Junction December 2015

I S S U E 0 2

Junction

DEC 2015

M ATA K A N A CO A S T | P E O P L E & H A P P E N I N G S | P U H O I TO PA K I R I

Takatu Lodge Christmas table New summer food & wine Sensational beachwear WWW.JUNCTIONMAG.CO.NZ

FREE

CONTENTS - ISSUE 02

www.junctionmag.co.nz SPOTLIGHT........................................................................................................ 4 Malola Swimwear PUBLISHER/GENERAL MANAGER Bianca Howlett +64 21 117 2833 bianca@junctionmag.co.nz EDITOR Kathy Hunter +64 21 103 0526 kathy@junctionmag.co.nz ADVERTISING & MARKETING EXECUTIVE Monique Jansen +64 21 975 102 ads@junctionmag.co.nz CONTRIBUTORS Words & editing - Jenna Moore https://github.com/konsav/social-icons https://github.com/konsav/social-icons https://github.com/konsav/social-icons Photography - Louise M Photography Design - Tracey Stimpson Design, photography & styling - Sorbet Writer, photography & interior styling Hannah Kitchen - Six Photography & Styling Words - Alex Hunter Editorial enquiries - editorial@junctionmag.co.nz GENERAL ENQUIRIES/DISTRIBUTION hi@junctionmag.co.nz FRONT COVER Takatu Lodge Photo by Six Photography & Styling PRINTED BY HORTON MEDIA PUBLISHED BY JUNCTION MEDIA LTD All content featured in Junction Magazine is subject to copyright in its entirety and may not be reproduced in any form without permission from the Publisher. Views expressed in Junction Magazine are not necessarily those of the Publisher. Any material supplied for publication is at the owner’s risk. All information is believed to be true by the Publisher at the time of printing.

TREND. . .............................................................................................................. 6 Sensational Beachwear GET THE LOOK LOCAL - FASHION.................................................................... 9 CHRISTMAS COVETABLES..............................................................................10 DESIGN............................................................................................................. 11 Takatu Lodge GET THE LOOK LOCAL ....................................................................................14 Twig & Bloom Christmas Tables SAVOUR............................................................................................................ 16 The Matakana Wharf Bistro Chocolate Brown CHERISH. . .........................................................................................................18 Kindness Pixie Tia’s Gift Guide DISCOVER . . ....................................................................................................... 19 Market Meanderings ARTS................................................................................................................ 20 The Vivian, Virginia Leonard REVIEW............................................................................................................ 21 Erin Mulholland, Black Grace HAPPENINGS.................................................................................................. 22 New Year’s Eve GIG GUIDE....................................................................................................... 23

MATAKANA COAST WINE COUNTRY Matakana Coast Wine Country has welcomed summer, kicking off with one of the regions annual events, the Kowhai Festival. Having the main street in the village of Warkworth closed to traffic allowed the village to come alive with stalls, music and food.

Following this was the Labour weekend festivities and events around the region, which welcomed back the Matakana Vintage Markets & Sunday Sessions for the summer season.

If you're planning a visit to the region, make sure you visit www.matakanacoast.co.nz for some great ideas or call our Warkworth i-SITE Information Centre on 09 425 9081 for more information.

04 MALOLA SWIM

06 TREND - SENSATIONAL BEACHWEAR

MONDAY Explore Puhoi Town & Warkworth Museum TUESDAY Saltwater Eco Full Day Tour WEDNESDAY Matakana Tours Wine Tour THURSDAY Discover Tawharanui Regional Park FRIDAY Collectables Trail SATURDAY Visit Markets SUNDAY Pakiri Beach Horse Rides

MATAKANA COAST A WEEK LONG DESTINATION

For more information & to book accommodation and tours contact Warkworth i-SITE on +64 9 425 9081 or visit www.matakanacoast.co.nz

CONTENTS - ISSUE 02

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DESIGN - TAKATU LODGE

14 GET THE LOOK LOCAL -

16 SAVOUR - MATAKANA PUB

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SAVOUR - CHOCOLATE BROWN

18

CHERISH - KINDNESS PIXIE

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DISCOVER - MARKET MEANDERINGS

20

ARTS - THE VIVIAN

21

REVIEW - BLACK GRACE

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HAPPENINGS - NEW YEAR’S EVE

TWIG & BLOOM CHRISTMAS TABLES

homeware | childrenswear | furniture | linen

Full range of

Wonki Ware handmade ceramics

Dishwasher + oven safe | chip resistant + lightweight

NEW cotton towel + kikois range NEW location | 650 matakana rd | thursday to monday 10-4pm or when the flag is out | Matakana Golden Mile Collectables Trail store fb. facebook.com/mooimooinz | p. pinterest.com/mooimooinz | i. instagram.com/mooimooinz | w. mooimooi.co.nz

SPOTLIGHT

MALOLA SWIMWEAR PHOTOS

WORDS JENNA MOORE BRIJANA CATO PHOTOGRAPHY

Lauren Holehouse is the creator of Malola Swim, a swimwear label with the tagline: Made and Designed With Love in New Zealand.

