Nelson Magazine - March 2020

Inside the

luxurious Falcon Brae Villa

MARCH 2020

NELSON’S LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

THE IMPACT OF TOURISM

ONBOARD ADVENTURES

A FINAL FAREWELL

What effect does it have on our region?

Family take two years off to sail the Caribbean

One last shindig to celebrate life

RICHMOND VILLAGE SELLING* NOW!

Think over 5,500 happy residents in 28 villages.

Summerset have been building retirement villages since 1997 and we’ve gotten pretty good at it over those 23 years.

1 Hill St North, Richmond | summerset.co.nz *Licence to occupy.

SUM2051_NM

We’re proud to report our happy residents recently gave us an impressive 96% resident satisfaction score. That’s a lot of thumbs up.

MARCH 2020

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CONTENTS

16–17

F E AT U R E S 9

A LOVE FOR ANIMALS Natureland’s new managers

11–13

THE IMPACT OF TOURISM What effect does it have on our region?

16–17 SAILABILITY

Making sailing accessible for everyone 18–19

A FINAL FAREWELL One last shindig to celebrate life

23 BUSYNESS

The case for doing nothing 24–25

DANCING FOR A CAUSE Dancing raises funds for Hospice

26–27

ONBOARD ADVENTURES Family take two years off to sail the Caribbean

18–19

REGULAR 20–21

On The Street

28–31

Travel - Abel Tasman

32–43

At Home

26–27

47 Recipe 49

What’s On

50–53

Social Pages

55 Health 57 Gardening

24–25

47

EDITOR’S NOTE

Painful, tired, heavy legs?

Would you love to wear shorts again?

R

eading about Cindy Mosey and her family taking two years off to sail the Caribbean got me thinking about what I’d do if I could take two years off work.

CALL FOR YOUR

COMPLIMENTARY, NO OBLIGATION DOCTOR’S VEIN ASSESSMENT & SCAN

Walk in, walk out treatment, that’s reassuringly local!

I’d say yes more often, and especially to my three-year-old when he wants me to help him look for ‘treasure.’ I’d take my dog to the beach every single day and I’d take my Dad to Old Trafford to watch Manchester United play. I’d stretch daily, learn to play the piano and take afternoon naps when I needed them without feeling guilty. I’d want to spend some of that time living abroad, maybe in New York or Tokyo. I’d attend big sporting events and shows, volunteer, and keep finding new challenges.

If Cindy’s story got me thinking about what I’d do with two years off, Paula Stringer’s story about having a farewell party to celebrate her life makes me think that I should probably be making some of these things happen now.

Life is short, too short to not do what you want to do.

Every time I attend a funeral I think it’s such a shame that the person who’s funeral it is isn’t there to hear the heart-warming things people say about them, and to catch up with those people who they might not have seen for years, or who have travelled from afar. Paula has lived her best life and will celebrate it together with the ones she loves this month.

I’m inspired by both of these stories.

I hope you find something in this month’s edition that inspires you too.

You may have also noticed a difference in the way our magazine is put together.

The huge growth of the magazine over the past 18 months has encouraged us to continue to invest in its quality.

We’re proud of how it’s come together, and we hope you enjoy your time with the Nelson Mag.

Sarah Board EDITORIAL Sarah Board | editor@nelsonmag.co.nz DESIGN Jamie Kneale and Kylie Owens

Dr David Orsbourn

CONTRIBUTORS Charles Anderson, Britt Coker, Sarah Board, Joya Devine, Jonty Dine, Sara Hollyman, Russ Skinner, Tracey Edwardes, Chocolate Dog Studio

MBChB, Dip Obs, FRNZCGP, FACAM Fellow New Zealand Society of Cosmetic Medicine Certificate of Procedural Phlebology

ADVERTISING Sue Davies | sue@nelsonmag.co.nz Affiliated Provider to Southern Cross Health Society for Endovenous Laser Treatment and Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy

03 548 8216 www.enhanceskin.co.nz facebook.com/enhanceskin

DISTRIBUTION Karl Hadfield Cover: Standout property on secluded Motueka Valley hill top. We take a look inside the luxurious Falcon Brae Villa. Pages 33–43.

PUBLISHER Nelson Weekly Ltd, 75 Tahunanui Drive www.localmedia.nz

HOME GROWN

PLANNING AN EVENT?

Proudly Nelson made

We’re relocating our popular food truck to Nelson and we’re taking bookings from August 2020! We’ve been busy in Wellington, specialising in wedding and large event catering. If you have something in the pipeline, check out our website or give us a call.

VICKIE’S FUNKY CUSHIONS Cushions, bags, and upcycled furniture.

Find Vickie at the Nelson Market each Saturday and the Motueka Market on Sundays.

Beat Kitchen www.beatkitchen.co.nz

Vickie’s Originals Nelson Ph: 022 321 9722 www.vickiesoriginalsnelson.com

Vickies Funky Cushions vickies_originals_nelson

@beatkitchenwelli

THE SWEET TASTE OF NELSON

NEED SOME SPACE?

With so many artisan products from around our region, you’ll find everything you need for gifts, baskets and holiday essentials, with something for every occasion and budget.

Shop online or call in for boutique chocolates, honey, skincare, candles, gourmet food products and more. We send all over New Zealand.

Rustic styled and attractive, these Oregon Shiplap buildings are perfect for sleepouts, studios or garden sheds. You can choose lined, insulated, kitset or assembled, decking or verandahs…

So many options!

Allwood Sheds 22 Echodale Pl, Nelson Ph: 03 547 7026 www.allwoodsheds.co.nz

​​FRESH EGGS EVERY DAY Ever considered a pet that gives you breakfast? We have the healthiest, happiest range of heritage chickens or brown shavers for maximum egg production, as well as everything you need to house and feed them in your backyard or lifestyle block.

Appletons Animal Housing & Pet Supplies 270 Mt Heslington Rd, Brightwater Ph: 03 542 3224 www.chooks.co.nz

Kete Mapua Shed 4, 402/6 Aranui Road, Mapua Ph: 03 540 2561 | www.ketetasman.com

STAY HAPPY AND HEALTHY Boost your immune system with our new organic apple cider vinegar capsules – the perfect solution for those who don’t enjoy drinking apple cider vinegar.

Visit our website to read about the benefits of taking apple cider vinegar.

See us at the Healthy Natural Life Expo, Sunday 1 March at the A&P Showgrounds in Richmond.

Also available in good supermarkets, health stores and via our website.

Goulter’s Cider Vinegar Ph: 03 546 5714 | www.vinegarpower.co.nz E: products@vinegarpower.co.nz

YOUR SAY

If you could take two years off work, what would you do?

Steve Newton

Jessie Johnston

Damian Granich

Wendy Hunt

I’d love to travel around South America. It’s on my bucket list. But I’d probably have to win lotto first!

I would spend my time renovating our property and working on and finally completing my numerous art projects.

Do my Masters degree, and travel to Egypt, Greece and Turkey.

I’ve got the travel bug…so I’d like to go and explore the big wide world a bit more.

WI N !

The Furnace design and make sustainable 3d wooden map art which can be personalised to make a truly unique gift.

Check out www.thefurnace.co.nz.

To be in to win your choice of any one of their small maps just email editor@nelsonmag.co.nz with “The Furnace” in the subject line.

Things we love

Though it might be legally dubious, you can’t help but admire the not so subtle augmenting of some of our road signs by a local artist. Whether it be warning motorists of the presence of ‘Pengzilla’ or suggesting that the risk of falling rocks from Nelson’s most affluent area might actually be something you want to stick around for, there is no doubt there is some cheeky talent among us.

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A&P Showground Richmond 2020 21/22 Marchm 4pm - 8a

Nelson/Tasman

remarkable together !

Relay For Life is an inspiring community event that gives everyone a chance to celebrate cancer survivors and carers; remember loved ones lost to cancer; and fight back by raising awareness and funds to support the work of Cancer Society.

Overnight camping, Live Entertainment, Movie night, Cooked breakfast all included!

Produdly Sponsored by

Nel-

egister today !

03 539 1137

For more information check out www.relayforlife.org.nz or email: rfl@cancernelson.org.nz

Tracy Beer 027 674 8102 03 542 3180 mikepero.com

CALL TRACY NOW

Our life of love —living in zoos Stephen and Nicci Standley have devoted their lives to animals.

Sara Hollyman finds out how their less than ordinary life brought them to Nelson’s Natureland.

After writing to ask Nicci to join him, a girlfriend managed to persuade her to leave her home behind and continue their love story.

Nicci and Stephen Standley’s love story wasn’t typical.

“We hand-reared two tigers in that flat.

It had a glass door at the bottom of the stairs where the male tiger liked to sit so people coming to the cafe could see him,” says Stephen.

But, as the saying goes, a leopard really cannot change its spots, and after three years and two children, the animals called them back.

He says their life living in zoos was never dull. One morning an escaped buffalo had to be closed off in the café courtyard overnight.

Halving his salary overnight, the couple moved onto a wildlife park on a 1200-acre estate, where their two sons were raised riding elephants.

Another time, a hand-reared female chimpanzee broke out of her enclosure on a busy public holiday and started ambling around the visitors.

Many years later, Stephen began searching for work in New Zealand and Australia, after a life-long fascination with coming here.

Eventually, he was employed by Auckland Zoo, where they also lived for five years.

It began in a small island zoo – tending to insects and rodents who were destined to be eaten by other animals.

Stephen was working in the mammal section of the Jersey Zoo, in the English Channel, with leopards and monkeys, while Nicci was across the park with the birds and reptiles. Both had a lifelong fascination with animals, which led them to start working with them for a job.

Chance encounters eventually led them from a path of friendship into what would become an extraordinary life together.

“We used to clean out the animals in what we’d call the rattery - insects, rats and mice that were fed to the animals,” Nicci laughs. “We did our courting up there.”

After working at the zoo for three years, Stephen began to feel like the island was a little claustrophobic, so he began searching for a job back on mainland England.

The result was a job working at Port Lympne, on a 600-acre wildlife park.

This park was the first of many zoos the couple called home, living in a onebedroom apartment above the cafe in the middle of the grounds.

“She went into the same cafe courtyard and there was a couple sat there. I remember very clearly they had milkshakes on the table and the chimpanzee just ambled up, picked up the milkshake and drunk the whole thing and off she went.”

After being asked three times, Nicci agreed to marry Stephen and the couple began to think about having children, but finances were a worry.

So, a decision was made for him to move away from zoo life and join the police force.

SUPPLIED

Nicci says it’s just like a regular house but it’s just that you have got a zoo as a garden.

“We were living in the city of Auckland and we’d hear kiwi from our kitchen.”

Moving to Nelson to retire, Stephen contacted Natureland to volunteer for the trust board.

“We were just starting to learn how to live with each other in retirement and it was quite challenging,” Stephen laughs.

He didn’t foresee that the manager would leave, and the trust that runs the wildlife park would be recruiting. With Natureland’s financial troubles, he knew it wouldn’t be able to pay enough for a manager who had both zoo skills as well as management skills.

Inset: Nicci and Stephen Standley joined the management team at Natureland last year.

Top right: Stephen with giraffes at Blackpool Zoo where he worked in England.

SARA HOLLYMAN

So the decision was made to apply for the management role as a couple; Stephen in the zoo, Nicci using her book-keeping experience.

“It means neither of us are as pressured as one manager would be trying to do everything, but no, retirement doesn’t exist at the moment,” says Stephen.

“I need things to do.”

And for Nicci?

“Well I’d follow him to the end of the earth.”

9

ENGAGEMENT AND WEDDING RINGS

BY BENJAMIN BLACK GOLDSMITHS Showcasing Nelson made jewellery

AS UNIQUE AS YOU Bespoke blue pearl and gold Jewel Beetle pendant. For something truly unique, talk to Allison or Yvon at Jewel Beetle.

Nelson’s exclusive stockists of Eyris Blue Pearls.

Talk to our talented jewellers about custom making your dream rings. Made by hand, made to last and personalised to perfection.

Benjamin Black Goldsmiths 176 Bridge Street, Nelson Ph: 03 546 9137 benjaminblack.co.nz

STYLISH JEWELLERY CREATED JUST FOR YOU

Jewel Beetle 56 Bridge St, Nelson Ph: 03 548 0487 www.jewelbeetle.co.nz

Handcrafted and custom made pieces from our studio and workshop in Richmond. Come in and see our latest designs.

