZ Windows and the awardwinning IBEX lighting building, which brings a modern design aesthetic to what is essentially a warehouse space, with Grade A office facilities. Add to that New Shoots Childcare, Te Wananga O Aotearoa Campus, Fresh Choice Papamoa, Pearl Kitchen, Mount Golf Club Driving Range the variety of projects is significant.

Transforming the iconic art-deco-styled Mills Reef winery building into The Vines at Bethlehem Clubhouse, complete with interior fitout including an indoor pool and spa, auditorium, theatre, library, gym and resident spaces contributing to the lifestyle of residents of the associated residential village was a 14-month project. CBC also work within the medical space, with completed developments for the District Health Board, St John’s Operations Facility and others. A recent significant development is the Bay Radiology Building on 17th Avenue, a complex build that required the use of lead windows and three-foot thick concrete walls to contain radiation.

CBC'S AWARDS

• New Shoots Kennedy Ridge – Waikato and Bay of Plenty Architecture Award 2020.

• IBEX – Waikato and Bay of Plenty Architecture Award 2024.

• Mills Reef/Vines Clubhouse – Award of Excellence in the Naylor Love Heritage and Adaptive Reuses Property Award category at the Property Industry Awards 2023.

• TECT/The Kollective – Merit Award and Judge's Choice Award Property Council NZ Awards 2019.

• Trustpower – Waikato/Bay of Plenty Architecture Awards 2016.

• ANZ/247 Cameron Rd – NZIA Waikato Bay of Plenty Architecture Award 2013 and Award of Excellence in Property Council New Zealand (PCNZ) Property Industry Awards 2013.

• CUBRO - 2016 Tauriko Business Estate Design Award and 2017 Waikato/Bay of Plenty Architecture Awards (Commercial Category).

While CBC has left its footprint around New Zealand with ventures completed in Auckland and Queenstown, their developments are generally concentrated in the Bay of Plenty region. The current project, 2 Devonport Road, began with the demolition of the existing original downtown Tauranga high-rise. With a finish date of December 2026, it will open as the new location of Craig’s Investment Partners, with other tenants taking up two of the seven storeys.

Over the past 20 years, CBC has enjoyed working with clients more than once. “Our customers have good reason to return, we complete on time and on budget and meet every required quality standard. The way I see it, my name is on the line for every job. If there’s ever an issue, I’ll personally sort it out,” Drew explains.

From management of planning, architecture, construction delivery and after-build care, CBC works on the premise that no job is finished until the customer is content. What more can you ask for?

CBCCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ

If you’ve ever enthusiastically declared, “This will be fun!”, only to have your kids respond with synchronised groans congratulations! You have entered the realm of ‘Forced Family Fun’. It’s that special time when parents envision laughter, frolicking and Instagram-worthy memories, while the kids envision, well, escape routes.

Whether it’s a proposed games night and there is squabbling before the cards are even dealt or a bushwalk that feels like a hostage situation, these moments are proof that worthwhile family activities are not always effortless.

Firstly, let’s normalise something: kids can be resistant. They’re still developing and often don’t fully understand what is in their best interests. Sometimes their resistance is fuelled by something as simple as, “Ugh, Dad’s going to make me put sunscreen on if we go to the beach, and I just can’t be bothered.”

Hold onto your confidence. It’s okay to take the lead, in fact, leadership is a key part of our job description as parents. An outing isn’t doomed if your idea is met with some resistance. Our kids are not in the wrong for being less than enthusiastic. We are not in the wrong for proceeding with the plan anyway.

FIVE WAYS TO MAKE IT FEEL LESS FORCED:

1. Involve kids in the planning. Children respond better when they have had a say in the plan. Offer a choice or two, like which local wharf to go fishing at, a morning or afternoon swim, skatepark or bike ride?

RESISTANCE TRAINING

If your family plans are met with eye rolls and protests, stay the course. Family activities rarely begin with unanimous enthusiasm.

Kristin Ward from The Parenting Place offers steps to make quality time feel less forced.

2. Give a heads up

If we suddenly announce our plan and interrupt what our kids had in mind for the day, we can certainly expect a protest. Kids often need some time to warm up to an idea.

3. Aim for short, successful outings that leave kids eager for more. It’s better to wrap up while everyone is still having fun than to push on until exhaustion sets in. You’re playing the long game by building positive associations with family activities.

4. Bring friends.

Kids who seem nauseated at the mere mention of a hike can suddenly transform into mountain goats when another family tags along. It’s amazing how the presence of friends turns uphill trudging into a full-blown adventure.

5. Bring food.

Planning a surfing day? Make it a family tradition to stop at the (eye-wateringly expensive!) real fruit ice-cream stall on the way home. Heading for the hills? Recruit the kids to help make their own personalised scroggin bags. When food is part of the adventure, a simple outing becomes something kids look forward to.

So, the next time your grand plan for family fun is met with groans and dramatic sighs, take a deep breath and remember that resistance is normal. It doesn’t mean your kids don’t love you or that your family is broken, it just means they’re human (and maybe a little sunscreen-averse). Keep leading with confidence, and never underestimate the power of snacks and friends.

PARENTINGPLACE.NZ

GUIDING THE FUTURE

From graduate to partner, Natalie Berkett’s journey at KPMG Tauranga is one of mentorship, opportunity and building a career full of challenges and rewards.

PHOTOS DEBORAH DE GRAAF

She may have recently become a KPMG partner, yet those early days as a graduate are front of mind for Tauranga’s Natalie Berkett.

It’s 20 years since she attended grad camp with a freshly minted double degree (Bachelor of Commerce and Law) under her belt, and early this year she was back.

In what she describes as “a career journey coming full circle” Natalie was back at this year’s camp for new graduates; there to answer questions, join in activities, connect with the graduates, and share her experience. In short, she was ready to mentor the next generation, as is the KPMG way.

Immediately after grad camp, she was back at work to welcome the four new university graduates who have joined the KPMG Tauranga team. Also welcomed were a similar number of students straight from local colleges, who will be supported to study professional or tertiary qualifications part-time. At KPMG, learning is embedded in day-to-day work, not treated as an add-on as an “exciting and significant” milestone last year highlighted, when 10 of the KPMG Tauranga team achieved chartered accountant status.