Lauren grew up in our beautiful region, and it was the beautiful beaches and summers spent on the beach that inspired her to launch her own swimwear label after graduating from AUT. We caught up with the enterprising 21-year-old water baby, surf bunny and fashion graduate to ask about her home-grown swimwear range.

Are you from the Matakana Coast?

Yes. I moved up from Auckland when I was about five years old so I’ve grown up here by the beach and I love it. Living in Auckland city for three years to attend university has made me really appreciate how lucky we are to live up here, and how lucky I am to have the lifestyle I do.

How did you become a swimwear designer?

My Gran, Aunty and Mum were in the rag trade. I grew up picking out my favourite rolls of fabric or buttons from the collection Gran kept in an old milk chocolate tray, and learning to sew. It’s how I was brought up so I guess that was a big influence on my interest in the fashion Industry. I’ve always been creative and during my school years I did a lot of art and design subjects, but fashion was definitely the path I wanted to go down. Swimwear is my passion and a huge part of my lifestyle - I saw a gap in the market for a young, fresh label that was fun and also a little daring in cuts and styles.

Did you always have a love of swimwear?

(Laughs). Yes definitely! I think every girl has an item of clothing they own a lot more of, whether it be shoes, dresses or tees, and mine is bikinis. I have so many that I have collected from all over the place. I love finding flattering suits in cool prints and looking into the quality of the construction and fabrics that are used. My collection also has a huge influence when I am designing for Malola Swim.

What inspires your designs?

There are so many things that shape my design process. To be honest, a major one is my personal experience in swimwear and what shapes and styles I love compared to the ones I don’t. For example, I personally don’t like halter styles because I don’t like ties around my neck as they dig in and make my neck ache, but I love a good triangle top and it’s hard to find one that isn’t a halter neck. This is what caused me to design my Tri top with over the shoulder straps that can be adjusted at the back. Other than that I love bold prints and collaborating with talented people to come up with a unique range of custom prints exclusive to Malola Swim.

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE TO WIN A MATAKANA BOTANICALS GIFT BASKET VALUED AT $200

Subscribe to Junction Magazine’s free online edition between now and the 10th December 2015 to be in the draw.

Simply visit www.junctionmag.co.nz or visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/junctionmag hit sign up or subscribe, enter your details and your in the draw.

Terms & Conditions apply, prize cannot be exchanged for cash or vouchers, must be collected from Matakana Botanicals, cost of collection is the winners responsibility. Items in prize may vary from those pictured.

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Where do you see your future?

Currently I’m enjoying concentrating on my swimwear and getting known for it here in New Zealand and, hopefully, worldwide. In the future I would love to branch out with other products including jewellery, which I currently design as a sideline. Ultimately I’d love to end up having a beach lifestyle brand specialising in unique, quality beach products.

“And now for something completely different...”

WENDY DOUGLAS LICENSED REAL ESTATE SALESPERSON

021 244 5683 | MATAKANA 422 9280

PREMIUM.CO.NZ | FINE HOMES MATAKANA COASTAL REALTY LTD MREINZ LICENSED REAA 2008

SPOTLIGHT

Finally, what do you love most about where we live?

I love having close access to so many beautiful surf beaches, I feel so lucky to call this place home and to be completely surrounded by coastline and nature.

It’s so relaxing. It’s also the perfect place to be based for designing as, I find, it’s impossible not to be inspired by your surroundings. www.malolaswim.com

Centre spread: Summer in Malola Swim; Above from top: The tube top and tui bottoms in cyclone reverse to gold; Lauren in her element; Sleek in the sun.w

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TREND

SENSATIONAL BEACHWEAR MODEL MONIQUE JANSEN PHOTOS NICOLE MILLER-WONG MAKEUP BLUSH BEAUTY LOUNGE LOCATION BALI GARDEN POINT WELLS

Clockwise from top left: KATYAMAKER.COM, Noa Noa Tunic $239 MALOLA SWIM, Loll Wrap Top $134 Summer Sessions, Le Specs No Smirking Sunglasses $89.95 DE LOVELY, Spliced Waiheke Dress, $549 KATYAMAKER.COM, FV Semi-Precious Stones Tassel Necklace $99 KATYAMAKER.COM, Crochetta Paper Hat $79 BACH SURF, Block Party Bikini $89.99 MONNI, Silk with Lace Trim Shorts SUMMER SESSIONS, PAMELINHIA Jellyfish Shirt $109.99 BACH SURF, Block Party Bikini $89.99 MONNI, Silk with Lace Trim Shorts LA STORY, Queenie Wrap $260 MALOLA SWIM, Ella One Piece $245

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TREND

Left: BACH SURF, Turkish Maxi Dress $269.95 Below left: TWO BOUTIQUE, Totem Benois Dress $275

Above top: SUMMER SESSIONS, PAMELINHIA Jellyfish Shirt $109.99 BACH SURF, Block Party Bikini $89.99 Below: MALOLA SWIM, Loll Wrap Top $134 MONNI, Silk with Lace Trim Shorts