EXPRESS YOURSELF, IN GOLD

RoCS

Beautiful 22ct gold plated jewellery priced from $50.

Available online or from our flagship boutique in the heart of Nelson City.

238a Queen St, Richmond Ph: 023 544 9293 www.rocs.co.nz

AS WORN AT THE OSCARS…

Louise Douglas Jewellery 191 Hardy Street, Nelson Ph: 03 970 0232 www.louisedouglas.com

PEARLS – A SYMBOL OF BEAUTY AND PURITY Nowadays pearls are regarded as both classic and contemporary, coming in many more fashionable styles than your grandmother’s traditional strand of pearls. Talk to us about how we can create the perfect style for you.

Nelson Pearl Company 5 Montgomery Square, next to Yaza Café

Jens Hansen – the artisan jewellery worn by Rt Hon Jacinda Ardern, CBS’ Stephen Colbert, Mayor Rachel Reese and most recently, JoJo Rabbit Oscar nominee Ra Vincent and wife Nancy.

Featured here, a stunning unisex ring with cushion cut onyx stone.

Jens Hansen – The Ringmaker 320 Trafalgar Square, Nelson | Ph: 03 548 0640 www.jenshansen.com

Open for retail sales Saturday 8.30am to 2pm Ph: Karen - 021 116 0535

30 Motueka St, Nelson and Nelson Saturday Market Ph: 022 053 9486

The message that visitors take home to tell friends, write online or in their vow to return is ‘we loved Nelson Tasman and its people. You will too.’

WWW.NELSONTASMAN.NZ

Hongi on Kaiteriteri Beach.

Tourism has us flying high Tourism has become an increasingly important sector in our regional economy. But as Russ Skinner discovers, it’s benefits aren’t just around bringing more money into the region.

W

hen I was young, sunny Nelson was the summer domestic holiday centre of choice for South Island families. Come Boxing Day an invading flotilla of families arrived with cars, tents, caravans, boats and kids to form a homeaway-from-home. In our case it even included a kitchen sink. We packed into the family 1947 Ford V8, part of a boom that was concentrated into three weeks.

You could say all the best bits of New Zealand are distilled here into a single serving. National parks, sunny-as

(2859hrs last year), lakes, beaches, mountains, caves, and bush. And that’s just the landscape. The wine, cider, art, craft, local foods like salmon, berries and peanut butter. And the people: open, friendly, partisan. You get the picture— kind of paradise really.

Nelson Tasman was maybe a secret from the outside world. ‘Sleepy hollow’ it was sometimes called. Yes, it’s slightly off the beaten tourist circuit, but no secret any more. Promotions modestly claim “where the ordinary is extraordinary.”

Nelson Tasman tourism has seen rapid expansion and change in the last few years and is now one of the region’s major contributors to economic and cultural growth.

For 2019, returns show a total $NZ670 million dollars was spent by visitors in the region with December, January and February being the biggest months.

1.5 million visitor guest-nights were used.

Domestic visitors were two-thirds of that spend, the rest is international and growing.

Visitor spending has a strong multiplier effect, how many times money directly spent by a tourist recirculates through our economy as more goods and services, jobs, products and infrastructure.

Visitors also help more than just the economy, they grasp the reality and understanding of our voyager history.

Māori culture and our treaty, the meaning of ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion, language and pride in what we stand for.

The Kiwi values we hold dear like equity, equality, inventiveness, DIY, environmental stewardship and concern for human wellbeing. Tourism can enable others to understand us, form empathy, association and friendship.

The visitor industry is changing and adapting just as rapidly as all else in life.

11

In an increasingly instant, connected world, words such as Uber, smart phones, global free-calling, digital pay, social media, Airbnb and climate change all suggest opportunities and threats to our Nelson-Tasman visitor industry.

We have to respond fast.

WWW.NELSONTASMAN.NZ

Internet has become the enabler for visitors to travel in private vehicles and stay in private homes. They seem to fit our national disposition. Where they are well-done they’ve added personal contact and value to our reputation.

Meeting demand for the popular ‘shoulder season’ is not so hard. Ensuring offpeak business is another matter for a sustainable business. Much initiative and planning has gone into broadening Nelson Tasman’s ‘shoulders’ to smooth the demand curve into spring, autumn and even winter.

Winter can be really beautiful in Nelson Tasman with still clear air, blue skies, colour and variety. There are local initiatives to encourage off-shoulder events, sports tournaments including international contests, conferences, shows and attractions to encourage visitors. Winter sports, indoor events, purpose-built facilities like our new velodrome, celebratory concerts, outdoor night-lighting; all are part of a diversification strategy.

Education attracts year-round foreign students. Nelson English Centre, one of a number offering English learning to foreign language speakers, enrols students year-round and uses the region as its unique point of difference.

‘Study English where kiwis love to live’ is their tagline.

CEO Miles Fitton says they look after their students in the same way we would want an overseas school to look after our children.

“Our high standards and beautiful region have made us a leading language school in New Zealand.”

Locally owned shops like Little Beehive allow visitors to take home something from our region and also keep the money circulating in our economy.

Keep smiling and talking to our ‘cruisers’.

In the 2017-18 season eight cruise ships called to Port Nelson and the 2019-20 season has already reached ten. These short visits are booked far in-advance, are the smaller cruise vessels and typically carry passengers who are ‘high-value.’

I prefer ‘visitors’ rather than ‘tourists.’ We are their hosts. They are our guests.

Darryl Wilson, CEO Wilson’s Abel Tasman

Building a reputation about New Zealand host friendliness is important in Nelson Tasman’s marketing story. Of course the message must also be genuine, demonstrable and experienced by many.

sightlines, solitude, birdsong; these are not just ideals to be packed into a marketing story. They are measurable, observable assets which are qualitymonitored and managed.

We Kiwis aren’t usually loud, ebullient folk but we are prepared to ask as much as tell, offer friendship and laconic comment, be a little self-effacing and leave an impression that we care about our home and our guests. The message that visitors take home to tell friends, write online or in their vow to return is “we loved Nelson Tasman and its people. You will too.”

Wilson’s Abel Tasman operates lodges, kayaking and cruise services into Abel Tasman National Park’s scenic reserve foreshore. CEO Darryl Wilson speaks with passion and conviction about ensuring his company’s operating environment is managed sustainably and with best practice. In a joint initiative between local bodies, tangata whenua and government, operators in the visitor industry have agreed a binding management plan for the foreshore. All follow a quota system, landing limits and other safeguards to ensure that it is not overburdened by excessive visitor numbers with resultant effects on the environment.

We are our biggest asset in our visitor industry and we can greet our visitors with a ‘passport’ to return or make someone else do so.

Nelson Tasman is balancing growth with sound management, planning and global best practice. A beautiful and bountiful natural environment could be overused or taken for granted. Air and water quality,

It’s good to know Abel Tasman Foreshore Scenic Reserve is revered and safeguarded for all those who come after us.

Stockists of Magnolia Pearl, La Bottega Di Brunella, Meg By Design & Beacon Hill’s Closet

New Season Fashion In Store Now SHOP HOURS Thursday 10am-4pm

facebook.com/beaconhillcountrystore

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March 2020

@beaconhillstore

www.beaconhillestate.co.nz

Friday 10am-4pm

Saturday 10am-2pm

205 PATON ROAD, HOPE

Tourist infrastructure development is an investment which offsets tourist income. From roading, signage, information services, camping, cooking and toilet facilities, retail access, SAR and emergency services. We all benefit but these services should be beststandard and allow for growing demand and capacity.

Freedom Campers have ‘poopped’, sorry ‘popped’, up in Nelson Tasman as a category of visitor which is both admired and despised, envied yet judged, free but may give little back. In our ‘she’ll be right’ and DIY nation we haven’t quite figured out whether to welcome them or evict them. Nelson Tasman local bodies have made initiatives to restrict freedom camping and spread the message about guest responsibility. The debate continues and polarised views get the headlines and range from ‘ban them’ to ‘love them.’

Gisella Purcell, Visitor Destination Manager from Nelson Regional Development Agency (NRDA) sees a big change in the focus of many visitors Nelson Tasman attracts. Both business operators and visitors are now very conscious of their environmental

impact. Climate change, carbon credits, conserving nature, recycling, preserving beauty and heritage, restoration, keeping score: such feature in many visitor conversations and our ability to win their hearts and minds. European visitors are especially conscious and committed, says Gisella.

“They’ve been dealing with all this for years and they are not too happy if we are not.”

In fact, there is a cohort of visitors that is more-than happy to contribute and get active. They may even pay to join treeplanting, weed and pest eradication, and track maintenance projects.

Increasingly our visitor operators are adding great value to their business credentials with eco-quality assurance.

Abel Tasman AquaTaxi and Day-Out Tours are examples of companies who are zero-carbon certified.

Wilson’s Abel Tasman is genuinely committed to the Tiaki Promise; a Māori value that means “to care for people and place.” This value permeates their attitudes and operations. In 2013 they received the first Qualmark Enviro Gold STORYLINE PICTURES NELSON

rating and, as a heritage family business, takes their heritage proudly and seriously.

Many visitors to Nelson Tasman fly to the region. Airline schedules, capacity and frequency have a direct influence on how many domestic or international visitors arrive.

Nelson airport, the busiest in New Zealand outside the main centres, has just opened a beautiful new airport terminal reflecting the region with its natural materials and architectural peaks. From eighty thousand passengers in 1974, the last terminal build, 2019 exceeded one million and continues to rise.

Our visitor industry is vulnerable to global change far beyond its control. To adapt an old adage, “when the USA or China sneezes, everyone catches a cold.”

There is risk in everything we do and travel heightens its level. From crossing the road, to world travel, risks are something most travellers are prepared to tolerate after gauging the probabilities.

New Zealand is a geologically active country and we live somehow closer to nature than many on earth. Earthquakes, volcanoes, mountains, lakes, a long coastline and our dynamic outdoors provide spectacular visitor attractions; but also some risk beyond the control of humankind.

The threat of pandemic outbreak is more real in modern times as travellers are potentially efficient vectors. The Coronavirus, apparently originating in China, has yet to appear in New Zealand but the future is not certain. International travel has slowed rapidly and some fears and information, maybe not always wellfounded, are altering travel patterns.

Nelson Airport is the busiest airport in New Zealand, outside of the main centres, with more than one million passengers in 2019.

Nelson Tasman is an eclectic package of landscapes, activities, friendliness and products which has something for all kinds of visitors. It is renowned for good value and a warm welcome and long may that continue for the benefit of us all.

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BEAUTIFUL DESIGNER CLOTHING

WHAT’S HOT

Exclusive stockist of beautiful designer clothing from La Bottega di Brunella, Magnolia Pearl and Beacon Hills Closet.

Beacon Hill

GOOD LINEN NEVER NEEDS TO BE IRONED

205 Paton Road, Hope Open every Thursday & Friday 10am to 4pm & every Saturday 10am to 2pm

As we focus on sustainability, Jellicoe is taking advantage of natural fibres in their autumn range.

beaconhillcountrystore @beaconhillstore

COLOURS TO BRIGHTEN UP YOUR SUMMER

Jellicoe 4b Kotua Place, Stoke Ph: 03 541 0104 www.jellicoe.co.nz

Beautiful NZ Merino garments and yarn now in store.

COMFY, LIGHTWEIGHT SUMMER SANDAL

Cruellas 155 Hardy St, Nelson Ph: 03 548 4016 www.cruellas.co.nz

Come in grab your pair of Cassini Magician before they do a disappearing act. Always a bestseller, and now available in five magical colours, they’ll be vanishing quick.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle…

REGENERATE Tango’s Shoes

186 Queen St, Richmond | Ph: 03 544 4469 www.tangosshoes.nz

SUPPORTING WOMEN FOR OVER 30 YEARS We are your locally owned lingerie, swimwear and nightwear specialists, stocking leading brands from 8–24, AA to H cup. Specialising in bra fittings to ensure your perfect fit, we’re also Ministry of Health registered to supply mastectomy bras and protheses. Beautiful, NZ made merino items are in store now, and do check out our selection of babywear.