Natalie’s workplace journey reflects not only her firm’s long-term investment in people and its commitment to learning at every stage, but its culture of continuity and belonging.

Natalie recalls the time when, upon farewelling her Otago University days, she had the choice of four impressive graduate programmes.

She’d done her homework, choosing KPMG for its reputation of walking the talk when it came to putting people first. Twenty years on and she says she’s never seriously looked at working anywhere else.

KPMG’s Wellington office is where she cut her teeth and during her six years of tenure there she rose to the position of manager. A promotion to senior manager came with her move to Tauranga and then about seven years later she became a director. Natalie’s promotion to partner marks the latest milestone in her career and reinforces the growth of KPMG’s tax practice.

KPMG and tax have been Natalie’s career constants.

“But it doesn’t feel like I’ve had the same job, as I’ve had lots of opportunities to switch things out. Before children, I took a career break and travelled for four months with my husband; I had a short three-month secondment to KPMG Beijing; had two maternity leave stints; and

changed office, so there was lots of variety and opportunity and I never feel as if there isn’t another challenge,” Natalie tells.

There was also the opportunity, had she wanted it, to focus on other areas of the business, given KPMG is a fully integrated firm bringing tax, audit and advisory together to support businesses as they grow and evolve. And given KPMG is a global enterprise, the option of further secondments (to places such as The Netherlands, Germany, Singapore, Australia and the United Kingdom) is also possible.

“You don’t just start at KPMG; you can grow up here and thrive,” says Natalie, who admires the firm’s culture of progression and the fact it is a “long term talent incubator” (to quote a colleague, Tracy Preston-Lett).

Natalie says there’s plenty to keep her with KPMG.

She enjoys the firm’s diverse client base that ranges from start-ups and entrepreneurs through to large, complex organisations at her workplace the full spectrum of business is supported. All, regardless of size and stage, get to benefit from the KPMG team’s deep understanding of what it takes to scale, adapt and stay resilient.

Irrespective of needs, KPMG has a valuable service to offer, Natalie explains. The KPMG team can be there from a business’ conceptual, right through to celebratory, stage. KPMG can be a constant in terms of audit and compliance, or it can offer a dipping in and out service being there as a sounding board and advisory service during a business’ life cycle as its strategies unfold.

Natalie values the people at KPMG. There’s a wide skills base of people always willing to give their time and share their wisdom and knowledge. They work hard and have fun as a team, she says. And Natalie says she feels valued too.

She’s happy to report that “people focus” she identified 20 years ago, when entering the work force, was on the mark. The firm’s purpose of “fuelling prosperity for New Zealand, for all New Zealanders” fits well with her value base.

“Take the grad camp, for example,” she says, citing a fresh-to-mind experience.

“Two days of it were held in Auckland, three at Northland’s Te Aroha Marae. We were intentionally connecting with grass roots New Zealand. We were encouraging our people to think about our KPMG ‘prosperity for all’ purpose. We’re here for all New Zealanders and really do focus on our people, in terms of both staff and clients.”

“ WE’RE A

PLACE WHERE PEOPLE CAN START EARLY, STAY

LONG,

AND GO

FAR . ”

TRACY PRESTON-LETT

People, capability and confidence are all key words when it comes to KPMG’s role as trusted advisor to many, says Natalie’s co-worker and private enterprise partner Tracy Preston-Lett.

Like Natalie, Tracy’s carved out a long-standing (just shy of 30 years) career at KPMG and thrives on being part of a multi-generational office. There’s much to be gained from having 17-year-olds on board, through to one valued team member in their early seventies.

“We’re a place where people can start early, stay long, and go far. The different life stages and perspectives are seen not as a challenge, but a strength. Consider things like digital confidence, experience, fresh thinking and institutional memory and you can understand how knowledge transfer works both ways.

“We think our workplace reflects the real world. It’s multigenerational, diverse and is home to people constantly learning,” Tracy says.

It’s also a workplace heavily embedded in the local business ecosystem, developing people, supporting growth, and contributing positively to the region. The latter involves strong examples of pro bono professional assistance over the years to organisations such as Waipuna Hospice, ACORN Foundation, and choosing Merivale Primary School as a partner school.

“When we talk about prosperity for New Zealanders, we are talking business and community too,” Tracy says.

Speaking as managing partner of the Tauranga office, Tracy says KPMG Tauranga, with its strong local roots and team of almost 100, can indisputably claim to play a key role in its region’s success stories. After all, well-supported people and well-advised businesses are key to regional prosperity.

“I feel really strongly about this region. It has a bright future. You only have to look at the infrastructure, work in progress, changes emerging and possibilities that are coming to life, albeit sometimes slower than people like.

“We are business advisors to a range of clients and get to see their strategic plans and hear their aspirations around what they intend to do or are contemplating. This really fuels optimism around regional growth. I strongly believe we are building a really great city that we can be incredibly proud of, to work and thrive in.”

She enthuses over the big anchor projects that are starting to reach key milestones in Tauranga’s city centre. There’s plenty to get excited about between now and a 10-year horizon.

“Within our KPMG Private Enterprise team, we have a tag line around ‘make possible happen’ and I like that because if you line up how we can work with people to make their possible happen, then that’s an exciting future.”

KPMG.COM/NZ

When people first take out a mortgage, the interest rate usually gets most of their attention. If the number looks decent and the payments seem manageable, they just shrug and carry on. But that’s how so many Kiwis end up overpaying their mortgage without even knowing it.

And when I say overpaying, I’m not talking about a few dollars here and there. I’m talking thousands – sometimes tens of thousands – over the life of the loan. All because the structure isn’t working as hard as it should.

Your mortgage isn’t really a “set and forget” arrangement. Life changes, interest rates shift, and banks regularly adjust their offers, but many loans stay exactly the same for years. Without a review, it’s easy to keep paying more than necessary.