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TREND

Clockwise from left: KATYAMAKER.COM, Epifania Silk Kaftan $129 TWO BOUTIQUE, Camilla & Marc Pearl Polo Dress $310 HEAVENLY SOLES, Neo Betty Shoes $199 KATYAMAKER.COM, Crochetta Paper Hat $79 DE LOVELY, Spliced Waiheke Dress, $549 KATYAMAKER.COM, FV Semi-Precious Stones Tassel Necklace $99 KATYAMAKER.COM Crochetta Paper Hat $79

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GET THE LOOK LOCAL

HEAVENLY SOLES Neo Betty Shoes $199

BACH SURF Block Party Bikini $89.99

DE LOVELY Spliced Waiheke Dress $549

MALOLA SWIMWEAR Ella One Piece $245

TWO BOUTIQUE Totem Benois Dress $275 KATYAMAKER.COM FV Semi-Precious Stones Necklace $99

SUMMER SESSIONS Pamelinhia Jellyfish Shirt $109.99

blush

BEAUTY LOUNGE KATYAMAKER.COM Epifania Silk Kaftan $129

Proudly Stocking Environ Skincare & Jane Iredale Makeup Make Up Artistry • Tinting • Facials Manicures • Pedicures Electrolysis • Waxing • Brow Shaping (09) 422 9007 Matakana Village www.blushbeautylounge.co.nz

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GIFTS

CHRISTMAS COVETABLES

Rummage Matakana + Teddy Rumbles refreshment caravan

Matakana Vintage Market + Sunday Sessions

1 Anderson Rd, Matakana, Warkworth | Open Thursday-Sunday 10am-4pm www.rummage.co.nz | facebook.com/teddyrumbles | 021 442 071

2 Matakana Valley Rd Matakana | On every Sunday 10am-2pm www.matakanasundays.co.nz | 021 0225 5828

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Green with Envy - Homewares + Gift Store

Old School Inc - Vintage Treasures + Guest Cottage

Cnr Sharp and Matakana Roads | Open 7 days, 9am-5pm | 09 422 7554 www.greenwithenvy.co.nz | Photo credit: Louise M Photography

745 Matakana Rd, Matakana | Open Friday-Monday or by appointment www.oldschoolinc.co.nz | 021 294 0086

DESIGN

TAKATU LODGE WORDS

KATHY

HUNTER

|

PHOTOS

HELEN

KITCHEN

Above: Setting the scene for a long luxurious Christmas lunch... with breathtaking views and a cool breeze.

Joanne Anson was the head chef at luxurious Okiato Lodge in Russell for eleven years. She’s spent time cooking for her own clients in the UK and Melbourne, had a property-management business and owned her own high-end Christmas cake company. Now she’s managing a slice of the some of the best luxury accommodation in the Matakana area: Takatu Lodge.

For all of your Christmas goodies

In the year that she’s been at Takatu, Joanne has been involved in moving the Lodge towards self-sufficiency with its own heritage orchard and vege garden. She bottles fruit, jams, chutneys and was finishing a batch of lemon curd when we spoke. She even makes bath salts inhouse. The Lodge is also a serious vineyard, which bottles a beautiful Rosé, Pinot Gris and Merlot Franc Malbec.

Guests arrive to find home baking and a local cheese board featuring Whangaripo buffalo cheeses. Other local products making regular appearances are Matakana Coffee, Omaha Organic Blueberry Juice, the excellent new Jones Road Cider, Lothlorien Feijoa wines, free-range meats from both the Matakana and Warkworth butchers, local oysters, strawberries and Matakana Smokehouse salmon.

Joanne says, “Takatu takes its name from the surrounding area. The literal translation is ‘well prepared’. This is how we at Takatu Lodge aim to be for all our guests. We aim to provide them with a warm welcome and a stay that’s relaxing and rejuvenating, with an overall feeling of generosity. We want them to leave us feeling they’ve made new friends – with a desire to return and bring others to share this unique place.”

only the good stuff

The Lodge has recently undergone a full refurbishment, with interior design by Prudence Lane. Lavish touches include underfloor heating, high-end furniture and marble bathrooms, complemented by the work of award-winning local artists such as Virginia Leonard.

Corporate retreats, weddings, honeymoons and general romance are all encouraged. Children – sadly, gently – are not. Takatu Lodge is a grownup, de-stress, lush-out zone. www.takatulodge.co.nz | info@takatulodge.co.nz 518 Whitemore Road, Matakana | 09 423 099299 11

DESIGN

TAKATU LODGE

Above: The Lodge is surrounded by a sea of grapevines.

Above: The bedroom is a peaceful retreat at the end of a busy day.

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Above: The lounge encourages mingling before the indulgence of dinner.

DESIGN

TAKATU LODGE

ABODE FURNISHINGS MATAKANA

MODERN INTERIOR AND OUTDOOR DESIGN We import custom quality furniture View full collection and information online www.abodefurnishingsmatakana.co.nz Call to view our Sandspit Showroom Phone 027 425 6311 abodefurnishingsmatakana@xtra.co.nz

Above: Christmas vibe at the Lodge.

Above: The entrance to Takatu Lodge has clear Mediterranean influences.