Little Boutique 51 Bridge St, Nelson Ph: 03 548 3943 www.littleboutique.co.nz

Soul by Mariposa 257 Hardy St, Nelson 49 Commercial St, Takaka

Ph: 0800 132 500 www.mariposaclothing.co.nz

ITALIAN LINEN Our gorgeous soft Italian linen range is timeless. The natural fibres keep you cooler in hot weather and looking and feeling great all day long.

Vivre - Home | Gifts | Plants 251 Queen Street, Richmond (opp ANZ Bank) Ph: 0274 446 387 or shop online www.vivre.co.nz

it’s great to hear feedback like that. She has even brought her husband and mother in law in for treatments.”

Over the past year, Woman Day Spa has seen a large influx of male clients. It’s something they have been working on and have changed their byline so that they now promote themselves as Woman Day Spa for women and men. “It’s fantastic to see more men coming in. Feeling good about yourself and taking time for relaxing treatments is not something limited to women only; our male clients enjoy many of our services. Some come for massage or facials, even for their nails. They all seem to enjoy our relaxed and easygoing approach, and most have become regular clients.”

Time flies when you’re having fun Relocating to new premises is never a move undertaken lightly.

This month marks a year since Woman Day Spa opened the doors of their new building in New Street and owner Delene Baigent says it’s been a fantastic move for the business.

A

fter many years operating a successful business, the excitement of moving to a new location was always going to be tinged with just a little nervousness, but after their first year in their new home, Delene and her team at Woman Day Spa are delighted that it has been a brilliant transition, providing many benefits for both them and their clientele.

“We really couldn’t have chosen a better location,” says Delene. “Being based in the heart of the CBD is so convenient for people. They can pop in for treatments in their lunch breaks or easily get to us after they finish work. Parking is never a problem, we have our own parking spaces on site, or clients can combine their visits with a day in town, do a spot of shopping, enjoy a coffee or lunch, and make their day complete with a bit of pampering at Woman Day Spa.” When the opportunity to relocate to New Street came up, it was one that Delene quickly took up. The renovation of the existing bungalow was no quick job. A lot of thought was put into the layout and décor, ensuring it provided a welcoming, relaxing and comfortable space, and the result is stunning. Delene has ensured that everything was done just right, and ADVERTORIAL

Behind every great business there’s always a great team, and Delene would especially like to thank Bridgette, Holly, Hayley, Lauren, Anja, Pip and Stacey for the part they have played in making Woman Day Spa Nelson’s first choice for people who want to relax and be truly pampered. “I’ve been in the business for over 20 years, and these ladies are the best I’ve worked with.

From the minute you walk in the door, they all make sure that your visit will be all you want it to be. We are a good solid team with years of experience. We are friendly and helpful, bringing a down to earth approach to service which is very relaxed yet still very professional, applying our knowledge as trained beauty and skin therapists.”

The range of treatments available at Woman Day Spa is endless. “We have everything from massage to facials to body treatments, including waxing, spray tanning, eye enhancements and we also do a lot of nail treatments.” The full list of treatments is available on the Woman Day Spa website, where you’ll find information about the fabulous specials they offer, changing to meet the seasonal needs of their clients.

You’ll also see the select range of effective, quality skin care they use in their treatments and have for sale. Take advantage of their free skin care consultations so you can purchase products that best suit your skin type and budget.

the unique features that make it so special reflect her personality and vision.

“Our customers often comment that the building has a great energy about it, they just feel relaxed and at ease from the moment they walk in the door. That’s exactly what we envisioned, so it’s great to hear that they feel it too. One of our lovely regular clients has said that we’ve got a world class place, one that is on par with clinics she has visited all over the world.

We always strive to provide the best so

Gift vouchers are always a firm favourite.

“It’s nice for people to know they are buying something thoughtful that the recipient will truly love. And it’s a good solution when you’re not sure what to buy. They always love a voucher.”

If you haven’t been to Woman Day Spa’s New Street Clinic yet, book in for an appointment now.

26 New Street, Nelson Ph: (03) 548 0030 www.womanbeauty.co.nz

15

Nixon Leaming-Griffiths with his coach Denis Moriarty, sailing Balaena.

JONTY DINE

LEARNING INDEPENDENCE THROUGH SAILING As a former sailor, John McDuff knows all about the thrill of open water. Believing everyone regardless of physical or mental limitations should have the opportunity to sail, he founded Sailability in 2014 with trustees, Andrew Hogg (Harbourmaster), Pete Rainey, Kim and John Harris, Helen McEwen and Stuart Allan.

Words: Jonty Dine

W

hen retired sailor John MacDuff saw the joy his son Angus got from being on the water, he knew just how to spend the next chapter of his life.

Angus suffered a brain haemorrhage at birth and is severely handicapped as a result.

Though he will never sail independently, just dragging his hand in the water while sailing along brings a smile to Angus’ face.

John’s son inspired him to establish the Nelson Sailability Trust which gives people like Angus the chance to experience the thrill of the open ocean.

Now every second Sunday for three hours, people living with a handicap are learning to sail in the Haven under the guidance of experienced seamen.

“We have some quite severely handicapped people who will never sail independently but can experience the joy of sailing, and it’s really exciting.”

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March 2020

John says he felt the Nelson Yacht Club wasn’t catering for people with disabilities and set out to change that.

“We set up an associate affiliated membership so we have our own trust and we can generate our own funds.

All of the equipment has been sponsored and paid for, so we are debt free but rely on our sponsors to keep us afloat.”

trust has purchased five fully equipped Hansa yachts, including sails, a support coach/patrol boat, a hoist and slings for transferring wheelchair-bound and less able sailors from a pontoon into the yachts.

“They are very accessible and use minimal to no leg movement at all.”

John says this helps them cater for a wider range of disabilities.

The trust has been running for the past five years and has grown to include more than 30 members.

“Being out on the water and being able to use the wind is a fantastic experience for some of these people who are less mobile.”

He says the increase in numbers is an indication of the program’s popularity and the need to create a waiting list or another session.

Being in a busy shipping channel, Sailabiltiy is always sure to abide by the port rules.

The trust started with a focus on children but has since extended to include people with multiple sclerosis and stroke victims.

The boats are designed so not a lot of mobility is required.

Through the support of sponsors the

“We all have radios and make sure we do everything safely.”

Port Nelson had allowed the club to use the nearby floating pontoon and there was a hoist available to assist those in wheelchairs getting into the boats.

John says it has taken these people’s independence to another level.

To see them out there and with the facilities they haveand all the people they have in the background making it happen, it’s unbelievably amazing.

Sailability chairman, John MacDuff

While they all start with a companion, a number have now become solo sailors.

Mike says he has never seen his son so calm as when he is sailing and spends the rest of the day relaxed after being on the water. “He is just able to switch off.”

“The parents and caregivers think it’s fantastic because they can see the joy of another challenge they’ve overcome.”

A cricketer by trade, John sailed the Flying Dutchman class before retiring in 2014.

Nixon has autism and ADHD and his social skills have improved immensely thanks to Sailability.

His sailing experience has helped mould some of his members from beginners to competitors.

“He has a group of friends he interacts with; everybody is equal to Nixon, everybody is just who they are to him.”

Last month saw four young Nelson sailors travel to Wellington to complete in the 2020 National Hansa Regatta.

The young sailor also has a close friend with him when sailing.

“The sailors themselves have exceeded what were the trustee’s goals. It is a very humbling moment when on behalf of everyone involved we need to sit down and move our goals to catch up with our sailors.”

“He’s got his mate Dennis, an old teacher from Broadgreen, he used to help Nixon at school and they are like peas in a pod.”

Dennis acts as a lifeline for Nixon on the water.

It took just one season before Nixon Laming-Griffiths was sailing solo. The 13-year-old was part of the Nelson team sailing in the capital and was wrapped just to be taking part.

“It’s not about winning. If you come last just try next time, just getting out on the boat is awesome.” He says he has learnt a lot including how to duck the boom when it swings.

Nixon has been sailing for three seasons and his father Mike says his son has shown incredible progress. “He loves it. I don’t know where his skills come from. He started sailing independently and hasn’t looked back.”

“Nixon is in charge of sailing the boat, Dennis is there as a backup.”

His love for the sport has grown so much that he has gone from wanting a car to a boat.

Mike says the programme is a win-win for everyone.

“To see them out there and with the facilities they have and all the people they have in the background making it happen, it’s unbelievably amazing.”

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John hopes to grow the trust even further but needs more volunteers to do so.

“It takes 12-18 people to run a full sailing season, so we need helpers.”

To learn more about Sailability, or to enquire about volunteering go to www.sailabilitynelson.org.nz

Visit boatiesbestmate.nz 0800 BOATIE

JONTY DINE Coach David Cregan with Ryan Turner-Maxwell aboard Iona II.

CHARLES ANDERSON

I WANT A

party,

When Paula Stringer said she would rather have fun with her friends than have them cry about her when she wasn’t around, some eyebrows were raised. But, as Charles Anderson discovers, to Paula, it makes complete sense.

I

n late January, Paula Stringer’s friends received a text message.

“Farewell Party,” it said. “I would like you to join me for a celebration of my life.”

Most knew that Paula, 72, was sick. But, she says, not all of them knew just how sick.

Because you wouldn’t think she was when Nelson Magazine visits. She is perky,

18

March 2020

Doctors have given Paula Stringer only a few months to live – so she is planning on making the most of it.

NOT A FUNERAL

smiling and happy as anything about her decision to forego a funeral and instead invite all her mates and family for one last hurrah at Club Waimea.

It was the same place that she had her 70th birthday and Paula says she had a pretty great time then.

“So we’re just going to do the same thing.”

The band is hired, the supper ordered and the night later this month is shaping up to be exactly what she wants. A final hurrah.

“I don’t want to be too sick to enjoy it. I want to get up and have a boogy and join everybody,” Paula says. “I’m fine about it.

I’m fine about the whole thing. I know a lot of people don’t understand that I feel the way I do.”

She says she is not religious but is spiritual.

“So, if my time is up, it’s time to go and something else is waiting for me.”

I don’t want to be too sick to enjoy it. I want to get up and have a boogy and join everybody. I’m fine about it. I’m fine about the whole thing. I know a lot of people don’t understand that I feel the way I do.

It was two years ago that doctors first told her that she had cancer. Then, soon after that she was told that it had spread. The Christmas before last she underwent radiation and chemotherapy, but specialists then told her there was not much else they could do. Treatment could delay the inevitable, but not by much. Last April, they gave her a year.

I’d prefer the party, because I’d rather everyone come when I’m alive and have a great time rather than crying when I’m dead.

Paula has lived a full life and even sky dived out of a plane on her 70th birthday.

“I decided that I didn’t want to be as sick as a dog on the couch. So here I am at the moment, feeling good.”

So, instead, she and her husband Dave had 24 of their family around over Christmas. They went to Picton for New Year’s and had the “best time ever.”

The couple met 36 years ago while working for the Hutt Valley Energy Board – Paula in the clerical section, Dave in the property section. Fast forward and between them they have four kids and 10 grandchildren. “Though we usually don’t have them all around at the same time,” Paula jokes.

She knew pretty early on that she didn’t want a funeral. “When I do go, I want to go wherever I am going – into the coffin, shut the lid and into the ground.”

She has had her burial plot for years.

“I’d prefer the party, because I’d rather everyone come when I’m alive and have a great time, rather than crying when I’m dead.”

So, she started texting her friends – dozens of them. Most of them knew about Paula’s prognosis but some didn’t realise how far progressed it was.

Within days, people started texting back.

Of course, they would be there. Only a couple couldn’t make it. So, it will be a party to remember, including a “coffin cake.” But Paula says she doesn’t have dark humour about death – it’s more a light heartedness.

“I’ve been there, I’ve done that. There is not too much else for me to do here, so I’m wandering off.”

Dave has a harder time with it. Being five years older, he thought that he was the one meant to be “heading to greener pastures first”. But the whole experience

has made him question how people view death.

“How long is a piece of string? We don’t know how long our strings are. I don’t know, maybe this party thing will start something. Because aren’t you better to see your friends and family before and have a good time with them?”

When people ask Paula what’s on her bucket list, she shrugs. There isn’t much anymore. She has lived a full life – from Nelson to Wellington and Auckland and back to Nelson again. She says her family is the most important thing and says she is lucky to have lots of friends. “They all help me in different ways.”