One of the biggest culprits is having everything on the wrong fixed term. People lock something in years ago and assume it still makes sense. But what suited you in 2021 might not suit you now. Maybe you’ve had a pay rise, or your kids have left home, or rates have dropped, but your loan hasn’t kept up.

HACK YOUR HOME LOAN

Brooke Reynolds of Rapson Loans and Finance explains why many of us pay more on our home loan than we need to, and how a simple mortgage check-up could save thousands.

Another way people overpay is by not splitting their lending. Having all your lending on one fixed rate might feel simple, but it also means you're at the mercy of whatever the market is doing the day that rate expires. Splitting your loan across different terms can smooth out the bumps and stop you from getting whacked by big swings.

Then there’s the classic one: not reviewing your mortgage regularly. I review my clients’ loans every 6 to 12 months, because even tiny tweaks can shave years (yes, years) off the mortgage. Most banks don’t ring you up and say, “Hey, we’ve got a better deal for you!”, but that doesn’t mean a better deal isn’t out there. And let’s not forget the cashbacks, discounted rates and competitive offers floating around. Many homeowners just don’t realise they’re there.

If you haven’t reviewed your mortgage in the last year, there’s a good chance you’re paying more than you should. Not because you’ve done anything wrong, just because mortgages need attention, the same way your car or your health does. A quick check-in could save you thousands.

RAPSONLOANS.CO.NZ

“IF YOU HAVEN’T REVIEWED YOUR MORTGAGE IN THE LAST YEAR, THERE’S A GOOD CHANCE YOU’RE PAYING MORE THAN YOU SHOULD.”

ON THE MOVE

Innovative Digital Solutions is in the midst of big changes with new acquisitions, new headquarters and a fresh chapter for the Bay.

PHOTOS KATIE COX

In Tauranga, if a business needs its printers to work, its digital workflows to run smoothly or its office tech to just behave, there’s a good chance Innovative Digital Solutions (IDS) is behind it. For more than 20 years, the company has become a backbone for businesses across the BOP, Coromandel and South Waikato, evolving alongside technology and local business needs. Every story has a beginning, and IDS’s is modest. In 2005, co-founders Jim Tavendale and Dan Martin opened their first office with “just our name on the door

and a phone number,” Jim recalls. With one technician, one office staffer and no clients, their mission was simply to listen and solve problems. That hands-on, practical approach became the company’s guiding principle.

The early days demanded improvisation and a willingness to tackle whatever came through the door. As the company grew, its systems and team grew too. Continuous improvement became a steady foundation that would allow IDS to expand without losing its personal touch.

But IDS didn’t just stick with printers. As workplaces evolved, so did the company. Today, it offers everything

New Tauranga headquarters mark IDS's next phase of expansion.

from print management and advanced scanning, to digital signage, workflow automation and interactive smart screens for schools and businesses.

“We’re not selling machines, we’re helping businesses work smarter,” says Dan. “Whether it’s scanning documents efficiently or reducing unnecessary printing, it’s about making processes simpler and more sustainable.”

Despite expanding its services, IDS has remained staunchly local. Operating from Tauranga with a dedicated Rotorua office, the company ensures clients always talk to someone who knows their business and their challenges, not a call centre on the other side of the world.

Recent years have seen IDS grow through the onboarding of new clients and carefully considered acquisitions. In 2025, the company purchased Insite Technology, a BOP print supply business, adding a number of new clients. Then, in early 2026, IDS acquired Bay Copy, an exclusive Canon authorised partner with 16 years of local presence, further increasing the IDS customer base. Together, these acquisitions have strengthened two established local

businesses, forming a powerful, community-based organisation. Alongside experienced staff and specialist expertise, they have enhanced the company’s local footprint and expanded its range of solutions.

To accommodate growth, IDS moved into a purpose-built headquarters a year ago. The space is modern and collaborative, a reflection of the company itself, which is practical and designed for people first.

But the company’s biggest strength is its team. Some employees have been with IDS since day one, and many long-term staff are approaching a decade of service.

Others take opportunities abroad and return with new perspectives, creating a blend of experience and fresh thinking. It’s a culture built on respect and a shared commitment to the local business community.

Two decades on, IDS is now a local story of growth and connection. And with a solid foundation, a new modern headquarters and a team that values people as much as technology, the next chapter looks just as promising.

IDS.NET.NZ

“ WE’RE HELPING BUSINESSES WORK SMARTER... IT’S ABOUT MAKING PROCESSES SIMPLER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE.”

LEFTOVER LEGENDS

Waste warrior Kate Fenwick explains how leftovers are the foods we waste most, and what we can do about it.

When you peek in the bin, it’s rarely a dramatic scene. It’s not half a roast lamb, it’s the small, slightly neglected things like the bread crust, a container of rice you meant to eat, the last bit of roast chicken, a bag of saggy spinach, or three bananas that ripened overnight. These everyday foods are the casualties of busy lives and optimistic weekly grocery shops.

Bread is hopeful. We buy it imagining neatly packed sandwiches and weekend toast. By Thursday, it’s firm around the edges. But stale isn’t spoiled. Blitz it into breadcrumbs and freeze them. Cube it, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for crunchy salad toppers. Or dip it in egg and milk for French toast. Suddenly, it’s not “old bread.” It’s brunch.

Rice is slightly high-maintenance. Cool it quickly, store it in the fridge, and eat within 24 hours (ignore this at your peril). Once respected, rice is a superstar. Try it fried with leftover veg and protein for a five-minute fakeaway, or stirred with milk, cinnamon and sugar for a comforting dessert.

Roast chicken deserves more than the back of the fridge. Shred it into wraps, toss it through salads, stir it into pasta, or simmer the bones with veggie scraps for stock. Stretching cooked meat into another meal reduces waste and stretches your grocery budget. That’s a win in any economy.

Vegetables are the most misunderstood leftovers. Things like broccoli stalks, carrot tops and wilted greens are often wasted because they “look past it.” They’re not off; they’re ready for a new role. Roast random veg together for sandwiches or grain bowls. Blend greens into pesto. Stir wilting veg into soups or omelettes. No one notices the slight change in texture and the flavour stays intact.