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GET THE LOOK LOCAL

TWIG & BLOOM CHRISTMAS TABLES PHOTOS

Above: Dress your table with gorgeous crockery from MooiMooi Wonki Ware Side Plate Duck Egg Baroque $19 Green With Envy Frolic Dinner Plate Grey $29 MooiMooi Wonki Ware 31cm Dinner Plate White Beach Sand $31

HELEN

KITCHEN

|

STYLING

TWIG

&

Above: MooiMooi Wonki Ware Side Plate Duck Egg Namaqua $19

BLOOM

Delectable oysters from Matakana Oysters

LOCAL CHRISTMAS ESSENTIALS 2014 ROSÉ - Takatu Vineyard CHOCOLATES - Chocolate Brown CHRISTMAS CRACKERS - Green with Envy OYSTERS - Matakana Oysters CHEESES - Whangaripo Buffalo Cheese Co STRAWBERRIES - Charlies Gelato Garden FLOWERS - Twig & Bloom

Not only are Twig & Bloom highly skilled at executing creative and elegant wedding scapes but they are able to cater for all events - Christmas included. Made to order, Floral Christmas Plum Puddings are available in different sizes, prices on application. Festive floral arrangements can make any Christmas table come alive and Twig & Bloom have a large range of candles, holders, vases, ice buckets and accessories for sale.

CAPTURE THE ESSENCE OF CHRISTMAS WITH

twig + bloom Floral Christmas Plum Puddings Festive Floral Arrangements Decorative Candles, Holders, Vases, Ice Buckets & Accessories Phone (09) 423 0091 | www.twigandbloom.co.nz Matakana Village, 5b/2 Matakana Valley Road, Matakana flowers@twigandbloom.co.nz

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GET THE LOOK LOCAL

Whangaripo Buffalo cheeses

Christmas made to order with Twig & Bloom

Mouth watering strawberries from Charlies Gelato Garden

A place to relax and rejuvenate

A stay at Takatu Lodge & Vineyard is a unique experience. You will be staying on a working vineyard whilst enjoying the highest standards of elegance and comfort.

Your individual needs will be anticipated with great attention to detail leaving you free to unwind in our peaceful setting.

Takatu Lodge & Vineyard +64 9 423 0299 518 Whitmore Road, Matakana www.takatulodge.co.nz info@takatulodge.co.nz Above: A selection of Takatu wines and Chocolate Brown Christmas delights.

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SAVOUR

THE MATAKANA WORDS KATHY HUNTER PHOTOS LOUISE M PHOTOGRAPHY

Heading into their third summer, the team at the Matakana Pub are pretty damned happy about where they are right now. They’ve just been awarded the International Certificate Of Excellence from TripAdvisor, and they made it into the top five on the Herald’s Best Beer bars list. The pub is solid during the week and heaving at the weekends.

Happy landlord Duncan Anderson gets serious when it comes to the grub.

‘We focus on hospitality because that’s what we love – and hospitality starts with a great meal,’ he says. Head chef, James Patterson, is keen to back this up with his delicious new summer menu. Junction staff are called in to sample some seafood, paired with Duncan’s picks of local beverages.

Lobster and Monkfish Roll with Smoked Paprika Mayo – with Takatu Poppies Rosé or Zeffer Citrus Cider.

Duncan points out that the richness and natural sweetness of the lobster is perfectly complemented by the ‘focused, dry palate and subtle, fresh acidity’ of the aromatic rosé. This is true. Junction girls say little except ‘Mmmmm, wow!’ Quite messy though.

After a quick wipe-down, the Zeffer Citrus Cider is tried as well, to great effect. Not a pairing we’d normally go for – but the crisp, lemony cider works remarkably well with the seafood.

Whole-pan whitebait fritter with Ransom Albarino or Sawmill Pilsner.

Duncan points out with admirable passion that the whitebait is local – Hoteo River fish, from less than 50km away. Also that the pale gold Albarino is a Spanish grape, well suited to Matakana. But here comes the fritter: hot, buttery, crisp, and stuffed with tiny tender fish. There’s a preservedlemon mayo and a tangy caper pickle with it. We interrupt Duncan with cries of ‘Oh my God!’ and ‘Incredible!’

The wine match is perfect, although James prefers the dewy Sawmill Pilsner with his. We discuss the Sawmill Brewery’s groovy packaging and how we hate to bin the boxes.

Duncan claps James on the back and says, ‘Good one, James.’ Some time later we manage to leave for home. All agree that there is little better in life than local seafood cooked with enthusiasm and accompanied with just the right amount of lovely local bevvies. More, please.

11 Matakana Valley Road | 09 422 7518 | www.matakana.co.nz

Cajun Spiced Blackened Warehou and Apple Slaw – paired with Takatu Pinot Gris or Oh Brother IPA. James’ Carribbean spice mix blackens just one side of the firm, translucent fish. Duncan starts to say that ‘the textural layers of the wine’s palate build with the savoury spice of the fish…’ Here, sadly, there is nearly some elbowing amongst the Junction staff to fork up the last bits. The IPA beer causes a stir with the girls – is there a hint of cat-box in its ‘nose’? The chaps adore its tropical fruit flavours but there is meaningful female eye-contact.

More Pinot Gris is sampled.

Chef James Patterson and Landlord Duncan Anderson toast the new summer menu.