But she has lived. She has travelled through Asia and Europe. She and Dave have driven their camper around most of New Zealand. On her 70th birthday she even jumped out of an airplane – an experience which she handled similarly to her current journey.

“I loved it. It was great. It was quite exhilarating. I went on the plane, we were up in the sky and then it all happened so quick. The next thing I knew I was free falling from 14,000 feet.”

But none of her family would come up in the plane with her. It was something she had to do alone.

Paula knows, when the time comes, her kids especially will be sad. But right now, when she doesn’t look sick – it is a little hard to comprehend. So, she just takes each day as it comes. She says that life is something to be cherished and celebrated.

“I just wake up and think ‘well I’m awake today and I’m alive, so let’s do something’.”

And that’s exactly what she plans to keep on doing.

ON THE STREET

Padma Naidu, Nelson Arts Festival Director Describe each piece you are wearing and where each item is from.

HALFDAN: Probably a bit of dandy with a dash of street.

PADMA: My skirt is from the Nelson Market

What is most of your wardrobe made up of?

and is ellabella brand by local designer Linda Rainbow. The skirts come in a range of colourful and patterned fabrics and are reversible. My white top is from a bargain bin in a closing down sale and my black jacket was from an op shop. Shoes are from Max Mara in Newmarket. I call my earrings constellation earrings by local designer Josie Cachemaille from Red Gallery. Bangles were bought from a cheeky young Cambodian boy at a street stall. It reminds me of him, and the fun one can have bargaining when travelling in parts of Asia.

HALFDAN: The sneakers are Onitsuka Tigers. My jeans are Italian, Replay Denim from Sydney, and the shirt is upcycled from The Vintage Room in Mapua.

What is your style?

PADMA: Not really a follower of fashion, I just enjoy good design from all times. I like simple lines, colour and accessorising. I do like to mix up something that is classical with something a little bit unconventional, or old with new.

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20

March 2020

PADMA: Mainly from op shops with the odd designer piece and quirky accessories generally picked up when travelling, or gifts from people travelling. Skirts, dresses, casual trousers and shorts. Jackets, shoes and earrings are a favourite.

HALFDAN: Floral and patterned shirts.

What are you loving at the moment?

PADMA: Not really up with trends but love the mustards and ochres that have been in for winter and summer.

HALFDAN: Burnt peach colour.

What are you dressed for today?

PADMA: A working day with a casual work event this evening with local art galleries.

HALFDAN: A popup photographic exhibition about local Jens Hansen customers and their stories.

Where do you buy most of your clothes from?

PADMA: No particular place, although I enjoy looking at what Palm has in stock as

and Halfdan Hansen, owner of Jens Hansen. well as New Zealand designers such as Zambesi and Marilyn Sanity, mainly to view them as art pieces. I enjoy browsing op shops, but this can be hit and miss.

Do you have a style rule you always obey?

HALFDAN: For the last few years my

PADMA: Try it, if it doesn’t work

HALFDAN: A cashmere sweater.

go to for new items has been a store in Paddington in Sydney and almost everything else is pre-owned, or altered by the lovely Sharon at Nelson Tailors.

try something else. Sometimes complimentary colours are good, sometimes clashes work, such as different patterns.

What is your all-time favourite purchase?

HALFDAN: Don’t mix florals and plaids unless it actually works.

PADMA: I have a few faves. It’s hard to pick one. Probably jewellery over anything else.

The earrings I’m wearing today are definitely well worn, as are my bangles and necklace from Cambodia and Uruguay that I’m wearing. I also have a favourite blue corduroy jacket that I picked up at an op shop. It becomes my second skin as it gets cooler.

HALFDAN: It makes me sad to have to choose just one…perhaps my silver and green Onitsuka Tigers.

What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?

PADMA: A simple white or cream top and an all-purpose jacket from a practical sense but also that one go to thing that always picks you up—a piece of jewellery, a scarf, something that can give you comfort if you need it.

If you could raid one person’s wardrobe who would it be?

PADMA: Recently I saw the series Fleabag, with Phoebe Waller-Bridge.

I don’t know what her dress sense is in real life, but I really liked her style in the programme—tailored tunics, skirts with clean lines, contrasting colours, colourful stockings etc.

HALFDAN: Richie Jackson, a kiwi and skateboarding psychedelic warrior.

Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…

PADMA: Beige.

HALFDAN: Socks and slides.

21

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Trudy

The case for doing nothing Out of our ‘busier the better’ bustling world arises a welcome rebellion that is switching off phones, brains and the eternal to-do list.

B

usyness has been attributed to success and worthiness—while doing ‘stuff all’ often holds the stigma of being lazy, unmotivated or unproductive.

If we could just see the measurable physiological anti-anxiety benefits that our mind and bodies get from gazing glassy-eyed out the window, in the midst of a hectic day.

Words: Tracey Edwardes

translated as “The sweetness of doing nothing.” The Chinese have mastered the concept of Wu Wei meaning inaction and is seen as central to living a life harmoniously.

There is a good reason that many of the best inventions, songs and ideas are born in the middle of the night. The mind is empty, quiet and still. We are just lying there in the dark—doing nothing.

Enter creativity.

Mid-afternoon snoozes are a timehonoured tradition in the heat of the Mediterranean, but we shouldn’t need global warming to nudge us to nod off.

The concept of allowing 40 winks in the middle of a work day is being discussed as a productivity boosting bonus in the office - to recharge batteries and counterbalance chaos. Our minds need to empty out the old in order to refill.

Some cultures are better than others at embracing the health-enhancing art of nothingness. The Dutch have a catchy succinct word for the concept – Miksen.

It is a verb, aka a doing word, that means ‘doing nothing’. The Italians indulge in a concept known as ‘La dolce far neinte’

Enjoying doing nothing doesn’t mean checking emails, chatting or watching TV while flopped catatonically on the couch.

That’s cheating. It can take a while for wound-up minds to wind-down and get comfortable with the habit. We innately know when to switch off.

It just takes a little neuron rewiring to make it easier, with practise, to tap into our inner timetables.

This sweet neutral state of ‘effortless being’ is a natural trait to all living things.

Observe animals both in the wild, and the ones chillaxing on our carpets or wandering nonchalantly in the garden— they have it sussed!

The nothing experience needs to be guilt-free to be of real benefit. Imagine not achieving everything, or indeed anything, on your daily agenda. Are there any adverse consequences? Doing zilch and zoning out can create momentum, motivation and more energy for the hours and days to follow.

When a person stops and does absolutely nothing for a moment, or two, or three, the benefits can be empowering and enlightening. Add in some nature—and that equals bliss.

23

CHARLES ANDERSON Lizl Matthewson has always loved to dance, but now sees it as a celebration of life.

EVERYTHING IN LIFE IS AN

opportunity

When doctor’s first diagnosed Lizl Matthewson with breast cancer she had no idea that it would start her on a path that would open her eyes to the opportunities for good in the world. Charles Anderson reports.

L

izl Matthewson is a little uncomfortable being the focus.

But soon she will have to get used to it as she takes to the stage in front of thousands of people as part of NBS Dancing for a Cause – Hospice Nelson.

It is the second year of the event which brings well-known locals together for a glamorous evening of dinner, dancing and drinks—all in service of raising money for Nelson Tasman Hospice.

24

March 2020

Dancing for a Cause held its first event in May 2018 to a sold-out crowd at Nelson’s Trafalgar Centre, raising $111,000 for Nelson Tasman Hospice.

But Lizl says she feels honoured to be in the mix of other dancers, which includes business executives, politicians, media personalities and sporting legends.

The 2020 event sees another eight local personalities partnered each with a trained ballroom dancer. Each will perform a ballroom dance in front of a panel of judges on May 23 in an attempt to be declared the NBS Nelson Dancing for a Cause winner.

Lizl’s journey to the spotlight is a little less conventional.

It was three years ago when she was breastfeeding her then 14-month-old daughter Elzette. Lizl noticed that Elzette would only feed from one breast.

…This is such an opportunity.

For people to watch an amazing show but also to give back to hospice. Even if you haven’t used it you will know someone close to you who has.

Lizl Matthewson

She thought the baby was just picky.

But then Lizl felt a lump. She went to the doctor and soon it was discovered to be the precursor to an aggressive form of breast cancer. She was 36.

“She is my angel,” says Lizl. “I am forever in her debt.”

Soon after her mastectomy she was invited to a Pink Ribbon breakfast at Nelson College for Girls.

“I had no sleep, I had prepared nothing.

I didn’t know what I was going to say.”

So, she spoke from the heart. And from that moment Lizl has thrown herself into causes she is passionate about.

“I really want to do the best I can, in whatever avenues I try.”

She went from a career in marketing, to becoming a primary school teacher and now the fundraising coordinator for Relay for Life for the Cancer Society.

“I feel like I am so incredibly lucky that I am here. I see people at Nelson Tasman Hospice and the Cancer Society, they are amazing with how they deal with people.

So, when I was asked to do Dancing for a Cause I thought ‘oh my gosh, I have been to hospice and seen what they do’.”

This was her chance to give something back to that organisation. It doesn’t hurt that Lizl also loves to dance.

“That doesn’t mean I’m a great dancer.

I just remember my mum dancing around the house, and I do it with my kids too now. Just little steps.”

In her teenage years she would throw on the stereo and dance around the garage

pretending she was Jennifer Beals on the edge of stardom in Flashdance.

“It is such a great way of expression,” she says. “But now it is a celebration of life.”

However, Lizl acknowledges that the skill required for the NBS Dancing for a Cause routine is at a different level to garage dancing.

When all the contestants first met up, they did a speed dating course of sorts for prospective dance instructors and styles. Then the head dancer and event coordinator, Emma Silke-French, went around and told each of them what style they would be dancing. But that’s a secret for the night.

“It’s all about getting that connection with the person you are dancing with.”

Luckily, Lizl has been paired with Joel Scott who she is good friends with.

She says it is a beautiful place which offers so much support to people in need. Lizl is looking forward to raising money and says everyone involved wants to be the best dancer and raise the most funds, which is a good formula for a successful campaign.

But she is also getting excited about the spotlight too.

“I don’t mind getting up on stage. That’s fine. I’ll have to think, just keep going if anything does go wrong. But we will have to make the best of it.”

Which is exactly what she has done since her cancer diagnosis.

“My life has changed so much but I think my eyes have been opened to what good there is in people. Man, there are some amazing people out there.”

Last year’s Dancing for a Cause winner, Ros Pochin with dance partner Anthony Hewson.

JOHN-PAUL POCHIN

“I can’t wait until my next practice,” she says.

When she was diagnosed with breast cancer she put on a brave face.

“I always thought that everything was going to be fine. But sometimes everything isn’t going to be fine.

We can plan our lives to be anything we want it to be but it’s not necessarily going be that way.

It’s how we deal with what does happen and make the most of it.

It’s also identifying opportunities.

They are everywhere, you just have to see them.”

Just like Dancing for a Cause.

“This is such an opportunity,” she says. “For people to watch an amazing show but also to give back to hospice. Even if you haven’t used it, you or someone you know will.”

Dancing for a Cause 23 May, 7pm at Trafalgar Centre You can buy tickets to the event and also support the contestants by visiting www.dancingforacause.co.nz

Trailways Hotel. 66 Trafalgar St, Nelson Reservations: 0800 872 459 trailwayshotel.co.nz Breakfast: Sat–Sun 7am–10am.

Mon–Fri 6.30am–9.30am.

Dinner 5.30pm–9pm daily.

25

The

Setting sail in search of Taking two years off to sail the world is the stuff of dreams.

Britt Coker speaks to Cindy Mosey who lived the dream with her family of four.

SUPPLIED

C

indy Mosey has been overseas for a while so I suggest a catch up with her and our boys. “Great!”, she says, with an added suggestion for my 11 year old, “if he has a knife or machete, get him to bring that as well.” I try to sound disappointed but settle on mock consternation. “No Cindy, he does not have a machete he can bring with him.”

Spot which one of us has just spent two years in the tropics, where small children hacking their way through a jungle is all in a day’s expedition.

The plan for the Mosey/Reid’s was to sail around the Caribbean, travel through the Panama Canal, take a side trip to the Galapagos and traverse the Pacific back to New Zealand.