Bananas are fruit with a short shelf life. Overripe bananas are baking gold: make banana bread, pancakes, smoothies or blitz frozen for instant “nice cream.” Suddenly, browning fruit feels like culinary genius.

In our house, an “Eat Me First” shelf keeps soon-toexpire items front and centre. We label leftovers with the date, freeze portions before we tire of them, and, most importantly, transform rather than reheat. A roast becomes wraps. Rice becomes fried rice. Veggies become soup. Bread becomes brunch. Leftovers don’t need to look like leftovers, they just need a remix.

Waste less food, save money, and feel triumphant every time you turn what would have been rubbish into a meal. That’s forkin’ good.

WASTEDWITHKATE | WASTEDKATE.CO.NZ

HAYLEY WEEKDAYS 10AM–3PM

EXPLORE

Hit the road and explore our surrounding treasures.

CLOSE TO HOME

Hayley Barnett's kid-approved roadie

PAGE 116

ONE FAMILY'S EXOTIC GAP YEAR

Education on the move

PAGE 120

FEASTS AND FESTIVITIES

Celebrate fun and flavour in Whakatāne

PAGE 122

WINE-LOVER'S DREAM

Discovering vineyards of McLaren Vale, South Australia

PAGE 124

CARVE DIEM

A trip is what you make it, and though a Ruapehu ski adventure is guaranteed to be a good time, you can always up the ante. UNO editor Hayley Barnett finds the best spots to play, stay and eat during a family road trip.

PLAY

WHAKAPAPA SKI FIELD

There’s something about a trip to the mountain in winter that you just can’t beat. Yes, in New Zealand the weather is always a bit of a gamble, but even on the worst days you come away exhilarated, having made the most of a full day on the slopes. On this particular morning, as we headed up the mountain giddy with excitement and anticipation, the snow gods had delivered. We’d been granted

a bluebird day, a park near the top and surprisingly short queues. On the advice of friends travelling with us, we left Turangi around 7.45am, making it an easy half-hour drive with barely any traffic. We’d opted to hire our skis up the mountain, because there’s nothing worse than clomping up the road in giant plastic boots while accidentally taking people out with your skis and poles every time you turn around. After collecting our passes, we took the lift down to Happy Valley to be fitted for our gear. The fuss-free service was much quicker than expected and we hurried out onto the learner field to get Oscar, our eight-year-old, to his ski lesson.

“ THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT A TRIP TO THE MOUNTAIN IN WINTER THAT YOU JUST CAN’T BEAT. ”

Of course, a small glitch in the system (also known as me forgetting to confirm the booking) meant Oscar’s name didn’t appear on the list. So I spent the next two hours impressing my husband by skiing down the valley in a backwards wedge as Oscar screamed. While I’d highly recommend confirming your child’s ski lesson before you arrive, it was actually pretty satisfying watching him finally fly down the slope with a huge grin on his face, just as I was about to throw in the towel.

Before lunchtime, my daughter Poppy and I parted with the boys, who were off on their own adventure to discover the sledding zone in Happy Valley, where you can hire toboggans and carve up the dug out tracks for up to an hour. Instead we rode the famous Sky Waka Gondola up the mountain to muck around in the Rock Garden. It wasn’t long before we ran into more friends and ended up on the deck of the Knoll Ridge Chalet, which overlooks most of the ski field and the stunning three peaks of Tongariro.

As we sat there, slightly in awe of the scenery, a skier suddenly appeared over one of the peaks, impressing everyone as he carved down the face of the mountain before stopping right on the edge of a cliff. A collective gasp rippled through the lunchtime crowd as he jumped, then tumbled like a ragdoll down the slope, finally landing motionless in the snow.

Watching the dramatic rescue quickly became one of the highlights of the kids’ day, as they retold the story to friends for weeks afterwards. Thankfully, he was okay in the end, even popping up weeks later on a skiing Facebook page to share the update.

OHAKUNE

The next day, the weather gods weren’t so kind. We’d planned to head to Turoa Ski Field, just under an hour’s drive from Whakapapa, but the wind had picked up considerably, forcing the mountain to close. Though the kids were disappointed they couldn’t ski, we’d heard that Ohakune, the small ski town at the base of Turoa, was the perfect place to spend a day with kids. Oscar was also strangely fixated on Ohakune’s giant carrot after a recent school project on the town, so we ventured forth.

The Ohakune Carrotland Adventure Park is a wonder, and not just because of its 7.5-metre-tall frontman, voted Landmark of the Year in a nationwide poll in 2023. The carrot has a full cast of veggie companions, including a swede, Brussels sprout, potato and parsnip, which only add to the park’s surreal charm. The kids clambered through playgrounds, raced along the flying fox, and tested their stamina on the endurance course. Photo ops are everywhere, and it’s impossible not to lean into the silliness. The town’s carrot obsession actually stretches back a century, when Chinese settlers first cleared the land and began growing the crop that would make Ohakune famous.

Today, the region still produces around two-thirds of the North Island’s carrots, making the giant vegetable feel surprisingly well deserved.

Since the carrot park hadn’t quite exhausted the kids’ energy, we headed to another quirky stop just 10 minutes away in Raetihi. Dinosaur House is a chaotic prehistoric wonderland, packed with life-sized dinosaur models, fossils and animatronic creatures that roar into life when you least expect it. There are even movie props, including memorabilia from Jurassic Park, much to Oscar’s delight.

STAY

THE QUARTERS

LAKE TAUPŌ HOLIDAY RESORT

The challenge in travelling with kids is finding somewhere to stay that will keep them off the iPads. Lake Taup ō Holiday Resort ticks all the boxes, being less a holiday park and more a family playground. The thermally heated lagoon pool was the obvious star, with its diving grotto, swim-up bar, giant poolside movie screen, and a pair of twisting hydroslides that had the kids racing each other for hours. The water was warm enough to keep them splashing well after we’d unpacked the car, and the heated villas with electric blankets kept us warm after hopping out. Being just over an hour from Whakapapa made it the perfect base for a mountain adventure, while Taupō’s restaurants, shops, and indoor activities meant we were never short of options on slower days.