JOIN THE CHRISTMAS FUN AT THE MATAKANA Hosting Christmas Parties and Summer Shin-digs since 1903

TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY

CHRISTMAS PARTIES

Congratulations, you made it through the year! We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, may it be filled with fun and laughter.

Please feel free to pop in to our place for live music, chilled drinks and a fun village atmosphere. Any day will suit, the party will be going all summer, but we have jotted some key dates down for you too. Also have you sorted your Christmas party yet? If not, don’t stress, just give our gal Norah a call and we’ll organize it for you.

We offer full Christmas Party Packages including: • Christmas Menus & Drinks • Entertainment & Activities • Xmas crackers & decorations • Transport & Accommodation see more details on our website www.matakana.co.nz/christmas or call Norah 09 422 7518

See you soon!

It’s the only place to be this party season!

Duncan and Hannah xxx

WHAT’S ON 2015/2016 Live Music and Events - check our Facebook page for details • Christmas Quiz night • New Years Eve beach Party • Craft beer specials Check out our website & Facebook for details & menus.

THE MATAKANA. SERVING RATBAGS AND RASCALS SINCE ABOUT 1903

wishing you a very merry christmas

matakana.co.nz

2015 Christmas 2.0.indd 1

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12/11/15 11:27 am

Book your pre-Christmas lunch now at the best village pub in New Zealand

SAVOUR

WHARF STREET BISTRO WORDS

&

PHOTOS

KATHY

HUNTER

We’re hearing a lot about the Wharf Street Bistro. The new restaurant overhanging the Mahurangi River always had good bones, but Matt and Rachel Macfarlane have turned it into a funky, welcoming space that makes you want to settle into for a while.

Is it the goat-hide barstools or the covetable vintage bric-a-brac? The solid rows of good cocktail fodder behind the bar, or the feeling of being up in the treetops? All of the above, but by all accounts, it’s the food that’s the biggest drawcard.

Classic bistro icons such as twice-baked cheese soufflé, fillet steak, pork belly and luscious seafood all have slick new twists – and people are talking it up.

The menu will be fresh, flexible and seasonal. Matt, Rachel and their happy bunch of local girls will be glad to see you – just for drinks, or for their best three-courses. We’d advise you to book early.

Wharf Street Bistro is open Thursday to Monday for dinner.

6 Wharf Street, Warkworth | 09-422 2511 www.facebook. com/2015wharfstreetbistro

CHRISTMAS DELECTATIONS WORDS

KATHY

Bracing herself for the silly season is Susan Vize, new owner of Chocolate Brown in Warkworth. She and partner Des had took over the award-winning café and chocolate shop four months ago. Now they’re up to their ears in Christmas orders.

Her team of chocolatiers is run by long-time manager Ghia Mitchell.

There’s Daniel Edwards, the ‘wizard on colour and hollows’; Tim Uhlworm is the caramel, cake and fudge king. New arrival Karin Cabré, a young Swiss-trained chocolatière, has an obsession with the Lord of the Rings. “Every time Karin sees new editions of the books she has to buy them. She was completely blown away when she found out we lived in Rivendell Place,” giggles Susan.

The new owner is keeping all the regulars’ favourite snacks including the famous cheese rolls and sausage rolls, but making much more delicious

Above: The team at Chocolate Brown. From left – Tim, Ghia, Susan, Dan and Karin.

HUNTER

gluten-free food – particularly on their new ‘Gluten-Free Wednesdays’.

The couple used to run a small hotel in Martinborough and love the similar community vibe of Warkworth. Susan’s already on the board of Matakana Coast Tourism. “It’s no good just promoting yourself,” she says firmly. “You have to work together for the good of the whole area.”

The shop’s tinkling with tasteful tinsel already and the Christmas chocolate specials are to die for: eggnog or Christmas cake fudge, gold-dusted scarlet-shelled gingerbread pralines, mulled wine truffles with handmade holly leaves on top, whisky truffle figs covered in dark chocolate, and cherries in kirsch truffles, sprinkled with gold dust.

Pure Christmas magic.

6 Mill Lane, Warkworth | 09-422 2677 | www.chocolatebrown.co.nz

Above: Delectable Chocolate truffles

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CHERISH

THE KINDNESS PIXIE WORDS PHOTO

KATHY HUNTER LOUISE M PHOTOGRAPHY

There’s a new twist to the global tradition of the Elf on the Shelf in Matakana this Christmas.

Launched as a book in the USA in 2004 by a mother and daughter team, the Elf on theShelf is now a marketing juggernaut with multiple product lines.

The elf ‘watches’ children to see if they’re being naughty and reports back to Santa nightly. It appears in a different spot the next morning, ready to spy.

Junction Magazine thought this was just a little bit creepy so, in a new collaboration with Mooi Mooi in Matakana, is going with another angle – the Kindness Pixie. The Pixie has a much less sinister modus operandi: for each of the 12 Kindness Days of Christmas (beginning on Dec 12) it has a suggestion for kind things your children can do that day.

It’s tempting to ask the Kindness Pixie to take it easy on Mum and Dad with suggestions such as ‘make your bed’, and ‘do the dishes’. However, your Pixie may also encourage your little darlings to bake cookies for their playgroup, schoolmates or the postman, help an elderly neighbour or donate gifts or food to a local charity.