Grenada turned out to be a great place to start their sailing travels because everything was so close together. In six hours you could be in a different country,

geographically and culturally. The country hopping did come with border control legalities like passport stamping, though fortunately not an arduous experience.

The family would head into a local café and the barista behind the counter was able to make you a coffee and for $2, stamp your passport.

The two boys, Baxter (12) and Logan (10) were home schooled in the morning (or home yelling, as another mother called it) and then the kids would have the afternoon to explore. There were other boats full of home schooled children too, “kid boats”, and they would all gather at one of the families boats in the afternoon to swim, snorkel and hang out.

“People are worried about the socialising of doing something like this but it’s been the opposite experience for us.

The boys have become really good at making new friends and meeting new people,” Cindy says.

One of the biggest challenges in the Caribbean was surprisingly, finding fresh fruit. Bananas were easy, Cindy says, but everything else, not so much. She feels appreciative now when walking into a Nelson supermarket and seeing the range of good quality produce we have at our fingertips. In fact, food in the Caribbean was basic in general. Rice and pumpkins mostly, don’t bother looking for cheese.

Above: Visiting the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, Columbia. Top right: Logan spears a red snapper.

Bottom right: Andy, Baxter and Logan enjoy a jump overboard the day they collect the boat.

26

March 2020

Adventure What other things do we take for granted here?

“When you’re on the boat you’re always waiting for weather. You might decide you’re going to go somewhere for a week but you’re stuck there for an extra week or you’re on your way out and you see the weather’s changed. I don’t know how people cope who really like planning.

Things change really quickly and they also change because you might have met people or found a good sports club you really like [the boys regularly signed up to clubs to meet local families], so your days change.”

Their boat, Gabian, was well set up with a water maker (100 litres an hour from saltwater to fresh), solar panels and a generator so the family preferred to anchor privately, however a lot of families loved the marinas for the access to wifi and hot showers. In Colombia, for security reasons, staying in a marina is compulsory.

They never had any bad experiences there though. The night before their arrival in one marina, 13 tonnes of seized cocaine and 14 handcuffed men decorated the jetty, intercepted on their way to Europe.

There were unforgettable highlights, of course. In Atutaki: “There were humpbacks everywhere we anchored.

You could hear them singing, you could see them breaching, it was super cool.”

Bax ter snorkelling with eag

le rays.

In the Galapagos : “The day we turned up it was a beautiful day and there were schools of rays on the surface and as we put our anchor down sea lions were climbing up the back of our catamaran and into our cockpit to hang out.

They come up on your couch and they lounge around and they puke and pee everywhere. Because we had a catamaran we had loads of fish and that brought in the pelicans, penguins and sharks.” Giant tortoises roamed the land (slowly).

In French Polynesia: “It’s the coolest of all the countries…One of us was always calling out, “Come and look at this— there’s eight manta rays going around the boat, or a school of dolphins, or hammerhead sharks. The reefs are so beautiful and we loved the people.

After twenty days at sea everybody smiled and said, ‘Come, come, we’ve got too much fruit at our house’, and they fill a sack full of mangos for you.

The place was like Eden.”

In Beverage Reef: “You’ve got the big ocean, three and a half days between Cook Islands to Nuie, but halfway between there is just a reef. And you look at the ocean and there’s these huge big waves crashing and then you go into this little pass and you’re in dead flat water in this lagoon. And it’s so strange. There is no land anywhere, just a reef. We were the only ones in there. The lobsters were huge, we saw lots of humpbacks breaching like crazy…”

“Probably the coolest things were perhaps when we left the boat and went inland and immersed ourselves with what was going on more than you would if you were on a boat.” This also suited Cindy who felt restless if she was on the boat for too long. “The biggest challenges for me, personally, was being at sea.

I like to get my feet on land and being able to move, you can’t do that on the boat. And probably the food thing was the other challenge. Compared to just having nice food whenever you liked.”

“Everywhere we went we met kind, open people. Most of the places were really beautiful but the highlights were to do with people always. So it may have been

the really lovely man in the Marquesas that took Logan goat hunting, or it was the family that took Baxter up a mountain and gave him a sacred feather from the American Condor eagle. It’s made me think, if I pick up a hitchhiker I want to bring them back here and cook them a dinner and give them a shower.

So that’s far more in the forefront of my thinking now.”

A long time at sea was unavoidable with a 3000 nautical mile journey crossing the Pacific. Not a great time for anyone to get sick then.

“That’s the longest passage in the world and I always said I’d never do it with the boys but then we’d been so well, not even a sniffle.” Cue, Baxter becoming really unwell. In the middle of the longest sea passage in the world. They ended up giving him antibiotics for only the second time in his life. Unfortunately, he had a reaction to them, his throat starting to constrict. Cindy still gets emotional talking about it. “So we gave him an anti-histamine that we happened to have by chance. It wasn’t in the kit, it was something we’d picked up along the way because Logan got a rash.” The drug administered and normal breathing quickly resumed. For everyone.

But they’re all back safe and well and trying to settle in to a routine, with mixed results. Sticking to a schedule after two years of being on island time has resulted in a few missed appointments. It took five attempts to get Logan to the dentist.

“In other ways, it’s funny how you can adapt so fast. To love being on the boat and then totally happy with being at home… If you knew that was the end and that you were never going to go sailing again or have any other adventures then you’d be grieving for that, but I know that won’t be the case.”

“The difficult thing now is to still create those amazing experiences, realising they’re not going to happen every day because you’re at school. Especially for Andy [who will return to work], that’s the tricky bit. He’s going to have to work out a way that he can create those really cool times that he’s had with the boys because of everything that we did. My favourite bit of the trip is their bond. You can’t buy that time and you don’t get it back either.”

What kind of a person goes travelling like this? I wonder. She laughs.

“An optimistic one.”

Well then, if you happen to be a swashbuckling optimist, not fussed about fruit or seeing land on the horizon, heave ho—the world awaits.

Travel | Abel Tasman

The natural splendour OF OUR OWN BACKYARD

Golden beaches, turquoise-coloured seas, iconic forest and birdlife—like a giant magnet, people from everywhere are drawn to the natural splendour of the Abel Tasman National Park with its golden sandy beaches, its amazing granite, marble and limestone rocky outcrops and lovely estuaries where forest birds such as tui, pukeko and bellbirds can be seen roaming around.

E

Words: Joya Devine

MOTUEKA i-SITE

“

stablished in 1942, the park is located between Kaiteriteri and Takaka and is managed by the Department of Conservation.

In 1993, the Tonga Island Marine Reserve was created along one part of the Abel Tasman coast. “The Abel Tasman Coastal Track is a seductive combination of reliable pleasant weather, sparkling seas, golden sand, quintessential New Zealand coastal forest and hidden surprises such as ‘Cleopatra’s Pool, a beautiful natural rock pool and moss-lined slide.”

(Lonely Planet).

On the track you can walk to various lookouts such as Skinner Point and Separation Point and enjoy panoramic

28

March 2020

views of Totaranui, the Tasman Sea and right out to Golden Bay. You can walk into the park from the pretty seaside village of Marahau or be dropped off by sea, paddle in by kayak or fly in by plane or helicopter.

The Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve is 250ha of Crown land that includes Kaiteriteri Beach and estuary, Kaka Point Historic Reserve, Kaka Island, Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park and surrounding native bush. Numerous local businesses fund the reserve and their vision is to be New Zealand’s premier coastal outdoor recreation destination.

Kaiteriteri is perfect for relaxing over summer with family and friends, for swimming in the sea, paddling around in a kayak or enjoying good coffee in a

beachfront café. Many water taxis, boats and sea kayak companies depart from the beach and can transport you into the park.

The Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park is ideal for exploring the recreation reserve, with trails to suit all mountain biking abilities, from beginners to advanced.

part of the Nelson Airport K2M Multisport event taking place in the first weekend of May. Starting in Kaiteriteri, you can wind your way to the idyllic Mapua Estuary, finishing at Mapua Wharf for celebrations, socialising, and of course enjoying the sumptuous local seafood, wine and craft beer. Options are plenty – you can walk, run, kayak or cycle, either individually or as part of a team.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, Kimi Ora Eco Resort provides a unique experience, combining the finest European pampering with the best New Zealand has to offer. People are drawn to its bush-clad setting, stunning sea views and its proximity to the mountain bike trails, stunning Kaiteriteri beach and the natural charm of Abel Tasman National Park. The resort has secluded chaletstyle accommodation, heated indoor and outdoor pools, supreme spa and sauna facilities, luxurious massages and spa treatments, serene nature walks, and its own fabulous restaurant which serves delectable vegetarian cuisine.

Different course options are available and include a marathon, half marathon, relay

marathon or 10 km options for runners and walkers. Kayaking, cycling and running are included in the team options, and the cycling course mixes the Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park, Great Taste Trail and a mix of town and country roads. There’s truly something for everyone. For more info and to register, visit www.k2m.co.nz.

Not only is the Abel Tasman area a great spot for some rest and relaxation, it’s also a fabulous place to hold events. For those wanting to achieve a fitness or health goal for 2020, don’t miss being

Enjoy our off season accomodation options of apartments and cabins, perfect for your next Autumn retreat in Kaiteriteri

Conferences - Accomodation - Mountain Bike Park - Restaurant and Store

29

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March 2020

There’s no doubt that Wilson’s Abel Tasman will help make your time in the Abel Tasman something to remember.

This family owned business has connections with the Abel Tasman area covering eight generations, starting in the 1800’s and continuing today through their acclaimed adventure company.

When John and Lynette Wilson launched their boat service in Abel Tasman National Park in 1977, they continued a legacy of ocean journeys and adventure dating back more than a century.

Back in 1841, Lynette Wilson’s greatgreat grandparents – the Newths and the Snows – sailed from England with the first official British settlement fleet to Nelson.

Young Amelia Newth is said to have waded ashore, impatient to make landfall ahead of the official landing party.

Today, their descendants continue a family tradition of welcoming visitors with their award-winning business offering the widest range of services in Abel Tasman National Park: water taxi cruises, kayaking, walking and beachfront lodges.

Visit their website www.abeltasman.co.nz.

A warm Kiwi welcome is something you’ll be assured of while in the Abel Tasman, and especially at Kaiteriteri Beach Lodge. This family-friendly lodge in the heart of Kaiteriteri offers a range of room types catering to families, groups, backpackers and also solo travellers. You are guaranteed a lively evening at the onsite restaurant and bar,

The Beached Whale, and the friendly staff can give you tips on the best things to do while you are in the area.

Experts in hosting both large groups and small, the lodge is a perfect venue for functions, weddings, group trips and conferences with accommodation, meeting rooms, AV equipment and in-house catering. It’s the perfect base for your Abel Tasman adventures.

Waka Abel Tasman offers an adventure that’s as old as civilisation itself. Explore the scenic coastline of the Abel Tasman National Park in a ‘waka’—a traditional Maori canoe. Feel the breeze on your face, the drag of the water against your paddle and the hugely rewarding sense of working together as one. Paddling waka connects you to a rich cultural heritage and it’s also great fun.

They know our region inside-out and can look after all of your activities, tours, and accommodation with their free booking service. Their team will take time to talk with you, find out what you want to do, offer advice on the options available to make the best use of your time. Passionate about our region, they want to ensure you leave loving it as much as they do.

Their retail section has a magnificent selection of the finest products our region has to offer and provides an opportunity for you to take some special mementoes of your visit home with you.

Your waka journey takes you out to Split Apple Rock and immerses you in ancient Maori customs and traditions as you learn ‘karakia’ paddle commands and waka salutes.

Ideal for everyone including families with young children, Waka Abel Tasman specialise in group journeys providing a unique and special experience for schools, businesses, iwi or tour groups. Visit their website www.wakaabeltasman.nz for more information and be sure to check out all of their fantastic customer reviews.

If you are in awe of the multitude of things to do and places to see when you are in this special piece of paradise, then you need to go to the experts at Motueka i-SITE.

31

At Home | Falcon Brae Villa

discovered Hilltop paradise

Words: Joya Devine

F

CHOCOLATE DOG STUDIO

or five years, John and Kate Kerr travelled back and forth between Australia and New Zealand searching for land to build on. The couple, who have been in the resort and lodge game for nearly 40 years, were hoping to find a place where they could ease into retirement later on down the track.