LAKETAUPORESORT.CO.NZ

Tucked away in Tūrangi, The Quarters felt like the perfect hideaway. Just a scenic half-hour drive from Whakapapa, it made getting on the slopes early a breeze without having to stay on the mountain itself. Our two-bedroom family apartment had plenty of space for everyone to unwind after a full day carving up the snow, while the kids claimed their corners and quickly made themselves at home. For couples or solo travellers chasing fresh powder, the studios offered a cosy, pared-back alternative that still felt inviting. Friends opted for one of the studios and simply pumped up an airbed for their 10-year-old. Being fully self-contained meant slow, lazy breakfasts before hitting the road, but we also loved that a short stroll brought us straight to Tūrangi’s dining options, making it easy to hang up ski jackets and enjoy a fuss-free dinner after a big day outdoors. THEQUARTERS.NZ

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHALETS

These chalets in Ohakune felt like a true home away from home. With the mountain closed, we were perfectly content tucked up inside our cosy retreat. After a full day of adventure, we sank into one of the three on - site spa pools, letting tired legs soak while the kids laughed and played nearby. Just a five-minute stroll took us to Ohakune’s famous playground, making it effortless to keep the little ones entertained. With Tūroa Ski Field just around the corner and plenty of cafés, bars, and eateries on the doorstep, it proved to be a fantastic base for both exploring the slopes and soaking up the charm of Ohakune.

ROCKYMOUNTAINCHALETS.COM

EAT

JOHNNY NATION’S CHOCOLATE ÉCLAIR SHOP

After an afternoon at the park, we treated the kids to something sweet at Johnny Nation’s Chocolate Éclair Shop in Ohakune, and, as expected, it was a hit. Famous for its world-renowned Ohakune chocolate eclairs, the little shop feels like a treasure trove of treats, offering up decadent cakes and pies, sandwiches, and even fresh vegetables for the grown-ups. The eclairs, filled with fresh cream, are a daily ritual for locals and visitors, and it’s easy to see why. The kids were also kept entertained by the myriad of post-it notes left by diners and pressed all over the walls. By the time we’d finished, the sugar rush had everyone smiling, and it was clear that Ohakune’s sweet reputation is very well deserved.

FB: JOHNNYNATIONSCHOCOLATEECLAIRSHOP

DIXIE BROWNS

On more helpful advice from friends, we pulled up to Dixie Browns in the heart of Taupō and instantly understood its reputation as a lakefront favourite for families. The place buzzes with energy and the food options are endless, from juicy, flame-grilled burgers and golden fish and chips to melt-in-your-mouth slow-cooked ribs and indulgent milkshakes. The portions are generous and the kids happily dived in while we lingered over our drinks, watching the sun go down behind the lake. DIXIEBROWNS.CO.NZ

MATTERHORN

When in Ohakune, we made sure to stop for a meal at Matterhorn, and it didn’t disappoint. This cosy alpine-style restaurant, tucked inside the Powderhorn Chalet just above the lively Powderkeg Bar, has a menu to suit everyone, from hearty classics to more elevated dishes. The highlight was watching the mulled wine being gently warmed over the open fire right in front of us. It would be a great way to unwind after a day on (or off) the mountain. It’s wonderfully family-friendly, with space for the kids to wander, and has plenty of options to keep little diners happy.

POWDERHORN.CO.NZ

GOLDEN CRUST PIZZA

After a day on the slopes, we found ourselves pulling up to Golden Crust Pizza in Tū rangi for dinner. Tucked just off the main road, this family-friendly pizzeria has earned a reputation locally for its generous, flavour-packed pizzas and welcoming vibe. The menu is bigger than you might expect. There’s BBQ chicken, peri-peri and meat-lover’s pies loaded with toppings, plus burgers, thick shakes and sides for anyone who’s still peckish after a day outdoors. We ordered a few different pizzas and the kids loved picking slices straight off the board. Plenty of locals and visitors were stopping by while we were there, which felt like a good sign, and between rounds of pizza and thick shakes, everyone agreed it was a pit stop worth making before heading back to base.

GOLDENCRUST.CO.NZ

Geography lessons

DARE TO DRIFT

Tauranga local Mel Conrad and her family press pause on everyday life to throw caution

to the wind and set off on a dream family adventure around the world.

When we told friends and family we were packing up our lives to explore the world with our two young daughters, the reactions were mixed. From “wow, that’s incredible!”, to “what about schooling?”, and “have you won Lotto?” — and occasionally, just a simple, “why?” Often there was a look half admiration, half concern. As if we had casually announced we were slightly crazy.

To be fair, there were days we wondered the same. But the truth wasn’t dramatic. We hadn’t won Lotto or lost our minds. We simply knew our girls were growing quickly, and this was the season to prioritise time and take a family gap year.

So we did. We took the girls out of school, rented our home and bought a one-way ticket to Vietnam. We didn’t really have a real plan, just a sense that time was moving fast and if we didn’t do this now, we might never do it at all.

Before we left, life was good. It was full and predictable. Time together compressed between bath and bedtimes. Vietnam was our first destination, and on day one we faced our first challenge of crossing the road. Holding hands, wideeyed, terrified and thrilled, we stepped into a hectic stream of scooters and cars. The trick, we learned, was to walk confidently and let the traffic flow around us.

When we made it across, the adrenaline was unforgettable. The girls raced back to the hotel to call family and report how scared Mum had been and how brave they were. We knew then this experience would stretch all of us.

Vietnam brought lost luggage, lantern-lit evenings, perspective, and as we got braver, a food tour by scooter.

From there we drifted through Europe. Malta gave us village festas and daily swims. In southern Spain we stayed long enough to be recognised by locals. Ireland charmed us. France fed us croissants. Portugal gave us near-empty beaches in November.

Finland was magical. Riding a sleigh through a snow-covered forest to find Santa’s cabin is something we’ll never forget. We walked along a snowy path calling “Santa?” until a jolly Nordic man with the longest beard appeared and welcomed us inside.

He knew everything about the girls, our dog Tilly back home and even had the letters they’d sent from Portugal before Christmas. Watching their faces, and feeling unexpectedly emotional ourselves, was unforgettable.