It’s all about sharing the true spirit of Christmas, which doesn’t need to involve lots of money, just a little of the kindness currency. Having said that, if Mum gets breakfast in bed, your Pixie might just suggest a trip to the Santa parade!

Your Kindness Pixie will be available from Mooi Mooi from late November – subscribe to the facebook page for updates. Daily kindness suggestions and charity choices will be posted there too – as well as on the Junction Mag facebook page.

650 Matakana Rd | 09 422 9009 | www.mooimooi.co.nz

KIDS’ CHRISTMAS COLLECTIONS WORDS TIA WOOLLER TOTARA HILL MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL

To make it easy on yourself and others when buying presents for children, think about building collections of toys that engage the child for longer than a few minutes. When children focus and use their hands to manipulate something, they develop concentration and independence – valuable skills for life!

Some ‘busy hands’ collection ideas that will give you, your extended family or friends something you can all easily add to include: • Blocks of different sizes (wooden, handmade are great).

• Duplo and Lego, available second-hand as they last forever. Extra bases are fantastic – they’re inexpensive and give a starting place to build on to.

• Dress ups – these can be made, or treasured bits found in op-shops – a good selection of these items will last for many years.

• Animals are the perfect toys to collect bit by bit – build up a farm, dinosaur, zoo or sea collection.

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• Stationary – think tapes (Japanese washi tapes are very now and so creative – check out washi ideas on Pinterest), coloured paper, a new set of pens.

• Car collections – make a racetrack complete with block landscapes, or a shoebox garage.

• Dolls – making clothes, furniture, blankets or a little quilt will give so many hours of creative play.

DISCOVER

MARKET MEANDERINGS PHOTOS

CHRIS

HUNTER

Michael Bernard, 57, from Auckland

Precious Hungwe 23, from Auckland

Michael was a chef for 30 years but now is an expert knife-sharpener. ‘The best knife is the one you like the most’.

Precious is a nurse who grew up in Wanganui. She regularly hikes the Waitakere Ranges and is just getting into kickboxing.

www.mobileknifesharpening.co.nz

Amber 8, from Whakatane

Lucy Howlett 2, from Warkworth

Amber is a miniature Schnauzer who is a ‘bit of a matriarch’. She can be quite bossy, but loves a cuddle.

Born in Kalgoorlie, Lucy has started preschool at Totara Hill. This week she enjoys singing Christmas carols loudly while food shopping.

YOUR COASTAL SPECIALIST SOLD

SOLD

Matakana Coast

SOLD

Matakana

SOLD

Leigh

Orewa

I am very proud to have accomplished outstanding sales on the Matakana Coast and beyond in the past six months with delighted vendors from Orewa to Tutukaka. Looking forward to continuing to bring people and property together.

Shane Romani M: +64 21 889 906 P: +64 9 422 7245 shane.romani@sothebysrealty.com Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

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ARTS

SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL – THE VIVIAN GALLERY WORDS

MANDY

THOMSETT-TAYLOR

The Vivian Gallery’s annual Small Show is becoming a much-anticipated event on the local Christmas calendar. It’s a fantastic opportunity to procure an affordable piece of high quality art by some of New Zealand’s foremost artists. The Vivian’s walls and spaces will be bursting with small-scale treasures.

Many of us are choosing to live in smaller houses and are attempting to de-clutter aspects of our lives. You don’t have to be a minimalist to live in a little home – instead the smaller space lifestyle can encourage inventive ways of approaching the collecting and display of artworks.

This year The Vivian has invited twenty-plus artists to respond to the idea of the small aesthetic, so the show will be ‘bigger’ than ever.

The exhibition opens on Saturday 12 December at 11am, with drinks from 4–6pm and runs till Sunday 17 January. Note: any pieces purchased will not be able to be picked up before the end of the show.

The Vivian team from left: Mandy Thomsett-Taylor, Helen Crosby, Sandy Meharry.

The Small Show 2014.

The gallery’s outdoor spaces – stroll-worthy on a summer afternoon.

The Vivian Gallery | 39 Omaha Valley Road, Matakana Open daily 11.00am – 5.00pm | www.thevivivan.co.nz | 09 422 9995

VIRGINIA LEONARD: BRINGING DARKNESS TO LIGHT WORDS

KATHY

HUNTER

Junction congratulates Matakana artist Virginia Leonard on her First Merit award (second place) at the Portage Ceramic Awards 2015.

Virginia has only been working in clay for around three years.

Her award-winning piece is entitled ‘Too Many Surgeons’. It’s a response to the chronic pain she suffers every day – the result of a motorcycle accident at the age of twenty.

“Chronic pain has no language, no voice,” says Virginia. “The language of my clay-making is my attempt to rid my body of trauma and reduce my level of chronic pain.”

She has a second piece in the exhibition – ‘Ward Rounds’.

You can see both in the full show, which will be at the Te Uru Waitakere Contemporary Gallery in Titirangi (ex-Lopdell House) until February 7.