“We came here every year to look at properties and all our research led us to the Motueka Valley here in Nelson,” says John. “Sunshine was a big factor and the proximity of the land with its exceptional hilltop views over Kahurangi National Park and the Motueka River got our attention.”

But most importantly for John and Kate,

after managing numerous other lodges over the decades, their main goal was to create a home first and business second.

“Interestingly, the owners of Falcon Brae also spent years looking around New Zealand for a place to build a private home and came up with exactly the same valley, so that’s why we connected.”

Knowing that the area was internationally well-known for fly-fishing in the Motueka, Wangapeka and Baton rivers helped the couple’s decision to build in the picturesque valley. “We looked at other areas from Queenstown all the way through and considered Murchison,

but ultimately we knew we could settle here.” However, when John and Kate first arrived there was no power, water or heating; it was completely off the grid, so their first task was to design and build a good solar powered system.

“We built Stonefly Lodge in 2016 using a small team from the local Tapawera area.

We milled our own trees and used stone from our property. All the walls are lined with lamb’s wool so it’s very efficient and it has a very low environmental footprint.”

Subsequently, since opening in 2009, the lodge has won awards for environmental sustainability.

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At Home | Falcon Brae Villa

Off-the grid, luxurious opulence ‘Falcon Brae’ concept takes flight The Falcon Brae Villa concept transpired after a guest from California who was staying at Stonefly Lodge shared his story with John and Kate. “He had spent seven years trying to find a place to build a holiday home in New Zealand and he asked if we would be interested in building him one on our property,” explains John. “For four consecutive years we said, ‘No, we’re not interested.’” However, in the sixth year, a 200-acre property next door became available, so we contacted the guest to let him know. The property was bought, and the development project began. The owner’s vision was to have a holiday home, but it has grown into far more than that – it is now one of New Zealand’s leading luxury villas.

In total, the build took 22 months to complete.

“Additionally, we needed a year to put in the road to the top of the hill, then we had to get water up onto the site, plus power which involved designing and building the solar system before the builders could start work. It took a whole year of infrastructure and planning.” John says the building process was quite intense. “We made some changes along the way because, as things developed, there was more enthusiasm from the owners, so the project grew in size and quality.

Every change made was to the benefit of the end product.”

John says they are pleased with how the interior design has worked out. “I regularly take guests through the property; as soon as you open the entry doors people say ‘wow.’

As with Stonefly, you get the view of the mountains and every room in the house has that wow factor. The entire 75 metres of the building frontage is glass to take in the magnificent views, which are the standout feature.”

The Villa was established for exclusive use. Its design is contemporary and although it is luxury accommodation, it has a warm, homely feel from the moment you walk in. It boasts breathtaking 360-degree views, so in the winter you are surrounded by snow-capped mountains from every viewpoint.

“One of the guests that has stayed here said it should be in a James Bond movie scene,” says John.

For John, other key features include things like the acoustic linings in the ceilings and the quality of the sound system throughout the villa. He also says nothing has been spared in terms of the quality of the interior fittings. “People who stay at Falcon Brae say that every detail has been thought about.

When you get out of your bed at night, little floor lights come on to show you the way. Every room has its own sound system, every bedroom has a fireplace and every verandah has an outdoor fireplace. It will be a great destination in winter.”

When it came to their choice of builder, after interviewing numerous people, they decided on Darryl from Gardiner Building Contractors. “We didn’t want a building company that was too large and impersonal. Darryl struck me as very honest from our first meeting and his staff were the same. Honesty and integrity are the first ingredients of any partnership, I believe.”

On reflection, John says they are particularly pleased that they designed an efficient solar system. “It’s a very big project to be off the grid and we are very proud to have it all working well. The owner especially liked Stonefly because it’s environmentally sensitive, so the solar system at Falcon Brae is in keeping with that philosophy.

35

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Boost for local economy John is also happy that the development of Falcon Brae has boosted the region economically.

“I know some people frown at foreign investment, but we’ve used local artists, the furniture has been made locally and the builders are local, so it’s given a big injection into the community.”

At Home | Falcon Brae Villa Although the luxury villa is frequented by international visitors, it’s ideal for anyone who wants a place that’s designed for exclusive use. “The property has its own road and security gates; it’s great for anyone who wants real privacy. It has a butler’s service, your own personal chef and wait staff; it’s cleaned daily – it’s an allround luxury ‘event.’”

Falcon-winged roofs, stunning stone walls The lead architect for the project, Simon Hall of Jerram Tocker Barron Architects, says Falcon Brae was part of the master planning for the wider redevelopment of the property which included the Falcon Brae villa on the 50 plus hectare site.

“The owner’s vision included native revegetation of the landscape, so the property has been planted out with thousands of manuka trees, which is an enhancement for the local community and New Zealand as a whole,” he says.

“Falcon Brae is unique, 5-star luxury accommodation. It was about bringing to life the vision that the owners wanted to create, capitalising on the panoramic views of the Motueka River and the valley beyond.”

Simon says the villa has interesting features including high curved ceilings, featuring laminated timber. “The falcon-wing roofs are the hero of the building,” he says. “These have elliptical curvatures, so it’s quite appropriate for the name.

The building lines up on the axis of the Mount Arthur ranges and the building is highly bespoke. The steelwork was all rolled in Wellington and shipped to Nelson. Each roof frame was set up in Sharland Engineering in Nelson then disassembled, painted and reassembled on site.”

Simon says the high-end luxury building is expansive. “Although it’s only got three suites, it has a roof area of 1000 square metres so it’s about five times the size of a normal house.” Simon says opulence has been created within the indoor and outdoor spaces at Falcon Brae, complete with covered decks, a media theatre and games den housing a gym. Outside there’s a heated pool and spa. It’s got everything you could ever wish for.”

Simon says another unique aspect of the villa was the local Lee Valley stone walls which terrace the site and anchor the building among the existing rock outcrops.

37

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At Home | Falcon Brae Villa

Small company assigned large-scale project For Darryl at Gardiner Building, serendipity played its hand.

“It’s funny how it all worked out. When the old house at the bottom of the property was being renovated, I went out and gave advice on what needed doing,” he says. “So, it all came from that visit – I was in the right place at the right time.”

The rest is history.

Darryl recommended Jerram Tocker Barron Architects for the Falcon Brae project and it all went from there. “Architect, Simon Hall, met with the owner and together they designed what they wanted, and I was given a list of what was required and an idea of the costs.”

For the small family-owned building company, it was their first time working on a project of this scale. Darryl’s wife Julie, who co-owns the business, says it was challenging securing staff and sub contractors to work in the remote location.

Good, qualified builders and sub contractors in Nelson who have availability to work in remote locations are few and far between, but in the end they had around 80 staff and sub contractors working on the project.

“I contacted other builders, and it amounted to 4-6 months’ work for them,” says Darryl. “They all said, ‘We’re not going to let you down – let’s get this job done.’ They were brilliant.”

Managing logistics from home The project got underway in March 2018 and the first thing the team had to build was a workshop which was a functional, three-bay shed.

“The project could not have been completed without Mark Douglas, our foreman, who was crucial to the projects success,” says Darryl. “With the enormity of the task at hand, it certainly caused him some sleepless nights,” adds Julie.

“There was so much going on, everything had to be really well organised. Then six months into the project, Darryl broke his leg.

A rod was put in, then he had to sit on the couch for a month.”

On the upside, Darryl says it allowed him to really focus on the project and manage the logistics while his leg was healing.

Meanwhile, Julie was the driver. “I’d get the truck, go to Placemakers, then deliver materials up to the lodge.”

Darryl says a major excavation of the site was required.

“C J Industries put in a private road. Prior to that, it was access by helicopter only, designed so people can come straight from the airport.”

39

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At Home | Falcon Brae Villa

Marble benchtops, cocktail bars, private balconies After building the service shed, excavations were underway.

Foundations were put down and wall frames put into place.

There were a lot of concrete panels, plus four chimneys, so a lot of cranage work was required. The steel structures to form all the curved roofs, which were pre-made at Sharland Engineering, also needed lifting in.

river below. The master suites feature a large cocktail bar in each unit and the bathrooms are also luxurious with large black soaker tubs in each room, slatted jarrah wood floors and beautiful floor to ceiling tiling.

Darryl and Julie say there’s lots to love about Falcon Brae.

“All the joinery and curved ceilings are just magic, and there’s nice negative detailing around the windows and doors.

You can sit outside on the deck and be handed a glass of wine through the window. There’s a hot tub, a pool, and a firepit offering the ultimate relaxation opportunities.”

The property has timber floors throughout, premade Hush ceiling panels, and marble bench tops creating a luxurious atmosphere—high end, while still being relaxing and comfortable.

Nelson Tile and Slate sales consultant, Lisa Wright, says the designer chose really natural slate tiles which perfectly suited where Falcon Brae is situated. “They were charcoal to black coloured, with dark movement which gave them a moody feel.

For the kitchen splash back, fingered white mosaic tiles were used, and next to the main door we created a lovely brass feature wall.”

There are three suites offering total privacy and the utmost luxury with floor to ceiling glass windows, wooden clad walls, private balconies and breath-taking views of the mountains and

Julie says one her favourite aspects of the bathrooms was the use of green marble which gave a greenstone effect, perfectly set off by the brass tapware.

Earthy tones reflect natural environment “The esdesign team was approached to provide full interior design services for the entire project on a very tight timeframe.

From bathrooms to kitchen, paint and wallpaper, bedlinen, curtains, furniture and cabinetry; just to mention a few of the areas covered” says Eleanor Steel, senior designer at esdesign.

“We were fortunate because the clients had a really good vision of what they wanted, and it was a privilege to translate their design brief into reality. We were also working within the most

amazing scenery and a beautifully designed space as our canvas. In essence, our role was to design an interior that not only worked for the client but sat well within the environment. With the massive picture windows, we didn’t want the interior to feel juxtaposed, but it was also about creating a level of luxury that was symbiotic with the quality of the build and the hospitality to be provided.”

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At Home | Falcon Brae Villa Eleanor says because the clients have quite a strong music bias, they were conscious to incorporate that as part of the design as well. “Tonally we have tried to keep the colour palette within quite earthy tones to reflect the environment,” she says.

“We also have small pops of colour; oranges, blues and greens; but generally we kept with the greens and the browns and have a lot of lovely brass and timber; oak and teak and inherently within the build, there were some wonderful colours and really nice riverstone to work with.”

Eleanor says the client has a beautiful collection of local artwork and one-off pieces made by New Zealand artists and ceramists.

“We chose pieces which complement the spaces, such as the stunning chandelier in the dining room. This has pressed glass feathers, following the Falcon Brae theme. We also used bespoke rugs throughout the lodge, including a feather inspired rug for the main lounge.” esdesign is a Wellington based team of interior designers.

“Between us, we have over 40 years’ experience; plus, we’re known as the friendliest little interior design company in New Zealand.”

A ‘can-do’ company The building work was completed at the end of November last year and Falcon Brae was opened for use in December.

“Although it was a balancing act for a small, family-owned business like ours to pull off such a large-scale project, it worked out really well and we were finished on the day we hoped to,” says Darryl.

The Falcon Brae Villa build project was a memorable one for the Gardiners, providing an opportunity for local companies and craftspeople to showcase the incredible work they do.

They are especially grateful for the way everyone worked together to ensure an end result that they can all be extremely proud of.

For more information, visit www.gardinerbuilding.co.nz or go to www.falconbraevilla.co.nz

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P R E- STOC K

TA K E

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Captivating Displays & Amazing Stories!

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RUN YOUR BUSINESS LIKE YOU’RE DOING THE COAST TO COAST

C

aleb Hill likens running a business to competing in a multisport race like the Coast to Coast.

You toil away or train hard to improve your performance, partly for the sheer enjoyment of it, and gradually you build to a point where you have perfected your business goals or have reached your desired fitness level. So, you push a bit harder and eventually achieve what you set out to do, perhaps get a taste of success. Then when another job comes in, or the next race comes along, you have to go back to the starting blocks.

And you go through the motions again, but ultimately, it’s all about doing your best, about crossing the finishing line, in good time.

“After I signed up to the Kathmandu Coast to Coast, the first thing I did was enlist the help of my coach Nigel Burgess Endurance Coaching,” says Caleb. “Over the next six months I religiously followed the training program we built around my work and family commitments. The hours of training per week varied from 16 to 26 hours. The training program was key to keeping me on track and helping me achieve the goals I had set for myself.”