Somewhere between Morocco’s colour, the Tube in London with backpacks and tired children, and the heat in Doha, it clicked. It doesn’t matter where we are, what matters is that we are doing it together.

But being together constantly does take adjustment. There were tears and travel fatigue. We’ve grown thicker skins and a few more grey hairs.

Schooling has been part of the learning curve too. My husband is a teacher, which sounds ideal. It turns out teaching your own children, who see you as Dad first, is humbling and hilarious.

We shifted to worldschooling, blending curriculum with real life, like reading signs, journalling in cafés, counting money in markets. We’ve joined WorldSchool hubs along the way, where travelling families gather for shared learning and experiences.

Not every day is easy. I remember trying to get our eldest to read a resource aligned with her year level in New Zealand. She refused. Tears all round .

That afternoon in Oxford, she found a second-hand Harry Potter book in an Oxfam store. She counted her coins, worked out if she had enough and proudly bought it. From that moment, she became a reader. Watching her confidence grow has been everything.

Our youngest is doing well too but some days she finds harder than others. She misses her friends and structure. But the gift of time means we can adapt to her needs.

People assume long-term travel must be wildly expensive — b ut it doesn’t have to be. We budgeted around NZ$1,400 a week for accommodation, food and local transport, with separate savings for flights and experiences. Renting out our home covers the mortgage. We stay in budget accommodation, visit places often in the off-season, and housesit and cook where possible.

There have been trade-offs. We sold our only investment property to make this season possible. One of us secured a sabbatical. The other stepped away from work.

We love exploring each place and living like locals, and sometimes there are days when no one feels like sightseeing.

One of those days was in Seville. Tired after a long drive, the girls resisted: “Another old building?” So instead of going out, we put on a movie, opened a bottle of Spanish wine, made a supermarket tapas platter and sat watching videos about Seville.

We never left the room that day. And it’s one of the memories we laugh about most.

Some still ask if we’re crazy. Maybe we are, but many now ask how they might do this too.

You don’t need a perfect plan, you just need intention. If the idea keeps nudging you, maybe that’s a sign.

For us, this season has given us more than we imagined. We had time to connect, to watch one another grow and to be together without the constant hum of rushing.

FAMILYGAPYEARS

CONSIDERING A FAMILY GAP YEAR?

• Get clear on your why

Know what you want from this season before you start planning.

• Run the numbers

Build a weekly budget and separate savings for flights and big experiences.

• Consider renting or housesitting Renting your home or housesitting/houseswaps abroad can significantly reduce costs.

• Think differently about schooling

Consider different options and resources formal homeschool structure, online resources, worldschooling hubs, talk to your child’s school.

• Travel slower than you think Fewer destinations and longer stays mean less fatigue and less money spent.

• Choose seasons and destinations wisely

Shoulder and off-season travel stretches your budget further.

• You don’t need forever A term, six months or a year can be enough. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

WHAKATĀNE’S LAST TASTE OF SUMMER

Take your pick of these tantalising ways to savour the best food in the Eastern Bay.

FARMING LIKE GRANDAD

April 18 — Te Teko Racecourse

While not all about food, this is one of the most-loved events on the autumn calendar. See the Clydesdale horses, sheep shearing, tractors, and farm machinery (old and new). There are wagon rides, vintage cars, exhibitions by the Axe Men, chainsaw races, farm animals, craft stalls, old-style kids’ games, food and live music a classic country day out. Please note: due to farm animals, kindly leave dogs at home.

Autumn in the Eastern Bay of Plenty seems to hold onto summer that much longer. The days are warm and calm, the ocean still inviting, and the coastline feels wide open once the holiday crowds have gone. It’s a great time to plan a trip to Whakatāne and the surrounding coast, especially with plenty happening across the region. This season, the Eastern Bay is hosting a mix of foodie events, some part of the Bay’s popular Flavours of Plenty festival, that all highlight the region’s produce, fresh seafood and generous hospitality.

ŌHIWA OYSTER FESTIVAL

May 16 — Port Ōhope Wharf

Now in its third year, the Ōhiwa Oyster Festival returns with a day celebrating the start of the oyster season. Hosted by Tio Ōhiwa, the festival features freshly shucked oysters, seafood vendors from around Aotearoa, chef demonstrations, live music, markets and competitions, all set against the harbour backdrop at Port Ōhope Wharf. Tickets include entry and access to entertainment, activities and oyster stations throughout the day.

FLAVOURS OF PLENTY EVENTS — EASTERN BAY

SHUCKED & POURED: ŌHIWA OYSTERS X MATA BEER

April 17 — Mata Brewery

A guided tasting that pairs freshly shucked Tio Ōhiwa oysters with a curated selection of Mata beers. Explore how different beer styles complement the briny character of the oysters, including a signature “oyster shooter”.

SMOKE, FIRE & BBQ

April 25 — The Run 15

Celebrate the fundamentals of flavour with a campfire feast under the stars. Go off-grid for a one-night-only farm dining experience featuring generous barbecue, tips and tricks from the pit, and optional hands-on moments — all enjoyed fireside beneath clear country skies.

THE BIG FAT GREEK CYPRIOT LUNCH

April 18 — Awakaponga

Community Hall

An instant sell-out in 2025, this lively event returns with a generous Greek Cypriot feast served meze-style, alongside music and plenty of convivial atmosphere.

LE REPAS VAGABOND

April 25 — Waingarara Valley

A 12-course wandering meal of chef-led surprises inspired by Spanish, French, and Mediterranean flavours. This roaming feast promises creativity, generous flavour and plenty of surprises along the way. Bon Appétit. Sahten. Buen provecho.

SMOKE ON THE WATER

April 19 — Fisherman’s Wharf

Join Fisherman’s Wharf for a spectacular evening celebrating the craft of open-fire cooking. Enjoy a smoky four-course dinner, paired with drinks, and cooked entirely over live flames by renowned chef Paul Patterson.

