CONTENTS WINTER 2026
Kia ora.
ON THE COVER
School Community Officer Senior Constable Gordon Campbell takes school patrol monitors at Auckland’s Kohimarama School through their paces, as principal Paul Engles looks on. Photo by Amber Beaton (Videotaxi).
There is never a shortage of inspiring New Zealanders to interview. In this issue we talk to an opera singer, a police officer on school patrol, the founder of a charity and a conservationist with a relatable message. We also get cosy with a maker of beautiful blankets. The conversation gets a bit serious with an advocate for men’s health, and an investigation into insuring valuable vintage treasures, along with other timely topics including the fuel crisis, WoF changes and the day-to-day cost of EV ownership.
We take journeys around the South Island by car and by train, and cycle through the North Island’s Pureora Forest. Australia and Japan feature, with a walking focus in the former and busy sightseeing in the latter. Surely, then, something for everyone! – Kath Webster, Editor
easy and it’s effective.
The founder and CEO of successful charity The Kindness Collective shares what inspires her to help people in need.
an
Supporting kids to be school patrol monitors is a highlight for the School Community Officer, who has been in the role for 13 years.
Trekking Australia’s Grampians Wildflower season is a great time to experience this Victorian trail.
Japan
Sarah Page
Filipe Manu He’s been singing since childhood. The talented tenor talks about his operatic career and
upcoming role in NZ Opera’s The Pearl Fishers
Senior Constable Gordon Campbell
Jessi Morgan Predator Free New Zealand’s Chief Executive encourages everyone, everywhere to take up backyard trapping. It’s
Meet the maker Look familiar? Fresh Retro Love is a small New Zealand business making travel rugs and blankets using traditional materials, methods and designs.
Road trip
A drive from Queenstown to Greymouth on the West Coast reveals many glorious South Island scenic spots.
TranzAlpine rail
Is the highlight the scenery or the food? The Scenic Plus experience adds luxury to an already very special train journey.
Timber trail cycling
It’s a challenging but exceptionally beautiful ride through the North Island’s Pureora Forest.
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