Left: Too Many Surgeons. Photo credit: Oliver King

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REVIEW

BLACK GRACE IN THE HALL WORDS

KATHY

HUNTER

A long line of hopefuls snaked out of the Matakana Hall carpark on Friday 13th as contemporary dance fans queued for tickets to the new Black Grace performance. Legendary choreographer Neil Ieremia has taken his show on the road: 20 country halls at $20 a ticket – for the 20th anniversary of his award-winning dance company.

In Matakana, at least fifty sad fans at the end of the queue were turned away. Full house. Kids dangled their legs off the stage and grandmothers drank tea out of flasks as they waited for the dancers to arrive. When they did, everything stopped. The old hall shuddered with the energy of a stomping, shouting, haka-style dance. Intense.

Next, brown muscles and tattoos gleamed through island choral harmonies that brought to mind Sunday in Fiji. Big band swing had flirting girls in hibiscus-coloured dresses… then surprisingly, classical strings and Victorian cricket whites arrived with boundless energy.

Always back though, to those spellbinding dark pacific rhythms.

This is a whole new level for Black Grace. www.blackgrace.co.nz/productions/2015-20-for-20

Black Grace performing ‘Minoi’. Photo credit: Simon Wilson.

& silent auction

7pm Saturday 28th November 2015 Matakana Hall

Tickets available from Finishing Touches Matakana or online at www.omahacharityball.com

This years theme is

EDEN MULHOLLAND @ SAWMILL WORDS

&

PHOTO CLINTON HOWLETT

In life you get what you give, and the same goes for the crowd at a live performance. Some may argue that it’s the artist’s job to get bums up and moving, but a lazy Sunday afternoon, a piss-poor turnout and unenthusiastic crowd proved just too brutal and overshadowed what should have been a dance-floor filler of a set.

Negativity aside, Eden Mulholland is a multi-talented musician whose performance was actually far more flawless then I expected. Imagine a vast array of musical hardware plus the technical wizardry needed to exploit it, along with one hell of a powerful voice, and you get a performance worth abandoning the barbie for.

Along for the ride at his Hunted Haunted album tour were some of his old band mates, but it wasn’t until a solo worked its way into the set that I began to wonder if the main man really needed them there at all.

Personally, I was glad to end a weekend with a few pints of Leigh Sawmill Café’s finest ales whilst enjoying the musical stylings of a career performer who should have been given the respect that career performers deserve.

If, like me, you enjoy great live music in great live music venues, then you have to turn off the home stereo, grab a few mates and head out to see whoever, wherever. It’s a whole new level. Get your gig on locally. www.sawmillcafe.co.nz 21

HAPPENINGS

NEW YEAR’S EVE ON THE RADAR WORDS

BY

HUNTER

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THE MATAKANA

NEW YEAR’S FEAST AT ASCENSION WINE ESTATE

NEW YEAR EXTRAVAGANZA LEIGH SAWMILL CAFE

Get the Hawaiian shirt out because the team at the Matakana are holding their third annual New Year’s Eve party – and it’s beach themed.

Sponsored by Corona, there’ll be an abundance of Corona specials, BBQ food and live music from the likes of rock‘n’roll cover band The Damages and DJ Big Sexy (intriguing!).

A shuttle travelling to and from local beaches will be available and the Matakana Motel, just behind the pub, will have its doors wide open for you if and when you’re ready for bed.

Ascension is hosting a rustic Italian Feast in the vines. The night begins at 8.00pm with refreshments on arrival, a spot of fine dining as the sun sinks behind Tuscan-esque hills, then live music – and fireworks, of course. Some spirited dancing should help with digestion.

Make it a family and friends affair or romantic summer evening for two and get your bookings in quick. It’ll be lush.

Latinaotearoa, presented by Mucho Aroha Music, are hitting the Mill this New Year’s Eve with their signature latin-funk, soul and hip hop tunes. The R18 gig will kick off at 8.00pm and carry on into the night with DJ PG (Brazil) getting in on the action. Expect afros, exotic dancers and a steady flow of icy cold Sawmill Brewery beer. You can find tickets at undertheradar.co.nz for $50.00 and have a pre-listen to both Latinaotearoa and DJ PG on soundcloud.com. Spicy!

WHEN: 8pm till late WHERE: The Matakana Village Pub 11 Matakana Valley Road HOW TO BOOK: Just turn up ACCOMMODATION: Matakana Motel www.matakanamotel.co.nz

WHEN: 8.00pm till late WHERE: Ascension Wine Estate, 480 Matakana Road. Free onsite overnight parking available.

HOW TO BOOK: $140 per person, children welcomed wholeheartedly. Book at ascensionwine.co.nz or call 09 422 9601.

TOP TIP: Another upcoming Ascension gig to keep in mind: Fat Freddy’s Drop are set to play their latest soulful dub sounds at Ascension on January 30 – this will sell out so book soon.

STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS WORDS

MICHAEL PUTLACK, MATAKANA

CINEMAS

After a ten year hiatus, the latest film in the Star Wars franchise, The Force Awakens, opens December 17th. We’re hosting a weekendlong marathon to celebrate at Matakana Cinemas. From midnight on December 16th until late in the evening December 20th, we’ll be playing Star Wars: The Force Awakens 24/7 so Star Wars fans can come and enjoy the film any time of the day or night. “But Michael,” you may ask, “will anyone come and see the film at three or six in the morning?”