Caleb says balancing running a business and having a family while training for a big event is no easy task. “I am fortunate that I have an extremely supportive network ADVERTORIAL

around me that also supports my endeavours into endurance sports.”

As a business owner, Caleb says training for the Coast to Coast has helped him to let go of the day-to-day decisions and running of the business and put more trust into his team members and business partners. “It turns out they can run things better than I can and are more than capable of doing their jobs.”

“My family has been extremely supportive, and I cannot thank them enough,” says Caleb. “Now that I have completed the Coast to Coast, I am spending more time at home in the evenings and my son and I have found a joint interest. I have found that through the process, our family has become more engaged with healthy eating and getting out and using the great NZ outdoors for exercising and enjoying.”

Mortimer Upholstery and Marine Covers has been in business for over 15 years.

Originally specialising in automotive upholstery, over time they have increased their service to cater for marine, commercial, transport, education and many other industries. In 2017, Mortimer Upholstery and Marine Covers developed Nelson Shade Solutions which uses

textiles to design and create outdoor shade and weather protection. “At the heart of all our services, our dedication to our customers is most important.

We strive to work in the best interest of our customers, providing a service that adds value and a positive experience in their lives.”

Find out more about the Mortimer Upholstery group of businesses at: www.mortimerautoupholstery.co.nz www.nelsonshadesolutions.co.nz www.nelsonbaymarquee.co.nz

45

WHAT’S HOT - DINING

www.burgerculture.co.nz

www.anchorrestaurant.co.nz

www.theindiancafe.co.nz

Nelson’s only dedicated burger joint

World famous in Nelson!

Our entire menu is made with love, and it shows. Here’s why we are Nelson’s Best Restaurant – as voted by Nelson: We bake our burger buns in-house, every morning; our beef patties are hand minced on-site; we’ve got freshly fried donuts, Nelson’s best sodas and milkshakes with original flavours; we use local, ethical produce and suppliers; proudly partnered with local beeroes, Hop Federation and our burgers are delicious!

Indian Café has now opened in Stoke, which We believe top quality food is best served with amazing ocean views! We are blessed means you can enjoy their delicious food no matter where you are. Head in and find with a fantastic spot right on the water in Port Nelson, and we cannot wait to out why Indian Café is the favourite choice welcome you into our friendly, comfortable for both locals and visitors looking for the restaurant. Specialising in local seafood and highest quality food and a memorable steaks, we also offer delectable choices cuisine experience. All venues offer intimate for non-meat eaters, people with special restaurant dining and courtyard settings, dietary needs and kids! as well as takeaway options.

Burger Culture 279 Trafalgar St, Nelson | Ph: 03 546 9020

www.mapuavillagebakery.co.nz

Anchor Restaurant and Bar 62 Vickerman Street, Port Nelson Ph: 03 546 6614

Saltwater Eating and Bar

Baking at its best in Mapua

Happy hours in the sunshine

Come and experience our warm, friendly atmosphere with the delightful aromas of a homestyle bakery and café. Enjoy the sunshine in our outdoor courtyard or relax inside. Whether you are out with the family, walking the dog, or having a meeting, indulge in one of our many delightful food options. Try our gourmet pies, artisan breads or lavish cakes and extensive gluten free range. We serve supreme coffee which will add a bounce to your day.

Our al-fresco dining area is perfect for enjoying your meal in the sunshine.

We offer a large selection of delicious snacks and meals including all day breakfasts. HOP Farm Brewery beers are on tap, along with Peckham’s Cider and a huge variety of local Nelson wines.

Take advantage of great specials at our happy hours every Tuesday to Sunday, 4.30pm–6.30pm. All meals are available for takeaway or delivery.

Mapua Village Bakery 68 Aranui Road, Mapua | Ph: 03 540 3656

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March 2020

Saltwater Eating And Bar 23 Beach Rd, Tāhunanui | Ph: 03 548 6466

New Stoke restaurant open now!

The Indian Cafe 94 Collingwood St, Nelson | Ph: 03 548 4089 266 Queen St, Richmond | Ph: 03 544 8979 201 Songer St, Stoke | Ph: 03 547 0008

www.ambrosiacafe.co.nz

Freshly brewed coffee & delicious daily fare Our relaxing atmosphere engages you as soon as you step inside. Immediately, the smell of freshly brewed coffee and the delicious daily fare sets your mouth watering.

The cafe is licensed, so whether you want a quick coffee and something sweet, brunch, lunch with friends, a business lunch or a glass of wine and a snack, it’s all here! Open every day.

Ambrosia Café 226 Queen St, Richmond | Ph: 03 544 0025

e

CRAQUELIN CHOUX BOMBS Choux pastry was created by famous Italian chef Pantanelli in 1540 Florence. The method and cooking technique is still relevant in today’s cuisine, and is regularly the start point for many savoury and sweet dishes with modern flavours.

This year it’s one of the food trends of 2020, modernised slightly by using a technique called ‘craquelin’ which creates a textured sugar type crust.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Craquelin dough

Combine all ingredients for craquelin dough in a bowl and combine in bowl and mix.

113g slightly melted butter Pinch salt

125g all-purpose flour

Roll out on baking paper till 4mm thin.

Refrigerate then cut in circles the same size as your choux pastry.

Choux pastry

Combine the butter, water, milk, salt and sugar together in a saucepan.

135g brown sugar

Stir until butter has melted, reduce heat and add flour.

115g unsalted butter 120ml water

Stir until a thick dough has formed and gently cook flour off.

120ml milk ¼ tsp salt

Add dough to mixer and beat on medium speed to slightly cool.

2 tsp sugar 125g all-purpose flour

Add each egg slowly until fully combined.

The mixture should look shiny, thick, and smooth.

4 large eggs Egg wash

Pipe into circles on baking paper, brush with egg wash and place craquelin crust on top.

Lightly brush tray with water and bake at 200°C for 20 minutes.

Reduce heat to 175°C for a further 10–15 minutes until golden brown.

Allow to cool then cut in half and fill with your favourite fillings.

CHEF’S TIP Ensure you sprinkle water on the tray to encourage the choux pastry to rise whilst cooking. Leave in oven to further dry out the pastry before filling. This will ensure the crunchy outer to soft interior texture.

Our level four students will learn the classic technique of choux in class and then get the opportunity to experiment with craquelin technique and modern flavours by participating with our production chef Rhys in the NMIT Bakehouse pop-up somewhere out in the Nelson community.

Open Thursdays Café 10am - 2pm Restaurant from 6pm

Restaurant and café opening 19 March $2* coffee with code rata20

Dinner bookings and menus via

@therataroom nmit.ac.nz/rata-room

*valid until 30th April

47

PERSONAL INSURANCE —WHAT’S IMPORTANT? Personal insurance programs should form a basis for anyone looking to get ahead financially. At certain times in your life you will have risks that need protecting so you don’t lose everything if the wheels fall off.

But the field can be confusing, particularly around what is important. Here is some quick information on different covers that may be considered.

LIFE COVER Pays in the event of death. Vital if you have family dependent on you. Used to clear debts and look after dependents left behind.

INCOME COVER Pays if you cannot work due to sickness or injury. Important if there is a main bread winner or if a loss of income would financially derail your household.

A medium or long term loss of income can devastate any financial goals you may have.

PRIVATE HEALTH COVER Access to faster treatment. A good private health cover should get access to drugs not funded by Pharmac, particularly in the cancer treatment space where

48

March 2020

next generation medicines can be extraordinarily expensive and not available in the public system.

TRAUMA COVER Used as a lump sum payment in the event of a serious medical event or injury to allow time to recover, seek treatment or reduce financial burdens.

Cancer, heart attack and stroke make up 85% of claims in this space.

Self employed and business owners have a whole layer of complexity on top of this with shareholder protection, debt and personal guarantee cover and key person covers. In this situation, good advice is vital.

Mark Sheehan is an award winning Certified Financial Planner and Authorised Advisor offering impartial advice in Nelson since 2008.

Ph 03 548 2752 www.marksheehanfinancial.co.nz Advice is of a general nature and not intended as personalised advice. Disclosure statement available on request and free of charge.

ADVERTORIAL

1 March

MARCH | 20

CHILDREN’S DAY TDC and Richmond Aquatic Centre invite you to celebrate our tamariki with a big day out for the whole family. Enjoy the fun filled pools for a gold coin or enjoy bouncy castles, balloon twisting, live music, pony rides, a magic show and more. Bring a picnic and enjoy some quality time with your children.

10am–2pm.

WHAT’S ON For full information, and a complete list of events in our region, visit www.itson.co.nz

Richmond Aquatic Centre

1–28 March

7 March

ANGLES OF PERCEPTION

THE INTERISLANDER BIG TAHUNA

A stunning exhibition from the Professional Weavers Network. Angles form size, shape, perspective, energy; an explosion of saturated colour on black.

An interactive exhibition that engages the audience in poetry in response to the works. A closing celebration on the 26th Mar will feature the work created during the exhibition.

Back for a third time and ready for another sunny day at Tahunanui Beach.

Enter the 500m swim, 1km swim or 3km swim and Banana Boat OceanKids 100m (7&8yrs), 200m (9&10yrs) & 400m (11&12yrs). Back by popular demand is an inflatable run and slide, courtesy of Aflex Inflatables! 6:30am– 1pm. For more information and to enter visit www.oceanswim.co.nz.

Refinery ArtSpace, 3 Halifax Street East

Tahunanui Beach

POETS WHO PAINT

14 March

14 March

THE LOOK OF LOVE

NCMA CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

Join award-winning Ali Harper (‘Legendary Divas,’ ‘A Doris Day Special,’ ‘Songs For Nobodies’) with Tom Rainey on piano and guitarist Harry Harrison as they showcase the extensive collection of Bacharach’s hit songs. Two shows.

2pm and 7:30pm. Get tickets at www.theatreroyalnelson.co.nz.

‘A musical feast for the heart and soul!’ The Christchurch Press.

With special guests Michael Tsalka and Richard Mapp, the Chamber Orchestra will play music by Mozart, Chopin, Greig and Elgar in the first Celebration Series concert of 2020. $35 (+ service fee) 7:30pm.

Theatre Royal Nelson

NCMA, 48 Nile St, Nelson

15 March

22 March

SPORT TASMAN MUDDY BUDDY

RACE UNITY DAY

Join us at Tasman School for the ultimate mud packed adventure for all abilities. Grab a buddy or lots of buddies and slither, slide and run the fun mud packed course.

Celebrating unity in diversity.

Family fun, art and crafts, music, dance and food. Free event, on rain or shine. All welcome to the most multicultural event of the year.