MORE TO TICKLE THE TASTEBUDS

MYSTERY FOOD TOUR

April 18 — Whakatāne

ALL YOU CAN EAT TACO NIGHT

April 22 & 29 — Cadera

NOSE TO TAIL

BBQ FEAST

May 1 — The Smokin’ Goose

APPRENDRE PIZZA + CROISSANT

May 2 — L’Atelier

LONG LUNCH

ITALIAN STYLE

May 2 — Top Shelf

LIFTING THE VEIL ON THE VALE

Adelaide’s abundance of grape-growing greatness is well known, as is the South Australian city’s jewel in the crown, Barossa Valley. If you’re chasing something a little more fresh and a lot more enticing, however, make tracks for McLaren Vale. You won’t regret it.

WORDS

+ PHOTOS JAMIE TROUGHTON

Hot tip: if you’re going in cold to a new wine region, it really does pay to take a professional with you.

Luckily, the crew we’d assembled for UNO wine columnist Jess Easton’s significant birthday included talented Kiwi winemaker Alice Rule, who arrived in Adelaide armed with the local lowdown and plenty of insider insight.

Forget Barossa, she confirmed. Bypass Adelaide Hills and skip Clare Valley. She’d been hearing great things about a few places in McLaren Vale. We need to go there.

And so, mellowed and content after a long weekend of birthday celebrations, music festivals and a decent crack at Adelaide’s multi-ethnic, over-delivering restaurant scene, we boarded a minibus and hit the highway.

The power of proximity

For such a vast and untamed state, South Australia’s viticultural heritage is packed into a remarkably small area.

Adelaide Hills, for example, is just 20 minutes out of the city centre. On the way, nestled in the foothills, is the grand old lady of Australian wineries, Penfolds Magill Estate. We’d earlier stopped in for an hour-long tour and ended up enjoying a half-day pilgrimage. The depth of history resonating through the high stone walls and deep cellars is unforgettable.

Up into the Hills, you start getting cool-climate wines, like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

The Barossa Valley, meanwhile, is one of Australia’s oldest and most famous regions, boasting more than 150 wineries, renowned for its German heritage as much as for its Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. Even the name ‘Barossaʼ has heft a weighty, punchy moniker matching perfectly to some of the big, bold wines it produces.

Two hours north of the city is Clare Valley, celebrated for premium Riesling and more than 50 cellar doors, featuring charming villages and the Riesling Trail. Kangaroo Island, Eden Valley and Langhorne Creek are other well-known areas for wine lovers to explore.

Our attention, however, turned towards the coast, a short 40-minute trip south to McLaren Vale, possibly the oldest continuously producing wine-growing region in Australia, first planted in 1838.

Long before European colonisation, the area was the traditional home of the Kaurna people, who enjoyed the regionʼs Mediterranean climate for thousands of years. The cooling sea breezes take the sting out of the hottest of South Australian scorchers, with an array of diverse ancient soils helping grow varieties like Fiano, Sangiovese, Vermentino, Barbera, Montepulciano, Nero d’Avola and Tempranillo.

McLaren Vale i s also the most environmentally sustainable wine grape growing region in Australia, which immediately attracted the attention of our illustrious tour guide Alice.

Hostess with the most-ess

As one of the youngest wine producers in New Zealand, Alice established her boutique wine venture, 3sixty2, in 2018 at just 25. She was the first

New Zealand wine producer to introduce carbon offsetting at checkout and her focus on environmental stewardship and sustainability is helping set the gold standard in the industry.

And our first stop, Yangarra Estate, featured biodynamic vineyards surrounding a stunning cellar door, vibrant with Grenache, Shiraz and a treasure trove of alternative varietals.

“I loved their philosophy around biodiversity and loved how interesting their new young wines were, like the unconventional Piquepoul,” Alice said, fresh from a perfectly curated wine tasting experience; textural pottery, Plumm wine glasses, expensive cheese and hand-shaved prosciutto.

“Piquepoul is an ancient French varietal and the name literally means ̔stings the lipsʼ a reference to the wineʼs characteristically high acidity but Yangarra wouldn’t do that to you. It was the Jo Malone of white wine, fragrant, delicate and crisp a unique treasure probably not found very easily.”

“ IT WAS THE JO MALONE OF WHITE WINE, FRAGRANT, DELICATE AND CRISP A UNIQUE TREASURE. ”

Next stop was Dandelion Vineyards, another biodynamic exemplar, where the tasty, innovative wines were elevated to another level by the winemakerʼs mum and her culinary prowess.

Dandelionʼs Elena Brooks grew up in Bulgaria, set amidst the demise of the Soviet Union, as an influx of western winemakers began visiting the region. Her mum Dani Golakova worked for the Soviets as an MiG mechanic, before venturing into marketing at the large and historic winery Vinprom Lyaskovets in their small hometown. As the only one able to speak English, Elena started helping translate for visiting viticulturalists after school. By the age of 12, she was interpreting barrel tastings with the winemakers. By the age of 15, she had the wine knowledge and vocabulary of a veteran, and by 16 she was making her first batches of Chardonnay.

Fa st forward a couple of decades and sheʼs now married and settled in McLaren Vale, like Alice, a rising winemaking star, and with mum whipping up sensational plates of Kashkaval Pane, Kyopolou and Baked White Cheese with Honey and Walnuts for her dazzled guests.

Bekker beckons

If the day had a tactical error, it was right there. Did we expect to feast like Bulgarian royalty just before lunch? Nope. Did that stop us hitting the Salopian Inn and ordering up large? Again, nope. To be fair, after our Dandelion feast, we had every intention of a light snack, but the Salopian Innʼs fare was too good to skimp on. Some of us lighterweights perhaps had visions of a

quick snooze, as we wound down the tour at Bekkers Wine, our last winemaker stop. But there’s something about being greeted by the winemaker himself and being welcomed into a makeshift tasting room amid renovations that captures attention, not to mention the curious sight of Grenache grapes growing upright as bush vines not on wire or trellis.

Toby Bekkers is quietly understated, friendly, and someone you instinctively lean in to as you listen. He and his French wife Emmanuelle spend large parts of the year in each otherʼs countries, and their unique styles converge in the glass.