To you I say, “That’s a great question. We’re excited to find out!”

Tickets for any screening are now available at matakanacinemas.co.nz

22

ALEX

WHEN: 8.00pm till late WHERE: Leigh Sawmill HOW TO BOOK: tickets at undertheradar.co.nz ACCOMMODATION: Hit up Goat Island or Whangateau campgrounds for a place to lay your well-partied head – both just minutes away – but be quick.

HAPPENINGS

Gig Guide December 2015 GIG GUIDE MARKETS Sun 29 Nov

9.00 - 13.00

Puhoi Christmas Market

Puhoi Domain

Sat 12 Dec

8.00 - 13.00

Warkworth Museum Xmas Market Day

Old Masonic Hall

Every Saturday

8.00 - 13.00

Matakana Village Farmers Market

Matakana Village

Every Saturday

9.00 - 14.00

Matakana Country Park Family Markets

Matakana Country Park

Every Sunday

9.30 - 13.30

Matakana Indie Markets

Matakana Country Park

Every Sunday Nov - Mar

10.00 - 14.00

Matakana Vintage Markets & Sunday Sessions

Matakana Village

Every Saturday

8.00 - 15.00

Matakana Markets

The Old Dairy Factory, Matakana

Last Sunday of the Month

9.00 - 13.00

Puhoi Farmers Market

Puhoi Domain

First Sunday

8.00 - 13.00

Warkworth Museum Market Day

Old Masonic Hall

D AT E DATE

TIME TIME EVENT

EVENT

VENUE VENUE

WEBSITE WEBSITE

Fri 20 Nov

18.30

Pop Up Dinner

The Glass House Kitchen, Brick Bay

www.brickbay.co.nz

Sat 21 Nov

20.00

Herbs

Warkworth RSA

www.warkworthrsa.co.nz

Sat 21 - Sun 22 Nov

08.30

Matakana Magic - Show Jumping

Matakana Country Park

Sun 22 Nov

16.00

Hopetoun Brown

Leigh Sawmill Café

www.sawmillcafe.co.nz

Wed 25 - Sat 28 Nov

Leap New Zealand

Riverside Matakana

www.riversidematakana.co.nz

Thur 26 Nov - Sun 6 Dec

Puhoi Art Exhibition

Puhoi Hall

www.puhoinz.com/puhoi-artexhibition-2015

Fri 27 Nov

18.30

The Art of Recovery - Q&A with director Peter Young

Matakana Cinemas

www.matakanacinemas.co.nz

Sat 28 Nov

20.00 - 13.00

Omaha Charity Ball & Silent Auction

Matakana Hall

www.omahacharityball.com

Sat 28 Nov

21.30

Psicotropical NZ with Senor Chancho

Leigh Sawmill Café

www.sawmillcafe.co.nz

Sun 29 Nov

17.00

The Pipi Pickers

Leigh Sawmill Café

www.sawmillcafe.co.nz

Sun 29 Nov

19.00

Bourbon & Whiskey Appreciation Night

The Vintry

www.matakanamarketkitchen.co.nz

Fri 4 Dec

19.00

Leigh’s Got Talent

Leigh Sawmill Café

www.sawmillcafe.co.nz

Fri 4 Dec

19.00

Rotary - Carols in the Park

Lucy Moore Park

www.warkworth-rotary.org.nz

Fri 4 Dec

19.30

Kowhai Singers Christmas Concert - On the Way to Bethleham

Church of Sts Peter & Paul, Puhoi

www.kowhaisingers.yolasite.com

Sat 5 Dec

10.00

Christmas in the Pa - Whanau Fun Day

Omaha Marae

www.omahamarae.co.nz

Sat 5 Dec

13.00

2015 Warkworth Santa Parada

Neville Street

www.warkworthbusiness.org.nz

Sat 5 Dec

19.00

A Roaring 20’s Night

Walkworth RSA

www.warkworthrsa.co.nz

Sat 5 Dec

19.30

Kowhai Singers Christmas Concert - On the Way to Bethleham

Mahurangi Presbyterian Church, Warkworth

www.kowhaisingers.yolasite.com

Sat 5 Dec

20.00

Carols by Candlelight - Whanau Fun Day

Omaha Marae

www.omahamarae.co.nz

Sun 6 Dec

17.00

Iron Mammoth

Leigh Sawmill Café

www.sawmillcafe.co.nz

Fri 11 Dec

21.30

Kong Fooey

Leigh Sawmill Café

www.sawmillcafe.co.nz

Thur 24 Dec

21.00

Bridgehouse Christmas Eve Party

Bridgehouse Lodge

www.bridgehouse.co.nz

Thur 31 Dec

19.30

Matakana Village Pub New Years Eve Party - The Dammage The Matakana Village Pub

www.matakana.co.nz

Thur 31 Dec

20.00

New Years Eve at Ascension Wine Estate

Ascension Wine Estate

www.ascensionwine.co.nz

Thur 31 Dec

21.00

Sawmill New Years Extravaganza - Latinaotearoa

Leigh Sawmill Café

www.sawmillcafe.co.nz

23