11am–4pm

Two mountain bikes to give away, plus great spot prizes, food, coffee and much more. www.tasman.school.nz Tasman School, Aporo Road, Tasman

Victory Square, Nelson

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OPERA IN THE PARK

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3

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Trafalgar Park

1. Christine Wallace and Warren Scott 2. Ashley Birchfield and Michael Bruhan 3. Gaile Noonan and Rachel Reese 4. Shelley Smith and Nadine Moore 5. Jo Marris and Katie Stallard

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6. Viv and Ian Markland 7. Tom and Maria Fillary 8. Hayley and John Selwood 9. Clive Holmes and Kiri Hunter 10. Rachael Forsyth and Jerry Lynn

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CHARLES ANDERSON

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March 2020

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NELSON WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL

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5

Richmond Park Showgrounds 1. Scott Davis, Lynley Wootton, Lisa Davis

and Suz Peek

2. Nicola Sullivan, Jamie Anderson-Edgar

and Dawn Chalmers

3. Adrianne Kelly, Danyell Dixon, Amy Allan

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and Karina Tomlin

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4. Erik Erdmann and Nikita Balfour 5. Jo Mills and Jane Forbes White 6. Emily MacRitchie, Bridget Bolland

and Jade Nicholls

7. Mike and Jo Reilly 8. Kaylene Nimmo, Jo White, Jules Ferguson Brill

and June Ferguson

9. Ange McDowall, Monique Clayworth, Laura

Paynter, Denise Seymour and Lorna Anderson

10. Keryn Rowe, Tony Mursell and John Palmer

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SARAH BOARD

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RESULTS COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE FOR STANDOUT

Michelle Sowman

021 622 626 | michelle.sowman@bayleys.co.nz VINING REALTY GROUP LIMITED, BAYLEYS LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

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INTERNATIONAL KAI FESTIVAL

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5

Founders Heritage Park 1. Helen Dale, Zaw Tin and Lily James 2. Lara Meesworth, Nathalie Plass and

Christina Junker

3. Maria, Kian, Kleat and Tais Nepe 4. Kat Green and Luke Collier 5. Jim and Kaye McNabb

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6. Ivin Shearer and Kyung Henry 7. Tanea and Cyrill Collier 8. Holly Foster, Amber Daly and Amy Krammer 9. Tatiana Te Kawa-Wiremu, Tia Raumati,

Ariana Te Kawa-Wiremu and Staci Kohe

10. Tempest Ropiha, Peyton Jacobson and

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Saphron Morrell-Hopa

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SARAH BOARD

9

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March 2020

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STARLET OF NEW ZEALAND

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Nelson Musical Theatre 1. Joanna Burberry and Meg Kidner 2. Deborah Erskine-Shaw, Vanessa Jennison

and Tracey Bovary

3. Maeradyth King (Aurora Storm)

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and Hannah Auton (Delilah Deluxe)

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4. Debbie Eve and Breigh O’Malley 5. Matty Visser and Jasmine Turner 6. Susan Bown and Ashleigh Kenning 7. Hannah Komatsu (Constance Mayhem)

and Julie O’Halloran (Heaven Z’Dor)

8. Tara Fuge and Elizabeth O’Connor 9. Angela McIntosh and Kate Bevan 10. Michelle Cliff, Tom Challies and Karen Whiti

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SARAH BOARD

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THE ENCHANTING HOLLY BONNET

LIVING

The matching baby hat for our Holly Dress and Holly Romper owes its charm to its delicate openwork and the tiny pompom-like bobbles that fringe the front hem and frame the baby’s face. Featuring an easy-to-knit seamless construction and finished with I-cord strings and neck edging.

SOUVENIRS AND GIFTS INSPIRED

BY OUR MAORI HERITAGE Aeon giftware - crafted, carved and etched from recycled native NZ kauri and rimu timber, using a mix of traditional and modern woodworking techniques.

Choose from wall art, freestanding sculptures, decorative card boxes and more.

Broomfields & Co. 42a Halifax St, Nelson | Ph: 03 548 0903 broomfieldsandco | www.broomfields.co.nz

MULTI-ROOM MUSIC. THE HI-RES WAY.

Simply New Zealand Millers Acre, by the I Site.

39 Halifax St, Nelson Ph: 03 545 7501

PINS AND NEEDLES, BUTTONS AND BOWS Whatever you need for your hand worked projects, we’ll have it instore. Haberdashery, fabrics, ideas and inspiration.

Cushla’s Village Fabrics 136 Aranui Rd, Mapua Ph: 03 540 2011 www.cushlasvillagefabrics.co.nz

COASTAL STYLE AND CASUAL ELEGANCE Porter’s Wood Wash is a translucent coating that subtly softens and ages the appearance of bare timber, highlighting the grain and replicating the look of limed or bleached timber.

Guthrie Bowron 45 Vanguard St, Nelson | Ph: 03 548 1114 www.guthriebowron.co.nz

Bluesound is an awardwinning wireless system that lets you play music in any room in your home.

Crisp detailed sound, playing your favourite music, and all controlled from your smartphone, tablet or desk computer.

Beggs Music Works 264 Hardy Street, Nelson Ph: 03 548 8699 | www.beggsmusic.co.nz

WHEN ORDINARY JUST WON’T DO Hinkley’s Fletcher sconce collection has angular lines, simple shapes and sturdy details, giving a robust but pared down industrial look.

Also in polished nickel with opal glass and brass accents, and single and three-globe options.

Storey Home Collection – Lighthouse Nelson Home décor – Giftware – Lighting - Furniture 65 Collingwood St, Nelson | Ph: 03 548 4945 www.storeycollection.co.nz

SCHOPPEL WOOL Cruellas is your local specialty yarn store, offering you local yarn brands, NZ made, and worldwide favourite brands. Drop in and see us to get inspired for your next knitting project.

Cruellas 155 Hardy St, Nelson | Ph: 03 548 4016 www.cruellas.co.nz

hearing LOOK AFTER YOUR

We take our hearing for granted, but with 1 in 6 New Zealanders living with hearing loss, it’s important to take steps to look after your hearing early on. Matt McCrorie talks to Education and Communications Manager for Hearing Nelson, Tracy Dawson, and gets some tips on looking after our ears.

T

he first week of March is hearing awareness week, a perfect opportunity for us to consider how proactive we are in protecting our hearing and also seeking help if we need it.

Tracy says that hearing loss is often thought of as the ‘invisible disability.

One in six New Zealanders live with some type of hearing loss, and for the population over 65 years of age, that statistic jumps to one in three. Hearing loss costs the New Zealand economy nearly 4.9 billion dollars a year, as well as having a significant impact on a person’s ability to interact with the world.

Tracy says that hearing is all about human connection. “When you lose your vision, you lose your connection to things, but when you lose your hearing you lose your connection to people.”

Auckland University research shows that untreated hearing loss is a significant factor in relation to dementia. Their research shows that a person is twice as likely to get dementia with mild hearing loss, and five times more likely with a profound hearing loss.

Tracy says that there’s a social stigma around hearing loss. “In the older generation, a lot of people live in denial.”

“Without hearing you isolate yourself it’s hard to have a dialogue with people.”

This year the main message for hearing awareness week is prevention.

“Hearing has such a low profile, but it’s a massive issue. We’re all affected by hearing loss in some way.”

Tracy says one of the key ways to prevent hearing loss is to take personal responsibility for your hearing. 60% of hearing loss for under 15 year olds is preventable. 1.1 billion 12–35 year olds worldwide are at risk of hearing loss due to recreational settings.

1 in 5 young people are showing signs of hearing loss due to over exposure to headphones and poor quality earbuds.

“It’s about regulation and taking personal responsibility,” Tracy says.

Tracy says someone can listen to something measured at 85 decibels for

almost 8 hours before their delicate hair cells are damaged. However, when the decibels rise to 100, it’s only safe to listen for 15 minutes before the hair cells become damaged. The maximum volume on most phones is 100 decibels.

One of the ways people can prevent hearing loss is ‘safe listening.’ Taking headphones out and holding them at arm’s length - if you can hear the music, it’s too loud. Tracy recommends that the maximum time you should listen to music through headphones or earbuds is 90 minutes a day at half volume.

Tracy says it’s important to enjoy the quiet time too, and if you’re in the garden or working with power tools wear earmuffs.

“Once you lose your hearing, it doesn’t come back. But there are ways to prevent hearing loss.”

EXCELLENCE IN DERMATOLOGY

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NELSON & TASMAN WIDE, WE’RE PART OF YOUR COMMUNITY

69 Haven Road, Nelson | www.simplicity.co.nz

Phone 03 539 0066

ANNA LOACH

Manager / Funeral Director

HARVESTING THE LAST OF THE SUMMER CROPS & preparing for autumn and winter Kitchen Garden Keep on top of watering if the weather is still dry.

Prepare empty spaces for new crops by turning over the soil and adding compost and sheep pellets. Blood and Bone can be worked in to the top layer before you plant.

Sow seeds: carrots, parsnips, kohlrabi, radish, leeks, spinach, silverbeet, beetroot, broccoli, onions, cabbage, cauliflower and brussels sprouts. Transplant to the garden when they are showing at least two sets of true leaves.

Plant seedlings: cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, beetroot, silver beet, kale, radish.

Salad greens can still be planted in warmer regions.

Harvest basil and coriander before the weather cools then remove and compost plants.

Continue harvesting pip and stone fruit.

Rake up and compost all the fallen fruit.

this in to the soil. Spray with Copper Oxychloride and a Pyrethrum spray to take care of passion vine hoppers, mealy bug and brown spot.

As perennials die away prune back the old Finish tidying strawberry beds, remove old growth and if you need to divide them this or diseased plants. Cut off runners unless can be done now – once divided plant you are using them for next season’s plants. them straight away.

Garden Colour

Continue planting bulbs, daffodils, tulips, ranunculus, anemone, grape hyacinth, iris, hyacinths, and freesias. In the garden or in containers, feed bulbs with bulb food at the time of planting.

Sow seeds: alyssum, cineraria, calendula, carnation, cornflower, cyclamen, dianthus, flowering kale, lobelia, pansies, poppies, polyanthus, primula, snapdragon, sweet william. Transplant to the garden as the weather warms and when they are showing at least two sets of true leaves.

Plant seedlings: alyssum, carnations, pansies, cornflower, gazanias, lobelia, violas.

Continue to harvest feijoas and kiwifruit.

Encourage earlier and better flowers by pinching out the first flowers on your annuals.

Finish harvesting passionfruit. Then prune back, feed with citrus fertiliser and water

Feed all annual flowers with a liquid flower food, apply with a watering can.

Harvest tamarillos before the frosts arrive.

Plant sweet peas now for winter colour.

In warmer areas plant straight in to the soil, in cooler regions start in pots or trays.

Refresh pots with new season annuals.

Trees and Shrubs Prepare for autumn planting, the cooler weather brings a little more rain and the soil is workable again after the dry summer.

Prune spent flowers and straggly growth.

Remove and replace any old bushes and refresh the soil with compost before replanting.

Summer mulch can be dug in to the soil to add extra nutrients.

Lawn Start preparation for re-sowing lawns.

Spray weed killer to remove weeds, wait at least three weeks after spraying before sowing new seed.

Fix any lumps, hollows or bare patches.

Re-sow lawn seed when ready and water daily until fully germinated.

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What sort of people enjoy the ride?

It’s a ride that absolutely anyone with a reasonable fitness level can do. There’s always going to be racers who want to get a fast time, and we start those people off first, so they get a clear run. That leaves the course free for those who want to enjoy the experience at a more leisurely pace, taking time to enjoy the spectacular scenery, stopping to appreciate the ‘wow’ moments and take in their surroundings.

How long does it take?

MIKE GANE Organiser - Rainbow Rage Mountain bike event April 4, 2020 marks 25 years since the first Rainbow Rage. How did it all start?

A friend and I rode the Rainbow Station road to Hanmer and enjoyed it so much, we made it a public event so everyone could experience it. The first race was in 1996, with just 66 participants, peaking at 1604 riders in its heyday.

The fastest time anyone has done it in is three hours and 26 minutes. But others take up to nine hours to complete the ride. There’s no pressure to race unless you want to, it’s more about each person riding to suit their abilities and get what they want from the experience.

How has mountain biking changed over the years?

Riders seem to be concentrating on shorter enduro races more, but with the increasing popularity of E-bikes, we are seeing more people riding those.

And there’s definitely a swing towards people riding more for the experience, rather than racing. Some of the riders from years ago are back doing it again as a social thing with mates to take time to enjoy the surroundings more than they

FREE SHIPPING ON ONLINE ORDERS

Ph 545 9997 www.bkinky.co.nz 117 Hardy St (Montgomery Arcade)

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March 2020

did when they were busting gut to get through as fast as they could.

What have been your highlights?

It’s always a buzz to see people finish, to see them so chuffed that they have experienced their ‘Everest moment’, and the sense of achievement they have from ‘knocking the bastard off’. A couple from Christchurch have participated in 20 rides, and it’s always good to see people coming back year after year.

The Rage didn’t happen for a couple of years—why is that?

It’s an expensive event to run and we need to cover costs. It’s not about making profits, but no event can run at a loss.

When entries dropped, we had to make a call that meant there was no ride in 2017 and 2019.

We are incredibly lucky that Philip Cropp from Nelson Honey has provided sponsorship to get the event up and running again. If we get enough bums on seats, it will be back again, so make sure to head online and register.

It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

For more information and to register, visit www.rainbowrage.co.nz

David Coombs David Coombs

Craig: 021 822 235 or 538 0198 Call us now for a FREE quote

021021 077 6874 | 03 927 077 6874 | 03 9275010 5010 david@valleycrestfurniture.co.nz david@valleycrestfurniture.co.nz M /valleycrestfurniture M /valleycrestfurniture

Stephanie Keys

John Baker

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