Aliceʼs old Lincoln University mate, Charlie, worked with Emmanuelle during a stint in the state and said Bekkers was a must-visit. After a few sips of a signature Grenache, and a magnificent Syrah, it was easy to see why.

“I ’m always really excited when the viticulturist is hosting the tasting because thatʼs where my heart has always been,” Alice said. “And when Toby told us he was going to skip past the sensory descriptions and instead talk about the importance of texture, it really struck a chord. The wines, like Yangarra, are textural, interesting, and though he never mentioned ̔Old Worldʼ, itʼs clear they were made that way, while at the same time respecting the land they grow on, which is inherently New World. Itʼs a careful balance theyʼve gotten right and I loved how they called their wine Syrah instead of Shiraz. Having a French winemaker wife probably had something to do with this decision, which is a big tick from me! ”

And so, we depart, loaded to the gunnels with McLaren Vale vintages. Itʼs been a big tick from all of us.

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CCRUISE CONTROL

YOU Travel & Cruise Bethlehem’s Catherine Membery boards Silver Moon to see what sets Silversea apart — and why small-ship cruising continues to win over seasoned travellers.

atherine Membery and her husband joined Silver Moon in Hobart, midway through a voyage from Auckland to Melbourne. With just 596 guests on board, the scale felt calm and intimate from the outset.

“The service was a standout for me,” she says. “The Silversea crew numbers nearly match that of its passengers, and they were unfailingly respectful, friendly and

efficient. We loved meeting our butler and truly valued how he personalised our experience; and witnessed our fellow passengers also enjoying their interactions with the attentive crew.”

Many guests on board were seasoned travellers choosing to simplify the way they see the world. Catherine met a woman who, after a lifetime of travel, said cruise life suited her perfectly, allowing her to continue overseas

journeys without the usual logistics.

Only unpack once

It’s one of cruising’s simplest luxuries. Settled into their ocean-view suite, Catherine appreciated the ease of unpacking just once and waking somewhere new each day. She explored Hobart independently but recommends organised shore excursions. “That way you always ensure you get back to the ship on time!” she laughs.

“ CATHERINE APPRECIATED THE EASE OF UNPACKING JUST ONCE AND WAKING SOMEWHERE NEW EACH DAY. ”

Broaden the mind

On-board experiences are varied enough that the ship becomes part of the destination. “So much to do and so many interesting people to meet,” says Catherine. “Meals are magic when dining options are so varied, with a range of included wines, notably regional varieties. Among the restaurants with exceptional cuisine and service, Silver Note was a special treat, an intimate but lively space with pianist and jazz singer. Salt Bar became a regular for cocktails and socialising with other guests. The immersive S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) destination based culinary programme is a feature I enjoyed on Silver Moon.”

Daily activities range from entertainment and lectures linked to ports of call to time in the pool, on deck, at the gym or in the spa.

The world is your oyster

Silversea’s 12 ships sail to more than 900 destinations worldwide, from Northern Europe’s Baltic and the Mediterranean to Asia, Alaska and closer-to-home itineraries around New Zealand and Australia.

Expedition voyages to Antarctica and the Arctic add another layer for those seeking something more remote.

“There’s a reason so many overseas tourists cruise New Zealand and Australia,” Catherine points out. “Arriving in Melbourne by sea was spectacular.”

“Experiencing a Silversea cruise for myself exceeded my already high expectations. What a wonderful way to see the world.”

YOUTRAVELBETHLEHEM.CO.NZ

AFRESH FOCUS

UNO editor Hayley Barnett discovers Cherrywood’s sweet spot, Fik â .

round 18 months ago, Shawn and Tracy Kenny took one look at a small Cherrywood neighbourhood bar and decided this must be the place.

Tracy had taken over the day-to-day running of their branding agency business and Shawn was returning to his roots in hospitality, where he first cut his teeth in his family’s Wellington venues.

They set about transforming Fikâ from what was once called Neighbourhood, giving it a fresh, more modern feel, and added a café. A year and a half on, the tidy yet unpretentious space is managing to retain its loyal customer base while drawing in a whole new, younger crowd.

“We’d recently bought an ice cream truck, named Fikâ, named by the former Swedish owner,” explains Shawn. “Fikâ is a Swedish word meaning to take time out and appreciate the good things in life. When I found out what it meant, it just made sense to use it for this space.”

Alongside being a haven for slowing down, Fikâ centres on supporting local and producing good food from quality

New Zealand ingredients. Fresh fish arrives daily from East Rock in Gisborne, milk comes straight from the Volcanic Creamery in traditional pails, and the chef grows her own blueberries at Blueberry Hill Farm in Whakamārama.

Local bakers Just Breads supply loaves that rival any classic sourdough, while all other baking is made in-house each day.

Shawn lights up when he talks about the craft behind every product that passes across his counter. If he can support small operators, he will, and if the team can make it in-house, they do.

“People really notice when it’s local,” Shawn says. “And they care.”

His team is another big part of what makes Fikâ stand out. Kylie Overton, who previously cooked for a high-end chef in the Lake District in England, returned to the kitchen after raising children. Shawn encouraged her to experiment, and she’s been shaping the flavours ever since. Rebecca Hunt joined shortly after, bringing her own creativity to the in-house baking. Between them, they fill the cabinet with a mix of traditional favourites and new flavours.

Under the new ownership, large-plate dinners have been replaced with shareable options that encourage guests to try a range of dishes without breaking the bank.

Classic breakfast items come in small and large sizes; the Smashed Avo and Feta is a standout, and even the smaller serving is generous. The Chicken Bao Buns and Greek Salad with fresh fish are UNO favourites, and few can resist Fikâ’s famous savoury scroll when walking past.

“That’s a crowd favourite,” laughs Shawn.

Evenings bring approachable dishes, drinks, live music on Sundays, quiz nights, and themed events, keeping that neighbourhood energy alive.

Shawn’s simple intention of feeding people well, knowing them by name, and keeping everything as close to home as possible has paid off. The trick, he says, is to keep the focus steady.

“It’s important to be genuine and keep the doors open to everyone in the community,” he says. “That’s what it’s all about.”

FIKA.NZ